How to Save Money Traveling in Jordan

Cut Jordan travel costs by staying in hostels or camping ($15-25/night), eating at local restaurants instead of tourist spots ($5-8 vs $15-20 per meal), and booking multi-day tours that include transport and accommodation. Skip expensive Petra at night tours and use local buses between cities to save 60% on transport.

  1. Book accommodation strategically. Stay in Amman hostels for $15-20/night or camp in Wadi Rum for $25/night including dinner. Avoid hotels in Petra town - stay in nearby Wadi Musa and walk 10 minutes to the entrance. Book guesthouses directly via WhatsApp to skip booking fees.
  2. Master the local transport system. Use JETT buses between major cities - Amman to Petra costs $12 vs $80 for a private taxi. Take local minibuses (servees) for short distances at $1-3 per ride. Split taxi costs with other travelers you meet at hostels.
  3. Eat where locals eat. Find local restaurants away from tourist areas where meals cost $5-8 instead of $15-20. Buy fresh bread, hummus, and vegetables from markets for $3-4 daily. Street food like falafel costs $2-3 vs $8-12 at tourist restaurants.
  4. Time your Petra visit right. Buy the 2-day Petra pass for $71 instead of single-day at $57 - gives you time to explore without rushing. Skip the $24 Petra by Night tour and bring a headlamp for early morning visits instead. Pack lunch and water bottles to avoid $10+ inside Petra.
  5. Book multi-day desert tours. 2-day Wadi Rum tours including transport, meals, and camping cost $80-100 total vs $60/day for separate accommodation and activities. Book directly with Bedouin camps via social media for better prices than tour companies.
  6. Get the Jordan Pass. Buy the Jordan Pass online before arrival for $113 (3-day version). Includes visa fee ($42) plus entry to 40+ attractions including Petra. Saves money if visiting 3+ paid sites and eliminates visa processing at airport.
Is the Jordan Pass really worth it?
Yes if visiting Petra plus 2+ other paid attractions. The pass costs $113 for 3-day version, includes $42 visa fee, and covers Petra ($71 for 2-day pass) plus 40+ other sites. You break even visiting just Petra and Jerash.
How much should I budget for Wadi Rum?
Expect $40-50 per person for overnight camping with dinner and breakfast, plus $20-30 for jeep tours. Book directly with camps via WhatsApp rather than tour companies to save 20-30%.
Can I drink tap water in Jordan?
Tap water is generally safe but tastes heavily chlorinated. Bring a filter bottle to save $3-5 daily on bottled water. Many accommodations have water dispensers for refilling.
What's the cheapest way to get from Amman airport to the city?
Airport Express bus costs $3 vs $25-35 for taxi. Runs every hour from Terminal 1. Takes 45 minutes to downtown Amman. Airport taxis have fixed rates but are 10x more expensive.
Should I bargain for accommodation?
Yes, especially for multi-night stays or during low season. Many guesthouses offer 10-20% discounts for direct bookings via WhatsApp or staying 3+ nights. Always ask politely.