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How to keep costs down as a traveler in New York City

The Big Apple is a world-class city, and while that means it can provide amazing experiences for travelers, it also means that it is extremely expensive. The excessive costs associated with seeing the sights across the five boroughs often surprise visitors and can put a damper on what otherwise would be an unforgettable adventure.
Fortunately, there are numerous easy ways to save money while spending time in New York City. As long as travelers head to Gotham having done a bit of research and having put together a plan, it can be an affordable and enjoyable time.

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Find a Cheap Place to Rest Your Head

Budget hotel brands in the City That Never Sleeps are often as expensive as luxury hotels in other parts of the country. Cost-conscious travelers should get creative.
  • One option that is always worth exploring is Airbnb. Regular New York residents make their apartments or even rooms within their homes available to visitors on the site, and it is often possible to find inexpensive options that way
  • Of course, relying on friends, if you have any in New York, is wise to do. If someone is willing to put you up, take them up on it.
  • For visitors traveling alone who do not need much in the way of comfort, couch-surfing is an option.
  • Similarly, the Big Apple is known for its many hostels where one can find affordable beds.
  • If you absolutely must stay at a hotel, be willing to look into ones in the outer boroughs, including Queens, which has many hotels near LaGuardia and John F. Kennedy airports.

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Cash is King

One thing that surprises tourists when they dart around the Big Apple is that they need to keep cash on hand. Many establishments do not accept plastic, and there are numerous experiences that require cash. Avoid accumulating needless ATM fees, which can be really pricey in New York, and arrive to the city with plenty of currency in your wallet, purse, or pocket.

Take Advantage of the Subway

The New York City subway system is a tourist’s best friend. Some visitors are intimidated by it and do not use it to its fullest potential. Those people are making a huge mistake. The subway system can get anybody nearly anywhere they want to go within the five boroughs for flat rates. It is also open 24 hours.

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  • Use this guide to learn about the subway to take advantage of the world’s greatest public transportation system.
  • If you will be taking the subway frequently and are staying in town long enough, consider fare options such as the 7-day unlimited ride card.
  • Avoid taking taxis as much as possible, including ride-share services. If you must use one of these services, consider using the most affordable configurations, such as an Uber Pool or a Lyft Line.
  • It is worth noting that public transportation can get travelers to and from all three major New York City airports for just a few bucks, whereas taxis can cost more than $50 depending on where in the city one is staying.

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Stay on a Diet of Cheap, but Delicious, Meals

The Big Apple is known for some of the finest cuisines in the world, but that does not mean that a visitor will have a bad experience if they have a few meals away from nicer restaurants.
  • Be picky about the restaurants that you will dine in. Check out what people have to say on Yelp about prices and food quality before you go in.
  • Definitely, avoid restaurant chains or ostentatiously-themed restaurants in places like Times Square. Prices are higher there for food that is not authentically New York.
  • In nearly every neighborhood across the five boroughs, there are delicious dinners that will not break the bank.
  • Most importantly, plan on having many meals in which you do not dine in. Some of the best delis in the world can be found on many street corners. Get a sandwich, and pack it with you to eat when lounging in a park. Otherwise, grab a slice of pizza, or buy something delicious from a food cart.

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Take Advantage of Cheap and Free Experiences

Despite all of the glitz and high-priced opportunities in New York, some of the best experiences that can be had are inexpensive or free. There are honestly too many such options to list, so it is wise to do research before traveling to New York, and one should check every day to see what new events are available.
But to just name a few general ideas, there are parks, neighborhood walks, public performers, concerts, bike and kayak rentals, and people-watching opportunities.
Just be sure to avoid overstuffing your itinerary with expensive experiences that target tourists. The best way to enjoy New York, and to keep costs down, is to go with the flow.

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Take Advantage of Cheap and Free Experiences

Despite all of the glitz and high-priced opportunities in New York, some of the best experiences that can be had are inexpensive or free. There are honestly too many such options to list, so it is wise to do research before traveling to New York, and one should check every day to see what new events are available.
But to just name a few general ideas, there are parks, neighborhood walks, public performers, concerts, bike and kayak rentals, and people-watching opportunities.
Just be sure to avoid overstuffing your itinerary with expensive experiences that target tourists. The best way to enjoy New York, and to keep costs down, is to go with the flow.

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