The Best Travel Dupes in 2024 and How to Get There for Less

 

Wanderlust is calling, but how can you answer? Your bucket list is bogged down by the weight of rising costs, impacting everything from plane tickets to piña coladas. In 2024, budget-conscious travel is more than just a trendy hashtag; it’s a necessity, as soaring inflation and the COVID rebound is squeezing wallets tighter than ever. And if you’re going to hit the road, you need some affordable travel alternatives that offer less crowded destinations, accommodation savings, and flight deals.

It seems pretty intimidating to plan your next vacation, but never fear! Credello is here to offer budget travel tips for travel hacking beyond your wildest dreams. These travel dupes aren’t just less expensive than other travel guides – they’re often more authentic, less tourist-trodden, and have plenty of local flair. We’ll unveil breathtaking destinations that mirror your travel dreams, from sun-kissed beaches to cultural immersions, all on a budget that doesn’t break the bank.

And get this: your quest for affordability doesn’t stop at the airport. We’ll show you how strategic credit card choices from companies like CitiBank and Wells Fargo can unlock travel rewards, cashback, and airport lounge access that elevate your journey without straining your finances. So pack your thirst for adventure and your appetite for a bargain – this year, the world is your (affordable) oyster!

The top travel dupes of 2024

Travel dupes come in all shapes and sizes; all-inclusive, weekend getaways, backpacking Europe on a budget, student travel, off-season flights or solo travel dupes for some cheap adventures. But one thing unites them all: the three things that any traveler needs to consider before pulling out their suitcases. Those three things are the right destinations, accommodations, and culinary aspects of travel.

Destination dupes

The first step for any world traveler is to pick where you want to go – so check out these off-the-beaten-path destinations:

• Looking for a charming getaway to The Bahamas, Jamaica, or Mykonos? Swap it for Amorgos, Greece. Pristine beaches, whitewashed villages, and dramatic cliffs – minus the crowds and inflated prices. As a bonus, use the Wells Fargo Autograph Card to earn generous rewards on flights and hotels, making that Aegean escape even sweeter.

• If you’ve been thinking about Bali, Bora Bora, the Maldives, or any other Tiktok trendy all-inclusive beach experience, consider Lombok, Indonesia. Boasting turquoise waters, volcanic landscapes, and serene villages, Lombok offers similar beauty without the crowds and inflated prices.

• Iceland’s dramatic glaciers and geothermal wonders can make for some great Instagram posts, but the price tag can make most travelers cringe. Explore Romania’s Carpathian Mountains instead. Rugged peaks, stunning waterfalls, and charming villages offer awe-inspiring landscapes and vibrant folklore, minus the hefty Icelandic price tag.

• Dreaming of Parisian romance? Opt for Avignon, France, or Ljubljana, Slovenia. Stunning Baroque architecture, vibrant cafés, and walkable historic centers offer European allure and local experiences. Plus, the Citi Premier Card unlocks bonus points on restaurants and entertainment, maximizing your travel rewards.

• The historical grandeur of Rome can be fun, but it’s also a touristy town with sky-high prices. Instead, head to Split, Croatia. This charming coastal city boasts a UNESCO-listed Diocletian Palace, Roman ruins, and a vibrant waterfront promenade, all steeped in history – and minus the crazy crowds.

More: Best Credit Cards for International Travel

Accommodation options

Additionally, keep an eye out for loyalty programs offered by airlines, hotels, and travel providers. They often offer exclusive deals, discounts, and rewards that can further sweeten your travel deals.

Once you’ve gotten your destination picked, you’ll need a place to stay. Look into various sustainable travel options that can replace overpriced hotels, like the following:

• Skip the overpriced hotel chains, and instead, embrace boutique guesthouses, homestays, or charming B&Bs. You’ll experience local hospitality, unique decor, and often, a delicious homemade breakfast – all at a fraction of the cost. And, using the Discover it Miles Card on your stay earns valuable miles you can later redeem for travel. Remember, every penny saved is a travel reward won!

• Hostels also aren’t as sketchy as they seem. They offer comfortable, budget-friendly accommodations nestled in the heart of local neighborhoods. Plus, hostels foster a social atmosphere perfect for solo travelers or budget-conscious groups. The Capital One Venture Rewards Card offers bonus miles on bookings, further padding your travel fund.

Culinary replicas

Hungry for some international cuisine? You will be once you spend all day having fun in the sun (or snow), so here are some ways to keep your stomachs and your wallets as full as possible:

• No matter what, ditch the tourist traps. Venture off the beaten path and discover hidden gems where locals dine. Street food stalls, markets, and family-run eateries offer authentic flavors and generous portions at wallet-friendly prices. And, using a card like the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card with dining rewards lets you accumulate points while indulging in local delicacies.

• Don’t be afraid to cook your own meals. Many affordable accommodations have kitchens. Stock on regional treats up at local markets and whip up your own culinary adventures. Not only is it budget-friendly, but it’s a fantastic way to immerse yourself in the local culture and flavors.

Sightseeing and activities

Getting the most out of your vacation doesn’t mean that you have to see all the most Instagrammable sights. Sometimes, the things you’ll treasure most are things you least expect, like:

• Free walking tours are a fantastic way to explore cities and uncover hidden gems. They offer historical insights, local recommendations, and often come with optional tips-based compensation. Remember, knowledge is the cheapest souvenir!

• Embrace the outdoors. Hike scenic trails, picnic in parks, or cycle through picturesque villages. Most cities offer free or low-cost outdoor activities perfect for soaking up the local atmosphere and saving your pennies for truly unique experiences.

• Look for discounts and passes. City cards often offer discounts or even free access to various attractions, while museum nights or cultural events provide budget-friendly ways to connect with the local scene.

Remember, travel dupes are about more than just saving money. They’re about uncovering hidden gems, experiencing authentic cultures, and creating memories that money can’t buy. So pack your sense of adventure, embrace the art of the dupe, and let’s explore the world, one budget-friendly experience at a time!

Travel deals and loyalty programs

Travel dreams deserve reality, and thanks to savvy planning and strategic credit card usage, that reality can be much more affordable than you think. Many credit cards, like the Wells Fargo Autograph Card, Citi Premier Card, or Discover It Miles Card, offer bonus points or cashback on activities bookings, turning experiences into rewards.

1. Unleashing the reward power

Look for credit cards that offer generous rewards on travel-related spending, like flights, hotels, car rentals, and even dining. The Wells Fargo Autograph Card shines in the travel category, earning 6x points on purchases at select merchants, 3x points on travel and dining, and 1x points on everything else. These points can be redeemed for travel or converted into statement credits, effectively slashing your travel expenses.

 

Also, many cards offer lucrative sign-up bonuses, like the Citi Premier Card‘s 80,000 bonus points after spending $4,000 in the first 3 months. These bonuses can be a massive jumpstart towards your travel fund, giving you the freedom to splurge on that dream experience.

 

Don’t forget to explore your card’s travel portal – they often offer exclusive deals, discounts, and even transfer your points directly to airline miles or hotel points. The Discover it Miles Card offers a convenient portal where you can redeem your miles for various travel options, maximizing their value.

2. Card-specific strategies

The cards mentioned above are the best in the business when it comes to securing great travel deals, but they each have their own little perks:

• Wells Fargo Autograph Card – Fuel your wanderlust with bonus points and statement credits. Use the 6x points on select merchants like Uber and dining (hello, airport lounge access!) to rack up rewards quickly. Don’t forget the 3x points on travel and dining – every cappuccino on that Italian piazza adds up!

• Citi Premier Card – Maximize your meal plan on your next trip with 3x points at restaurants and bars. Pair this with the generous sign-up bonus of 80,000 bonus points and airport lounge access to elevate your travel game. That means that every croissant in Avignon could translate to free flights or upgrades!

• Discover it Miles Card – Turn your various everyday purchases into cheap, charming vacations with unlimited 1.5x Miles on all purchases. Groceries, gas, that new outfit – they all contribute to your travel fund. Plus, enjoy the flexibility of redeeming miles for statement credits or various travel options through their portal.

Remember, credit cards are tools, not magic wands. Responsible spending and using the right card for the right purchase are key to unlocking their travel-boosting potential. Pay your bills on time, avoid interest charges, and choose cards that align with your travel habits and budget.

Bottom line

Congrats! You now know a few secrets to exploring the world without draining your bank account. In case you forgot, here’s a recap:

• Embrace travel dupes – Ditch those pricey tourist traps and discover hidden gems that offer the same magic at a fraction of the cost. Picture Santorini vibes in Amorgos, Greece, or Parisian romance in Ljubljana, Slovenia – the possibilities are endless!

• Think outside the box– Explore budget-friendly alternatives like guesthouses, homestays, or Airbnbs. Cook your own meals, take free walking tours, and embrace the outdoors – every penny saved is a travel reward earned!

• Credit cards are your best travel buddies – It’s easy to choose cards that reward your travel habits, no matter if you’re more interested in offbeat locations or the freshest foods. The Wells Fargo Autograph Card fuels your wanderlust with 3x points on travel and dining, while the Citi Premier Card turns those restaurant bills into travel dreams with 3x points. Don’t forget the Discover it Miles Card – everyday purchases become travel treasures with 1.5x miles on everything!

The world awaits! Go forth, explore, and remember – travel dupes and strategic credit cards are your keys to unlock unforgettable adventures on a budget!