Cheaper then what? Fly business instead of first class. When staying in a 5 star hotel don't chose the presidential suite. Aren't you located in China anyway? What's the point of your question?

Stay with friends or family.

Hi, you can choose a travel angency,to go on a trip with a group,that is a good way to save you some money,it's more economic,but you won't have enough freedom that you need to enjoy,so just spend a little bit more money to "buy" more happiness,if you really wanna have a nice trip. That's my piont of view.

it depends on which city you want to go

you can stay in youth hostel,just 20~80 yuan a bed per day