Let’s talk about the pros and cons of each season in Sedona, and which one is the best for you to visit this spiritual, desert oasis!
Nestled in the heart of Arizona’s stunning red rock country, Sedona is a destination that captivates travelers with its breathtaking landscapes, vibrant arts scene, and spiritual vortexes. But to truly make the most of your Sedona experience, timing your visit is key. Here’s a guide to help you decide the best time to explore this enchanting desert town.
At the end I’ll discuss what time of year I think is the best time to visit Sedona, but first we’ll take a look at the pros and cons of each season.
Sedona in Spring: The Season of Bloom
March to May is arguably the best time to visit Sedona. As winter recedes, the desert comes alive with blooming wildflowers and mild temperatures. Daytime highs typically range from 65°F to 80°F (18°C to 27°C), making it perfect for outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and exploring the numerous trails that weave through Sedona’s iconic red rock formations. Check out my post on where to see the most wildflowers in Sedona!
Pros:
Comfortable temperatures
Wildflowers in bloom
Clear skies, perfect for stargazing
Cons:
Higher accommodation prices
Larger crowds
Sedona in Summer: Embrace the Heat
Cathedral Rock
June to August is the hottest period in Sedona, with temperatures often soaring above 90°F (32°C). Despite the heat, summer can still be a good time to visit if you plan your activities wisely. Early mornings and late evenings are cooler, ideal for hiking and outdoor pursuits. Plus, this season offers a unique chance to experience the dramatic monsoon storms that roll in, creating spectacular lightning shows against the red rocks. Oak creek also flows through Sedona and can be a wonderful way to cool down in the afternoon heat. If you go at this time of year, make sure to go on the West Fork hike, for which you can hike in the creek almost the entire way up!
Pros:
Fewer tourists
Lower hotel rates
Exciting monsoon season
Cons:
High daytime temperatures
Limited midday outdoor activities (due to excessive heat, prepare to find a way to stay cool, like a dip in the creek, or find some indoor experiences)
Sedona in Fall: A Golden Retreat
Credit: Sedona Monthly
September to November brings a second wave of ideal weather to Sedona. Temperatures drop to a more comfortable range, between 60°F and 80°F (15°C to 27°C). The fall foliage adds a splash of color to the landscape, with the changing leaves creating a stunning contrast against the red rocks. This season also offers various festivals and events, providing a rich cultural experience. This is the second best season to visit Sedona, after spring. It doesn’t boast the beautiful wildflowers like Spring does, but that also means it comes with slightly less crowds!
Pros:
Mild temperatures
Beautiful fall foliage – The best place to view this will be a drive along Oak Creek Canyon!
Numerous cultural events
Apple Orchards are bursting with fruit and The Verde Valley Wine Region is in its bountiful season (making for great tastings and great views)!
Cons:
Popular with tourists, especially in October
Higher accommodation costs
Sedona in Winter: A Serene Escape
Credit: Sedona Monthly
December to February is the quietest time in Sedona, making it ideal for those seeking solitude. While the temperatures are cooler, ranging from 40°F to 60°F (4°C to 15°C), the winter months offer a peaceful ambiance and the possibility of snow-dusted red rocks, creating a picturesque winter wonderland. It’s also the perfect time to enjoy Sedona’s luxury spas and cozy up in charming lodges.
If you think you can’t go hiking in winter in Sedona, think again. With the right gear and some extra layers, you can enjoy just as much hiking in the winter as you can in the summer. Some particularly good hikes to go on in winter include: TeaCup trail, Little Horse trail, Yavapai trail, Margs Draw trail.
Pros:
Fewer tourists
Lower prices on accommodations
Unique winter landscapes
Cons:
Cooler temperatures, less ideal for outdoor activities
Shorter daylight hours
My Pick:
Overall, my pick for the best time to visit Sedona is Spring, particularly late April through May. While the pleasant weather does attract more tourists, planning ahead by booking accommodations in advance and hitting the trails early in the morning can help you avoid the crowds and fully enjoy the natural beauty of Sedona during this magical season. Check out some of my other posts for planning an epic trip to Sedona! If you’re only going to be in Sedona for a day or two, this is the itinerary for you! And if you’ve taken my advice and have decided to head out there in Spring, here’s a guide to the best spots to see wildflowers!
Conclusion
Each season in Sedona has its own unique charm and appeal. Whether you’re seeking the vibrant bloom of spring, the tranquility of winter, the dynamic energy of summer storms, or the golden hues of fall, there’s no bad time to visit this magical desert town. Consider your preferences for weather, activities, and crowd levels when planning your trip to ensure a memorable and enjoyable experience in Sedona, Arizona.
Let’s talk about the best time to visit Sedona in Spring for wildflowers, and which trails to hike to see the most!
Sedona, Arizona, renowned for its striking red rock formations and mystical energy, is also a hidden gem for wildflower enthusiasts. As spring unfolds, this desert landscape bursts into a vibrant tapestry of colors, completely transforming the rugged terrain. Amidst the arid surroundings, wildflowers offer a stunning contrast to the earthy tones of the rocks and soil. From delicate pinks and purples to bold reds and yellows, these resilient blooms add a touch of ephemeral beauty to the enduring desert.
The sight of these colorful blossoms against the backdrop of Sedona’s iconic scenery creates a visual symphony that enchants visitors and locals alike. Whether you’re a seasoned botanist, a nature photographer, or simply someone who appreciates the wonders of the natural world, Sedona’s wildflower season is a must-see!
Certain times of spring will be better for wildflower viewings, which I’ll go over in this post. But there are also certain trails that will boast far more blooms than others (and they’re not all the trails you’d expect) so let’s dive into the best hikes in Sedona* to see the most wildflowers!
*in no particular order*
Little Horse Trail
Length: Approx. 3.5 miles roundtrip
Little Horse trail is a relatively easy hike, mostly flat, with a few stretches of more challenging terrain. There are flowers all along the trail. I found most of them to be more towards the beginning and ends of the trail. In between you can find an incredible and somewhat secret view of the Chapel of the Holy Cross!
I took this trail as a less crowded route to get to Chicken Point. This lookout has some amazing views of Sedona and the sprawling red rocks. If you’re feeling brave, you can hike up the steep slab of rock to get to the white line bike “trail”. It’s more of a daredevil experience than an actual trail. But walking along it was thrilling and the view (and distance it gave me from the pink jeep tours down below) was well worth it!
Afterwards, head to the nearby Crescent Moon Picnic site to eat lunch and soak in the beautiful scenery. This site boasts a refreshing creek lined with trees, and one of the best views of Cathedral Rock in Sedona!
Mescal Trail
Length: Approx. 5.9 miles out and back
Mescal trail is located in NW Sedona, on Long Canyon Road off of Dry Creek Rd. It’s considered a moderately challenging route, but I found it to be more on the beginners side. It was pretty flat for most of the trail, though some of the terrain can be a bit rocky!
Aside from a couple bikers and a small group of friends, I was the only one out on this trail. I did start around 8am, but some Sedona hikes would’ve already been incredibly crowded even that early in the morning! Why it’s not as popular eludes me, as I found the trail to be quite beautiful, and thanks to all the wildflowers, one of my top favorites in Sedona!
This was one of those hikes where I found myself stopping every five seconds to take photos of wildflowers. I swear every five feet there was a new and beautiful flower that was just calling out to me for a photoshoot!
Margs Draw Trail
Length: Approx. 4 miles (only roughly 100 ft of elevation gain) and can be extended by taking Huckaby trail.
This hike is another one of the lesser known gems in Sedona. It doesn’t get nearly as much traffic as other nearby routes despite its impressive, panoramic view of many of Sedona’s most recognizable mountains and rock formations and close proximity to the town. It’s a very easy hike and great for the whole family.
There are a couple trailheads from which to start this hike, including Margs Draw TH, Broken Arrow TH, Sombart Lane Trailhead, or from Schnebly Hill. However, you’ll probably encounter the most parking availability at Margs Draw TH or Schnebly Hill.
This hike had a wonderful array of flowers lining the trail, you’ll see the most about .5 miles in (from the Margs Draw TH). As you come to a fork in the road, turn right (towards Broken Arrow TH) to see the most flowers!
When to Visit Sedona For Wildflowers
When it comes to the desert, the window of time to see wildflowers in their full glory is pretty narrow. Luckily, wildflower season also falls on the best time of the year to visit Sedona weather-wise.
The peak season for wildflower viewing in this desert oasis typically spans from late April through May. During this period, the weather is just right—not too hot and not too cold—providing ideal conditions for both the flowers and the visitors eager to see them.
The earlier spring rains and the warming sun create a perfect environment for a diverse range of wildflowers to flourish. Planning your visit during these months ensures that you’ll witness Sedona at its most picturesque. Wildflowers paint the desert in hues of purple, yellow, red, and orange, a haven for nature lovers!
Some of the flowers you can expect to see include:
Claret cup cactus
Indian paintbrush
Prickly pear
Beavertail
Mexican Poppies
Black-footed daisies
Fleabane
Evening primrose
Purple owl’s clover
and cream cups!
If you’re heading to Sedona in the springtime, make sure to check out these hikes to see some wildflowers! Looking for some other tips on what to do in Sedona? Check out my recent post on how to spend one day in Sedona for some ideas!
This post will provide you with everything you need to know when visiting Monument Valley. When to go, what to visit, how to get there, tours to take, & more!
Mitten Buttes From Visitors Center overlook – Photo by Riley Eloise
What is Monument Valley?
Located on the Utah-Arizona border in the Navajo Nation Reservation, Monument Valley is part of the Colorado Plateau. It’s made up of sandstone buttes, colossal mesas, and panoramic vistas. Due to its location on the reservation, it’s not an official National Park.
It’s been featured in a large array of popular films and TV shows, including Forrest Gump, National Lampoons Vacation, Mission: Impossible II, 2001: A Space Odyssey, and the HBO series Westworld!
How to get to Monument Valley
Monument Valley isn’t exactly close to anything, but it’s on the way to lots of destinations, making it the perfect pit stop on road trips!
I personally drove from Durango to Monument Valley, about a 3-hour drive.
Distances and Driving times to nearby cities & parks:
Arizona:
Flagstaff – 3 hours, 170 miles
Page – 2 hours, 121 miles
Pheonix – 5 hours, 315 miles
Utah:
Salt Lake City – 6 hours, 380 miles
Moab – 2 ½ hours, 150 miles
Colorado:
Durango – 3 hours, 165 miles
Grand Junction – 4 hours, 260 miles
New Mexico
Albuquerque – 5 hours, 317 miles
Nevada:
Las Vegas – 6 hours, 390 miles
National Parks:
Grand Canyon (south rim) – 1 ½ hours, 105 miles
Four Corners – 3 hours, 180 miles
The entrance to Monument Valley is located off of US-163, just north of the Utah-Arizona border. The entrance fee is $8 per person. Once you pay this fee, you can come and go as often as you like.
✨Pro Tip✨ Get there as early as you can to avoid a long wait to get in, and to avoid large crowds inside. Before noon is ideal, but the earlier the better. If you can stay somewhere nearby that will help, plus it will allow you to stay for sunset or sunrise, which is absolutely magical at Monument Valley!
Screenshot
Things to do
Monument Valley Overlook:
Before you dive into all of your Monument Valley activities, you’ve got to stop at The View Hotel/Visitors Center and walk over to the viewpoint. It’s a great introduction to the valley, and you’ll feel like you’re walking up to Mars!
Valley Drive / Tribal Park Loop:
This scenic drive is a 17-mile loop that begins and ends at the Monument Valley Visitors Center. It’s a very bumpy dirt & gravel road that stops by many of the most popular sites in Monument Valley. A 4×4 is not necessary, but if you don’t have it, you will want to drive nice & slow! There are places for cars to pull off and park so you can get out and take photos along the way.
If you don’t have much time to stop at Monument Valley, this is what I’d recommend doing to get the most out of your visit!
*Note – this is the only part of Monument Valley you can go to without a tour. To access other parts of the tribal park, you’ll need to book in advance with a tour group.
Here’s a glance into what you’ll see on the drive:
Screenshot
✨Pro Tip✨ For the best photos go in the morning, midday, or evening (for sunset)… if you go in the afternoon/early evening, you’ll be facing the sun and it will make for some bad-quality photos.
Hike the Wildcat Trail:
This is the only self-guided trail available in Monument Valley. It’s a 3.2-mile loop that circles Mitten Buttes and Merrick Butte. You’ll get a few different angles of the monuments than you would on Valley Drive, and it’s a great way to get some exercise in while enjoying the views!
Forrest Gump Point:
Located on US-163, 20 minutes past the visitors center, is the iconic film location from the movie Forrest Gump, GPS coordinates 37.101393, -109.990973. Apart from being well known for its film location, it’s a gorgeous viewpoint!
Please keep in mind that this viewpoint is on a highway. Per the Utah Tourism Website:
“Please be aware this iconic photo-op is located along a highly trafficked road. Due to the road’s traffic leading to past injuries and fatalities, we urge you to take your safety seriously and refrain from taking photos from the middle of the road. Visitors are welcome to pull off safely on the side of the road and take photos from the shoulder only.”
Tours to take
The Valley Drive Tour
If you don’t feel comfortable making the bumpy dirt road drive yourself or just want to sit back and relax and enjoy the view, then you can sign up for a Valley Drive tour with a Navajo guide! It stops at all the same spots as you can with your vehicle.
Lower Monument Valley
There is another loop that goes off of Valley Drive, which is only accessible by tour. You’ll go up close to the Totem Pole and a few other rock formations not scene from Valley Drive. They have sunrise lower Monument Valley tours, which are a great way to watch the sunrise in the valley at a lower tour price.
Prices average around $80 per person, depending on the tour company, and last approx. 3 hours. If you go on one of the photography-specific lower monument tours (typically offered at sunrise/sunset), it’s about $125 per person.
Teardrop Arch
This tour is not as popular as others, which means you have a good chance of getting this view all to yourself! You’ll do some light hiking, explore some caves, and stop at Teardrop Arch for a unique view of Monument Valley!
Prices average around $80 per person and lasts 2-3 hours.
Backcountry Access Tour of Monument Valley
This tour goes along the Tribal Loop road as well as some backcountry sights that can only be visited with a Navajo guide, including a Navajo Hogan (traditional Navajo home) and a musical performance. This tour is a good combination of scenery and culture!
Prices average $80 per person and lasts about 3-4 hours.
Mystery Valley
This is a pretty popular tour that takes visitors to see the petroglyphs and Anasazi sites, for a total of three hours. This tour is more cultural than it is scenic.
Prices average around $90 per person and last 3-4 hours.
Hunts Mesa
The Hunts Mesa tour is a full-day trip (with an optional overnight stay) and is the most comprehensive and ultimate excursion available! You’ll spend a few hours driving through some of the best views of Monument Valley. You’ll end at Hunts Mesa, where you’ll get a steak dinner cooked over a campfire while you watch the sunset over the monuments! If you want the best Monument Valley has to offer, it’s this tour!
The price is a little steeper on this one, at around $300 per person, and lasts about 7 hours (unless you do the overnight).
Where to stay in Monument Valley
The View Hotel
The View Hotel is located just inside Monument Valley next to the visitor center. It boasts incredible views of the monuments (and it looks really cool when looked at from out in the valley!). The higher up a room you get, the better the view, but also the pricer the cost!.
The Premium Cabins
These cabins overlook the Mittens and come with a deck to watch the sunrise and sunset! The cabins are small, but clean, warm, and cozy and offer everything you need for a night in the desert!
Goulding’s Lodge
This spot is located just outside of Monument Valley and offers both rooms and a campground.
Firetree B&B Hogan
If you stay at Firetree B&B, you’ll be sleeping in a traditional Navajo Hogan!
Camping
This is going to be the cheapest option available at Monument Valley. The campground is located between The View Hotel and the Premium Cabins, with a beautiful view of the Mittens. RV’s welcome!
How much time do you need in Monument Valley
Since it takes so long to get to Monument Valley from any nearby towns, you’d definitely get the most out of your trip if you could stay overnight, but if you’re planning to just check it out along your road trip, a couple of hours is just fine!
If you only have a short amount of time, then the Valley Drive and Forrest Gump Point are your go-to’s!
When to visit Monument Valley
The best time to visit Monument Valley, similar to the rest of the southwest, is going to be spring and fall when the temperatures are far milder but still nice and warm! Summer months can get incredibly hot & crowded, and the winter can sometimes bring snow (which could still be a really cool photo-op!)
What to Pack for Monument Valley & Photo Gear
Personal gear:
Water Bottle – I love my Grayl filter bottle so I never have to worry about drinking unsafe water
Polarizer Filter – exceptionally important to make sure you can expose the bright red rocks correctly without losing the exposure of the blue sky behind them.
This post covers a range of useful, unique tips to help the anxious traveler learn how to pack light so you can focus more on enjoying your trip and less on stressing about packing the right stuff!
Traveling with anxiety already poses its own set of challenges. But if you’re someone who likes to pack light (or wants to be one of those people), it can feel almost impossible.
You’re staring at your one pair of athletic shorts thinking through every scenario… “What if these shorts that fit me perfectly suddenly decide to be too tight and I rip a hole right down the crotch?” or “what if I sh*t my pants five times on this trip even though I’ve never once done that since I was four years old?”.
Yeah… we’ve all been there. We’ve all ran down the list of crazy ‘what ifs’ that simply never happen (cue the little voice in your head saying “yet…they haven’t happened yet”).
And to that little voice I say, don’t fear me! I’m not here to tell you to completely ignore and shut down your fear. Rather I’m going to do my best to help you work with that fear instead of against it…or instead of letting it take charge.
#1 Extras… to pack or not to pack?
It’s reasonable to want to pack one or two extras of certain items. However, one thing thats helpful to keep in mind is that in this day and age, you can buy almost anything almost everywhere. Seriously.
Now it may not be the exact type you love, but should you actually sh*t your pants five times on one trip, I’d take the bet that you won’t care exactly what brand of underwear you have to buy.
Whenever I’m packing I take a look at the extras I want to pack and remind myself, “If I absolutely needed it, I could buy it there”. It’s not a super sustainable method, but the truth is you rarely *if ever* actually need to buy the thing. Plus you can always thrift it. I love finding cute thrift stores wherever I travel!
Additionally, most hostels, hotels and airbnbs have a place to do laundry. If they don’t, there’s usually a place close by to do it at. I typically pack either an empty packing cube or reuse a plastic grocery bag to put my dirty clothes in, then empty out my daypack to bring it to a laundromat. You can also get one of these travel-friendly laundry bags too!
#2 Pack light with packing Cubes
Packing cubes are the holy grail for helping you pack light. Why packing cubes rule:
They help you organize different clothing items (shirts in one, pants in another, socks and underwear in the smallest)
Help keep your clothing items wrinkle free
Help you fit more into your bag: regardless of whether they are designated compression cubes or non-compression cubes, they will allow you to fit at least an extra outfit or two (sometimes more!)
My packing cubes are an odd assortment of brands that I’ve had for many years now. They do the trick just fine so I haven’t invested in new ones (reuse as long as you can!). If you don’t have any lying around,these are probably the most similar to what I use as I can’t find the exact ones.
The few times I’ve traveled without packing cubes have been complete and utter chaos…
My odd assortment of packing cubes from over the years!
#3 Start with your ‘must-haves’
My ‘must haves’ fall into categories. The first is that one clothing item you know you’re going to end up wearing 50% of the time. On beach trips this is usually a flowy dress or my athletic shorts and and a loose tee for me. The second includes clothing items you know you’ll need for certain activities (hiking, swimming, running, one nice night out, etc). In order to pack light, really narrow down your must-haves before you even start looking at your clothes (or else you’ll start convincing yourself you have more ‘must-haves’ than you really do!)
#4 Stop packing outfit-by-outfit and start creating mini capsules
You may have seen the Pinterest photos of capsule wardrobes floating around, well these also work great to help people pack light!
I pack 4-5 bottoms and 3-4 tops on every trip. How do I decide which to bring? I start with my essentials. Let’s use my recent trip to Puerto Rico as an example:
I knew I was going to be doing lots of outdoor activities, like hiking, so I packed my athletic shorts, a pair of shorts that are cute but comfy, and some sleep shorts. I brought my linen pants for going out and cooler evenings, my lightweight hiking pants for the rainforest.
For my tops, I wanted to make sure that each top I packed went with all of my bottoms. I picked a basic black tee and white tee, two graphic tees and one tank top. I’m not a big tank top person but if that’s your thing, switch out the graphic tees for tanks.
All in all I only have ten items, but I can make 25 different outfits! That’s the basic principle in how to capsulize your travel wardrobe to pack light and get the most out of your carry on.
#5 Don’t venture too far from your norm when trying to pack light
It’s tempting to start packing for a trip and think about all those cute vacay pics you’re going to snap and start packing a bunch of clothing items that you never wear normally. Spoiler alert, whatever reasons that kept you from wearing it at home are still going to exist on vacation. Pack what makes you feel confident and comfortable. Comfort is huge for me on vacation, I’m there to relax and enjoy myself after all!
#6 Stick with your gut to pack light
Go through the following list of questions, and if you’re hesitant to any of them put that item aside. Once you’ve finished packing as light and essential as you can, you can revisit certain items if you still have room.
Is it weather-appropriate?
Is it in your top 3 favorite [insert clothing item here]?
Will it take up a lot of space in your bag?
Do you plan on shopping while you’re there, and if so, plan on getting an item like this?
Is it a bright color or unique pattern? If it’s too unique and you can only wear it once, it’s a waste. Keep in mind that unique pieces are easier to spot being reworn in photos so if that’s something you don’t want, don’t bring it (though I think we should really normalize rewearing outfits, even on instagram, in 2024. Sustainability is cool, people!)
If you’ve made it all the way to the bottom of this list… you get a surprise bonus tip!
#7 Wear your bulkiest clothing items on the plane!
This may seem obvious, but I don’t just mean the one item that’s bulkier… I mean totally put aside your ego here and be okay with looking a little ridiculous on the plane (the airport is kinda like a twilight zone anyways…no one cares).
For me this means I usually wear my hiking shoes, sweats, bulkiest t-shirt, sweatshirt, and if I had to pack for cooler weather, my outer jacket on top of this, and my baseball hat (the rim doesn’t pack down as well).
It can feel kinda hefty, but the plane normally gets cold anyways. Even if your destination is hot, you won’t have to be outside long between the airport to the hostel.
Travel day outfit to Puerto Rico
I hope this list has been helpful, just know you are not alone in your packing anxieties! These are all tips and tricks I utilize every time I pack for a trip, and they’ve really helped me narrow things down and make decisions.
What’s your favorite tip or trick for packing light?
This guide will go through 15+ tips and tricks for how to travel on a budget, from start to finish (planning, packing, accommodation & more) without limiting the adventure!
I hear it all the time, “I’d love to travel, but it’s just too expensive!” and I’m here to tell you that it’s STILL possible to travel on a budget & have the adventure of a lifetime!
But for any of these tips to really sink in, you’ve got to have the right mindset first.
If you see travel as this impossibly expensive thing, but you’re out buying $7 coffees every day, going out to eat multiple times a week, or find yourself surfing amazon a little too often buying things you don’t really need, than yeah, you’re not going to have the funds to go on a trip.
If traveling is something you want to do, then you have to make it a priority. I love going out and getting a warm coffee on a cold day more than anyone. However, I’m very careful to not spend any extra money and to live ‘beneath my means’ so that I can afford going on trips.
There are so many ways to make travel more budget-friendly, and these are all tried and true methods that I use all the time. In fact I just put all these tips to use on my most recent trip to Puerto Rico!
Travel on a budget – Planning
#1 Set a budget
Before you start picking your destination and activities, decide how much money you are willing to spend on a vacation. International flights will typically cost more, but other countries besides the US tend to have more hostels & public transportation options that can make it cheaper than a lot of domestic places.
#2 Seek out an affordable destination
Sometimes these are the most underrated places and you can find real gems there. Look for places with low costs of living or places where foods and other goods are easily accessible. Ex: an island may have a low cost of living, but if they can’t grow what they need or make it on the island, then it has to be imported which can significantly raise the prices.
#3 Be flexible with your timing
If you’re able to choose when you travel, try not to go to a destination during its peak travel season when prices skyrocket. That means you may need to plan for off-season weather, but the flights, accommodations and activities are often so much more affordable. And as a bonus, you don’t have to deal with crowds!
#4 Purchase travel insurance
You should purchase this for any trip, as emergencies, illnesses, and theft of your valuables can happen any time of the year. However, you should especially purchase this if you plan on traveling in the off or shoulder season, when weather can be more unpredictable. It’s incredibly worth the peace of mind. I use Travel Guard for trip insurance and Lemonade renters insurance just to cover my camera (it’s like 15$ a month & you can cancel after the trip).
Travel on a budget – Packing
#1 Thrift for any new travel clothes or gear
Look for secondhand, consignment and thrift stores in your area. You’d be surprised what you can find out there. I’ve found some of my favorite cute fits thrifting! You can totally get outdoor specific clothing and gear too. If you live in a very outdoorsy place you may even have second hand stores specifically for that kind of stuff.
#2 Pack carry-on only
All US airlines now charge extra for checked bags, so you can save a considerable amount by packing less. Plus, you don’t have to stress about lost baggage, which happens all too often nowadays. This is still a challenge for me too, but I’m slowly learning new tips and getting better at it! If you need help packing light here are some of thetips I use to pack light for Colorado trips. You can also check out the Community Tips & Tricks page to see if anyone has added their fav tip for packing light!
Travel on a budget – Flights / Getting to your destination
Our first time renting a car! And in Hawaii no less!
#1 Book in advance
The sweet spot for domestic flights is 1- 4 months ahead of time, and at least 5 months out for international flights to get better prices. Spontaneity is super fun when traveling, but it’s often a lot more expensive. Luckily it’s not the only way to have an amazing vacation. Save your spontaneity for fun day to day things on your trip, rather than big purchases like flights/ accommodation/ rental cars.
#2 Let cheap flights lead the way
It’s no secret that airfare, like gas prices, have seen a rise in recent years, so instead of saying, ‘I have to go to X place this summer,’ let the flights be your guide. Plan the trip backwards and let the airfare determine where you go. Not only will you save money, but you will open up your world to travel experiences you may have never anticipated!
#3 Travel for free with points
Try to fly only one or two airlines and make an account to earn points. It takes time to build up but it’s worth it. Booking.com lets you earn points on accommodation and rental cars too!
Travel on a budget – Accommodation and Food
#1 Stay in hostels
Hostels are an excellent way to travel on a budget. And while I myself am a college-age student, trust me when I say that hostels are NOT just for college-age folks. Growing up, when my parents took us traveling, we always stayed in hostels. Nowadays, I come across plenty of families and older solo travelers using hostels as their choice in accommodation too. Most hostels are good about keeping quiet hours & enforcing cleanliness, so there’s no need to worry about that with younger-crowds either. Make sure to check reviews first, and always bring a lock for the lockers to store your bags and your birdie personal alarm just in case!
Occasionally it will be cheaper to do a shared space Airbnb. This is where you stay in your own private room within someone’s home, and share common spaces with your host. Again make sure you check reviews and still bring a lock for your stuff just in case.
Make sure you feel comfortable with the host before booking. It’s better to spend a little more on a nice hostel or hotel than to put yourself in an uncomfortable, potentially unsafe situation. Generally though, Europe and Asia have excellent hostels almost everywhere that are likely to be cheaper than a shared airbnb.
#2 Use sites like World-packer and WOOF
These sites allow travelers to trade volunteer work for a place to stay (and occasionally for meals as well). Once again, read all the reviews, make sure you feel comfortable with your hosts, and know exactly what will be expected of you before you commit.
If you stay with a host that has a large stay/takes in lots of volunteers at a time, this can be a great way to meet other people. These options are especially good for those new to traveling solo, as you have a home-base to explore from and guidance from your hosts on places to go or even help getting there.
#3 Call hotels/motels to book directly.
Often you can call a hotel or motel to ask about the price for a room, and they will offer a lower price than you see available online. This is more likely to be true at the last minute, as they want to fill up empty rooms. (This won’t always be the case, but hey, it’s worth the effort to try right?)
#4 Cook your own food
If you’re staying at a place with a kitchen, try to cook your own meals as often as you can. When you do eat out, eat like the locals, opt for street food, food halls or local markets. There are some exceptions in certain countries where most restaurants are really cheap, or where grocery stores are really pricey, but most places will be cheaper to cook your own meals.
*Important – Triple check that your hostels and airbnbs have an actual full kitchen. They are allowed to call it a kitchen even if there’s just a microwave and some dishes! This doesn’t happen often, especially in hostels, but I did learn the hard way recently when I came across it for the first time in Puerto Rico*
Travel on a budget – Transportation
Our first time renting a car! And in Hawaii no less!
#1 Driving vs Flying
If your destination is close enough to drive to, price out driving vs flying to see which option is actually cheaper. Don’t just think about gas money and tolls, but also how you’ll get around once you get to your destination. If you’re driving to a place that doesn’t have good public transport, the price of renting a car may make driving cheaper than flying. Especially if you are under 25 or going alone, which makes renting a car really expensive.
#2 Use public transport
Most places outside the US have great public transport available that can get you almost anywhere for a fraction of the price. If you’ve got a specific place/hike in mind that public transport doesn’t reach, just rent a car for the day. Or socialize at the hostel and mooch off someone else’s rental car. Speaking as a solo traveler whose given rides to others, most solo travelers won’t mind & may even love the company!
*Using public transport is also a great way to travel more responsibly and sustainably. If public transport is available where you’re heading, definitely opt for this option!
#3 Get Triple A
If you book a car through triple A (and have a membership) you don’t get charged the underaged driver fee! This is huge! A triple A membership costs about $70 a year. Some rental car young driver fees can be up to $50 dollars a day!Two days of renting a car and you’ve already made that membership worth it! Plus Triple A offers lots of other benefits too. Additionally, you can call triple A on your trip if get a flat or get locked out of your vehicle!
Travel on a budget – Activities
#1 Figure out your must dos or must sees first
Once you’ve landed on your final destination, figure out what the can’t miss attraction, restaurant or town that you would pay a little extra to see is. Then work your budget around this (to an extent). Ex: If there’s a pricey restaurant you’re dying to go to, cook the rest of your meals yourself.
#2 Find all the free activities
Research all the free activities available in your destination. This often means embracing the outdoors and museums. It’s a great way to engage with the local history, culture and natural environment. I spend the majority of my time traveling out in nature or exploring the history behind a location. This is one of those travel on a budget tips that applies literally anywhere. Even if you’re in a city, go walk around and enjoy the sites of the city for free!
I’d love to hear what places or adventures are on your bucket list, and if you decide to put these tips to use to make that dream a reality! It is entirely possible to travel on a budget, friends!
I dive into #11 things to know before heading to Puerto Rico, various Puerto Rico travel tips and tricks that will make your trip a breeze!
So you’re thinking about heading to Puerto Rico to escape the winter chill and enjoy some time lounging on the beach. Maybe you’ve already bought your tickets. But now it’s time to start planning and you’ve got no idea where to begin. A lot of people have misconceptions about Puerto Rico, and I can totally understand that. Before I went, I didn’t really know what to expect either.
Luckily for you, I’ve gathered all the essential Puerto Rico travel tips right here to help you out! Let’s get into it!
#1 Do I need a passport and visa for Puerto Rico?
Good news for all you U.S citizens! Puerto Rico is an unincorporated territory of the US, so US citizens don’t need a passport or visa. Residents of all other countries will need a passport, some will require visas and some will get a 90-day entry. Check out the Visa Program for more info.
#2 Is Puerto Rico solo travel friendly?
I found Puerto Rico to be pretty solo travel friendly. The only downside is needing to rent a car, which can get pricey if you don’t have someone to split the cost with. Renting a car can sometimes make it a bit harder to meet others as well.
There are a decent amount of hostels throughout Puerto Rico, though not as many as a lot of European countries. This also means they are a bit on the pricier side. I paid around $40 a night for all my hostels. I did meet a friend (who I still chat with and may go on some future adventures with) through a shared airbnb situation, so hostels aren’t the only way to make friends!
In general, meeting people while traveling solo really is more about the effort you put into it than opportunity alone. Overall I’d rate Puerto Rico a 7.5/10 for solo travel friendliness.
Paseo de Princesa in Old San Juan
#3 Is Puerto Rico safe?
Puerto Rico has a lower crime rate than most states in the U.S. Most crime is gang-related and extremely unlikely to affect tourists. Some of the more touristy areas may have slightly higher pickpocketing, so practice normal tourist precautions and use common sense. I’m not a trusting person, but I rarely felt like me or my valuables were at risk of harm. Old San Juan in particular was probably one of the safest cities I’ve traveled to.
I was always careful to keep my belongings locked at all times. I kept this lock on my day bag at all times to avoid pickpocketing and to protect my expensive camera. It only adds *max* 15 seconds to open your bag and it’s well worth avoiding the frustration and pain of dealing with losing your valuables. I also kept my birdie personal alarm with me and in reach at all times in case I needed help or felt unsafe.
A ‘Puerto Rico travel tips’ bonus for you: To avoid the risk of hurricanes and earthquakes, try not to travel in the off season. However, advanced technology can provide hurricane warnings weeks in advance now. So as long as you have travel insurance, there’s no need to worry! Check out the best time to visit Puerto Rico for more on planning your trip around the weather.
#4 What language is spoken in Puerto Rico?
Spanish and English are the official languages of Puerto Rico, though Spanish is far more common. If you don’t speak any Spanish you’ll be able to get around just fine. However, to really understand the culture, I’d recommend learning some basic Spanish before you go.
#5 How is the cell phone coverage in Puerto Rico?
Any US mobile phone will work in Puerto Rico. Some carriers might experience a bit more signal issues towards the center of the island (in the mountains/rainforest).
#6 Do I need to rent a car in Puerto Rico?
Unless you’re making a quick one-day stop from a cruise, or plan on only staying in San Juan your whole trip (not recommended), then you’ll NEED to rent a car. Public transport is very limited and very unreliable, and Ubers are really only available in San Juan. If you plan on exploring the rest of the island, you will need to rent a car.
I met a few travelers that didn’t do careful research before their trip and opted not to rent a car. Almost all of them regretted this decision quite a bit. They felt isolated to the hostel’s vicinity and limited to excursions unless they found someone they could carpool with.
Another ‘Puerto Rico travel tips’ bonus for you: Drive with caution up into the mountains of PR. The roads are narrow, steep and winding. If you can’t see around a corner, it’s advised to honk your horn before the turn so other cars know you’re coming. Also, most drivers in Puerto Rico don’t use turn signals. It definitely took a few days to adjust to driving here!
View of Banco Popular in Old San Juan
#7 What weather can I expect in Puerto Rico?
Puerto Rico has a tropical climate with two distinct seasons, the rainy season occurs in Summer and Fall, and the dry season in Winter and Spring. For the majority of the island, temps hover between 75-90 degrees F, (with summer humidity making things feel hotter). Closer inland, particularly up in the mountains, temps can get down into the 60s and occasionally high 50’s, depending on storms and time of year. (Once again, my post on when to visit Puerto Rico will provide a more detailed look at the weather year round)
#8 What is the currency in Puerto Rico?
Puerto Rico’s currency is the US dollar (since it’s a US territory). While living costs in Puerto Rico may be cheaper than most US mainland areas, general prices for food, activities and accommodation are about the same as US prices. click here for conversion rate from US dollars to your currency.
#9 Will I need Cash or do they accept cards?
You will want to carry some cash with you, as there are a few places that won’t accept cards, though overall I found I could use my card a lot more than I was expecting. Only a few places required cash and some were simply because their card readers weren’t working that day. There are lots of ATMs available in every town. Puerto Rico accepts all major credit cards, though some international travelers may have associated fees so check with your credit card carrier beforehand. And make sure you notify your bank that you will be traveling so your card doesn’t get locked!
The iconic flag wall in Old San Juan
#10 Do I need to tip in Puerto Rico?
Like the rest of the US, tipping is customary & an essential part of service industries. They don’t make full wages like they do in other places & their income relies on tips. It’s customary to tip between 15% to 20% of your bill at restaurants and anywhere from $2 to $10 for hotel staff and taxi drivers.
#11 What’s the emergency number?
Should you find yourself in need of any emergency help or assistance, just dial #911, same as the rest of the US! 911 operators will dispatch whatever service you are in need of, whether that’s fire services, an ambulance, or police.
Let me know which of these Puerto Rico travel tips was the most helpful for you, or if there are any remaining essential Puerto Rico travel tips you’d like to see added!
Beyond The Shire posts mentioned in Puerto Rico Travel Tips:
