The procrastinator’s guide to spontaneous travel (and not going broke)

For this week’s Reality Cheque, we’re looking at the common misconception that last-minute travel plans are always expensive.

Between rising fuel costs, reduced flight routes and strong demand for popular destinations, travel planning can feel a little like being dropped, without a map, into an episode of YouTube’s Jet Lag: The Game. The good news: we spoke with travel experts about how Canadians can stretch their budgets this summer—without sacrificing their adventure.

Be flexible

Flexibility is one of the most effective ways to lower travel costs in a high-demand market. Even though you may have specifics in mind, being a little less Lexi Howard with meticulous planning, and having more Ted Lasso go-with-the-flow energy can up your chances of scoring a deal.

“First, be flexible with your dates—don’t go in with hard dates,” says Amra Durakovic, Head of PR & Communications for Flight Centre Canada. “Next, be flexible with your destination.”

Claire Newell, Canadian travel expert and president of Travel Best Bets, says market conditions are also shaping prices. “Even before the war in Iran, fuel prices had already increased, and airlines are adjusting routes and rebalancing,” she says.

Timing can also make a difference. “Mid-week can sometimes offer better value, while in other cases weekends may work—it really depends on the route.”

Newell also suggests looking beyond flights to stay on budget. “Taking ground transportation to a larger hub can sometimes help you avoid connecting flights, which can be more cost-effective.”

Lighten up and carry on

Packing light can be one of the easiest ways to save. With many airlines now charging for checked baggage—and in some cases even carry-ons—travel costs can add up quickly.

Baggage fees can quietly add hundreds of dollars to a family trip—especially on short-haul routes—making packing decisions a direct budget lever. 

“One of the ways airlines balanced higher fuel costs is by increasing baggage fees—carry-ons can be an added cost,” says Newell. “I always travel with a carry-on because I love knowing everything is with me.”

She also recommends choosing accommodations with laundry access when possible. If not, simple hand-washing can help extend what you pack.

Beyond avoiding fees, packing light makes travel easier overall—from airport transfers to train connections. Versatile clothing, smart layering and a realistic packing mindset can all reduce costs. Every bag left behind is money that can go toward experiences instead.

Go off the beaten path

Some of the best travel value comes from looking beyond the obvious.

“If you’re willing to go to Europe, don’t automatically book Spain or Portugal,” says Durakovic. “Consider destinations like Montenegro, Albania or Bosnia and Herzegovina.”

That mindset also applies to travel card rewards. “If you have loyalty and credit card points, this is the time to take advantage,” says Newell. She notes that redemption values vary widely and less popular destinations often require fewer points, stretching rewards further.

The trend toward lesser-known destinations is also happening closer to home, with interest in places like Edmonton and the Maritimes, though rising demand has affected prices in some areas.

Japan remains a strong-value destination for Canadians thanks to favourable currency exchange rates, while timing also plays a role. “If you can travel during shoulder season, you’ll get even more for your dollar,” says Durakovic.

She also notes growing demand for sun destinations in their off-season. “Places like Mexico can offer excellent value during the summer months.”

Travel tip: Fly into or base yourself outside major hubs like Paris, Rome or Barcelona to cut costs and avoid the crowds. Then hop between cities on ultra-low-cost airlines like Ryanair, easyJet or Wizz Air. Yes, you may need to switch airports, but the savings (and sense of adventure) make it worthwhile.

Travel local

Sometimes the most rewarding trips are the closest to home.

With rising costs, many Canadians are rediscovering road trips, staycations and regional getaways. Think of it as your own version of Schitt’s Creek—familiar places often hold unexpected surprises. Even Vogue thinks Canada is cool. 

Domestic travel can significantly reduce one of the biggest variables in any trip budget: transportation costs. The Canada Strong Pass is helping make domestic travel more accessible by encouraging Canadians to explore the country more affordably.

“It’s a super successful program, and I totally encourage Canadians to take advantage of this,” says Newell. “It’s a great way to save money.” She adds that with gas prices uncertain, families can explore within their province or across the country without flying.

By reducing transportation costs and travel time, staying local can stretch a family budget further.

Travel tip: The Canada Strong Pass includes incentives such as free admission to national parks, museums, and attractions, as well as discounted or free VIA Rail travel—making a last minute getaway more affordable. 

Plan ahead

Even though flexibility can let you take advantage of unexpected bargains, planning ahead can also help cut costs this summer.

“It’s not only air and accommodations,” says Newell. “You need to look at ground transfers and the cost of activities. And booking museums and theme parks in advance can help stretch your dollar farther.” She also recommends checking prices in Canadian dollars before booking to understand total costs.

If this summer ends up being more staycation than getaway, consider it your chance to get ahead for next year.

Signing up for airline newsletters can help you get a jump on flash sales. And when a deal appears, don’t wait. “We’ve seen that travellers who hesitate often miss out,” says Durakovic. “If the destination, dates and price work, it’s best to book it.”

The best time to plan your next vacation may be while you’re still on this one. Future you—and your wallet—will thank you.

Read more from this issue of The Get:

1. Can you make a Euro summer happen on a student’s budget?  
2. Mobile florist Vienna Hintze on how to find a job that feeds your soul
3. Oops, did you ghost your money? Where to find missing cash and accounts
4. What’s the best way to draw down my RRSPs over five years?