Enjoying Phoenix

On a Budget


Explore Phoenix without breaking the bank! This budget guide helps you plan a fantastic 4-week trip for around $2000, filled with smart spending tips and unforgettable experiences.





Getting Around Arizona

Rideshare Apps

Uber & Lyft are good for regular commute, late nights or group rides.

Valley Metro

Public transit costs $4 per day or $2 per ride. Visit valleymetro.org for more info on fares & schedule.

Waymo

Self-driving taxis that offer an affordable and futuristic ride option.

Bikes & E-scooters

Available for free at the apartment, great for short trips.

Car Rental Options

A peer-to-peer car-sharing app (like Airbnb for cars)

Enterprise Rent-A-Car

Multiple locations, great for long-term rentals

Hertz

Offers discounts for young professionals & business travelers

Avis & Budget

Affordable options, especially for weekend rentals

Eating Well Without Emptying Your Wallet

Groceries & Snacks

Budget $500-$550 for 4 weeks ($125-$138/week). Focus on staple foods like oatmeal, pasta, and fresh fruits.

Eating Out

Find meals around $10-$15, with occasional $20-$35 splurges. Plan for $300-$450 if eating out 2-3 times weekly.

Money-Saving Strategies

Shop at budget stores like Walmart and Safeway. Cook at home and split expenses with roommates to maximize savings.



Baggage Bliss: Avoiding Extra Airline Fees

1

Pack Light

Estimated Cost: $50-100. Use a carry-on to avoid checked bag fees.

2

Check Airline Policies

Some airlines offer free checked bags for certain ticket classes or frequent flyers.

3

Efficient Packing

Packing efficiently and avoid extra checked bags by using a carry-on

4

Know Your Weight

Stay one step ahead at the airport by using a handy portable scale to check your luggage weight and avoid extra fees.


Phoenix Adventures: Affordable Excursions & Activities

Grand Canyon

Entrance & day trip: $20-$30.

Scottsdale Exploration

Art district walk, free museums.

Sedona Day Trip

Hiking, hot air balloon (~$200).

Local Events

Markets, festivals, public events in Phoenix.



Souvenir Shopping: Budget-Friendly Finds

1

Allocate a Budget

$50-$100 for small mementos.

2

Local Artisan Shops

Affordable and unique finds.

3

Sales & Discounts

Look out for bargains!


Emergency Fund: Preparing for the Unexpected

1
1

Small Buffer

$100-$150 for emergencies.

2
2

Unplanned Costs

Covers unexpected transportation or health-related expenses.

3
3

Peace of Mind

Ensures you're prepared.



Sample Budget Breakdown: The Big Picture

1

Total Estimated Trip Cost

Comprehensive 4-week budget range

2

Rideshare Expenses

Flexible transportation options

3

Dining Out

Occasional restaurant experiences

4

Groceries & Snacks

Budget-friendly meal planning

A detailed breakdown of estimated expenses for your Phoenix adventure.



Weekly Budget: Staying on Track

$550

Per Week

Weekly spending amount.

7

Days

Track expenses over seven days.

4

Weeks

Manage your budget for six weeks.




Final Budgeting Tips

Look for Deals

Use Groupon, GetOutPass, Happy Hour and NewUser codes to get deals and save money

Track Expenses

Use Spreadsheets to track spending or Free budgeting apps like Wallet.

Save on Food

Cook meals when possible and opt for budget-friendly eateries.

Need Help?

Contact Your IREX Advisor:

Lia Crayne-Deidrick

Reach out via:

Contact Your Cohort Ambassador

Global Ties Arizona (GTAz)

Reach out via:

Contact Your City Mentor

Claudine Reid

Reach out via: