A place where honeymooners flock to stay in extravagant overwater bungalows that can run up to thousands of dollars per night. It seems like a bit of an oxymoron, but French Polynesia can be a budget-friendly destination.
Of course, going on a budget trip is not the same experience as going on a luxury vacation, but you will still get to enjoy the beauty of French Polynesia, which I can promise you is more than fancy resorts.
I traveled to Tahiti and Mo’orea with two other people for a week. We shared accommodations and rental cars. My total cost for the trip was $1,620.43.
Islands to Visit
We visited Tahiti and Mo’orea, which I believe are the most budget-friendly. Even getting to some of the outer islands can be pricey.
Flights
I flew United, which now offers direct flights from SFO. A round trip flight from DC cost me $1,170.
Getting Around
The ferry from Tahiti to Mo’orea is relatively cheap and convenient. It costs $15 each way, so $30 round trip.
Car rentals are expensive, but I highly recommend having a car. The car in Tahiti cost $199 for three days. The car in Mo’orea cost $242.53 for three days.
Accomodations
We found that Airbnb is the the most affordable way to book accommodations. Our Airbnb in Tahiti cost $219 for three nights. In Mo’orea, we stayed at a cute Airbnb called Mark’s Place that cost us $237.76 for three nights.
Food
Food can be expensive or cheap. I’m a vegan, so my options were somewhat limited. We mostly got our meals from the grocery store. I spent $121 on food for the week.
Total = $ 1,620.43
Flights = $1,170
Ferry = $30
Car rentals (199 + 242.53) / 3 = $147.18
Airbnb (219 + 237.76) / 3 = $152.25
Food = $121
Can you recommend how to travel on a plane with a budget for someone 6’9” tall? 🤷🏼♂️🤓😂
Get status on an airline so you get upgraded? 😂 though getting status usually isn’t cheap 🤷♀️ But it’s what I do and ends up being cheaper than flying different airlines and paying for more legroom or first class.