I Asked ChatGPT How To Book a Trip With No Savings: Here’s What It Said
Written by
Lydia Kibet
Edited by
Jenna Klaverweiden
Commitment to Our Readers
GOBankingRates' editorial team is committed to bringing you unbiased reviews and information. We use data-driven methodologies to evaluate financial products and services - our reviews and ratings are not influenced by advertisers. You can read more about our editorial guidelines and our products and services review methodology.
20 Years
Helping You Live Richer
Reviewed
by Experts
Trusted by
Millions of Readers
Booking a trip without savings might sound impossible. After all, travel usually requires spending money upfront for things like flights and hotels. So is it even possible to book a trip without savings?
GOBankingRates consulted ChatGPT to see what it had to say. The response broke down several realistic strategies, along with important cautions. Here’s what it said.
Use Payment Plans Instead of Paying Upfront
The first option ChatGPT suggested was using booking platforms that let you “travel now, pay later.” Sites like Expedia, Priceline or even airlines themselves allow you to split the cost of flights and hotels into monthly installments through services like Klarna, Affirm or Uplift.
The benefit is you can book your trip with less money. The disadvantage is interest charges can make the trip more expensive in the long run. ChatGPT suggested checking the final cost before choosing this option. You also want to make sure you’ll have the money to make payments on time.
Leverage Credit Card Rewards or Miles
If you already use a credit card with travel rewards, you might be sitting on points that can cover part or even all of your trip. Many cards also offer generous sign-up bonuses, which can translate into free flights or hotel nights.
ChatGPT pointed out that this option isn’t for everyone. But if you qualify for a travel card and pay it off responsibly, it can turn into one of the cheapest ways to travel with little cash upfront.
Think Budget-Friendly
ChatGPT also pointed out that “travel” doesn’t have to mean an international getaway. Staycations, nearby road trips and camping weekends can give you the reset you’re craving without the high price tag.
Hostels, Airbnb rooms and budget hotels can also slash lodging costs. If you’re open to alternatives, house-sitting and couch-surfing platforms are another way to get free stays.
Side Hustle To Fund Your Trip
If you’d rather avoid debt, another strategy is to create a short-term income stream specifically for travel. Freelance work, ride-share driving, pet-sitting or seasonal jobs can quickly add up if you set aside earnings strictly for your trip fund.
Saving even $50 a week could mean $600 in just three months, enough to cover a weekend getaway or cheap flight.
Try Work-for-Travel Programs
For the adventurous traveler, there are work-exchange opportunities. Sites like Workaway, Worldpackers or WWOOF let you trade a few hours of work a day — teaching, farming or helping in hostels — for free accommodation and meals.
It’s not a luxury vacation, but it’s a way to see the world without upfront savings.
More From GOBankingRates
