From booking hotel rooms to buying flight tickets, travelling to new places has become quite expensive. This has left many tourists looking for ways to stretch their budgets so they can afford to explore the world.
But what if I told you you don’t need to have won the lottery at Lottoland online lottery and casino to immerse yourself in an unforgettable travelling experience? You can still visit those destinations on your bucket list on a budget. That said, here are budget-friendly travel tips that will help you make the most of your money:
1. Avoid Travelling During Peak Seasons
The number one rule for travelling on a budget is never to travel during peak seasons. Usually, peak seasons are characterised by hiked airfare and hotel prices due to increased numbers of travellers.
That means attraction sites will be crowded, and entry fees may also increase.
Instead, travel during shoulder season. Flights and hotel prices are often discounted to attract customers, there are no lines at attraction sites, and you can sometimes get free entry.
Keep in mind that shoulder months vary from one region to the other. So, ensure you research the best time to explore your intended destination.
2. Consider Combining Your Destinations
Most people would love to travel several times a year. But between a tight budget and work, this may seem impossible. However, if you combine destinations, visiting several countries or continents on the same trip can save you money and time.
For instance, a trip to Germany can be combined with other destinations like Austria, France, Switzerland, Luxembourg, Netherlands, Belgium, and Denmark. These countries have good rail connections so you don’t have to catch a flight.
Moreover, avoid direct flights. Instead, look for destinations with cheap flights along your route. For example, if you are travelling from New York to Dubai, the best option is to look for a route with more affordable flights and get one-way tickets.
3. Plan Out Your Trip in Advance
When travelling on a budget, timing is everything. You can’t afford to just wake up and go. In that case, research the destination you want to explore way ahead to understand the peak season so you can avoid it. Then, when planning your trip, look for promotions and deals on travel websites and apps.
Ensure you book flights and accommodations well in advance to take advantage of early-bird discounts. Furthermore, you can also join loyalty programs for airlines, hotels, and rental car companies to accumulate points and enjoy discounts on future travels.
4. Use Alternative Accommodations
Those luxurious hotels with breathtaking views you see on Instagram are not what you should look for when on a budget. Instead, explore budget-friendly accommodation options like hostels, guesthouses, or vacation rentals. Most hostels offer dorm rooms for solo travellers. They are quite affordable because you are sharing with several other people. The only issue would be the lack of privacy.
Next, we have guest houses. They are also cheap and have basic amenities and privacy. They usually provide a homey feel.
Lastly, an Airbnb can also be a great option because most of them come with a kitchen where you can make your own meals, further reducing costs.
5. Use Public Transport
Public transport is the best way to explore most cities. Besides public transport being a cheaper option, you’ll get to interact with locals and see hidden gems you’d probably never see when using taxis or rentals.
The good news is that most countries have a well-established transport system you can manoeuvre without help. However, remember that public transport in most places is usually crowded, increasing the risk of pickpocketing. So, ensure you correctly put all your items in a backpack and zip.
6. Try Street Food
Eating in a fancy restaurant is pleasant until the eye-watering bill comes. We recommend you try fresh food markets and food stalls to save money on meals while travelling.
The good thing about trying street food is that you get a chance to explore the food culture of different regions. Street food usually has an authentic taste of the region, and you only pay a fraction of what you’d pay at a restaurant. Indulging in street food, particularly in South Eastern Asia and South America, will leave you wondering why you ever paid for that overpriced meal at a restaurant.
Lastly, consider carrying snacks and a reusable water bottle to save money on expensive food and drinks sold in airports or tourist-designated areas.
Final Thought
Even with these harsh economic conditions, it’s still possible to tour your favourite travel destinations without breaking the bank. The secret is to think out of the box. Use the tips discussed above to fulfil your travelling desires, especially if you are on a tight budget.
