Last updated on June 20th, 2026 at 05:13 am
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Hong Kong is known as one of the most expensive cities in the world, but with a bit of planning, you can totally do Hong Kong on a budget. Here are all the tips for enjoying Hong Kong without breaking the bank.
Let’s get started!
Pre-Trip – How to Save Money in Hong Kong
Use Credit Card Points
Before booking ANYTHING with your credit card, check your credit card rewards program to see if you are eligible to claim travel rewards.
When was the last time you even checked your account?
You’ve accumulated those points and deserve to use them. Determine the redemption method and apply those points to your trip to Hong Kong.
Buy Cheap Plane Tickets
If you don’t have enough credit card points or only have cashback credit cards, then it’s time for the next option: finding affordable flights.
Flying to Hong Kong can be expensive, so if you’re flexible with dates, you can save a lot of money. Many people travel during the summer because they travel together as a family. That’s when kids and college students have the longest holiday.
Other holidays, such as Easter, Christmas, and New Year’s, are also busy times, as it’s common to have a few days off. Plane tickets will also be expensive during those times.
For the best deals, fly mid-week and during off-peak seasons.
Use websites like Google Flights to check flight prices. They fluctuate, so set up flight alerts to be notified when fares drop.
Look for budget airlines and layover flights. Layover flights are more cost-effective, helping you save money. You might also have time to explore another city during your trip to Hong Kong, but it will be more tiring because you’re increasing your overall travel time.
Book Accommodation: Affordable Stays
Hong Kong offers a wide range of accommodations at various price points.
When booking a hotel, I always recommend using Agoda. It has never steered me wrong, and it always gives the best prices. With price deductions and good deals, Agoda is where I book my hotels whenever I travel.
For my budget travel friends, consider staying in Hong Kong neighbourhoods outside the prime districts. Staying slightly outside the city centre can often lead to better deals. It won’t affect your trip much, as Hong Kong is a compact city. Most places are only a short ride on public transportation.
Another great option is Airbnb. You can find private rooms or entire apartments at varied price points. For those who travel solo or with one other person, hotels are usually the preferred option. However, those travelling together in a larger group might want to stay together for convenience.
Plan Your Itinerary
How many days are you staying in Hong Kong?
Strategically plan your travel itinerary to visit attractions that are close together. Not only does this reduce transport costs, but it also maximizes your time.
Also, bring a card with no foreign transaction fees when you swipe your credit card in Hong Kong. The foreign transaction fee percentage is about 1-3%. That seems like a small amount, but it adds up quickly. You’re visiting Hong Kong on a budget, and credit card fees are not what you want to lose money on. There are so many better things to spend your money on.
Arriving in Hong Kong – How to Save Money in Hong Kong
Flight and accommodation are usually the most expensive part of the trip. Now that this is booked and out of the way, you have better control over your travel expenses, as it’s easier to manage other costs like shopping, food, and transportation.
Take Public Transportation
Hong Kong does public transportation right. There are so many of them from the MTR (mass transit railway), tram, ferry, double-decker bus, and minibus.
This makes it easy to navigate the city without a rental car. I also don’t recommend renting a car, as parking can be difficult in Hong Kong.
Taking public transportation will take you around the city. It’s a great way to save money and experience local life.
Even the most expensive form of public transportation, taxis, is considered affordable for a developed city.
You can pay for public transport with coins. Most locals use a rechargeable card called the Octopus card. It’s mainly used to pay for public transportation (other than taxis, which, in this case, taxi drivers usually accept cash only. The government is gradually rolling out additional payment methods for taxis, but for now, cash remains the preferred payment method for cabs. Another way to use the Octopus card is to make small purchases, such as snacks and drinks.
Visit Affordable Tourist Attractions
Hong Kong is packed with low-cost and free tourist attractions. Here are all the attractions you need to visit when doing Hong Kong on a budget:
Wong Tai Sin Temple
Visit the gorgeous Wong Tai Sin Temple for a cultural experience and a glimpse of how locals pay respects to the Gods.
Nan Lian Garden
Stroll around Nan Lian Garden to get a peek at the beautiful red pavilion and gold bridge. Right next door is Chi Lin Nunnery, another peaceful spot in the middle of the city.
Victoria Harbour
Victoria Harbour is the harbour that splits Hong Kong Island and the Kowloon side. This is one of the most famous free tourist attractions in Hong Kong, attracting millions of visitors each year for its stunning views.
Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade
The Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade is a scenic waterfront walkway that passes landmarks such as the Clock Tower, Avenue of Stars, and Star Ferry Terminal.
Star Ferry
The Star Ferry is a way to get from Tsim Sha Tsui to the Hong Kong Island side. During this 10–15-minute boat ride, tourists can enjoy close-up and picturesque views of the Hong Kong skyline.
The boats themselves look pretty old school, with reversible wooden benches, so it will feel like you’ve stepped back in time.
Mid-Levels Escalator
Although it isn’t as exciting as the other attractions on this list, the Central Mid-Levels Escalator is the world’s longest outdoor covered escalator. As a neighbourhood, Central is steeper. Taking this escalator helps residents and travellers get around Central easily.
Tram
Another iconic public transportation is the tram. When your legs are tired from walking, take the tram to enjoy a leisurely ride around Hong Kong Island. Even though you’re resting your feet, you can still soak in the sights of Hong Kong.
Enjoy the Outdoors
While most tourists tend to spend their time in the city (totally understandable, I’m the same way when I travel), don’t forget to include outdoor adventures as part of your itinerary.
Beaches
For a fun day by the water, check out Repulse Bay, Stanley Beach, or Shek O Beach. Spending time at the beach is relaxing, as you can get some fresh air and Vitamin D.
Hiking Trails
The two hiking trails people usually talk about in Hong Kong are Lion Rock and Dragon’s Back.
Beginner hikers should go on the Dragon’s Back hiking trail. Most experienced hikers might be drawn to Lion Rock. The route is more challenging, but the views are rewarding.
Add to your vacation experience by carving out time to explore a hiking trail.
Avoid Western Food
Hong Kong is a foodie paradise with a wide range of cuisines, including Western. The taste is authentic as well, but it will be more expensive compared to local food. After your time here, you’re going to go back home. Enjoy the local foods available while you’re in town.
Although Cantonese cuisine is widespread, some of the foods eaten in Hong Kong, such as its signature street foods, are harder to find outside China.
There are plenty of Hong Kong signature dishes to keep your belly full. Food like dim sum might even be something you want to eat multiple times throughout your trip.
Eat Local
Food is a highlight of any trip. Being in Hong Kong, you’ll be introduced to foods you’ve never heard of unless you’ve done deep research.
Check out local eateries for affordable meals in Hong Kong.
When it comes to eating local, many authentic restaurants in Hong Kong are low-key and reasonably priced. Their appearance on the outside, especially street food, HK cafes, and dai pai dong, will be misleading. It’s easy to be dismissive of these places, but find the right restaurants, and the flavours will be divine.
The focus at these food spots is good food rather than impeccable customer service. You might run into some rude waitresses. It’s frustrating because restaurant staff should have a better attitude in the service industry. Hong Kongers do know this, but they also get on with their day. If you encounter a staff member with a poor attitude, please don’t let it ruin your restaurant experience.
Shopping
Shopping is usually a part of a travel adventure. Cutting this out completely seems unrealistic. Stick to budget-friendly shopping areas, such as street markets. You can find good deals and still buy souvenirs to remember your trip by.
The most famous street market is the Ladies’ Market in Mong Kok. Find unique items at the street markets that run a few blocks. It also gives you a chance to practice your bargaining skills and maybe even show off your Cantonese.
Final Thoughts – How to Save Money in Hong Kong
Although Hong Kong has a reputation for being one of the most expensive cities in the world (and it certainly lives up to its name when you’re living here), your Hong Kong adventure doesn’t have to be extremely financially draining.
Visiting Hong Kong on a budget is totally doable. Follow these saving tips, and you can save hundreds of dollars. Your wallet will thank you, too!
Now to You – How to Save Money in Hong Kong
Want to keep track of your expenses? I’ve got you.
This digital planner has a dedicated section for your travel budget expenses. Not only that, this 40+ page planner covers every aspect you need to consider for any trip. Check it out!
xoxo,
Nicole