There’s no doubt about it: travelling is likely going to be one of the most exciting things that you will do in your lifetime—and if you’re not careful, it can also end up being an unexpectedly huge investment. Here are a few easy tools and ideas to help you get the most bang for your buck on your next trip.

Find cheaper flights

There are so many ways to find cheap flights these days, it’s almost mind-boggling. A basic Google search for “flights” will usually bring up the most accurate flight information for your area. You can also use apps like Skyscanner and Hopper that are designed to “watch” flight prices and offer recommendations on when to buy. Try to book one way flights where possible, and fly in the shoulder season. Follow budget airlines like Wow and Ryan Air and plan your trip around the cheapest deals, where possible.

Use the right credit cards

Research credit card companies to find the best cards with travel rewards options such as Aeroplan miles.

Plan for off-peak travel

Mid-week is the best time for flying, and shoulder season is usually the cheapest in terms of flights and accommodations, as well as tourist attraction costs.

Location, location, location.

If you find countries that are cheaper to travel to, you’ll be saving a ton of money. But even if you consider the location within a given country or city, that makes a difference too. Consider staying just outside the center of a given city, or even in the next-biggest city nearby, in order to save on all costs. If you position yourself near major transit routes, the savings will be worth it. Consider renting a bicycle, walking or taking public transit wherever possible.

Accommodations

You can find hotel deals and packages using search engines and easily book online or you can also try searching through Travel Set Go and save up to 50% on hotel accommodations.

Food

Make your major meals breakfast and lunch, as it’s usually cheaper to eat these meals in restaurants. Find a hotel with a fridge so that you can shop at grocery stores and save leftovers with ease. Check out the local farmers’ market to buy fresh produce and cheese to keep aside for snacks and lunches. Always hit up a grocery store and buy some healthy snack bars to keep in your backpack for those long days of touring.