Before You Buy a Budget Guidebook

There are guidebooks for almost any popular destination, budget and lifestyle. But before you buy one, acknowledge their weaknesses: They're only updated, at best, once a year. Most are aimed at the largest audience possible. They're bulky reminders to everyone who sees you carrying one that you're a tourist. But knowledge compensates for the drawbacks. You find the best bargains because they're described in the book. Notice "book" is not pluralized. Make a good decision, and one is enough.

Top Five Budget Travel Guidebooks

These books are budget planning staples. If you're traveling to Europe, North America or anywhere else, chances are good these publishers will have a volume for your consideration.

• Top Budget Travel Books

Top Three Adventure Budget Travel Guidebooks

Some budget travelers want to leave the expected and comfortable at home. For the true independent traveler, there are guidebooks that lead to adventure on a budget.

• Top Adventure Guidebooks

Destination Shopping

Read this review of Tim Leffel's new book on budget travel. He says if you choose your destinations properly, saving money can be almost effortless!

• The World's Cheapest Destinations