Use Local Apps: There are apps that offer discounts on attractions, restaurants, and activities in Portugal. For example, the “Portugal Tourist Guide” app provides a range of recommendations.
Travel Insurance: Although it’s an upfront cost, make sure to invest in travel insurance. It can help save you money in the case of unforeseen circumstances, such as medical emergencies or trip delays.

As a kid, I was obsessed with Monopoly and Scrabble. Now, I’m loving watching my own kid get into them too with me!

Some good travel tips here, not just for Portugal

I agree, eating out can cost a lot. I always bring some snacks like a sandwich when I go out, which can even be healthier and cheaper. I also plan ahead and look for deals and discounts at the grocery store.

Eating out can be so expensive, so definitely take as many snacks and pack a lunch if you can. Definitely set yourself a budget for the day too and do lots of research to see what is feasible.

Hi @BellaB! I’ve never stayed in a youth hostel before, but I’m thinking about giving it a try. My kid might really enjoy the chance to meet other kids and share experiences. That hostel in Canada sounds really cool! Did they specifically market it as former jail, or did you discover the history of the place when you arrived?

I can’t help but am very interested in the replies. Have a safe & fun trip.

Youth hostels sometimes have family rooms (and cost a lot less than other accommodation). Some are in really interesting locations, too. In Canada I stayed in one that used to be a jail…

@mom93821 Thank you for suggesting a visit to the information centers: I am grateful. Additionally–in my own research on Lisboa Card–I discovered an intriguing offer; it provides either free or reduced admission to the majority of Lisbon’s attractions. Moreover—unlimited rides are permitted on public transport within Lisbon (including metro systems; buses, trams, funiculars, and trains). As an added bonus, discounts of 10% to 70% on accommodation in Lisbon.

@RA1234756 Maybe you could suggest a more affordable place than Portugal?

Save money by not going? aha

Another strategy we use when travelling is sharing meals rather than buying meals for everyone. Often meals are quite large when travelling and one meal feeds two people. We always locate information centres when we travel for the best deals on sites and accommodation. We have found some incredible places because of visits to information centres.

I haven’t delved too deeply into this type of research yet, mostly just browsing a few YouTube channels. So far, I’ve enjoyed ‘Dave in Portugal,’ but I’m eager to discover more! Any recommendations, @Tharsika Bruno?

@mom93821 Borrowing travel books from the library is a wise choice rather than purchasing them.

@Ellen I too think there are many nice activities that do not cost money, like the time we took a bus in Norway and saw the lovely fjords close to where we got off after walking a little bit. My experience with Booking.com is varied; it can be less expensive or more expensive, depending on the occasion. Will definitely check that option as well.

i would say to read bloggers r youtubers experiences while on that country when travel. it will save you lots of time and wasting’s. they will tell you what to do and what is the best,

Yes, booking your flight on time is smart. We’ve travelled a couple of time to Europe and I have good expreiences with booking accommodation via Booking.com. I agree with buying your own food, that makes a lot of difference.
Not all activities have to be expensive. Portugal has lovely fishing villages and quays where you could sit all day watching people and tasting the atmosphere and lovely villages with beautiful pottery

Invest in reading a wealth of good and informative travel books from the library and travel agents. Travel books can be so beneficial for research and planning trips. We organise a mock trip and itinerary and cost it and then identify where we can save or source at a cheaper price. We always travel light and keep everything simple, always the best way for us to travel.

@mom443421 I agree with choosing an off-peak time. In Portugal, summer sees the most visitors, hence we plan our trip for either spring or autumn when it’s nicely warm and not as many people around.

@mom486197 This advice is very good for steering clear of large events which cause prices to go up. The photo indicates the major festivals in Portugal, suggesting that planning our visit during autumn might be more beneficial. Thank you for the reminder about using cashback websites and packing less things. I often pack too much, wanting to avoid buying what I have already. Also, it’s important to carry a travel guide with details on buses and trains, local festivals, and suggested places to visit. This is one I am using for our planning https://gowithguide.com/blog/tourism-in-portugal-statistics-2023-the-ultimate-guide-5600

@ChiWren, your advice is much appreciated, particularly the suggestion to book flights in advance. My child and I have made minor adjustments in our spending to gather money for our journey. We are looking forward to having some fun and exploring new places. ????

Book your flights well in advance, that’s when you’ll get the best price. Look into public transport options, trains and buses. Maybe there’s a travel pass you can utilise. Have a rough itinerary so there are no big expense surprises, but of course keep room for spontaneous fun you’ll stumble upon. And have the discussion with your kid that small sacrifices in the lead up to the trip will mean more spending money on holiday.

I agree – go in off peak time to try and save some money that way!