Save frequent flyer miles and book at least six months in advance. As of 2010, at least one frequent flier program offered flights for 25,000 miles on a limited number of mid-week flights. Vacationers using cash should search for flights on search engines that allow for flexible day choices in order to browse the cheapest mid-week flight offerings.
Book May through September during off-season, but avoid higher prices during Carnival in August. September is the cheapest month to visit, as travelers will receive hurricane season rates without extreme risk of hurricane season weather.
Pack light, avoiding heavy cottons and denim to save on checked bag fees.
Research budget accommodations online or read the book "Grenada" by Paul Crask, which provides accurate advice. Apartments and cottages, often with kitchen facilities, swimming pools, balconies and mountain or ocean views rent for about $50 per person, as of December 2010.
Choose a hotel in central Grand Anse to eliminate the need for taxis. This area is within a short walking distance of beaches, groceries, shopping, dining and public buses. In off-season, $90 nightly per person can secure a posh cottage with full kitchen facilities. For less frills, spend $50 per person and stay steps away from breathtaking Morne Rouge Beach.
Choose a local-owned hotel, as the staff can provide additional money-saving activities.
Always review menu prices before choosing a restaurant. Look for restaurants that offer combo deals, such as free beach chairs with the purchase of a meal at Morne Rouge Beach or free excursions to Rum Island with a Sunday meal at True Blue.
Ride the bus downtown for the best availability of inexpensive meals. Happy hour specials are abundant, with the local Carib beer sometimes costing less than bottled water.
Walk to Grand Anse mall for U.S. prices on local artwork and typical mall fare. Purchase spice necklaces and souvenirs from the few unobtrusive beach vendors. Stock up on locally grown fruits and spices at St. George's vendor market every Saturday, a short bus ride from Grand Anse.
See the entire island cheaply by riding the crowded but organized bus system. Most locals will advise where to exit the bus and provide directions to sightseeing spots. Several waterfalls are within walking distance from bus stops and make a great place for a picnic lunch.
Tour companies usually offer free pick up and drop off at hotels. Consider a snorkeling trip to the Underwater Sculpture Gallery and marine park.
Take photos and lay on the beach. It's cheap and the best thing you can do when in a paradise like Grenada.
