If you are careful with your money, you can travel to exotic locations without spending a fortune. Here are some tried-and-tested tips for planning a holiday within your budget.
1. Plan your strategy
If you have time and money available, it’s great to travel spontaneously. If you are travelling on a tight budget, it is important to have a plan. It’s not necessary to have a strict, hour-by-hour itinerary. But you should have a rough idea of the time you will spend in each country or city, as well as the route your epic journey will take. It is better to leave less to chance, as it will reduce the amount of money you spend on unexpected expenses. Last-minute accommodation and flights are usually more expensive.
2. Travelling out of season
Avoid travelling during school holidays. The travel industry will raise prices in order to exploit families who are only able to travel during this time. Travel just before or just after the dates you have chosen to research. The shoulder season is when you can still enjoy a wonderful trip, but the sun may not shine as brightly. Hotel and airline prices are reduced to lure customers in during this period.
3. Accommodations are a smart choice
Trade expensive hotel suites for dorm rooms in hostels. Shared rooms are cheaper, and you can meet new people. AirBnB, Couchsurfing and other websites are also great options. You can book a room in someone’s home or apartment. You’ll save half the cost and get a real feel for the city. Think of your host as your tour guide with all the insider tips for the best restaurants and tourist attractions in that neighbourhood.
Staying with friends or family is also an option. You can contact them or arrange a trip to where a long-lost cousin or old-school friend lives. This could lead you to places you never thought about before.
4. Pack your goods properly
Bring everything you will need to avoid shopping while on vacation (except for a few souvenirs). No matter where you are going, take at least a pair of long pants, a warm hoodie, and a waterproof jacket. Check out our ‘Travel like a Pro’ packing guide for more detailed advice.
5. Book your flights in advance.
It is important to book return flights, as running out of cash abroad without a ticket home guaranteed is not ideal. The airlines release their seats up to a full year in advance. Prices increase as you near your departure date.
6. Be smart when you fly
Travel on Tuesdays. Travelling midweek is cheaper as weekend flights are charged a premium. You’ll also find shorter lines at the airport check-in desks and for security. No need to upgrade if you’re flying economy. You can use the money you save by buying cheap seats to pay for food and accommodation once you arrive. Budget airlines offer cheap flights for short distances and are a good choice. Pack light for a weekend getaway and only use hand luggage to save money.
In over 50 cities, you can learn 10 languages.
7. Public transport is a great way to get around.
Buses, trains and planes are all cheaper. That’s it! You can save money by taking an overnight train.
8. Do not waste your money
You can buy cheap lunches at a supermarket or even in your local fresh food market. This is a better option than an overpriced restaurant or cafe. You can also aim to walk around before selecting a restaurant for dinner. If you choose the first one you see, you will not know if your budget is too high. If you drink beer every night, it will soon add up. Your wallet and waistline will both thank you for choosing water. If you’d rather save money, you can also use the kitchens in hostels or spare rooms.
9. Earn money while traveling
You can earn money by teaching language abroad or even while on vacation. There are endless opportunities.