How to Save Money on Group Tours and Activities

Traveling is always an exciting and enriching experience, but it can also be quite expensive. Group tours and activities can be an excellent introduction to a new destination, but the costs can quickly add up. Fortunately, there are some tips and tricks you can use to save money on group tours and activities while still enjoying all the experiences on offer.

Book in advance

Many tour companies offer discounts if you book a few weeks or months in advance. This is an excellent option to consider because you’ll save money and have a more extensive range of tours and activities to choose from. While booking in advance may not be the best option for those who prefer to be spontaneous, it is undoubtedly an excellent way to save money on group tours and activities.

Join a group tour

Joining a group tour is a cheaper option than booking a private tour. Shared transportation and other expenses like tour guides and entry fees are divided among group members, which saves a considerable amount of money. The added benefit of this option is that you’ll have an instant group of travel companions with whom to explore a new destination. These new friendships can lead to other cost-saving measures like shared accommodations or dividing meals, which will also help you save money.

Look for online discounts

You should research online tour companies to see if there are any discounts available before booking a group tour or activity. The best place to start is sites like Groupon and LivingSocial that offer discounted rates for tours and activities in popular travel destinations. These sites allow you to save money and still have the same experiences at a fraction of the original cost.

Compare prices

The smart move is always to compare prices from different tour companies to make sure you’re getting the best deal. If you’re booking a specific tour from a company, it’s always a good idea to compare the price of booking it alone and booking it as part of a group. Another critical thing to remember is that the cheapest option may not always be the best one in terms of quality and experiences.

Travel during off-peak season

You can save a lot of money by traveling during the off-peak season. Tour companies often offer lower rates during this time, and there is also less competition for tours and activities, which means more availability. You should also keep in mind that off-peak travel has its downsides, such as less desirable weather conditions, fewer crowds, and less access to certain activities.

Bring your snacks and water

It’s always a smart move to bring your snacks or water on group tours. This can save you money on buying expensive foods or drinks during the tour. While some tours may provide food and drinks, they often come at a higher cost than purchasing them yourself. Water-resistant bags, refillable bottles, and portable snacks are easy to pack and will go a long way in helping you save money on group tours and other activities.

Use public transportation

If you’re comfortable with public transportation, it can be an inexpensive way to get around without using a private tour company. You should research the public transportation options in your destination and plan your tour or activity accordingly. This option will save you money and introduce you to the daily life of the city or town you are visiting.

Avoid tourist traps

Be cautious of tours or activities that seem too good to be true, overly touristy, or come with hidden fees or upsells. These types of tours are often more expensive than their alternatives, and the extras can add up quickly. Instead, opt for off-the-beaten-path tours or activities that are less popular. These less-known spots might surprise you with captivating experiences that you can’t find anywhere else.

Share accommodations

If you’re traveling with a group, consider sharing accommodations to save money. You can rent a vacation home or split a hotel room, both of which can be much cheaper than booking multiple rooms. Sharing accommodations has other benefits like developing stronger bonds with your travel companions and reduces having to take up multiple hotel rooms that can be costly.

Ask for a discount

Most tour companies will offer a discount if you ask, especially if you’re booking a large group. It never hurts to inquire about discounts or any special offers available. Asking for discounts can help you save money on group tours and make your travel budget stretch even further.