How to Enjoy Carnival Without Going Broke
Hear me now — Carnival can be expensive, but it doesn’t have to be. With the right planning and savvy moves, you can have the time of your life without draining your life savings. Let me show you how.
1. Start With a Realistic Budget Then Stick to It Like Glue
Before you even look at a flight or pick your costume colors, set a budget. Not vibes — real numbers. Carnival is pure temptation, so if you don’t start with boundaries, you’ll end up wondering how your trip exceeded $5,000.
Here’s a quick way to start your Carnival budget:
|
Expense |
Estimated Range (USD) |
|
Flight |
$300 – $900 |
|
Costume |
$500 – $1,200 |
|
Accommodation |
$200 – $800 |
|
Fetes/Tickets |
$100 – $500 |
|
Food |
$150 – $300 |
|
Transport Miscellaneous |
$100 – $200 $150 – $300 |
Pick your budget and fit your plans inside it. If your whole trip is $2,000, and your dream costume costs $1,800, guess what? It’s not the costume for this year but your future self will thank you.
Pro Tip: Create a free expense tracker or spreadsheet with these categories and keep it updated as you book. And if you’re looking for low-cost accommodation options, Hostelworld is a sweet place to start. It’s not all bunk beds; some hostels offer private rooms for half the price of hotels.
2. Plan Early! Like, Way Early
The earlier you start planning, the more you save. Flights and accommodation prices spike as the Carnival date approaches, especially for popular ones like Trinidad, Crop Over, or Spicemas. If you’re booking last minute, you will pay premium.
Set a Carnival goal 6–12 months ahead. That way, you have time to:
✔️ Save bit by bit each month
✔️ Snag early bird deals on fetes
✔️ Get the flight and hotel deals before they skyrocket
I personally swear by CheapoAir; it’s my go-to for comparing flights, and it has saved me hundreds over the years. But you don’t have to take my word for it. Sign up for fare alerts and watch those prices drop before you pounce.
3. Compare Carnival Bands
Each Carnival band offers a variety of costume options — frontline (most expensive), midline, backline, and T-shirt sections. Yes, T-shirt sections! They usually cost a fraction of a full costume and still include access to the road, drinks, food, and vibes. You’ll get a branded band tee instead of a full costume, which keeps things comfy, easy to pack, and easy on your bank account.
Some examples of GTM Movement’s affordable costume packages for the 2025 Antigua Carnival.
Check what’s included with the costume; does the band provide lunch? Unlimited drinks? Security? Some bands offer basic packages for less, while others include premium perks at a price. Just because one band is trending on IG doesn’t mean it’s right for your budget (or your body type, or your comfort level). Take your time and compare bands before committing. This is where you can shave hundreds off your budget without killing your vibe.
4. Play Mas Where Your Wallet Feels Safe
I know, I know. Everybody wants to go where the big names and influencers are but Carnival is not just in Trinidad or Grenada. In fact, there are plenty of amazing, affordable Carnivals around the Caribbean, North America, the UK, and even Europe.
If Spicemas or Lucian carnival too pricey for you this year, no worries. There’s always another Carnival — maybe even one closer to you! Be sure to use our regional carnival search options so whether you’re in Miami, London, or Toronto, you won’t miss a fete near you. Who says you have to cross an ocean to catch the Carnival spirit?
5. Travel Like a Local, Not a Tourist
Taxis and resort food will drain your wallet faster than a rum punch on J’ouvert morning. Once you land, think like a local:
- ✔️ Share rides with other masqueraders
- ✔️ Use public transport where it’s safe
✔️ Eat at local spots instead of overpriced restaurants - ✔️ Carry some cash to avoid ATM fees
Bonus Tip: Fete Smart
Fete tickets add up real quick. Pick a few key parties you must attend and skip the rest. Or look for cooler fetes (BYOB), breakfast parties, or free street events. You don’t need to go to five all-inclusives to feel the Carnival energy. One good fete with the right crew is unbeatable!
Yes, Carnival is about vibes, but it’s also about freedom — and nothing feels freer than knowing your credit card balance isn’t crying when you get home. With a little discipline, early planning, and smart choices, you can definitely live your best Carnival life without spending $10,000. So set that budget, find your vibe, and remember: your wallet doesn’t control your Carnival dreams. You do.
