Despite plenty of advice and evidence pointing to the contrary, trying to travel doesn’t have to break the bank. By employing and adhering to some key tips and advice, you can enjoy spending time in your desired destinations while saving money simultaneously.
Budget traveling provides several unique benefits and opportunities for travelers that you may not be able to enjoy on a more conventional vacation. Some key benefits include the added flexibility and freedom you can enjoy, alongside a deeper immersion in local culture and a deeper level of personal growth than spending a weekend at a resort.
All you have to do is follow some of the tips we’re going to outline today, and you’ll be well on your way to making the most out of your travels while saving significantly at the same time. After all, the more money you save throughout the process, the more you’ll be able to save while enjoying the world’s many destinations.
Look For Budget-Friendly Accommodations
Many people have this false impression embedded in their heads that you have to stay at a motel, hotel, or vacation rental when traveling, but this couldn’t be farther from the truth. In fact, various budget-friendly accommodation options can further help you save when traveling.
Hostels, for instance, are an excellent budget-friendly option for those traveling by themselves; just make sure you secure your luggage and important belongings using a trusted solution while doing so. They’re a popular option for those trying to save money, offering dormitory style-accommodations or small, private rooms to rent cheaply. On top of this, many hostels have communal cooking areas available, which can further help you cut down on unneeded food expenses.
Bed & breakfasts and guesthouses are another great alternative to traditional travel accommodations. They’re often much cheaper than hotels, especially in smaller locales or more rural areas. They provide a much more personal experience than some chain motel, and sometimes even include breakfasts baked into the nightly room rate.
Try To Save on Transportation
Transportation, not only just getting to and from your destination but getting around while you’re there, is typically the single biggest expense you’re going to have when traveling. When it comes to getting to and from wherever you’re trying to go, try to research and shop around a bit for the most economical method of transportation.
Depending on where you’re going, alternatives like trains may be a far more economical option than taking a plane. If taking a plane is your only option or is highly preferred, try to book your flight as far ahead as possible to save as much as you can. Consider browsing around a bit and see if a hybrid solution can save you money, whether it’s something like a combination of rail and driving, or a combination of planes and public transportation.
When it comes to accommodations, try to centrally locate your place of stay to be not too far away from what you’re trying to accomplish on your trip. That way, you can significantly reduce the costs of getting around your destination. If you’re visiting a city with world-class public transportation like Tokyo or Berlin, try to seek accommodations near major transit hubs.
Cut Down on Eating Out
Another significant expense you’re going to face when traveling is feeding yourself and any potential travel companions you may have. When you’re out and about in another town, it’s very easy to just stop at whatever’s nearest when you’re hungry. However, you should avoid doing so as much as possible to help keep your spending and diet in check.
Try to bring as much food with you as you can to keep you sustained throughout your journey. If it isn’t possible, that’s not a problem at all—consider alternative options like stopping at a grocery store when you reach your destination to pick up some simple essentials you can store and prepare at your hotel.
Things like granola bars and bananas are quick and healthy breakfast options while having some spare ingredients to make sandwiches, wraps, or salads can make for a simple yet sustainable lunch. It’s important to note that there’s nothing wrong with checking out a local eatery or two while you’re out; after all, it’s a core component of traveling. The goal is simply to keep it as minimal as you can so you can save as much as possible.
Opt for Free or Low-Cost Things To See and Do
Of course, you want to see and do as much as possible when traveling—after all, nobody’s trying to sit in a hotel all day. But, depending on where you’re trying to go and what you’re trying to do, these costs can quickly skyrocket and blow your budget out of the water. Thankfully, there are plenty of simple and clever ways to maximize your travel experience while saving a lot of money doing so.
Parks and local festivals are often directly open to the public in most places, offering a great way for you to take in the city. Furthermore, museums and local events often offer free or discounted entry, which are some additional excellent ways for you to enjoy your time at your destination, take in the local culture, and save a bit of money simultaneously.
Saving Big While On The Go
Embracing the spirit of adventure is important in life, and is a core component of traveling on a budget without sacrificing convenience. Remember, understanding the art of budget travel isn’t about depriving yourself of anything, but is instead about making smart, measured choices that can help you make the most of your stay.
By doing your research, remaining flexible throughout, and embracing local and low-cost entertainment options, you’ll be able to deeply immerse yourself in new experiences of all kinds without breaking the bank. Try to opt for quality over luxury wherever you can, and let yourself become immersed in the local community as much as possible.
Never forget that travel isn’t simply about the destination; it’s about the journey you have and the memories and growth that you achieve along the way.
