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8 Best Sites To Find Free Video Footage for Your Travel Vlog

by Paul @ Travel is Life | Apr 11, 2021 | Travel Bloggers | 0 comments

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Do you need free video footage to use in your travel vlog? Here's my curated list of the best free video sites that offer royalty free videos for commercial use with no attribution required.

As much fun as it would be to travel to every corner of the Earth and capture every second of footage I need for my videos , I can't be everywhere at once, so I often rely on stock videos to fill in the gaps. And whenever possible, I gravitate towards using free video footage that's offered under the Creative Commons Zero , or a similar license, that allows me to copy, modify, and use the footage without asking for permission or providing attribution — including for commercial use.

A fellow vlogger in our Travel is Life Creators community recently asked me where I get this CC0 footage, so I've put together a list of my favorite sites.

The list is small, and I'd love to add more sites to it, so if you've got any other sites you'd like to add, drop a comment below this post or e-mail [email protected] . For the sake of keeping this list easy to navigate for other vloggers, I'll only be adding websites that offer CC0 or similarly licensed footage that can be used for commercial purposes without attribution.

The reason I prefer “no attribution” is because it makes things easier to keep up with in the future. I'll often pull from old stock footage I've got downloaded on my laptop that I've used in other videos (as opposed to going back to the websites), and trying to remember where I got it all from for the sake of attribution would be a challenge, so I gravitate towards stock videos that do not require it.

PS: You can subscribe to my videos on Facebook , YouTube , and via my Friends List — or all three! Thanks for being a part of Travel is Life.

Pexels is my favorite free video footage website and the one that I use the most. They offer a great selection of high quality videos and I'm thankful for the community of videographers who share their work on the platform. All photos and videos on Pexels are free to use without attribution (although credit is always appreciated by the artists) via the CC0 license or Pexels license which is similar.

I've always loved Pixabay for their free commercial use photos , but over the past few years, they've also grown their library of free videos as well. They offer a wide selection free video footage from all over the world under their own Pixabay license which allows for commercial use of their videos without attribution, similar to Pexels above.

Coverr started as a side project in 2015 by the developers behind Veed.me — and they've continued to grow it after they sold Veed.me to Fiverr. Their selection is smaller than the sites above, but sometimes it's more about finding the RIGHT video than finding MILLIONS of videos, so it's one more place to look. Their license allows for commercial use without attribution, and only restricts uploading their videos to competing sites.

You've heard of Vimeo by now, right? At one time they were gearing up to be a YouTube competitor, but then they decided to go a different more premium / curated route. Well did you know that thousands of publishers make their videos available for free to the public under the CC0 public domain license? The videos are hit or miss depending on what you search, but there are some diamonds in the ruff within their library, especially if you need some random b-roll footage. Just keep in mind that many of the videos are home video quality because there's no curation involved.

5) ISO Republic

ISO Republic has a relatively limited selection of footage, but their videos are CC0 licensed. They won't have many (or any) results for destination specific searches like “Ecuador” or “North Carolina” but offer a small selection for searches like “Coffee” or “Buses”.

6) FOCA Stock

FOCA Stock has a small selection of CC0 licensed videos, and like ISO Republic above, does not have a wide variety of destination specific videos. However no complaints because it's basically spearheaded by one generous photographer named Jeffrey Betts who launched FOCA in 2014 to share his work for free with the world. He's got a significantly larger selection of photos (tens of thousands) than videos (of which there are only 24 at the time of writing this), however, I'm including FOCA on the list because I love supporting solopreneur projects.

7) Footage123

I don't know much about Footage123 , and they don't offer much information on their site about who's behind the project, but they've got some great drone footage! And if you make travel vlogs, I'd imagine that some quality drone shots for your b-roll would come in handy. Everything on their site is under a CC0 license.

8) RoyaltyFree YouTube Channel

RoyaltyFree is a YouTube Channel that regularly uploads clips that you can use for commercial use without attribution. I can't tell how many videos they've uploaded (hundreds I believe), but all the clips I viewed were good quality. You would need to use a 3rd party YouTube video download tool to access these videos for your vlog.

What'd I miss?

If you know of any other great places to get free stock video footage that allows for commercial use without attribution, please drop a comment below or e-mail [email protected] .

Are you a travel vlogger?

Check out the rest of my free resources in the Travel Creators Success Kit and join our Travel is Life Creators Community.

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National Nurses Week 2024: Chipotle's free burrito giveaway, more deals and discounts

Nurses should be celebrated every day, but they do have a special week: national nurses week, which runs may 6-12. restaurants like chipotle and buffalo wild wings have specials during the week..

Chipotle is giving away 100,000 burritos for National Nurses Week. And you don't necessarily have to be a nurse to get in on the deal.

From Monday, May 6, to Friday, May 10, healthcare workers can sign up for a chance to win a free burrito e-card on the Chipotle website . At the end of National Nurses Week, 100,000 healthcare workers will be randomly selected to get an email asking them to verify their employment status via ID.me. Those who successfully verify that within 48 hours will get a free burrito e-card.

Customers can get in on the action, too, by purchasing limited-edition Chipotle Healthcare Heroes E-Gift Cards online; 10% of the proceeds from the gift card purchases will be donated to the American Nurses Foundation. And throughout the month of May, you can round up your online or app orders to the nearest dollar amount. 100% of those proceeds will go to the foundation.

National Nurses Week 2024: A RN reflects on the state of the profession, calls for change

When is National Nurses Week?

National Nurses Week is observed annually May 6 through May 12.

What is National Nurses Week?

National Nurses Week grew out of a congressional resolution and proclamation signed by President Reagan in 1982 deeming May 6 as a National Recognition Day for Nurses.

The American Nurses Association board of directors expanded this to a National Nurses Week in 1990. The permanent dates for the week were designated in 1993 to be officially observed starting in 1994.

The week includes National School Nurses Day on May 8 and May 12, the birthday of Florence Nightingale, which has been celebrated as International Nurse Day since 1974.

More ways to save: Visit USA TODAY's coupons page for deals from thousands of vendors

National Nurses Week 2024 freebies, deals and discounts

Here's a roundup of freebies, deals, discounts and other specials for National Nurses Week.

• Anthony's Coal Fired Pizza: Nurses get a 20% discount on all orders with a valid ID from Monday, May 6, to Sunday, May 12.
• BurgerFi: Nurses get a 20% discount on all orders with a valid ID from Monday, May 6, to Sunday, May 12.
• Buffalo Wild Wings: From Monday, May 6, to May 12, nurses get 20% off their orders with valid IDs on dine-in, call-in, and walk-in orders.
• Buzz E-Bikes and Huffy Bicycles : Both United Wheels -owned companies give nurses 20% off online purchases year-round when verifying their ID.me at checkout.
• Create Amor: Through June 7, get 25% off orders for scrubs (use the code NURSE25) and $1 per set (top and bottom) will be donated to the American Nurses Foundation. The scrubs brand will also donate 100% of proceeds from each Iris Five Pocket Top sold directly to the foundation.
• Dunkin': Nurses can get a free medium hot or iced coffee, no purchase necessary, on Monday, May 6. (The deal excludes Frozen Coffee, Cold Brew and Nitro Cold Brew. Espresso shots, flavors, dairy alternatives & cold foam may be an additional charge.)
• Firehouse Subs: The sandwich chain has a week of specials available starting Monday through its Firehouse Rewards loyalty program and app including (on Wednesday) BOGO Hook & Ladder Subs and (on Friday) two medium sandwiches for $12 or two large sandwiches for $18.
• Free Rein Coffee Company: Nurses, first responders and medical providers get 20% off all year long from "Yellowstone" star Cole Hauser's brew brand by verifying with ID.me. Also eligible for the 20% discount: military members.
• The Good Feet Store : The retailer, with more than 250 locations, will give nurses a complimentary pair of Architek Comfort Slip-Ons and three pairs of OS1st Comfort socks with the purchase of at least a Good Feet Store 3-Step Arch Support System. (Note: if Architeks are not available, a pair of Brooks running shoes will be provided. Valid nurse's ID is required.)
• The Greene Turtle: All nurses and healthcare workers with a valid ID get a free meal (value of up to $15) on Monday, May 6.
• Happy Joe’ s Pi zza & Ice Cream: Nurses get a 10% discount at participating locations from Monday to Friday, May 6-10.
• honeygrow: Nominate a nursing team for $250 worth of catering from the fast-casual chain with 33 locations in the eastern U.S. Submit your nomination on the honeygrow website before Wednesday, May 8. Five winning teams will be announced on May 10 via honeygrow's social media platforms.
• HTeaO: The iced tea chain will give healthcare personnel 50% off cups of tea from Monday, May 13, to Sunday, May 26, with a valid hospital, doctors office, and school nurse ID.
• Insomnia C ookies: The Philadelphia-based late-night bakery chain with more than 240 locations is giving nurses a free Classic cookie in-store, no purchase necessary, all week beginning Monday, May 6. (Just show a valid ID; availability varies by location.)
• KIND Snacks: Nurses get 15% off their purchases on the website all year long. Customers just verify with ID.me at checkout.
• Landing: The flexible rental firm, with sites especially practical for travel nurses, is giving away prizes including three months' rent. Nurses can enter to win by submitting a 60-second video and others can nominate a nurse, too.
• Logan's Roadhouse: Nurses get 20% off their entrée this week. Just show your badge.
• McAlister’s Deli: Nurses can get free tea – either one big Sweet Tea, Unsweet Tea, ½ Sweet & ½ Unsweet Tea, or ½ Lemonade & ½ Sweet/Unsweet Tea (flavor shots excluded) – at McAlister's Deli from Monday, May 6, to Sunday, May 12, with their badge or ID. Offer valid in-store only; no purchase necessary.
• Moe’s Southwest Grill: Cater a Moe's Southwest Grill meal for nurses from Monday, May 6, to Sunday, May 12, and when you spend $300 or more, get a $50 E-gift card (use code THANKYOU24). Good at participating locations; not valid with other offers or third-party delivery. Doesn't include tax, tip and fees.
• Pancheros: Nurses can buy one entrée and get one free on Wednesday, May 8, at participating restaurants. (Offer good in-restaurant; just present a valid hospital badge at checkout.)
• The Parking Spot: The parking company is giving healthcare workers 25% off parking during their trips; just signup with an associated healthcare email account .
• Peter Piper Pizza : Nurses can get a free personal pizza every day Monday through Friday (May 6-10). Redemption is limited to once per day; valid nurse ID/credentials must be shown.
• Postino: The restaurant chain, with more than 25 locations in five states , will give nurses its $25 Board and Bottle (bruschetta board, plus a bottle of wine) all day every day during the month of May with badge/ID. (The special is usually only available Monday and Tuesday 8 p.m. to closing.)
• Potbelly Sandwich Works: Nurses get a free cookie or fountain drink with the purchase of an entrée by showing their ID Monday, May 6, to Sunday, May 12. Also, all customers can get free delivery on a catering order over $150.
• Salata Salad Kitchen: On Monday, May 6, Healthcare workers get 20% off their order when they present their badge at checkout. Also from Monday to Friday, get 20% off catering orders of $200 or more, and get free delivery on orders through DoorDash.
• Shipley Do-Nuts: Nurses who belong the chain's Do-Happy loyalty program can get a free half-dozen box of glazed do-nuts with any purchase on Monday, May 6.
• Skechers: Nurses get a 10% discount on all styles during the month of May on the Skechers website (valid ID or form of employment required). Online shoppers can also round up the purchase price of May purchases to the nearest dollar with proceeds going to the American Nurses Foundation; donate $5 or more and get $10 off your next $100 purchase in June.
• Smoothie King: Get $2 off your on Monday and Tuesday via Smoothie King’s Healthy Rewards App (use code THANKS2024). The promo code may be used multiple times. Also, Friday, May 3, to Friday, May 10, when you buy $25 or more in gift cards online, get a bonus of 2,000 Healthy Reward points.
• Sockwell: Nurses get a free pair of socks when they buy three pairs at full price May 6-12 on the Sockwell website (excludes closeouts and 3-packs).
• Yogurtland: Through May 14, the frozen yogurt chain is offering free delivery on orders of more than $15 made through the website or mobile app (use the code FREEDELIVERY).
• Zaxby's : Nurses can buy one Boneless Wings Meal and get a second one free on May 7 at participating locations (redeemable through the Zaxby's app or website for Zax Rewardz members, while supplies last).
• Zips Car Wash:  Nurses can get a $5 "Pro" Wash at any Zips Car Wash or Rocket Express location across the country through May 19 with wash code 3687.

Follow Mike Snider on X and Threads:  @mikesnider  & mikegsnider .

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14 easy tips to get more views on YouTube Shorts

Give your videos the best chance of exploding with 14 simple tips to get more views on YouTube Shorts.

YouTube Shorts are a numbers game. Any time you upload, you want to rack up as many views as possible. And with a mind-boggling 70 billion daily views on the platform, there’s every chance you can grab a piece of the action and get more views on YouTube Shorts.

Huge YouTubers like Alan Chikin Chow and Daniel LaBelle have cracked the YouTube Shorts code and regularly get millions of views. We’ve dug into the secrets of their success to provide you with the blueprint to reach bigger audiences.

So if you want to give your clips the best chance to explode, read our 14 simple tips on how to get more views on YouTube Shorts.

Why are views on YouTube Shorts important?

What counts as a view on youtube shorts.

• 14 tips for getting more views on YouTube Shorts
• Why are your YouTube Shorts not getting views?

Getting more views on YouTube Shorts is a key part of growing your channel and earning money from your content. Each view is essentially a person making a choice to watch your content. So the more views you get, the bigger your audience is. And once you’re monetizing your channel, you’ll get paid more for these extra views.

Want to get paid for your YouTube Shorts? If you’ve hit 1,000 subscribers and 10 million Shorts views in the last 90 days, you can apply to join the YouTube Partner Program .

YouTube doesn’t share what counts as a view on YouTube Shorts, because they don’t want people to cheat the system. What we do know is Shorts only counts a view when someone deliberately watches a video.

This means the way a viewer finds your video will affect how long they need to watch for it to count as a view. So if someone discovers your content while flicking through their feed, they’ll need to watch for longer than if they’d deliberately clicked on your Short. In a nutshell, you want to aim for as much watch time as possible with every single view.

14 tips to get more YouTube Shorts views for free

There might not be a recipe for cooking up a viral video on YouTube Shorts, but there’s plenty you can do to improve your chances. The key to reaching a larger audience is focusing on snappy, engaging content viewers enjoy watching. The more views and engagement you get, the more the Shorts algorithm will see people love your videos. 

Not sure where to start? We’ve looked at how some of the biggest Shorts creators have exploded on the platform and distilled what we found into these simple tips. Apply them to every single upload and you’ll get more views on YouTube Shorts.

The YouTube Shorts algorithm is the number one reason videos either go viral or stall on a handful of views. Check out our guide to the YouTube Shorts algorithm to find out how it works.

1. Ride the latest trending topics

Trending content can catapult you into people’s feeds. Stay up-to-date with what’s current and create videos that nod to popular themes, challenges, or viral moments. The algorithm is more likely to push content that relates to a rising trend, meaning you could find yourself exposed to tons of new viewers.

Alan Chikin Chow consistently has his finger on the pulse of pop culture and regularly includes the latest viral challenges in his uploads. It’s no wonder his clips constantly appear on the YouTube Trending page.

2. Hook your audience right from the get-go

The opening seconds of your video are by far the most important. Start your video with a strong, attention-grabbing hook that gives viewers a reason to keep watching. 

How Ridiculous know how to get straight into the action. Their face-off between a bowling ball cannon and 20 trampolines sets the scene in seconds and you can’t help wanting to watch the outcome! This is why the first few seconds of your video are so critical. Make sure to jump into the meat of your content as soon as possible and stop viewers from scrolling past.

3. Aim for all killer, no filler

The second a viewer loses interest in your video, they’ll scroll away. Be brutal with your editing and take out any part that isn’t completely gripping.

The best way to keep someone hooked is to build to a crescendo. Capture their attention and make a promise for what they can expect. Then use the rest of your clip to drum up anticipation before delivering the pay-off at the end. Plan your content like this and you’ll find people sticking around for longer.

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Elevate your edits with awesome copyright-free music 🤟

4. Be direct and ask people to interact

Getting a ton of likes, comments and shares can land you more views - but how? Video engagement is one of the biggest signs the YouTube Shorts algorithm looks for when recommending content. Don’t be afraid to ask your audience to hit the like button or drop a comment if they like what they see.

Mrwhosetheboss made an appeal for his viewers to hit subscribe so he could try to overtake Apple on YouTube. A simple, direct message like this on every upload should see your videos get more engagement. And the algorithm will share your content to more people as a result.

5. Collaborate and open up new audiences

Finding new audiences is a fast-track to getting more views. One of the easiest ways to reach new viewers is to collaborate with another creator. After all, with two YouTubers on board, you get twice the promotion of a normal video.

Zach King convinced Gordon Ramsay to feature in his burger-inspired magic trick. Off the back of a single piece of content, they appeared on each other’s feeds and got tons of new subscribers as a result. See if you can reach out to someone in your particular niche and film a mutually beneficial video together.

6. Loop content to take viewers back to the start

This tip is a bit sneaky, but could double your views overnight. Edit the end of your video to loop with the start of your clip and make the most of the infinite loop on Shorts. If it’s tricky for viewers to know when your content ends, they’ll watch and watch, driving your views up as a result.

Check out Nick DiGiovanni showing his audience how to make a pan pizza. You might not even notice the video is looped, meaning Nick has racked up an extra view. Now think about the possibility of that happening every time someone watches your video and the view count would soon add up.

7. Signpost your content with relevant hashtags

Did you know featuring hashtags can significantly boost your views? The YouTube Shorts algorithm uses hashtags to group together pieces of content. So if your video contains a hashtag and starts popping off, the algorithm can show it to people who enjoyed similar clips.

Lifestyle creator Katie Feeney tagged her flight video with #travel and opened up a whole new audience, getting 26 million views as a result. The key here is that #travel was relevant to her video, even though it wasn’t her typical type of content. So research the most relevant hashtags to include in your video’s title and description and open up new audiences.

8. Unlock bigger audiences with keywords

Telling YouTube what your video is about helps massively when it comes to boosting your views. Without relevant keywords in your title and description, YouTube’s algorithm won’t know who to recommend it to!

Remedy this by researching relevant keywords that sum up your video. Use the most popular keyword in your title and pepper the rest throughout your description. The algorithm will group your content with similar videos and recommend it to viewers who enjoy content in your niche.

9. Hook scrollers with eye-catching thumbnails

Don’t fall into the trap of thinking thumbnails are redundant on YouTube Shorts. While most people discover Shorts by scrolling through the feed, your videos will appear with a thumbnail in places like your profile and search results. You don’t want to miss out on precious views because your thumbnail lets you down.

Sydney Morgan gives her makeup and beauty tutorials colorful thumbnails that demand to be clicked on. The bold colors and comedy facial expressions intrigue potential viewers, which soon translates into extra clicks.

10. Self-promote your videos across social media

If you have a large audience on other social media platforms, remember to tell them about your latest upload. After all, spreading the word can help you rack up precious early views. Don’t be afraid to be your channel’s biggest champion.

By posting teasers of your content, you’ll entice people to click through to YouTube Shorts to watch the full clip. Just remember, you’ll want to customize snippets for each platform. And it goes without saying you’ll want to save the best bits for the main video on Shorts.

11. Save uploads for when your audience is online

Posting when your audience is online will help boost your view count early. Build up views quickly and you’re more likely to catch the algorithm’s attention. It’s constantly searching for highly engaging videos it can push to wider audiences. Meaning that if you time your upload right, your audience could help your Shorts explode.

Not sure how to find out when your viewers are most active? The Audience tab in YouTube analytics shows all the times your audience is most likely to watch your content. Pick one of the busiest and make that your go-to upload time.

12. Aim for high quality videos with every upload

The better your videos are, the more people will return to your channel. It’s easy enough to say, but maintaining high production standards across every video can be challenging. Just know your viewers will appreciate high-quality footage with clear audio.

You know when Daniel LaBelle uploads you’re guaranteed fast-paced action with his home-based comedy skits. In the eyes of his viewers, he’s a reliable creator who’s going to deliver the goods with every upload. Which is why they make a habit of returning to watch his other videos.

13. Turn a good idea into a binge worthy series

Repeatable content ideas are worth their weight in gold on YouTube Shorts. By finding a way to keep people coming back to your channel, you practically guarantee extra views. One of the most effective ways to get viewers returning to watch more content is by creating a series.

Make something as addictive as a Netflix series and people will be invested in watching the next episode. Like Rebecca Rogers , with her popular Real Things Said in Classrooms series. It’s built so that if someone discovers a video they like, they can dive straight into her channel for more of the same.

14. Improve your content with every single upload

Each upload is an opportunity to learn how to get more views. Check out your YouTube Analytics to see which videos are flying and which have missed the mark. To help, we’ve put together a guide for making the most of your YouTube analytics so you can learn more about important stats and how to use them.

Keep an eye on audience retention and watch time for your Shorts to see when people are dropping out of your videos. See what you would change with every upload to try and improve each time. The best creators find themselves in this constant cycle of self-improvement.

Why are my YouTube Shorts not getting views?

The reason your Shorts aren’t getting the views you were expecting is simple, the Shorts algorithm isn’t pushing your video to potential viewers. Getting on the right side of the algorithm makes a big difference. Before each upload, ask yourself the following questions to see if your videos are working hard enough to make the algorithm happy.

1. Do your videos grab people's attention right from the start? 🎣

Your intro is arguably the most important part of your video. If someone scrolls past your video in the first few seconds, the algorithm takes notice and will be less likely to recommend it to other people. You want your intro to give viewers a reason to stick around, so make it punchy and hint at what’s to come.

2. Does your content keep people interested? 👀

You want viewers to watch right the way through every single upload. Do that and you’ll have every chance of your videos being shared far and wide by the algorithm. Check your analytics to learn which moments cause people to scroll away. And keep your edits snappy throughout.

3. Are viewers interacting with your Shorts? ❤️

Likes, comments and shares encourage the algorithm to push your content onto more feeds. So if you’re not getting those interactions, you’re likely missing out on extra views too. Remember, it never hurts to ask people to hit the like button. See if you can do more to get viewers to engage with your videos.

4. Do you post when your audience is online? 🕒

Early views are the most important. They show the algorithm your video is worth watching. If you upload at a time when none of your audience is online, you won’t get many views right away. Dig into your analytics and see when people are more likely to be active. By posting at these times, your videos have the best chance of racking up those vital quick views.

5. Have you included the best relevant hashtags and descriptions? ✍️

Tell the YouTube Shorts algorithm what your videos are about. It’ll then know which audiences to serve your content to. Because without relevant keywords and hashtags, the algorithm is basically guessing what your content contains.

This might mean it shares your video with people who aren’t particularly interested, seriously harming your average view duration. So find the most relevant keywords, and make sure to label every upload.

Follow our tips and watch your YouTube Shorts views explode

There’s nothing stopping you from joining the likes of Mrwhosetheboss and Katie Feeney in racking up millions of views for your uploads. Follow our tips and give your videos the best chance of being seen by more people.

Maximizing your YouTube Shorts view count involves punchy editing and creating content that keeps people engaged for as long as possible. And by knowing how to make the Shorts algorithm happy, you’ll better understand how to craft videos it’s likely to serve in people’s feeds.

Once you’re regularly hitting big numbers, you’ll find yourself in a position where you can start making cash from your Shorts. To find out how to maximize your earnings, head to our guide on YouTube Shorts monetization .

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Bucket list on a budget: Travel New Orleans without breaking the bank

Check out local eateries, free live music and more!

The Big Easy is a bucket list destination for fun-seekers. With live music and jazz echoing through the streets, delicious French and Creole cuisine -- serving everything from beignets and po' boy sandwiches to French 75 cocktails -- there's an abundance of must-do activities in New Orleans.

But living it up in the Crescent City can get costly if you're not careful, so "Good Morning America" scoped out the best way to enjoy bayou country on a budget.

If you're pinching pennies, see all the ways you can still let the good times roll, below.

Getting there

Airfare prices to New Orleans, like most destinations, can vary depending on the time of year, but in the beginning of June for example, roundtrip fares from Chicago O'Hare International Airport can be found for under $145 on Spirit Airlines, and for $45 more -- around $189 -- American Airlines has similar flights that include a carry on item for no fee.

Where to stay

Look at hotel membership programs before you book your stay.

An IHG One Rewards account gets guests a slightly cheaper rate: A room at the Hotel Indigo, for instance, is priced at $129 per night for members, $7 less than the typical rate.

Travel expert Clint Henderson, managing editor at The Points Guy, told "GMA" that "among the perks you can potentially get just for being a member in a loyalty program are free Wi-Fi, late checkout and even room upgrades."

"In the case of IHG, specifically, you unlock member discounts by booking via their website as opposed to an online travel agent," he said.

Eat like a local

There's no shortage of delicious New Orleans restaurant options from legendary chefs like Emeril Lagasse or Nina Compton, but if you're looking to save, check out specials and find some go-to spots that locals love.

At the famed, family-run Parkway Bakery, one of the oldest po' boy shops in the city and known for its fresh baked bread, visitors can enjoy an array of stuffed oversized sub-like sandwiches for as little as $7. And if you can agree on the fillings and toppings, sharing a full size po' boy like the classic flash-fried Louisiana wild-caught Gulf shrimp comes in at just $7.70 each for two people.

Plus, May through July is peak crawfish season, and local eateries like Clesi's Seafood Restaurant & Catering have an abundance of the freshwater crustacean for just $8.50 per pound. The restaurant offers weekly specials as well like $3 taco Tuesday and free fry basket Friday, and gives customers a complimentary order of french fries tossed in a house-made parmesan garlic butter with the purchase of a pitcher of beer.

It wouldn't be a visit to New Orleans without satisfying your sweet tooth with beignets. The renowned Cafe du Monde serves up the deep-fried pâte à choux pastry, which is doused in powdered sugar, in orders of three for just $3.85 -- but don't forget, it's cash only.

Getting around the city

Skip the cabs or rideshare apps and pick up a Jazzy Pass to use public transit for just $3 a day.

The card includes unlimited rides on the ferry, bus and street cars, providing a unique view of the city.

Listen to the music

You'll never miss a beat in the jazz-filled French Quarter. Entertainment is free, but be sure to pack some small bills and tip your favorite artists as you enjoy the historic area.

The New Orleans Jazz Museum also hosts free afternoon concerts Tuesday through Friday.

Venture outside the city center

Look for activities, tours and other attractions from the local tourism board to book unique deals.

Plus, Groupon has offers on more than 40% off the Jean Lafitte Swamp Tour.

More 'GMA' travel picks

Anker PowerCore Select 10000 Portable Charger - Black, Ultra-Compact, High-Speed Charging Technology Phone Charger for iPhone, Samsung and More.

JISULIFE Portable Neck Fan, Wearable Personal Fan, 4000 mAh Battery Powered Bladeless Fan with 3 Speed

CeraVe Hydrating Face Mineral Sunscreen Lotion SPF 50 for All Skin Types, 2.5 fl oz

Munchkin® Spotless™ Silicone Placemats for Kids, 2 Pack, Blue/Green

Lonely Planet New Orleans

SPECIAL MADE Collapsible Water Bottles Cups Leakproof Valve Reusable BPA Free Silicone Foldable Travel Water Bottle Cup for Gym Camping Hiking Travel Sports Lightweight Durable

Picaridin Insect Repellent - 3 oz.

54" Vortex Vented Jumbo Compact Auto Open/Close Umbrella

Columbia Watertight™ II Jacket

Columbia Arcadia II™ Jacket

Columbia Kids Glennaker™ Rain Jacket (Little Kids/Big Kids)

Top stories.

Woman uses self-checkout to steal $60,000 of items from same Target store over a year

• May 10, 5:03 AM

At least 11 dead, mostly students, in Indonesia bus crash after brakes apparently failed, police say

• May 12, 12:50 AM

Controversy follows Gov. Kristi Noem as she is banned by two more South Dakota tribes

• May 11, 6:02 PM

Search on for suspect in fatal 'ambush' of police officer

• May 12, 1:36 PM

Removal of Francis Scott Key Bridge wreckage rescheduled due to lightning

• 3 hours ago

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