Travel Hacks to Save Money: How to Live for Free in a Good Home

You've probably heard the phrase, “Money will come back, but you'll never be in your 20s in Ibiza again.” And it's true! An active life, parties, low-cost airlines, spontaneous acquaintances, and frequent travel are a must when you're young and active. But how can you do it all? You usually don't have money when you have a lot of time and energy. How to organize a budget trip, and what can you save on with travel hacks?

What Are Travel Hacks? Understanding the Basics

Ideas and opportunities to “break the system” in trips and vacations are called travel hacks. They allow you to save money, reduce stress, and find loopholes for a more comfortable journey. Here are the most common types of popular hacks:

• Saving on flights. You can save money with this travel hack if you choose your route: for example, a flight with transfers can cost less than a direct one. Furthermore, some travelers share their findings in the field of low-cost airlines or cheap transport options.
• Packing things. All social networks are filled with these vacation hacks! Airlines charge their customers for luggage: packing a minimum of things means saving about 40-50% on the flight. Some tell you how to pack everything you need in carry-on luggage, and some share their experience of carrying things in pillows or even on themselves.
• Cheap accommodation saves money on travel. This is the most significant expense on the trip: even if you got to point B by hitchhiking, you can’t live on the streets all the time. Well, unless you’re in the party cities of Europe, where sleeping on the beach is the norm among tourists on a budget. Users often share their ideas, finds, and options for different destinations.

Why did traveling hacks become popular? We began to treat travel differently. If our parents' travel peak is all-inclusive in Florida or Italy, then for us, traveling is part of leisure. We are ready to save money, get up at 5 am for a cheap flight, and return home even more tired because traveling is about experience, not rest.

House Sitting: A Smart Way to Live for Free While Traveling

Since accommodation costs comprise a large part of your budget, tourists worldwide have identified the best saving solutions. House sitting is one of the travel hacks to save money. You can often find house-sitting options on sites like TrustedHousesitters or FlatRover. Here, homeowners from all over the world offer free accommodation in exchange for house-sitting or pet-sitting. Sounds great, but what’s the catch? We highlighted all the pros and cons you need to know before trying this hack out: 

Pros	Cons
Free accommodation – Save money on hotels and rentals.	Responsibility – You must take care of the home and pets properly.
Comfort – Enjoy a fully equipped home instead of a small hotel room.	High competition – Popular locations have many applicants.
Live like a local – Experience a destination from a resident’s perspective.	Limited flexibility – Your travel dates depend on the homeowner’s schedule.
Animal companionship – If you love pets, this is a great way to spend time with them.

House sitting is an excellent solution for how to save for travel. However, you should remember that it is also about responsibility. If there are animals in the house, you must return home in the evening and look after them during the day.

Home Exchanges: How to Swap Homes and Save on Accommodation

Another option for housing in other people's houses. Only this time, you can swap your houses! Here's how it works: first, you register on a platform like Love Home Swap. There, you can find users who need to go to your city, and you can “swap” houses for a while. Let's take a closer look at this type of hotel hack to save money:

Pros	Cons
Huge savings – No accommodation costs, making travel much cheaper	Limited availability – Finding a perfect match in your desired location can be challenging
Comfort – More space, a full kitchen, and often a homey atmosphere	Home preparation – You need to clean and prepare your home for guests
Mutual trust & reviews – Platforms help ensure safety and reliability	Requires trust – Both parties must be comfortable letting strangers into their homes
Access to local amenities – Many homes come with bikes, cars, or memberships to gyms and pools.	For owners only – if your apartment is rented, you must discuss it with your landlord first.

You've probably never heard of this option: it's challenging to find people to swap homes with is hard online. However, you won't have to worry about your property, and you'll know how to save money to travel to a new place!

Volunteering Programs: Live for Free in Exchange for Work

This option is popular with students and young people because it can cover several needs simultaneously. First, you'll be able to travel without money. Second, you'll find like-minded people, friends, and interesting human beings. Third, you'll do something useful! However, pay attention to these factors before searching for volunteer work:

Pros	Cons
Free accommodation & sometimes meals – Huge savings on travel costs.	Work commitment – You must dedicate time and effort, sometimes in physically demanding jobs.
Unique experiences – Work in eco-farms, animal sanctuaries, or cultural projects.	Uncertain conditions – Not all hosts provide the same level of comfort or organization.
Skill development – Learn new languages, farming, teaching, or hospitality skills.	Limited flexibility – You might have fixed work hours that limit your sightseeing time.
Deeper cultural immersion – Live and work closely with locals, experiencing their way of life firsthand.	Visa restrictions – Some countries require special visas for volunteer work.

This option will suit you if you are energetic, social, and active. Combining a volunteer job and an active social life is one of the hardest travel life hacks. However, it will leave many warm memories after.

How to Save Money Traveling by Choosing Alternative Stays

Renting a hotel is an action that comes to mind for many when it comes to traveling. What if we told you that you can choose dozens of other options, save money, and get a unique experience? Write down these travel tips and hacks:

• Hostels come in different types. If you immediately imagine a stuffy room for 10 people, then you are definitely in the grip of stereotypes. Modern hostels are equipped with all the comforts, including private rooms, breakfasts, and even a pool! Browse budget travelling hacks to pick the perfect one.
• Guesthouses. A popular type of cheap housing in Asia and on the islands. The owner usually lives in a separate house and can help with transportation, excursions, and advice.
• Campings. A unique place with an authentic vibe and like-minded people. You can come with your tent or rent a glamping tent with all the amenities inside.

Modern journeys are diverse in their options and can offer a lot even if you travel on a budget. The most desperate travelers live even in monasteries: the main thing is not to limit your search of cheap travel hacks and be open to new experiences!

Unlock Budget Traveling with FlatRover

Do you want to combine business with pleasure? Do you love animals and are searching for an opportunity to visit new destinations cheaper? Then FlatRover will become your lifesaver: meet pet owners, save money while traveling, and sit with pets. With our platform, you can do a lot:

• Unique offers. FlatRover users offer to sit with their pets of various breeds: cats, dogs, rodents, and even reptiles. Some owners rent out their free apartments to keep the property safe and explore local attractions.
• Live like a local. How about a romantic coffee shop near your home? Or a cozy restaurant on your street? Owners will suggest the best places to visit, and you can immerse yourself in the city's authentic life.
• Trust and learn. Our system lets you leave all the necessary information about yourself: experience with animals, place of residence, hobbies, and preferences. The rating system will help you learn about previous collaborations between pet owners and their animals.

FlatRover is a community of travel enthusiasts and animal lovers who unite to make your vacation style more diverse and interesting. Become a part of this unique experience and register now!

FAQ

What are the best hacks for traveling to save money on accommodation?

If you are seeking budget options, try early booking or searching for discounts at the last minute. It is helpful to use hotel loyalty programs and bank cards with bonuses. Prices on different sites may vary, so it is worth checking and comparing them. In addition to hotels, you can consider more budget options, such as hostels, apartments, guesthouses, or campsites.

How can I live for free while traveling abroad with international travel hacks?

You can participate in volunteer programs and help local organizations and monasteries. Traveling tips and hacks include participating in scientific research and programs. For example, Australia offers a visa, free accommodation, and work for students.

What is house sitting, and how does it help save money?

House sitters look after owners' property while they are out of town. You may be asked to monitor the cleanliness and serviceability of equipment, collect mail, water the flowers, and so on. Many owners offer this for free, while some pay extra: this is one of the most popular ways of how to save money traveling. 

Are home exchanges a good option for budget travelers?

It depends on your expectations and capabilities. If you live in your apartment and are ready to entrust it to other travelers, this option is ideal for you. However, if you have a roommate or rent a flat, you must discuss these details in advance.

How can I volunteer and get free housing while traveling?

Volunteer programs often offer free accommodation on how to save on travel. For example, you can help on a farm, teach English to refugees, help in public organizations, and live on their territory in exchange for services. In return, you are provided with housing and food – this depends on the agreements.