WANDER MORE, SPEND LESS

Budget Travel Tips for Your Next Adventure

Spending two years as an Alpha Gam Leadership Consultant (LC) ignited a love for travel and adventure for Louisa Lee, Upsilon-University of Oklahoma. "Though I no longer live out of a suitcase, as an LC, I learned travel tips that allow me to scratch my travel itch regularly without breaking the bank," Louisa said. As Events and Engagement Manager for Alpha Gamma Delta, Louisa took a break from planning our 2026 Convention to share some or her travel expertise.

Plan Ahead

One of my fellow LCs became my long-distance BFF, so we plan an annual trip to see each other and catch up. We plan 6-8 months in advance to accommodate our busy schedules, but it also ensures we’re booking the lowest possible price.

Compare Before You Book

As an LC, I used Google Flights to book flights, and it’s still my go-to flight aggregator! Using a service that compares flight prices saves you time AND ensures you’re getting the lowest possible price. You can also compare dates – you might save $250 if you’re open to flying midweek or outside of peak seasons!

Be flexible about accommodations! Depending on location, an Airbnb might be cheaper than a hotel or vice versa. I recommend using Priceline or Booking.com to compare hotel prices — I’ve snagged some great deals!

Driveable Day Trips

Though LCs often travel to big cities like San Francisco, Nashville and Philadelphia, they also spend time in small towns. I always prioritized exploring during my chapter visits, no matter the location, and found many hidden gems along the way! Small towns boast some of the best restaurants, cafes and shopping without the big city hassles like traffic and parking. Next time you have the itch to travel, consider taking a day trip to a nearby town. You may be surprised by what you discover!

PRIORITIZE, PRIORITIZE, PRIORITIZE

What’s important to you on your adventures? I prioritize staying in a walkable area and checking a bag – chronic over-packer here! If it’s not a priority, I don’t splurge, allowing me to save on my trips while still being 100 percent satisfied.

BE A TOURIST IN YOUR OWN CITY — OR YOUR SISTER’S

Is there a neighborhood in your city you’ve never explored? A tourist hotspot you haven’t visited? Spend the day exploring a new-to-you part of town and discover the fun of a staycation.

Due for a catch-up with one of your Alpha Gam sisters? Plan a day to explore one of your cities together, or a region close to home! Rediscovering our communities is always better with one of our chosen few!