March is an excellent time to travel without overspending. Known as the “shoulder season”, it offers fewer crowds, pleasant weather, and discounts on flights and accommodations. You can save up to 30% on flights and lodging compared to peak seasons, especially if you book for the first two weeks of March before spring break prices rise. Midweek flights (Tuesdays and Wednesdays) can cut costs by another 20%-30%.
Top destinations include:
- Europe: Eastern and Southeastern regions like Albania, Krakow, and Budapest offer affordable stays, meals, and cultural landmarks.
- Asia: Sri Lanka, Laos, and Koh Chang, Thailand, feature low daily expenses, cheap accommodations, and warm weather.
- North & Central America: Bacalar, Mexico, Mexico City, Mexico, and Nicaragua are budget-friendly with inexpensive street food, lodging, and activities.
To save even more, book flights 4-8 weeks ahead, use tools like Dollar Flight Club, and plan trips during the first half of March.
Europe
Eastern and Southeastern Europe provide excellent travel value, offering experiences at nearly half the cost of cities like London or Paris. The region enjoys mild weather, making it a great choice to skip the summer crowds while still taking advantage of affordable flights and accommodations. Here are some top destinations where you can enjoy both savings and local charm.
Albanian Riviera (Ksamil and Himare)
The Albanian Riviera boasts stunning Mediterranean waters without the hefty price tag of Greece or Italy. Hostels in this area start at just $10 per night, street food costs around $1–$2, and restaurant meals are typically $5–$10. Highlights include the Ksamil Islands, Himara’s scenic coastline, and the UNESCO-listed Butrint archaeological site. You can also explore the historic town of Gjirokaster, the mesmerizing Blue Eye natural spring, and Porto Palermo Bay with its historic castle. Renting a car is the easiest way to visit small coastal gems like Dhermi.
Krakow, Poland
Krakow is where Gothic architecture meets a lively modern vibe, all at budget-friendly prices. Flights usually range from $350–$550 round-trip, and hostel stays start at about $15 per night. In March, temperatures vary from 35–55°F, so pack layers for exploring the UNESCO-listed Old Town. Don’t miss the Main Market Square, Cloth Hall, and the Jewish Quarter (Kazimierz), which offer a glimpse into the city’s rich past. For day trips, the Wieliczka Salt Mines – with its underground lakes and intricate salt sculptures – cost around $39. Historical sites like the Auschwitz-Birkenau memorial and Oskar Schindler’s Enamel Factory museum provide deeply moving experiences. The Krakow Card, priced at $30 for three days, covers airport transfers and access to 36 museums and monuments, making it a practical option for visitors.
Budapest, Hungary
Budapest is a standout destination in March, known for its thermal baths and quirky ruin bars. Flights typically cost $300–$500 round-trip, and you can find hostel deals averaging $50 for a 3-night stay. With temperatures between 35–55°F, the city is perfect for walking tours between the Buda and Pest sides. Relax at the Széchenyi Thermal Baths or tour the impressive Budapest Parliament building – the third largest in the world – for just $10. A climb to the dome of St. Stephen’s Basilica offers breathtaking views for about $3, and a hearty Hungarian goulash at the Central Market Hall will only set you back $10. Most attractions are within walking distance, keeping transportation costs low. For the best savings, aim to book mid-week flights.
Asia
March in Asia offers sunny weather and wallet-friendly travel options, making it a fantastic time to explore destinations like Southeast Asia and Sri Lanka without breaking the bank.
Sri Lanka (Ella and Colombo)
Sri Lanka is a paradise for budget-conscious travelers, offering everything from wildlife safaris to stunning beaches, all while enjoying pleasant temperatures between 75°F and 85°F. Meals like rice and curry cost just $2, and accommodations are a steal – hostel dorms start at around $7 per night, while private homestays range from $11 to $22.
In Ella, you can hike for free to sights like Little Adam’s Peak and the Nine Arches Bridge. Want views of an ancient fortress without the hefty $35 entrance fee at Sigiriya Lion Rock? Opt for Pidurangala Rock instead, which costs just $3.40 and offers similar breathtaking vistas. For safaris, share a 4WD vehicle (seating six) at parks like Uda Walawe to keep costs down. Local transport is also budget-friendly – use the PickMe app for taxis, which are often 30% cheaper than hotel-arranged rides. Buses charge between $1.10 and $3.40 for one-way trips, making it easy to get around.
If you’re ready to switch things up, Laos offers equally affordable adventures with a different vibe.
Laos
Laos is a haven for those seeking ancient temples, lush landscapes, and adventures along the Mekong River. With daily expenses as low as $12–$13, it’s one of the most affordable spots in Southeast Asia. Basic guesthouses start at just $10 per night, making it easy to stick to a budget.
In Luang Prabang, visit iconic landmarks like Vat Xieng Thong or participate in the serene morning almsgiving ceremony. For outdoor enthusiasts, boat rides on the Mekong River or jungle treks are must-dos, with activity costs typically ranging from $30 to $50 per day. To save even more, consider traveling overland from neighboring Thailand and keep an eye out for mistake airfares. If you’re craving a coastal escape, Koh Chang in Thailand is a great next stop.
Koh Chang, Thailand
Koh Chang blends tropical beaches with lush jungle trails, all under warm 80°F to 90°F weather. Budget travelers can find beach bungalows for $7–$20 per night, while street food meals cost just $1.25–$3.10. For getting around, songthaews (shared taxis) are more economical than tuk-tuks.
Thailand is also a top destination for scuba diving enthusiasts. Nearby Koh Tao offers open water certification courses for about $315, making it one of the cheapest places to get certified worldwide. To keep travel costs low, book flights 2–3 months ahead. Renting a scooter is another great way to explore the island on your own schedule, with daily rentals costing between $4.60 and $9.30.
North and Central America
March brings plenty of sunshine to North and Central America, making it a great time to travel without breaking the bank. With the dry season in full swing, you can explore everything from volcanic landscapes to colonial cities and serene turquoise lagoons – all at a fraction of peak-season prices.
Bacalar, Mexico
Bacalar’s famous Lagoon of Seven Colors is a budget-friendly alternative to Mexico’s crowded resort towns. Temperatures typically hover between 75°F and 85°F, perfect for enjoying the area’s natural beauty. Roundtrip flights generally cost between $300 and $500, and accommodations are surprisingly affordable. Dorm beds start at $25, while private rooms range from $30 to $70. Exploring the lagoon won’t cost you a dime, and street tacos are a steal at just $0.50–$2.00 each. For getting around, ADO buses connect Bacalar to other destinations for about $7 per trip. Paying in Mexican pesos is recommended to avoid unfavorable exchange rates.
Nicaragua
If you’re looking for an even more affordable destination, Nicaragua should be on your list. Daily expenses here can run as low as $30–$50, and roundtrip flights from the U.S. in March usually range from $400 to $700. Hostel dorms start at just $10 per night, making it a backpacker’s paradise. With warm temperatures between 80°F and 90°F, the dry season is perfect for hiking the ash-covered slopes of Cerro Negro volcano or admiring the colonial charm of Granada.
Getting around is easy and cheap, with local “chicken buses” costing anywhere from $0.25 to $10 for intercity travel. You can grab street food like nacatamales or vigorón for $0.50–$2.00, and a local beer like Toña will set you back just $0.85–$3.50. For beach enthusiasts, spots like Playa Maderas offer budget-friendly surf opportunities. To save 30–50% on flights, aim to book your tickets 4–8 weeks in advance.
Mexico City, Mexico
March is a fantastic time to visit Mexico City. With temperatures hovering between 60°F and 75°F, the city’s streets come alive with the stunning purple blooms of jacaranda trees. Round-trip flights from major U.S. cities typically range from $215 to $350, with budget airlines like Volaris, VivaAerobus, and Frontier offering great deals. For example, in March 2025, nonstop round-trip tickets from Orlando to Mexico City were available for under $215 on Volaris and Frontier for travel between March 20–26.
Accommodations are easy on the wallet. Hostel dorms start at just $9 per night, while private rooms go for $30–$95. Budget hotels and Airbnbs range from $15 to $75. If you’re traveling light and sticking to the basics, you can get by on around $51–$52 per day, which covers a hostel bed, street food, and public transit.
Getting around is a breeze – and incredibly cheap. The city’s metro system costs just M$5 (about $0.25) per ride, making it one of the most affordable in the world. Food is equally budget-friendly: street tacos are about M$10 ($0.50) each, while a hearty three-to-four-course fixed-price lunch, known as comida corrida, costs between M$50–80 ($2.50–$3.90). Museums can also be a steal. Many, like the Palacio de Bellas Artes, offer free admission on Sundays, and the Museo Soumaya is always free. March visitors can also enjoy major events like the Vive Latino Festival and Festival Ceremonia.
For the best deals, book directly with budget airlines, as they don’t always show up on major search engines. Consider staying in neighborhoods like Coyoacán or Centro Histórico, which offer a mix of affordability and proximity to key attractions.
How to Save Money on March Travel
March is an excellent time for budget-conscious travelers. With fewer crowds and more affordable prices, it’s the perfect month to explore destinations that might be out of reach during peak travel seasons. By planning wisely and using a few clever tactics, you can make the most of your travel budget. One simple yet effective tip? Use flight alert services to snag unbeatable deals.
Use Dollar Flight Club for Deals
Dollar Flight Club is a handy tool for finding heavily discounted flights. They send email and SMS alerts for mistake fares and exclusive discounts. Their Premium plan, priced at $69 per year, covers both domestic and international flights from various airports. For $99 annually, the Premium+ plan includes business-class alerts and SMS notifications, giving you even more opportunities to save.
Book During Shoulder Season
Traveling during the first half of March can help you sidestep the higher costs and crowds of spring break. For Caribbean destinations, booking 4 to 8 weeks in advance can secure off-peak rates. In Europe, accommodations during March are often 20–40% cheaper than during the summer. Timing your flights can also save you money – routes to the Caribbean are typically 12–25% less expensive on Tuesdays and Wednesdays compared to weekends.
Once you’ve locked in affordable flights, take a closer look at regional costs to stretch your savings even further.
Compare Costs by Region
Prices for flights and daily expenses can vary widely depending on the region. Asia is often a great choice for budget travelers, offering plenty of affordable options. Latin America has its own gems, like Bacalar and Nicaragua, which provide incredible experiences without breaking the bank. Europe, while cheaper during the shoulder season, may still be more expensive than Asia or Latin America. For North America, you can find competitive flight deals, such as roundtrip fares to Mexico City starting at around $340. To choose the best destination for your budget, consider not just airfare but also daily costs and weather conditions to ensure it aligns with your travel plans.
Conclusion
March is a fantastic time for budget-friendly travel, offering lower fares, pleasant weather, and fewer crowds. If you’re looking to avoid the spring break rush that hits mid-to-late March, aim for the first week of the month when prices are still low, and popular destinations remain less crowded.
For domestic flights, plan to book 1–3 months ahead – January and early February are your sweet spots. Tools like Dollar Flight Club can help you snag mistake fares and exclusive deals, making your trip even more affordable. As mentioned earlier, booking during the shoulder season is a smart way to save money across various destinations.
March’s versatility allows you to visit places that are typically pricey or overcrowded during peak times. Whether you’re drawn to Mexico and the Caribbean for their dry season, Europe for its blossoming spring, or Asia for the last stretch of summer, you’ll enjoy mild temperatures and reasonable costs. Start planning now, and keep your travel dates flexible to make the most of your budget-friendly getaway.
FAQs
How can I find cheap flights for March travel?
To score affordable flights in March, focus on timing and flexibility. For domestic trips, aim to book your tickets 1–3 months in advance, while international flights are best secured 2–8 months ahead. Opting to fly midweek, especially on Tuesdays or Wednesdays, could slash your costs by up to 20%. Adjusting your travel dates or even considering alternate departure airports can also lead to significant savings.
Another smart move? Sign up for flight deal alerts to catch flash sales or mistake fares. When you spot a great price, act fast – airfares can change in the blink of an eye. By booking early and keeping a close watch on price trends, you’ll be well on your way to locking in the best deals for your March adventure.
What are the best budget-friendly places to travel in March?
March is the perfect time to visit places where pleasant weather and lower prices come together, creating great opportunities for budget-friendly travel. If you’re looking for a mix of affordability and convenience, Tulum, Mexico, and Orlando, Florida, are excellent options. In Tulum, you can take advantage of off-peak deals to enjoy its breathtaking beaches and explore ancient Mayan ruins without breaking the bank. Meanwhile, Orlando offers wallet-friendly hotels and attractions, especially if you avoid the busy spring break period.
For international adventures, Thailand and Jaipur, India, offer incredible value. Thailand is a backpacker’s dream with its flavorful street food, affordable lodging, and vibrant energy. Jaipur, known as the “Pink City”, invites travelers to experience its rich history and culture without stretching their budget. If you’re thinking about a Caribbean escape, Puerto Rico and the Dominican Republic are fantastic choices. Flights to these destinations often cost under $300 from many U.S. cities, and you’ll find reasonable hotel prices before the Easter crowds arrive.
These destinations offer a sweet spot of great weather, affordable options, and fewer tourists, making them ideal for a memorable March getaway.
What are the best ways to save on accommodations when traveling in March?
If you’re looking to cut costs on accommodations in March, aim for the shoulder season – a time when demand is lower, and prices tend to drop. This month offers a great opportunity to snag discounted hotel rates and enjoy a wider range of options. Booking early is another smart move, as it helps lock in lower prices before the rush of peak travel season.
You might also want to explore alternatives to traditional hotels. Options like hostels, vacation rentals, or guesthouses often come with a smaller price tag. Plus, staying flexible with your travel dates can open up even more savings. Traveling in March doesn’t just help your wallet; it also means fewer crowds, giving you a more relaxed and budget-friendly experience.
