Escape NYC with these last-minute travel deals to Trinidad & Tobago. Plan a summer trip to Trinidad and Tobago for less than you think.

Photo by Pixabay on Pexels.com.

Budget-friendly travel guide to Trinidad and Tobago for a 2025 summer trip

Trinidad and Tobago, a dual-island paradise in the southern Caribbean, offers an unforgettable escape for travellers seeking a summer trip filled with sun, culture, and adventure—without draining their bank account.

With its rich biodiversity, vibrant festivals, and affordable options for accommodation, food, and transportation, this destination is ideal for those looking to make the most of their summer holidays in 2025. This comprehensive travel guide provides insider tips, budget hacks, and must-see attractions, ensuring your summer trip to Trinidad and Tobago is affordable, enriching, and unforgettable.

US$50 Cheap Flights to Trinidad and Tobago- Expedia

Looking for cheap flights to Trinidad? Many airlines offer no change fee on selected flights and book now to earn your airline miles on top of our rewards! Find great 2025 Trinidad flight deals now!

Why choose Trinidad and Tobago for a summer trip?

Unlike other Caribbean destinations that are heavily commercialised, Trinidad and Tobago provide an authentic, culturally rich experience. Summer in Trinidad and Tobago, from June to August, offers warm weather, tropical breezes, fewer tourists, and lower prices. This period, falling outside the Carnival season and before the height of hurricane activity in the region, is perfect for budget-conscious travellers.

Tobago is best known for its pristine beaches and eco-tourism activities, while Trinidad offers lively urban experiences, diverse cuisine, and cultural immersion. Travelling between the two is cost-effective and easy, giving visitors the best of both worlds in one affordable journey.

Budget airlines and affordable flights to Trinidad and Tobago

Finding affordable airfare is often the most daunting part of planning a summer trip. Fortunately, in 2025, several budget-friendly carriers are expected to increase flights to Trinidad and Tobago from major international hubs. Look out for deals from:

Caribbean Airlines – Trinidad’s national carrier often provides summer discounts.

JetBlue and American Airlines – Frequent flights from New York, Miami, and Fort Lauderdale to Port-of-Spain (POS) and Crown Point (TAB).

British Airways – Offers connecting flights through London with competitive summer pricing.

Booking your flights at least three months in advance and using price alert tools like Trip or Google Flights can help secure the best rates. Flexible travel dates within June or late August usually yield the cheapest fares.

Affordable accommodation: Where to stay on a budget

Accommodation in Trinidad and Tobago caters to all budgets, from backpacker hostels to mid-range guesthouses and budget hotels. The key to saving money is staying in locally-owned lodging rather than international chains.

Best budget stays in Trinidad

Shalom Guest House (St Ann’s): Close to the Queen’s Park Savannah with basic amenities.

Woodbrook on the Avenue: Offers private rooms with a local touch, ideal for nightlife and dining.

Booking.com: Many Port-of-Spain hosts offer summer discounts for weekly stays.

Budget Accommodation in Tobago

The Bungalow at Pigeon Point: A charming budget-friendly stay near the beach.

Shepherd’s Inn: Affordable rooms with a pool and on-site restaurant.

Hostels like Fish Tobago Guesthouse: Great for solo travellers or small groups.

Many accommodations offer discounts for extended stays or direct bookings, so don’t hesitate to negotiate.

Getting around: Inexpensive transportation options

Trinidad and Tobago’s transport system is efficient and affordable. Public transportation, including maxi taxis (shared minibuses), is widely used by locals and budget travellers alike.

Maxi taxis and route taxis: Cost between TT$5–TT$10 (less than US$2).

Buses: Operated by the Public Transport Service Corporation (PTSC), they’re reliable and cheap.

Car rentals: Available from TT$200/day (approx US$30). Ideal for exploring Tobago at your own pace.

Domestic flights and ferry services: Travel between the islands via the Trinidad-Tobago ferry (TT$50 round trip) or Caribbean Airlines’ 20-minute flight (often under US$50 when booked early).

Using apps like Moovit or Rome2Rio can simplify local navigation, especially in Port-of-Spain or Scarborough.

What to eat: Delicious local food on a budget

One of the highlights of any summer trip to Trinidad and Tobago is the food. The islands offer a fusion of African, Indian, Chinese, and Creole flavours—all at remarkably low prices.

Must-try budget eats

Doubles: Fried bara bread filled with curried channa (chickpeas), usually TT$5–TT$7 (less than US$1).

Bake and shark: Especially famous at Maracas Beach, prices range from TT$30–TT$40 (around US$5).

Roti: Curry-filled flatbread from local shops for about TT$20–TT$35.

Street BBQ and Creole dishes: Found at roadside vendors for under US$10 per plate.

Supermarkets like Massy Stores and QuickShoppe offer pre-packed meals and groceries ideal for self-catering accommodations.

Free and low-cost attractions for budget travellers

Trinidad and Tobago are packed with things to do and see that cost little or nothing. From hiking and snorkelling to cultural tours and nature reserves, budget-conscious visitors will have no shortage of adventures.

Top free and cheap attractions in Trinidad

Queen’s Park Savannah: A massive green space with colonial mansions and local street food.

Maracas Beach: Free entry, iconic views, and delicious beachside cuisine.

Caroni Bird Sanctuary: Boat tours as low as TT$60 (under US$10) to witness the scarlet ibis at sunset.

North Coast hikes: Explore Paria Waterfall, Avocat Waterfall, or the Marianne River—all with free trail access.

Must-visit budget spots in Tobago

Pigeon Point Heritage Park: Entry TT$20 (approx US$3), includes beach facilities.

Nylon Pool and Buccoo Reef: Affordable glass-bottom boat tours from TT$80 (approx US$12).

Fort King George: A free historical site with panoramic views of Scarborough.

Argyle Waterfall: TT$30 (about US$5) entry and a scenic walk through lush jungle terrain.

Most of these attractions are easily accessible by public transport or bike rentals, further reducing your travel costs.

Find Cheap Flights to Trinidad & Tobago from US$85.

Save Time and Money
Top Travel Sites to Compare
Best Price Guarantee*
Last-Minute Airfare Deals
No Booking Fees

Learn More

Festivals and events in summer 2025

Though Carnival is in February/March, Trinidad and Tobago still come alive during the summer with cultural and religious festivities.

Tobago Heritage Festival (July–August): A month-long celebration of dance, music, and local traditions across various villages.

Emancipation Day (August 1): Marked by parades and cultural showcases in Port-of-Spain.

Great Fete weekend (end of July): One of the Caribbean’s largest beach parties, often featuring free and low-cost events.

These festivities offer unique insights into local culture and are often free or require minimal entry fees.

Beach bum bliss: Best beaches for a budget summer trip

With over 70 beaches between the two islands, sun-seekers are spoilt for choice. Most beaches are free to access and ideal for relaxing, swimming, or snorkelling.

Best budget beaches in Trinidad

Las Cuevas: Quiet and family-friendly with free changing facilities.

Maracas Bay: Famous and easily accessible from Port-of-Spain.

Blanchisseuse Beach: A bit more remote but perfect for a peaceful getaway.

Top beaches in Tobago

Store Bay: Located near the airport, lined with food vendors and ideal for budget travel.

Pigeon Point: Small entrance fee, but stunning white sand and calm waters.

Englishman’s Bay: Secluded and peaceful, excellent for a day trip with a packed lunch.

Practical travel tips for summer 2025

Currency: 1 US Dollar ≈ 6.8 Trinidad and Tobago Dollars (TTD). USD is accepted in some tourist areas, but TTD is preferred.

Weather: Warm and humid with brief tropical showers. Pack lightweight clothing, sunscreen, and insect repellent.

Internet and SIM cards: Get a local SIM card from Digicel or bmobile for data on the go, starting at TT$50 (US$7).

Safety: Stay aware in crowded areas, use registered taxis, and follow local guidance when exploring rural areas.

Travel insurance: Consider affordable insurance covering health, theft, and cancellations, especially during hurricane season.

Sample 7-day budget itinerary (under US$500, excluding airfare)

Day 1: Arrive in Port-of-Spain, explore Queen’s Park Savannah, and try doubles for dinner.
Day 2: Visit Maracas Beach, taste bake and shark, and return for local nightlife.
Day 3: Day trip to Caroni Swamp and North Coast waterfalls.
Day 4: Ferry to Tobago, check into a guesthouse, relax at Store Bay.
Day 5: Explore Pigeon Point, Buccoo Reef tour, and enjoy local Creole food.
Day 6: Visit Argyle Waterfall, Fort King George, and spend evening in Crown Point.
Day 7: Return to Trinidad via ferry or flight, shop for souvenirs, and depart.

Final thoughts: A priceless experience on a budget

For travellers looking for an enriching and affordable summer trip in 2025, Trinidad and Tobago offer unmatched value. Whether you’re a solo adventurer, couple, or family, the islands provide a blend of natural beauty, cultural depth, and warm hospitality—all at a fraction of the cost of other Caribbean hotspots.

With careful planning, local know-how, and a sense of adventure, your summer trip to Trinidad and Tobago can be one of the most rewarding experiences of your life, without blowing your budget.

________________________