Budget Travel Tips
Who says you need to break the bank to explore the world? With a little bit of planning and a lot of creativity, you can travel to your heart's content without spending a fortune. Whether you're a broke college student or a thrifty adventurer, budget travel is the way to go!
Here are 7 budget travel tips to help you save money on your next adventure:
Set a budget and stick to it: Before you start planning your trip, determine how much money you can afford to spend and create a budget. Stick to your budget as much as possible to avoid overspending.
I use Google Sheet to have a breakdown of the budget according to category (e.g. transport: flight tickets, airport transfers, train tickets etc. , travel insurance, accommodation, emergency funds, food & drinks etc.)
Travel during the shoulder season: If you're flexible with your travel dates, consider traveling during the shoulder season (the period between peak and off-peak seasons). You can save money on flights, accommodations, and activities during this time.
For instance, I traveled to Egypt during the low season (summer) in July and the hotel rates were literally half the price compared to the peak season. Downside: The sun was scorching hot during the summer season but wasn’t that bad if you are prepared.
Look for budget accommodations: Hostels, guesthouses, and vacation rentals can be much cheaper than traditional hotels. Do some research and look for budget-friendly accommodations in the area you're visiting.
I generally find that in most places I travel to, staying in an Airbnb is much cheaper than staying at a hotel. Read the reviews before booking and ask your host for local tips on things to do or where to go in your area.
Besides that, staying at hostels would also be able to help you save money on accommodations. European hostels provide a fun, affordable, and comfortable way to experience new destinations. Whether you're traveling alone or with friends, staying in a hostel can be a great way to connect with others and make unforgettable memories.
Example: I stayed at The RomeHello hostel in Italy for a couple of days and absolutely enjoyed my stay there. It has a lively and social atmosphere with common areas where guests can relax, play games, or socialize with fellow travelers from all over the world.
Flights: Low-cost carriers can offer significantly cheaper flights than traditional airlines. Be aware of additional fees and restrictions, but don't be afraid to take advantage of the savings.
When searching for flights I always use Kayak.com and Sky Scanner, I’m a big fan of Kayaks’ +/- 3 days search option so that I can find the cheapest options around the days I’m looking to fly. They also have an “Explore” feature where you can see which countries you can travel to based on your dates and your price range. This is great for getting ideas of what countries are cheapest to fly to!
One advice I will give that I don’t personally do is to pack a carry on. Unfortunately, I have never been able to travel light but if you are one of those people who have mastered the art of fitting everything you need in a carryon give me some tips in the comments below because I need it.
If you are like me and need multiple options of clothes per day ensure you pay for your baggage online before you check in, you don’t want to be hit with those baggage fees at the airport they are often times 3x as expensive as they usually would be online.
Eat like a local: Skip the fancy restaurants and opt for street food and local markets instead. Not only is it cheaper, but you'll also get a taste of the local cuisine and culture.
Use public transportation: Taxis and rental cars can be expensive. Instead, use public transportation like buses and trains to get around. You'll save money and get a chance to see the local sights.
Look for free activities: Many cities offer free walking tours, museums, and parks. Take advantage of these free activities to save money and get a feel for the local culture.
For example, I joined a free walking tour in Iceland with City Walk. The famous two hour free walking tour in Downtown Reykjavik focuses on the history of the country, the evolution of Reykjavík as a town and Icelandic culture in general, laid out in an informative and comic way.
Budget travel doesn't mean sacrificing quality either. Some of the most memorable experiences I've had while traveling have been completely free or cost very little. From hiking to waterfalls to visiting local markets, there are endless ways to have fun and experience a new place without spending a lot of money.
So, the next time you're itching to travel but don't have a lot of cash to spare, remember that budget travel can be just as rewarding and fulfilling as any other kind of travel. Happy travels!