If you're going somewhere relatively close, consider driving. The cost of a drive from San Diego to San Francisco is around $160 in fuel, cheaper than the $250 range for a plane ticket, as of spring 2011. You should factor in lodging for longer trips, and the time spent on the road may or may not be an economic factor for you, depending on your travel situation. Driving saves you more money when you travel in a group, because you can split the fuel costs. You can also scour websites that specialize in finding deals for road trips and hidden treasures like thrifty bed and breakfast inns.
Destinations have different peak seasons. Do as much research as possible on your destination possibilities and when it's cheapest to travel there. It's best to have flexible dates and needs for travel and lodging. If you can travel midweek, you'll typically pay less for plane fair and hotel rates. Research how moving your travel dates several days or weeks lowers or increases fare. Airlines like Southwest have online low-fare calendars to check prices.
Driving and flying may seem appealing, but relaxing in a lounge car can be an appealing way to reach your destinations. Taking the train may take more time, but you don't have to keep your eyes on the road the entire time or worry about plane ticket prices. A trip from San Diego to San Francisco costs around $160, as of 2011, about the same as fuel costs for driving, and you get to relax and enjoy the gorgeous scenic view of the pacific ocean. Taking a bus can save you even more money, and many companies now offer business amenities like Wi-Fi, power sockets at each seat and more leg room than most airliners. Using public transportation in urban destinations can save you additional money.
Keep more money in your pocket throughout your trip by choosing thrifty dining, lodging and recreational options. Use online guides or guidebooks geared toward the thrifty traveler. You might find that you discover local treats you never would have found by sticking to the tourist mainstays. If you're particularly adventurous, you can couch surf using a worldwide network of hosts. Organizations like CouchSurfing.org have city ambassadors and rated and reviewed host families and individuals who might be a good match for you.
