We’ve already shared a post on free attractions to enjoy in NYC with your kids, but there are even more ways to save money when visiting this iconic US city. You probably won’t go home saying that it was the cheapest trip that you have ever taken, but a vacation in New York also doesn’t need to totally break the bank.
Here are some great ways to save money, spend less, and cut the overall costs of a stay in New York City:
Book Online
Booking your tickets online through the website for some attractions can often be a lot cheaper than paying the face ticket price on arrival. You may lose a little flexibility (as some require that you go at a certain time, and many are valid only for particular days), but if you are organised and know what you want to do this is a great way to save some cash.
Discounts
There are many websites that offer discount tickets to a variety of places, from restaurants and shops, through to hotels, shows, and attractions. People who scour through these sites before leaving for their trip can often find some fantastic money saving vouchers, just for a few hours research and patience!
Tourist Pass
Depending on what you want to do, a Tourist Pass can be a great way to save money in the long run. You just need to compare what is included for the initial price and how much the individual tickets would cost you (taking into account any discounts and money saving deals) to work out if it would be beneficial for you.
Mealtimes
Keep an eye out for restaurants that have special offers at certain time periods – many have early bird menus, lunchtime savers, and deals such as buy one get one free, kids eat free, or things like discounted kids’ meals, free drinks, free deserts, etc. Depending on your accommodation, you may also have the ability to cook a few meals “at home”, thus saving you the cost of eating out every night – just pick up some supplies from a supermarket. Street food is often a fun, yummy, and cheap option. If your accommodation includes breakfast – don’t miss it! There is no point missing out on a free breakfast and then having to pay to eat later on when you could have filled up earlier on in the day!
Compare Flights
Online flight checkers are ideal for making sure that you are getting the very best deals on your flights. As flights are often a huge part of a travel budget, it really does pay to shop around. Being flexible with your dates and travel times and booking as far in advance as possible can help to secure the cheaper seats.
Subway Smart
Rather than hopping in a cab, try and use the subway as much as possible. Not only is it a lot cheaper, but it can also be quicker – no sitting around in traffic jams! It can also be lots of fun for kids. You could also consider purchasing a Subway Pass if you are going to be in the city for a fair amount of time and know that you will be using public transportation quite a bit. Arranging to keep your sightseeing in certain areas can also keep costs down – rather than zigzagging across the city, a little bit of planning can really go a long way!
Avoid the Tourist Traps
Of course, you are going to want to visit most of the main tourist attractions. But, as like almost every major city, prices for shopping, eating, and drinking, are often higher in these areas than elsewhere. Keep shopping and dining for other parts of the city and you will usually get a better deal. The flea markets are terrific for bagging a bargain.
Finances in New York City don’t have to be a nightmare!
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