Have you ever crossed a needed vacation off your travelling bucket list, because you were on a budget tighter than a shoestring? I’m sure you have or you wouldn’t be searching for tips when travelling on a budget. We all want to travel/tour the world without bleeding our bank accounts dry. I mean why toil so hard yet enjoy so little?
The truth is, you don’t need to be top drawer to enjoy the finer, simpler things of life. Which in this case is travelling. Don’t stall that trip any further thinking of the best luxury travel destinations. There are other fun places to travel to, things to do and sights to see that aren’t high-end.
We’ve chronicled a handful of tips when travelling on a budget that will help you make your next vacation a reality.
Useful tips for travelling on a budget
1. Devise a plan before travelling
Planning for your vacation or trip like every other thing, gives you a sense of direction and minimises uncertainties. The first thing to take into consideration before travelling is your destination. Knowing where you’re going, gives your plan basis to burgeon. These destinations don’t have to be impoverished countries to justify budget travelling. Research the currency and foreign exchange rates of your potential destinations and ensure they’re favourable.
In no particular order, here are some of the countries to visit on a budget.
- Indonesia
- Morocco
- Thailand
- Greece
- Fiji
- Prague
- Czech Republic
- South Africa
- Cancun
- Poland
- Costa Rica
- Romania
- Mexico
- Vietnam
- India
- Colombia
- Croatia
- Bangkok
- Cambodia
- Peru
- Austria
- Nepal
- Cuba
- Italy
- Laos
2. Discounted flights
Flight costs vary daily, which is why you need to make the necessary flight arrangements in advance before travelling. Compare all airlines, then book budget-friendly flights. Looking for last minute deals can be very risky, because they will most likely get expensive as the departure date closes in.
Additionally, it is better to travel at the beginning of the week than during the weekend. The traffic is usually high during the weekends which escalates prices. You can also sign up for airline loyalty programs and earn points each time you travel. With accumulated points, you can book subsequent flights.
3. Low-cost lodging
Check out accommodations with reasonable prices within your budget. It is good to create a plan before travelling, because once you have a plan, it makes it easier to stick to your budget regardless of any pitfalls.
Also, find accommodation that allows access to different parts of the area you’re travelling to. In case you’re looking for a secluded vacation, then lodging at remote, quiet areas is recommended. When you’re making reservations, another important tip is to call ahead of your visit to confirm the current opening times, hidden costs, proximity to the city, malls, and markets.
4. Volunteer or work while travelling
To save money while you travel, consider volunteering or working. You can provide support to the local community. This will give you a sense of purpose as you tour. It can equally foster new friendships and connections. Payments can be in the form of cash, food, and accommodation.
Some unique projects to volunteer include healthcare, teaching English, women’s education, wildlife conservation, childcare, special needs, arts, sustainable agriculture, etc.
5. Local nourishment
When you’re travelling on a budget, it’s advisable to eat at local restaurants and cafes. You can still get premium, delicious meals from local food vendors. In most cases, these locally made meals are better than the ones from pricey restaurants.
Even if you’re going for fine dining at a foreign restaurant, you need to get reviews beforehand, about the kind of meals to try out and the best places to get them. Also, try shopping at local markets. You’re likely to find rare crafts, arts and quality locally made items.
6. Alternative means of transportation
Renting a car at the airport when you’re travelling is the usual transport preference. Sometimes, this incurs more costs, because airport car rentals tend to over inflate their prices.
There are alternative modes of transportation like walking, renting a bike/bicycle, using tricycles, taking a train, canoeing, and sharing rides. The benefit of these alternative means of transportation is that it not only saves money, it makes your trip more fun and gratifying.
7. Purchase travel insurance
Getting travel insurance indemnifies you when travelling. All unexpected costs and losses associated with travelling are covered when you leverage on travel insurance. Some of the travel insurance coverage include trip cancellation and delays, baggage and personal items, medical expenses, accidental death, property theft, etc. Before you buy travel insurance, be sure to understand the cancellation policy.
There you have it, seven useful tips for when next you wish to travel the world on a limited budget.
