If your resolutions for the new year included more frequent changes of scenery, then you’re in the right place. Seeing the world isn’t as lofty a goal as it once was. Unfortunately, traveling can be very expensive. Luckily, with a few of these tips in mind, you’ll be globetrotting in no time.

Smart Finances

Affording travel doesn’t have to mean getting a second job or eating ramen every night for dinner. You may already have the room in your budget to hop on the next available flight. Take a look at your bank account and note from where your money is both coming and going. Most people find that a good amount of their hard-earned cash is essentially being wasted on needless things and experiences.

If you’d really like to clear space in your budget, start looking into big moves like debt consolidation, refinancing an auto loan or transferring money from a savings account to pay high-interest debt. You’d be surprised at how much money you could have in an afternoon of financial planning.

Establish Savings

It may go without saying, but to afford plane tickets to the exotic locations on your bucket list, there’s no way to get around paying the airline costs upfront and in full. Because these costs are often the biggest expenses when planning a trip, having a healthy savings account is a good idea. The only way to sustainably establish a savings account is to work extra hours or make other sacrifices in your budget to free up those funds.

Now, for the good news. After you reach your dream destination, there are several ways to save money on other travel expenses like food and souvenirs. While you’re working hard to build up a savings account, look into less expensive, local options that can save you a chunk of change on your trip, so that you can get to where you want to go without having to accumulate thousands of dollars before going.

Look For Deals

In the digital age, it’s easier than ever to snag a good deal on a flight. Many travel websites publish flight deals daily, and most of them can be customized based on your airport of origin. Sometimes these flight deals can be shockingly inexpensive, saving you some serious money.

The downside to travel deals is their fleeting nature. When a flight deal arises, you often have to pounce on it right away to take advantage of the low rate. Airline discounts don’t last long, and it can feel like a part-time job browsing flights to look for the cheapest rates. Consider signing up for a travel service subscription to send price drop notifications to your inbox so you never miss out on a great deal.

Do Your Research

If a trip to Italy is on your list, but flights to Rome are just out of your price range, check out some other options. Sometimes, flying to another airport can slash your anticipated travel costs nearly in half. Many larger cities have multiple airports within a decent travel distance, so finding your way to see the sights isn’t too much of a hassle.

It’s important to think creatively and thoroughly when looking into other options. Sometimes the cost of a train ride from an airport outside your final destination will ultimately cost the same as if you’d flown into a larger airport, but will also add extra travel time and cut into your trip. Make sure your research is comprehensive, and double-check your math after developing each potential itinerary.

Spend Wisely

Smart money management is important at all times, both when traveling and staying at home. Look at your daily spending habits and figure out where you can cut back and where your money is best spent. By giving up a few luxuries at home, you could be hiking or visiting ancient ruins sooner than you’d think.

When traveling, reserve some money for a few splurges, but try to save the rest. If your accommodations have a kitchen, consider making most meals at your temporary home. Traveling doesn’t have to break the bank, and even a little money goes a long way to make one-of-a-kind experiences happen.