Budget travelers unite! When it comes to finding the cheapest flights and cruises imaginable, and even getting free upgrades, we’ve got the down low on getting, well, the lowest prices possible.

Budget travel doesn’t mean skimping on safety or quality, and it certainly isn’t just about saving money. Here are our most amazing and requested money saving travel tips…EVER:

1. When to buy cheap flights
You might assume that last minute flights are the cheapest you’re gonna get them. However, that’s far from the truth. In fact, it’s actually best to buy roughly 2 months before you have to fly. Also, be sure to book early in the week, as this is the time when airlines tend to make fare adjustments. And how will you know? By subscribing to the newsletter and following your choice in major airlines on social media, but of course.

2. Book last minute
Shhh, let us tell you a little secret: rather than to stay empty, most airlines, cruises, and hotels are willing to part with bookings for almost nothing. But the problem is they don’t advertise this fact. Instead, airlines tend to offer empty seats combined with empty cruise rooms and hotel beds in so-called package deals. As long as you’re not fussy on the location and hotel on your next vacation, try a package deal for significantly less.

3. Book cruises early…or wait for what’s left
We like to call it the myth of the “last minute deal”. And in truth, last minute cruise deals are kind of like unicorns…they don’t really exist that often. With cruises it’s best to book early, like 6 months early when supply is plentiful, but everyone is considering holding out for a last minute deal. However, if you’re not fussy on location or room, you can wait until the final few weeks and book when cruises are attempting to fill up the empty rooms.

4. Get romantic for extras
Are you going on your honeymoon, 10 year anniversary, or just a romantic vacation with your significant other? Have you considered celebrating with your flight attendant and hotel concierge? Well, if you drop the secret that you’re celebrating an anniversary or planning to pop the question on vacation, you’re more likely to get upgrades as far as flights, hotel rooms, meals, and private balconies if you tell your hotel manager, flight attendant, or restaurant hostess. See, everyone’s a romantic at heart!