Are you dreaming of a tropical getaway but worried about the cost? Learn how to travel to Turks and Caicos on a budget by utilizing the travel planning tips we've outlined below.
In this article, we'll show you how to plan an affordable vacation to Turks and Caicos. From finding the best deals on flights and accommodations to exploring the island's natural beauty without spending a fortune. These options will help you plan an affordable vacation and stay on budget while in Turks and Caicos. Whether you're a solo traveler, a couple, or a family, our tips and tricks will help you make the most of your time in Turks and Caicos while staying on a budget.
Like we've mentioned before, we travel to Turks and Caicos as often as we can. With that comes a lot of expense, so we're always looking for ways to keep our costs down and stay on budget when planning our trips to Turks and Caicos. We're sure you'll find a few dollar saving options from our list below.
This page contains Amazon Affiliate and/or other affiliate links which means we may earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you!) should you book or purchase something from our site. See full Disclosure Policy here.
HOW TO BOOK TURKS AND CAICOS FLIGHTS ON A BUDGET
Start Planning Far In Advance
Starting your travel planning well in advance is essential when it comes to budget travel. One of the best ways to save money when traveling to Turks and Caicos on a budget is to plan ahead. By starting your travel planning well in advance, you give yourself plenty of time to research the best deals on flights, accommodations, and activities. You can also take advantage of early bird specials, discounts for booking in advance, and seasonal promotions that may not be available if you wait until the last minute.
By planning ahead, you are better equipped to avoid peak travel times, which tend to be more expensive and crowded. This allows you to enjoy a more relaxed and affordable vacation experience.
Travel During Off Season
There are several benefits to traveling during the off season, especially when it comes to budget travel. Traveling during the low season, or the time of year when tourism is typically lighter, has proven to be a smart way to save money on your vacation to Turks and Caicos. During this time, you're likely to find lower prices on those big ticket items; flights and accommodations. In addition, you may be able to take advantage of special deals and discounts that are only available during the off season.
Be Flexible In Your Travel Dates
Being flexible with your travel dates can be a smart strategy for budget travel to Turks and Caicos. When you're looking to save money on your trip to Turks and Caicos, being flexible with your travel dates can help you find the best deals on flights and accommodations. By avoiding peak travel times and being open to travel during less popular times of the year, you'll be able to find lower prices on everything from airfare and hotel rates to car rentals and activities.
We realize not everyone's work schedules allow them to be flexible with dates. But if this does apply to you, always check prices on either side of your preferred travel dates. A lot of times, traveling one or two days outside of those preferred dates will save you quite a lot on flights and accommodations.
Use Skyscanner To Find Cheapest Flight Deals
Keeping the above three travel planning tips in mind, Skyscanner is a great tool to help you search flights with budget in mind. Skyscanner is a popular travel search engine that allows you to compare prices from hundreds of airlines to find the best flight deals for your trip to Turks and Caicos.
Skyscanner searches across multiple airlines to find the best deals, saving you the time and hassle of searching each airline's website individually. You can search for flights based on flexible dates so you can see the cheapest times to travel to Turks and Caicos. Skyscanner's powerful search options analyze millions of flights to find the cheapest options for your trip, helping you save money on your travel expenses.
Also, Skyscanner's filters allow you to narrow down your search results by airline, departure time, duration and more, making it easier to find the flights that best meet your needs. The price alert feature allows you to set up price alerts for your desired flights, so you can be notified when the price drops or when a new deal becomes available.
Overall, using Skyscanner can help you save money and time on your flight search to Turks and Caicos, making it a great tool for budget conscious travelers.
Search For Flights Incognito
If you prefer to book your flights with airlines directly rather than search engines (such as Skyscanner), using incognito mode or a private browsing window, is a smart way to ensure that you're getting the best possible prices on your flights to Turks and Caicos.
When you search for flights online, travel websites use cookies and other tracking technologies to monitor your search history and browsing behaviour. This means that if you repeatedly search for the same flights, the prices may increase each time you do so. This is because travel websites use this information to create a sense of urgency, making you feel like prices are going up and encouraging you to book before they increase further.
By using incognito mode you prevent travel websites from tracking your search and browsing history. You can avoid seeing frustrating price hikes and ensure that you're seeing the most up to date prices for your flights.
Fly Mid Week
Many airlines and hotels offer lower rates during weekdays, and by being flexible with your dates, you may be able to take advantage of these discounts.
When you're planning a trip, flights are often more expensive on weekends when demand is higher. Many people prefer to travel on weekends since they don't have work or school commitments, making it the most popular time to fly. However, airlines often lower their prices on less popular travel days, such as Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays, in order to attract more customers.
If it's possible for you and your schedule to travel mid week, you'll be able to take advantage of these possible lower prices and save money on your airfare. This can be really beneficial if you're traveling with a group or family, as the savings can add up quickly. Additionally, traveling mid week can help you avoid the weekend crowds at the airport in Turks and Caicos.
Don’t Wait For Last Minute Deals
While waiting for a last minute deal may seem like a good way to save money on travel, booking in advance is generally a better strategy for budget travel to Turks and Caicos.
Many travelers who are able to accommodate flexible travel dates, like to wait for last minute deals when booking their travel. While this is always a great way to save on travel to other Caribbean destinations, from our experience, we haven't seen many last minute deals for Turks and Caicos over the years. We aren't saying they aren't available, but we would say they're few and far between. Our advice would be to remain open for planning ahead rather than placing all your eggs in the last minute vacation basket.
Sometimes waiting until the last minute to book can actually be more expensive in some cases, especially during peak travel periods. As demand for travel increases, prices may go up instead of down, leaving you with fewer options and higher costs.
In our opinion, booking in advance is a better strategy for budget travel, as it gives you more options and more time to plan and find the best deals. While last minute deals may sometimes offer good savings, it's generally a riskier and less reliable strategy for budget travel to Turks and Caicos.
Travel Light
For those of you who have the packing light/travel light Superpower, you already know how this can save you money when traveling.
Most airlines charge extra fees for checked bags, and these fees can add up quickly if you're traveling as a family. By traveling light and only bringing a carry on bag, you can avoid these fees which usually start at around $30.00USD for the first bag.
Now, for those of you who are more like Byron and I, who like to be prepared for every occasion and possible event, traveling with just a carry on isn't possible. We are 100% committed to “Team Checked Bag,” even when we follow our own Turks and Caicos packing list suggestions!
Our budget travel tip for those who like to check a bag is to avoid overweight baggage fees by purchasing a portable luggage scale. Airlines can charge upwards of $100.00USD for overweight bags, so this handy tool is ideal for those who wish to avoid extra fees.
Portable Luggage Scale
Know how much your luggage weighs BEFORE you get to the airport. A Portable Luggage Scale will help you save on overweight baggage fees both before and after your trip. Toss it in your hand luggage to ensure you don't over pack your luggage with souvenirs on your journey home.
Get Travel Insurance
In today's travel climate, purchasing travel insurance is more important than ever. It can help you save money and protect your trip in the event of unexpected events.
Purchasing travel insurance can help you recoup the costs of your trip if you have to cancel due to unexpected illness, injury or natural disasters. Without travel insurance, you risk being completely out of pocket for a trip you didn't get to take. And on top of that, may have to pay cancellation fees. If you become ill or injured while traveling, medical expenses can add up quickly. Travel insurance can help cover these costs and keep you from having to pay out of pocket.
Airlines are not always required to compensate passengers for delays or cancellations due to weather, mechanical issues or other reasons beyond their control. Especially if you booked that basic fare to help keep costs down. You are at their mercy to be rebooked. Travel insurance can help cover some of these costs such as flight rebooking fees and hotel nights missed or cancelled.
And we've all heard the horror stories of lost luggage. It's the worst! If your luggage is lost or delayed during your trip, travel insurance can help cover the costs of replacing essential items and clothes.
All in all, travel insurance can simply provide peace of mind. Knowing that you're protected in case of unexpected events, can help you enjoy your trip without worrying about what might happen.
HOW TO BOOK TURKS AND CAICOS ACCOMMODATION ON A BUDGET
Use Tripadvisor To Search Best Hotel Rates
Price comparison tools like Tripadvisor can help people save money on accommodations when planning a trip to Turks and Caicos. Tripadvisor allows you to view and compare prices from multiple providers for hotels and resorts. These tools offer transparency when it comes to pricing by allowing you to see all the options available in one place and easily compare the prices and features.
You can also filter your search by budget, so you can easily search and find affordable options that meet your needs. By using price comparison tools like Tripadvisor, you can find the best deals and save money on your trip to Turks and Caicos.
Sign Up For Resort Emails
We know, we know, you're likely thinking, who wants to add to their junk mail, but hear us out! There are little budget travel treasures to be found in resort email subscriptions. If you've found a resort that peaks your interest and they have an email subscription, sign up!
These emails will give you first chance access to any and all upcoming booking deals available to travelers. And again, if you're planning ahead or flexible with your dates, you may end up with some pretty sweet deals to your resort of choice.
Also, often those who join the email lists are privy to further deals and discounts not released to the general public. By simply subscribing, you could end up saving a lot of money on your Turks and Caicos accommodations.
Refer To Our Budget Resorts List
If you've been scouring the internet searching for the best budget hotels in Turks and Caicos, let us save you hours of time and energy.
We've compiled a list of 19 Budget Resorts in Turks and Caicos. This list gives you a brief outline of each budget resort and what amenities are available. You'll be able to keep your accommodation search organized and contained in one space.
If you haven't already, definitely read this article. It's a list of all the resorts and hotels in Turks and Caicos offering rooms under $400.00USD a night. And many of which are under $300.00USD. It'll definitely save you time and frustration during your search.
If Traveling As A Group, Consider Vacation Rental Over Resort
If traveling as a group or good sized family, considering a vacation rental from VRBO can be a great budget friendly accommodation option.
First off, the more the merrier! Renting a vacation home can often be cheaper than staying at a resort, especially when traveling in a group. With a vacation rental, you can split the cost among multiple people, making it more affordable for everyone.
Vacation rentals offer more space than a typical hotel room, with multiple bedrooms and bathrooms, a living area and often a private outdoor space or pool. This means you can accommodate more people in a single rental without feeling cramped, but more importantly, making it more cost effective.
All in all, choosing a vacation rental from VRBO can be a fantastic way to save money while still enjoying all the comforts of home.
HOW TO SAVE ON FOOD AND DRINK IN TURKS AND CAICOS
Bring Some Food With You
You've likely heard some horror stories about grocery store prices, or you've read our Ultimate Guide to Turks and Caicos which gives you a few examples of food costs. It's true, things are more expensive in Turks and Caicos because everything must be imported to The Islands.
One way to avoid paying extra for some of your grocery essentials is to simply pack them in your luggage. Things like cereal, coffee pods and granola bars. Or mac and cheese, peanut butter and Pringles are all easily packed and can save you a lot of money when traveling to Turks and Caicos.
Especially if you're traveling with little ones, a bowl of mac and cheese, a PB and J sandwich or a gummy worm can go a long way. And for coffee drinkers, making your own coffee in house will save you a good few dollars every day.
Don’t Eat Out All The Time
While we can't argue that the food in Turks and Caicos is beyond delicious, it can definitely add to your budget if you plan to eat our for all your meals.
For us, we've found that buying our breakfast items at the grocery store along with a few snack options for lunches, helps keep those meal costs down. Typically, we'll have breakfast in our room and then pack a picnic cooler (with drinks and food snacks) for lunch. Then in the evening we'll splurge on going out to dinner.
If we do decide to eat out for lunch, we usually opt for one of the more budget friendly restaurants in Turks and Caicos. Or if we decide to do a grab and go from the grocery store, it's something pre made from the deli like the amazing fried chicken from Graceway Gourmet. Trust us, it's delicious and cheap!
We like to try as many restaurants as we can when visiting Turks and Caicos. We've found our breakfast and lunch routine has definitely helped us enjoy more restaurants without the added worry of trying to stay on budget. We can relax and enjoy the meal, knowing we've saved throughout the day.
Shop At Smart Grocery Near The Airport
If you are renting a car we'd strongly suggest stopping at the Smart IGA near the airport for your main grocery shop, before heading to your accommodations. Yes, the Graceway Gourmet and Graceway IGA are likely more convenient to your resort or guest house, but they are also a little pricier because of that convenience. The Smart IGA offers all the same items at a lower cost because it's not in the tourist hub of Grace Bay.
Now, you will have to do some pre planning to find out how your resort or rental is equipped, but that shouldn't be a problem. Make a list of essentials you want to get and then stock up on those before heading to your accommodations.
We're certain you'll still be making a few trips to the more convenient grocery stores during your stay, however, by doing your big grocery shop at Smart IGA, you will definitely save yourself some money and help keep you on budget in Turks and Caicos.
Bonus Tip: You can also purchase some non perishables at Sam's Club on Leeward Highway. You don't have to buy in bulk and you don't need a membership. Ideal if you have a Mac and Cheese Fiend in your family.
Buy Liquor At Duty Free
If you like your gin and tonics or vodka and orange, this one is a no brainer. Again, just like groceries, alcohol is more expensive in Turks and Caicos. If you want to keep on budget during your trip to Turks and Caicos, we suggest picking up that bottle of gin or vodka at Duty Free.
Will you perhaps need a second bottle during your stay? Sure, there's a chance. But, at least you've saved some money on bottle number one by picking it up at Duty Free.
Buy Wine at The Wine Cellar or Wine Establishment
Wine and Prosecco drinkers, take note! While the grocery store will be more convenient to purchase your wine, you may want to try these two liquor stores instead to help keep your wine budget (is there such a thing???) in order.
If you have a car, the Wine Cellar is located along the Leeward Highway. You'll see prices lower than the grocery stores and a much larger selection.
If you don't have a car, Wine Establishment is located in the heart of Grace Bay. They have a fantastic selection of fine wines and also some hard liquor. Discounts are given if you're buying a full case, so stock up at the start if you know you'll be heading back for more. That discount is great especially if you're traveling with a group who wants to split the costs.
Drink Local Beer
For those who just want to sit on the beach with a cold one in your hand, you're never far from the local Turks Head Brew. And it's the cheapest option too! Just like any other Caribbean Island, drinking the local island beer is always the best way to keep that booze budget in check.
Turks Head Beer can be found at all the grocery stores and all the bars and restaurants making it an easy choice for staying on budget in Turks and Caicos. But what's better yet, it's FANTASTIC beer!
If you're unsure now, the prices of imported beers will definitely make you want to pick up a case of Turks Head Beer instead. You won't be disappointed, trust us, it's great beer. Our favorite is I-SOON-REACH, easy and refreshing on those hot and humid days.
HOW TO SAVE ON ACTIVITIES AND SHOPPING IN TURKS AND CAICOS
Rent A Car VS Taxi
If you've read any of our previous articles about Turks and Caicos, you know we always recommend renting a car to help keep costs down in Turks and Caicos.
If you plan on exploring The Island or simply wanting to head to a few different beaches during your stay in Turks and Caicos, then renting a car will save you money. You see, taxis charge per person per trip, not by distance as we're used to here in North America. These costs can add up in a hurry, especially if you're traveling as a family or with a group.
Our advice would be to plan out your itinerary before you go and weigh the costs of renting a car vs taking taxis during your trip. You may find that even if traveling with just four people, renting a car is the best budget saving option in Turks and Caicos.
Despite what you may have heard about driving in Turks and Caicos, it's easy. You won't have any problems navigating The Island.
Create Your Itinerary Ahead Of Time
This is essential to keeping your trip to Turks and Caicos on budget. Everyone knows when you travel to a new place, it's so easy to get caught up in the moment of all that's happening around you and before you know it, you've shelled out $500.00 on activities you're not even sure you want to do.
Don't let yourself arrive unprepared. By planning your trip in advance you'll have plenty of time to research all the amazing tours and adventures available in Turks and Caicos. You'll get a feel for the prices associated with each tour and from that, you can choose which tours (if any) will fit into your budge and which days you'll schedule those tours.
By creating your itinerary and scheduling your larger events ahead of time, you're more likely to stick to that plan. Knowing your schedule ahead of time will keep you on track with your budget by not allowing any further expenses to add up on the fly.
Book Paid Excursions Before you Go
If you've created your itinerary and you know which tours (if any) you wish to enjoy, book those tours in advance. Don't get caught arriving to Turks and Caicos only to find out your tour is no longer available. Book ahead to ensure your preferred day and time slot is available. Having to book a replacement excursion last minute may lead to higher costs than you budgeted.
Booking ahead is also a great way to start paying off your vacation before it even begins. And, should you feel you have a little extra to splurge on by the end of your stay, that's ok, you're then open to spending those few extra dollars on another tour.
- Viator is a great site for booking tours in Turks and Caicos.
- It allows you to reserve now and pay later.
- Also offers free cancellation up to 24 hours (based on local time of excursion).
Search For Free Things To Do
You don't need to break the bank every day in Turks and Caicos. Trust us, we are regular visitors to Turks and Caicos and we are always looking for ways to stay on budget and keep those costs as low as possible.
We've compiled a list of free and cheap things to do in Turks and Caicos to help you do the same. From puppy walks on the beach to bike rides across The Island, there are plenty of free and cheap things to do in Turks and Caicos to help you stay on budget.
DIY Excursions
This is where renting a car really comes in handy. One of our favorite things to do in Turks and Caicos is to just load up our car for the day and start driving!
Take that scenic route along Turtle Tail Drive and search for those breaks in the bush that lead to the most amazing secret beaches! Or head out towards Chalk Sound and see the amazing turquoise lagoon.
Does your resort or villa rental have access to paddle boards or kayaks? Use them! make the most of all the free amenities at your resort or vacation rental.
These little freebies will add huge savings without sacrificing any fun or adventure to your vacation.
Buy Souvenirs On Last Two Days
This little tip is going to save you from spending a ton of money on random “stuff.” Sure, we all want to bring back that perfect trinket or awesome t-shirt you saw in the shops. But when you're in Turks and Caicos you're going to see a lot of great little things and big things that, in that moment, you'll feel you can't live without. Then by the end of the week, you're thinking, “did I really need to spend $50.00 on this Conch Stuffy? Ya, it's happened to us too….
So, do yourself a favor. Window shop for the first part of your trip. Take note of what you liked and where to find it. Then, if on the last couple of days of your vacation, you still feel the same way about the pieces, get them! You're less likely to suffer from buyers remorse if you can restrain yourself from buying all the things all at once.
From a couple who've gone way over budget on their first trip to Turks and Caicos, we can guarantee, this little tactic will save you money during your vacation.
Traveling to Turks and Caicos on a budget is possible. By implementing some smart strategies and making savvy choices, you can plan an affordable vacation without compromising on the breathtaking beauty and experiences this destination has to offer. With careful planning, thoughtful choices and a bit of creativity, you can ensure a memorable and affordable adventure in Turks and Caicos.
So, pack your bags, get ready for stunning beaches, turquoise waters and EPIC ADVENTURES – all while keeping your budget intact.
If You Enjoyed This Article, Share To Pinterest!
