How to: NYC for $1000
One week, All Inclusive.
Recently I went to NYC instead of studying for exams and I did it for under $1000 because I have no money and if you’re reading this then I guess you don’t have much of it either, but that shouldn’t stop us from experiencing life’s greatest pleasures.
So this is how my broke-ass did it:
1. Getting There:
- Megabus: will cost you $50 round trip if you book in advance. The downside, the ride takes 12 hrs & is a little torturous.
- Airplane: I swear by Google Flights. They compare all the airlines & provide you with the best prices (including all taxes & hidden fees). I got a roundtrip ticket for $250 (Air Canada). It’s more expensive than the bus but will take you to NYC in under 2 hrs.
2. Where to Stay
- Airbnb: Use discount codes, stay with a friend (split prices) and do not stay in the heart of NYC. I stayed in Bushwick and it cost me $37 a night.
- Hostels: Most hostels in NYC are pretty pricy compared to other places and cost around $45–80 a night. This one is on the cheaper end: NY Moore Hostel
- Spend a night in the Airport: It’s FREE and surprisingly not completely terrible if you’re on a tight budget. There’s even a guide to Sleeping in Airports including reviews, tips, and best spots.
3. Purchase a metro pass ($33 for a week)
DO NOT TAKE TAXIS.
DO NOT TAKE TAXIS.
DO NOT TAKE TAXIS!!!!
4. Washrooms
Ok. Many places in NYC require a “code” for the washroom, or for you to be a “customer”. I have an incredibly small bladder & cannot afford to be a customer every time I need to pee…so here’s how to go peepee for free.
- Walk-in owning it: Go to a popular restaurant and walk right in WITH CONFIDENCE. If anyone stops you, tell them your friend already arrived
- Tell them you lost the receipt: Many places print the code at the bottom of the receipt, tell them you lost it & they’ll tell you the code
- Wait: If there’s a line you can just wait for the door to open and slide right in.
5. Museum “FREE DAY”
Trust me, THEY ALWAYS have a “free day”
- MoMa (Fridays 4–8pm)
- Brooklyn Botanical Gardens (Friday Mornings)
6. Go to “by donation” events
Let’s be honest, free events are hard to come by & are either hits or misses. I would recommend searching for “by donation” events & activities such as art shows by students, museums, and galleries. I took a yoga class with local New Yorkers for a mere $5 (Yoga to the People)
7. STICK TO THE BUDGET
I only bring the amount I’m “allowed” to spend for that day.
8. Wifi > Data
I didn’t get a phone plan & used reliable $tarbuck$ wifi throughout the day for messaging/directions
9. Get Groceries
I love eating out….but when you’re staying at a place for more than a week while trying to save money, making one meal a day is a must. PLUS there’s Trader Joe’s!
10. Samples
I ate my weight in samples & tried not to piss too many people off
11. Walk Everywhere
The High Line, Dumbo, Soho, St.Mark’s….you’re missing out if you don’t.
12. Learn to have fun without spending money.
Contrary to popular belief you CAN have a good time without spending a lot of money. Take advantage of lunch specials, free wifi, art galleries, libraries, flea markets, and good company.
