How to Travel in 2026: Why It Costs More and How to Save

If you feel like flight prices and hotel rates have jumped recently, you aren’t imagining things. Travel in 2026 is more expensive than it was a few years ago. The days of ultra-cheap, last-minute weekend trips are mostly behind us.

But that doesn’t mean you have to stay home. You can still see the world without draining your bank account. You just need to change how you plan.

Here is a look at why prices are up and exactly what you can do to save money while still having a great trip.

Why Is Travel So Expensive Right Now?

Before we get to the money-saving tips, it helps to know what you are paying for. Prices aren’t high just because companies are greedy. There are real costs driving the numbers up.

1. Green Fuel Rules

Airlines are now required to use more “Sustainable Aviation Fuel” (SAF). This fuel is better for the planet, but it costs two to five times more than regular jet fuel. Since airlines have to buy it to meet government rules, they pass that extra cost on to you in your ticket price.

2. City Entry Fees

Popular cities are tired of overcrowding. Places like Venice, Barcelona, and Amsterdam use taxes to control the number of visitors. In 2026, you might see extra fees added to your hotel bill or a “tourist tax” just to enter a city center. These fees go toward fixing local infrastructure, but they add up quickly for a family.

3. Staffing Costs

Hotels and restaurants are paying higher wages to attract staff. The shortage of workers in the hospitality industry means businesses have to pay more for housekeepers, waiters, and front desk agents. Those higher wages lead to higher room rates and menu prices.

How to Save Money Without Missing Out

Now that we know the “why,” let’s look at the “how.” You don’t need to stay in a bad hotel or take three connecting flights to save money. You just need to be smart about where and when you go.

1. Swap Famous Spots for “Dupes”

This is the single best way to save money in 2026. Instead of going to the most famous (and expensive) places, go to a nearby country that offers a similar vibe for half the price. We call this a “Destination Dupe.”

• Skip Greece, Try Albania: You still get the beautiful coast, clear water, and ancient ruins, but you will pay about 50% less for food and hotels.

• Skip Switzerland, Try the Italian Dolomites: You get the same jagged mountain peaks and hiking trails, but with better food prices and cheaper lift tickets.

• Skip Prague, Try Krakow: Poland offers incredible medieval history, great squares, and nightlife for a fraction of the cost of Austria or the Czech Republic.

• Skip Tokyo, Try Taipei: If you want neon lights, amazing street food, and safe city streets, Taiwan is a fantastic, budget-friendly alternative to Japan’s capital.

2. Change When You Book

The old advice of “book as early as possible” doesn’t always work anymore.

• International Flights: Aim to book 3 to 5 months before your trip. If you book too early (like 10 months out), you often pay a higher “just in case” price.

• Domestic Flights: The sweet spot is 1 to 2 months before you fly.

• The Weekend Rule: Try to buy your tickets on a Sunday. Airlines often update their systems over the weekend, and you can sometimes find better deals then.

3. Travel in the “New” Shoulder Season

Weather patterns are shifting, and so are the best times to travel.

• Europe in October/November: Summer stays hot longer now. You can visit Italy or Greece in late October and still get decent weather, but the crowds are gone and prices drop by 20-30%.

• Asia’s “Green Season”: Don’t be scared of the rainy season in Southeast Asia (June to September). It usually only rains for an hour a day. In exchange for a little rain, you can stay in luxury resorts for half the usual price.

4. Use Stopovers to Your Advantage

Direct flights are convenient, but they are often the most expensive option. Airlines in the Middle East, like Etihad, want you to stop in their hub cities.

To encourage this, they often offer free hotel stays if you turn your layover into a two-day stopover. You get to see a new city (like Abu Dhabi) for free, and your flight ticket might be cheaper than a direct route.

5. Be Smart with Points

If you have credit card points, don’t just sit on them. Points are a great way to fight inflation.

• Transfer Your Points: Instead of using points directly through a bank portal, look into transferring them to airline partners. You can often get better value this way.

• Status Match: If you have elite status with one hotel chain, ask another chain to match it. This can get you free breakfast and room upgrades without spending extra nights.

Travel in 2026 costs more, but it can still be amazing. By picking “dupe” destinations, booking at the right time, and using stopover programs, you can keep your costs down. The goal isn’t just to find the cheapest option—it’s to get the best experience for your money.