20. Travel Off – Season
We’re told that in order to explore the world we must rob the bank but it turns out that thankfully, there are workarounds! Experienced travelers that managed to hack traveling have released their secrets and you’re about to learn how to travel and also enjoy it even further when you’re on a budget. #16 & #15 will inspire you and #10 & #5 will make you look at plane tickets differently.
All destinations have their tourist seasons and you will be highly rewarded if you avoid them. Tourist businesses know how and when to charge more, so by travelling during a low season you are bound to save some money. But flights will be sparse and the weather may not be the best, I hear you say. Yes, but you will be able to enjoy better prices, less waiting time in lines and an out of the norm view of the country. Be sure to do your research as off-season times may vary between destinations. Click next to see the ultimate hack to save money on accommodation!
19. Book Hostels
If you’ve never stayed in a hostel, you’ll be surprised to learn how much money you can save by staying in them. Hostel are always cheaper than hotels and are a perfect solution for someone who doesn’t want anything too fancy. You may not experience the luxury of an expensive hotel but you’ll be getting the true backpacking experience. Also don’t forget that most hostels have free breakfast! Click next to see how to get memorable experiences when travelling!
18. Free Classes
Imagine taking a yoga class besides the ocean, thousands of miles away from home. Some hostel offer free classes for their guest so be sure to do your research and find what interests you the most. Those classes are always a good story to tell!
17. Budget Destination
Travelling on a budget obviously relies on the fact that you’ve chosen the appropriate destination. Be careful not to fall into the trap of cheap flights as sometimes plane tickets are cheap but tickets, transportation, hotels & hostels as well as food will brake the bank. Be sure to budget correctly and check on ticket and restaurant prices online.
16. Ask The Locals
Don’t hesitate to ask the locals questions about where to eat and which sight is worth visiting. Locals usually know where the tourist traps are and they’ll help you avoiding them. Who knows, maybe they’ll invite you with them for a homemade meal. Don’t be shy, put up a smile and go ask the local people about anything!
15. Walk, Walk, Walk
If you have the time to walk between sites so then by all means do it! You can’t imagine how fulling it can be to just walk instead of taking the train or bus. You’ll be able to observe the architecture, the locals and even find out some hidden gems in the city. Also you don’t have to buy tickets!
14. Try Street Food
Eating street food is actually one of the most inexpensive and tasty ways to eat what the locals eat. Don’t be scared and try to try everything as street food tends to be filling and cheap. Also you’ll be eating when the locals eat when they’re on the street.
13. Flexibility
so what happens if your map took you away from the usual path into the door of a museum you didn’t plan to visit? Do you walk away or step in? Well, some things happen for a reason and you’ll have to be flexible with unexpected events. You’ll just need to budget for this beforehand.
12. Be Open-minded
When planning a trip, it’s obvious that you’ll have some destinations in the very top of your bucket list. But what if I told you that there may be some places that you’ll enjoy more and actually be more cheap? Be sure to do a fair bit of research before buying your tickets.
11. Side Streets
Every popular city has its main streets where all of the local tourist businesses aim for you. If you want to shop or even eat on a budget though, you may have to check for the side streets and for the more quiet parts of the city. It’s worth the try!
10. Pick The Right Airports
Most destinations have at least two airport to connect the city with the rest of the world. Airport fares as well as transportation fees to the airport and actual plane tickets may vary from airport to airport. Do your research and pick the right one. You may end up arriving on one and departing from the other. A great way to save some bucks!
9. Rent A Bike
If the city is bike friendly, why not biking in it? Bike rental services are everywhere in tourist places and bikes undoubtedly cost less than renting a car or tickets. You’ll get some exercise on the way also!
8. Shop From The Local Markets
When on budget, locals themselves shop from the local markets as they tend to be way cheaper than big super-markets. In addition, chances are that you’ll be able to enjoy seasonal products as well as local products.
7. No Taxis
Tourists usually fall into the trap of using taxis when they’re in a rush or lost. Don’t be scared and try to find your way back or pick the most optimal route. Tourists tend to underestimate how convenient public transportation can be. Only use taxis when it’s a necessity and your wallet will thank you!
6. Creative Transportation
Don’t forget to be creative with your transportation. Bus and trains are great but sometimes you can catch some great views and move way faster with kayaks, trams, scooters and aerial tramways!
5. Travel On Tuesdays & Wednesdays
This is a hack that very few people know. Most people return home for the weekend and usually leave on Mondays. So what’s in the middle? Tuesdays and Wednesdays! Plane tickets tend to be significantly cheaper on these days!
4. Travel With Company
Travelling can be way more fun and of course, cheaper if you travel with friends. Expenses are divided by you all and you’ll never feel alone.
3. Escape Your Comfort Zone
Don’t restrict yourself on only visiting the popular sites. Most destinations have to offer some unique experiences which are usually free, that not many people know about. . Be sure to discover them! Internet is your friend!
2. Plan Ahead
If don’t like unexpected expenses and money spent for no reason then you have to plan ahead everything. Be sure to account for tickets and emergency expenses. With proper budgeting unexpected spending will be on budget!
1. Do Your Research
There is a specific phrase that is emphasized in this article and that’s for a reason. Do your research! This is the one and most valuable tip that seems obvious but many people procrastinate on it and plan their trips without a proper plan. Be smart and enjoy your trip!