*Disclaimer: The thoughts and opinions expressed within this blog are mine alone and do not represent any companies mentioned within. I have not been compensated by any business mentioned in exchange for this review.*
My girlfriend and I visited the "Big Easy" twice this summer. Both visits fell on holiday weekends (Memorial Day & Labor Day) since that's when it was easiest for us to take a break away from work. I wasn't planning to write a review or do any sort of post about it since both times were short weekend getaways. However, the more I think about it, the more obvious it becomes that these two trips are perfect examples of budget getaways. So I've decided to list my favorite tips and tricks for staying in New Orleans on a budget.
Don't stay ON Bourbon Street. I know it's tempting and oh so convenient, but if you are on a budget, hadn't you rather have that extra money to spend on drinks...ahem..I mean activities?! You can find awesome condos, apartments, and houses minutes from the French Quarter. If you are worried about staying further out due to fear of getting lost in an unknown city, Uber is a great solution. On our latest trip, we rented a 3 bedroom condo (I'll link the specifics below), parked our personal vehicles, and used Uber for all our transportation needs to and from the Quarter. The longest trips only cost $8 for 4 people. This entire 3 bedroom condo also cost at least $200 less than the cheapest 2 person hotel rooms on Bourbon or in the immediate vicinity. Also, by renting an apartment, condo, or house, you get the convenience of your own kitchen and the ability to make food, coffee, or store leftovers. This can be a big money-saver that most hotels fail to provide. Instead of buying $2 sodas from a hotel vending machine, you are able to store an entire 12 pack that costs less than $5 at most convenient stores. This simple swap will save you over $15 minimum! Not to mention the convenience of having that late night snack already waiting for you.
Travel with friends. Splitting expenses helps to save even more! We split the cost of the previously mentioned 3 bedroom condo with another couple and saved even more. There was plenty of room in the 3 bedroom for 4 adults and 3 teens. We all gained extra amenities and saved A LOT of cash. Ride-sharing Ubers helped too. Traveling with friends also increases safety so it's a win-win!
Eat OUTSIDE of the Quarter. That place is temptation capital, but trust me, you can get just as great of meals off the beaten path. There are so many new places to discover that don't require you to pay $14 for a cheeseburger! Also, don't forget that even New Orleans has Domino's and Pizza Hut delivery for those nights you are looking for simplicity.
Stop by Walmart or a local grocery on your way to your rental. You can pick up sodas, beer, and snacks for almost half the price of the convenience stores or the the quarter markets. There was a Walmart Super-center within a 10 minute drive of our condo. Ill link it below as well.
HAVE FUN! Not all fun has to cost money. New Orleans has a festivals for everything, and live music is available at every corner. There are tons of shops and galleries you can walk through for free.
http://residencesducarondelet.com/
Nearby Walmart : 1901 Tchoupitoulas St, New Orleans, LA 70130
Festivals and other info: https://www.neworleans.com/things-to-do/festivals/
