Summary
Travel doesn’t have to break the bank. In fact, you can travel on a budget and enjoy the finer things in life without digging deep into your pocketbook. These budget travel tips will give you the tools to start planning your trip and making travel a large part of your life.
We would love to be able to tell you all that we’re independently wealthy and don’t have to worry about a cent, but that is not the case. We have to think about every penny we spend on travel. Thus, we want to share our tips for traveling on a budget.
How to Travel on a Budget in Style
Where are the cheapest travel destinations, and how to save money when booking your travels and how to find cheap accommodation? Just follow these budget-saving tips to find out and you’ll be able to travel more for less!
Booking Flights
1. Flexibility for Travel Dates
If you are willing to be flexible on travel dates, you can possibly save hundreds of dollars on your flight. Flights may be cheaper if you fly on the weekend compared to Monday morning.
Shop around and compare. Business class flights may be available for the same price as economy flights on different days. By flying on various dates, we secured a business class flight for the same price!
It pays to look at different days up to 5 or 6 days before or after your desired dates of departure. We use Skyscanner and enter our dates as flexible, allowing for comparison of flight prices a couple of days before and after our intended departure.
Check Different Airports for Departures
If you live in a city near other hubs, check their rates for better deals. For instance, flights from Hamilton, about a 40-minute drive from Toronto, can be cheaper than those from major Toronto airports.
Similarly, consider different destination airports. Flying into Tokyo’s Narita Airport might be more expensive than Hanita, which is closer to the city and can save you on taxi or shuttle fares.
Search For Flights Online Incognito
When booking flights, use an incognito window. This helps avoid price hikes due to cookies tracking your previous searches, ensuring access to the freshest deals.
Book Hotel, Car Rental, and Flights Together
We prefer to find our own hotels, but typically book the first night or two alongside our flight. This combo often leads to significant savings. By booking our hotel and flights together, we learned from industry insiders that bundling can cut costs.
We recommend also booking your rental car at the same time for even more savings. For example, we booked a rental car in Italy during our flight reservation with Skyscanner and paid only $75 USD for a 10-day rental!
Choosing Your Destination
Where you travel greatly impacts trip costs. Exploring developing nations is generally more affordable than visiting popular destinations. While Bora Bora and Tahiti are desirable, Thailand and the Bahamas offer equally stunning beaches at lower prices.
Both locations are beautiful, but one is cheaper than the other. Opting for countries like Vietnam and Honduras can further stretch your travel budget.
How to Find Cheap Places to Travel
Look for destinations with good infrastructure suited for independent travel where your dollar can last longer. For example, you can find beach bungalows in India for about $10 a night instead of spending on a costly all-inclusive resort.
The Cheapest Destinations to Travel
Eastern Europe
Budapest is very affordable, and places like Poland, Austria, Czech Republic, Romania, and Bulgaria also offer budget-friendly options.
Southeast Asia
This region is popular among backpackers due to its incredibly low travel costs. While prices in Thailand are rising, they remain reasonable, especially in places like Chiang Mai.
The Baltics
Emerging as an affordable destination, Estonia offers a fascinating experience. Lithuania and Latvia are also becoming popular for budget travelers.
The Balkans
Countries in the Balkans, including Romania, Croatia, Montenegro, Greece, and Turkey, offer fantastic budget travel opportunities.
Central America
While Costa Rica has become pricier, countries like Belize, Guatemala, and Nicaragua remain budget-friendly.
Ways to Travel for Cheap
Several strategies can help lower travel costs. Below are alternative ways to travel on a budget:
Travel Independently
Traveling independently can often be more economical than all-inclusive resorts, allowing immersion in local cultures.
Travel During Off-Peak Times
While high season is known for expensive travel, the offseason or shoulder season can be equally fulfilling yet more affordable. Do your research to find optimal travel times, as they can vary globally.
Hire Local Guides
We’ve enjoyed treks like climbing Mount Kilimanjaro for under $900 by hiring local guides directly, ensuring our money supports the local economy rather than tour companies.
Eat at Local Restaurants
Experience authentic cuisine by eating where locals gather. Ask locals for recommendations or explore on foot to find busy eateries.
Shop at Local Markets
Purchase handmade goods at local markets instead of boutiques. Not only will you save money, but you’ll also help the local economy. Bartering can be a rewarding part of the experience!
Take Local Transport or Walk
Instead of booking expensive hotel tours, consider local taxis or tuk-tuks. Public transport and walking allow for a more immersive experience.
Take Advantage of Free Attractions
Many cities offer free attractions, discounts, and walking tours led by guides who rely on tips. Utilize city passes to maximize savings!
Picnic
Shopping at local supermarkets allows you to enjoy gourmet meals without splurging. Pack a picnic for a relaxing day at one of Europe’s beautiful parks.
Travel Cheap with Alternative Accommodation
Camping
Camping in Europe can be enjoyable and affordable, with many campgrounds featuring amenities for less than €20 a night.
Hire a Campervan
Renting a campervan in New Zealand or Europe allows for flexibility and savings, especially in places where wild camping is permitted.
Independent Hotels
Seek out independent guest houses or B&Bs, where you can find great deals. Using a guidebook can help locate budget-friendly options.
Stay in Hostels
Modern hostels offer many amenities found in hotels, including free wifi and kitchens, making them a smart option for budget travelers.
Apartment Rentals or AirBnb
Renting an apartment allows for group savings and home-cooked meals, plus they are often centrally located.
Stay for Free
Consider options like house sitting, Couchsurfing, or work exchange programs to reduce accommodation costs significantly.
Travel Rewards Credit Cards
Utilize travel rewards credit cards for mileage accumulation and bonus rewards. Regular spending can lead to significant travel benefits.
Travel Slowly
Traveling long-term allows for budget stretching, providing opportunities for local transport and cheaper accommodations.
By researching your destination and planning ahead, you’ll ensure that you stay within budget while enjoying a fulfilling travel experience. Are you ready to explore the world?
