10 Tips on How to Travel On a Budget

No, this is not an article to motivate you to sell everything you own and travel. But it could be, if you think that way. Everybody wants to travel, but money always seems to be the problem. Yes, that includes saving your own money. I’ve often asked myself how I would survive overseas without spending a fortune. After many trials and errors, I’ve figured it out. So, I’m sharing a few valuable tips on how to travel cheaply.

10 Tips on How to Travel On a Budget - 1. Buy Your Tickets in Advance

1. Buy Your Tickets in Advance

Especially during sale periods or if you plan to travel on festival or public holidays, when prices are sure to hike up. Keep in mind that some airlines have travel blackout periods during their sales.

10 Tips on How to Travel On a Budget - 2. Buy a One-Way Ticket and Leave from Another Country

2. Buy a One-Way Ticket and Leave from Another Country

This is a tried-and-tested method I’ve used. You can fly into one destination, do an overland trip, and leave from another destination. Just make sure you have enough time to travel — at least two weeks or more. Plus, you get to explore different parts of the world along the way.

10 Tips on How to Travel On a Budget - 3. Carry-on Your Luggage

3. Carry-on Your Luggage

Travel light and only bring what you need. You’ll save money by not checking in luggage and will enjoy a hassle-free experience walking in and out of the airport.

4. Take Public Transport

Instead of taking taxis or shuttle buses, opt for public buses or check if the area offers free bus services. Some cities provide free buses to popular tourist spots. Why pay $15 for a shuttle bus when you can travel for free around the city?

5. Stay in a Hostel

Hostels are often a fraction of the cost of fancy hotels. They offer the basics — a bed, shared toilet, common areas, and if you’re lucky, even a kitchen. New friends included! Instead of paying $50 a night for a room you won’t fully utilize (you’re only sleeping in it for 8 hours, right?), you can book a hostel dorm bed for as little as $8. There are pros and cons to both options, but if you’re traveling solo, this is a great way to socialize with fellow travelers.

6. Set a Daily Budget

Set a daily spending limit. For example, budget $40 per day for travel, including food and transportation. By setting a budget, you’ll have a better sense of where your money is going. Any leftover funds can roll over to the next day, or if you overspend, you’ll need to be more careful the next day.

7. Cook Your Own Meals

Buy groceries at a local market and cook your meals in your apartment or hostel. This will save you more money compared to eating out.

If you do need to eat out, avoid high-end restaurants. Instead, look for local diners or eateries around the corner from your hostel. They often offer similar dishes at a fraction of the price.

8. Free Guided Walks/Walking Tours

Check for free guided walks or tours offered at tourist sites, in your hostel, or at local tourist information centers. Some parks offer free guided walks, while many attractions offer free walking tours at public-access areas.

9. Make Your Own Tour

Explore areas, especially cities, that have attractions within walking distance. Don’t waste money on expensive city tours when you can visit the sites on your own.

10. Don’t Buy Souvenirs

Just don’t! Forget about that expensive China vase you saw on the street for $400. Do you really need it? Instead, buy a postcard or a fridge magnet for yourself or loved ones. It’s much cheaper.

Must Read:

• Importance of Travelling
• Different Types of Cheap Holidays