If you are looking for a place to visit after a long academic year, Bali is a destination you should consider. It is a fantastic destination that has a bucket load of goodies that will wind you down and make you forget the tough assignments that perhaps made you wonder, “Who can help rewrite my essay?” On the flip side, Bali is a tourist destination for many people, making it expensive. The good news is that you do not have to worry about the high costs because there are many budget-friendly ways to experience the best that Bali has to offer. Here’s a guide that will assist you in planning the perfect trip to Bali on a student budget.
Get to Bali Cheap
Airfare can significantly increase your travel budget when visiting Bali, and finding a cheaper travel alternative will go a long way in helping you save significant costs. Before booking a flight, take time to review the different available alternatives. Flights to Bali are often cheapest when booked in advance, so consider booking one month before your travel date. In addition to booking in advance, consider low-cost carriers.
Travel Light
Bali’s transport charges are based on the number of bags you have; traveling light will help you reduce transport costs. When packing for your trip, pack what you need. Having many bags filled with clothes you might not even wear during your visit will only disadvantage you as you will incur extra costs for things you do not even need.
Pick the Best Time to Visit
Though Bali is a destination that people visit all year round, there are busier seasons, mainly due to the weather. The busiest times are around summer, and people often take advantage of the sunny days to enjoy the offerings of Bali. Visiting Bali in the shoulder months before or after summer will allow you to enjoy cheaper accommodation options and airfare discounts. April is a good month to consider because it falls during the rainy season when many tourists do not fancy visiting Bali.
Avoid Local Scams
Once you arrive at Ngurah Rai International Airport, you will experience the good and the bad side of Bali. There are trickster money changers and over-friendly people looking to exploit unsuspecting visitors. You should always be keen and maintain your radar to ensure you do not fall victim to the common Bali scams. When picking a taxi, select the metered taxis and use applications like Google Maps to avoid being a victim of local scammers. Google Maps will help you know where you are and the direction you should take, reducing the need to ask for directions from people who might take advantage of your situation.
Save on Lodging
Accommodation is the next place where you will incur significant costs after transport. Staying in a luxury hotel will leave you spending hundreds of dollars, and you can easily avoid this by choosing a cheaper accommodation option. Consider going for a mid-range lodging with all the required amenities. You will get to enjoy a good night’s rest on a friendly budget.
Eat and Drink Like a Local
There is always a desire to try out fancy Italian restaurants when visiting Bali, but this should not always happen. Try going local and enjoy the flavors that Bali has to offer. Many budget-friendly restaurants sell decent meals at affordable prices and in cozy settings. There are local foods galore, which range from local dishes to some international foods made to tourists’ liking.
Chill Out on the Cheap
Sipping fine wine should be out of the question when working within a budget. You should consider cheap chilling alternatives. Consider visiting convenience stores rather than going to fancy restaurants. If you want to have a feel of the sunset chillout, many parts of the beach are free, so you do not need to strain spending on private beaches. The public beaches in Bali often host renowned DJs who will leave you with an amazing experience on your travel.
Save on Transport
Renting a scooter is the most cost-effective way of traveling around Bali. When riding on the scooter, be sure to wear a helmet. If you are making a longer trip, use the available public alternatives. Public transport is cheaper than taxis and other private means, an aspect which will leave you enjoying significant cost savings during your visit.
Shop at Local Markets
Many people like making purchases when visiting new destinations, but you can find yourself spending a lot if you do not know how to get the best deals. In Bali, you will get the best deals from the local markets compared to when you purchase from tourist shops. Do not be afraid to negotiate for better deals when traversing these local markets. Many traders are always seeking to take advantage of tourists, and negotiating will ensure you get the best deal possible.
Enjoy Cheap Spa Treatment on a Budget
After a long day enjoying the givings of Bali, you should consider unwinding with a bit of pampering on the beach. Many beach masseues are highly skilled and good at their job. Rather than going to an expensive spa, take advantage of the sea breeze and expert masseuses who will do a good job helping you relax your muscles after a long day at an affordable cost.
Use Cost-Saving Strategies When Leaving Bali
It is a good option to pre-arrange flights when traveling back home from Bali. It is not worth it to save money by employing all the above budget-friendly strategies only to end up using the money you have saved on your return journey. If you stay close to the airport, consider walking or using public transport to avoid the costs associated with taxis.
Last Stop
Bali is a destination that students should consider visiting, especially after a long academic year. A challenge associated with the destination is the costs related to the visit. Bali’s offerings make it a target for many, but you can still visit it even when you are on a budget. You should take advantage of affordable accommodation, transport, and eating options. So, use the above tips to experience the best of Bali on a student budget.
