Travelling on a budget doesn’t have to mean sacrificing your sense of enjoyment or a wealth of experiences along the way. With smart planning, creative thinking and a bit of flexibility, you can certainly explore the world without breaking the bank. Here’s how.
Embrace flexibility
One of the best ways to save money on travel is to be flexible with your plans. You’ll have the best chance of finding cheap holidays or saving on transport and accommodation if you’re free to consider various times and dates.
The demand for travel tends to be less during off-peak times and seasons, such as outside the school holidays. Because of this, you’ll be better placed to benefit from low-cost flights and stays.
Flexibility with destinations also pays off. Instead of being fixated on one location, compare other, potentially more affordable destinations you might not have considered. This spontaneity can be exhilarating at times too.
Travel like a local
Living and travelling like a local can enrich your entire experience, but also save you money. Sounds like a good deal, no?
Instead of eating in the tourist hotspots, seek out local markets and street food vendors where you can try authentic, affordable cuisine.
Public transportation is another way to save. Avoid taxis for some or all of your trip and opt for buses, trams and metros instead. These are usually much cheaper and give you a better understanding of life as a local.
If you plan on travelling in and around a certain destination for a while, see if you can benefit from any travel cards or passes. In many places, renting a bike can be even more economical and enjoyable.
Accommodation alternatives
It’s almost instinctive to look for hotels when travelling, but there are many budget-friendly alternatives worth considering.
Hostels are a popular option for travellers on a tight budget. These don’t just offer affordable beds but also the opportunity to meet like-minded explorers. Check out websites like Hostelworld to find highly-rated stays worldwide.
Other options include holiday and short-term lets, which can be cheaper than hotels, especially if you’re travelling with a group or staying somewhere for longer than a few days. Alternatively, house-sitting or home exchanges through official platforms such as TrustedHousesitters can be a fun way to enjoy free accommodation in someone’s home.
Find free activities
Every destination has free or low-cost activities that allow you to experience the local culture without spending a fortune.
Many museums and galleries offer free admission on certain days or at certain times. Simply checking their websites in advance allows you to line up free activities before you arrive.
Nature is always free. Go for a hike, spend a day on the beach or take a picnic to a national park to spend time relaxing and exploring without spending money.
Elsewhere, look for free events such as concerts, festivals or community gatherings. These are likely to be led by locals, giving you a greater understanding of the community and their ways.
Travel slow
There’s no denying that slow travel is more sustainable and budget-friendly. It’s recommended if these are a high priority for you and your travels.
Instead of trying to see everything in a short period, spend more time in fewer places. This approach allows you to save on transportation costs and immerse yourself more deeply in the local culture.
Long-term stays often come with discounts on accommodations too. So, the longer you stay somewhere and the more accustomed you become to the local way of life, the more you should save.
Happy travels!
