7 Tips to Save Money While Traveling
Even if you have limited funds, it shouldn’t stop you from traveling to another city or even another country. Numerous studies have shown that travel doesn’t only hep you relax but also keeps you healthy while also boosting creativity. But whether you have limited funds or have bank multiple accounts, you should still be responsible with the money you allotted for your trip to prevent going broke once you finish your trip. Here are seven travel hacks to save money while traveling:
1. Stick to your budget
Probably the most important tip to help you save money while traveling: always stick to a vacation budget. The last thing you want to happen is accumulate debt after your trip since you maxed out your credit card or had to borrow from family or friends. It’s true that temptations are hard to resist when going on a trip but you need to control your urges not just to become financially responsible but also financially secure. It’s better to have no money for vacation compared to spending more that isn’t even yours.
Before your trip, make sure to plan out your expenses and do research on the possible expenses you’ll be incurring in your destination. Transportation, accommodation, and food costs are a given but you may need to list down expenses relating to your day-to-day activities such as shopping and other entertainment activities. Also, spend what you only managed to save up and avoid taking out your debit or credit cards when making a purchase. That is why it’s essential to plan your trip a few months ahead of time compared to going on an impromptu adventure.
2. Stay at hostels
How to save money traveling abroad? Book in hostels. These days, hostels are no longer the dirty and cramped places that they used to. In fact, most hostels are well-maintained with some even competing with three-star hotels in terms of providing the best relaxation accommodation experience for tourists. But most importantly, they are much more affordable compared to hotels.
Tourists oftentimes fall into a trap of spending too much on a hotel booking. Yes, hotels provide top-notch relaxation and 24/7 security but there are numerous hostels offering the same services at much cheaper costs. By doing enough research, you’ll be able to find hostels that provide excellent maintenance and security services (e.g. bed sheets replaced every day, lockers provided for valuable items, etc.). Some hostels even provide private bathrooms if you don’t feeling sharing the same bathroom cubicle with other tourists.
3. Spend less time shopping
Nothing burns your money faster than using up most of your time going to retail stores and souvenir shops. Although it can be very tempting to go on a shopping spree, use your money instead on spending for food and activities that are popular in that specific location. You can still enjoy your vacation by shopping less and immersing more, specifically in culture and sightseeing.
Of course, buying a few souvenirs isn’t discouraged. Just make sure the things you buy fall within your budget and avoid buying for everyone you knew. Limit to close family and friends since they are the ones who will value your gifts the most.
4. Research for free activities in your destination
Researching on free activities is one of the creative ways to save money for travel. The great thing about traveling on a budget is that you can do many activities without spending a penny. Forget shopping as you can maximize your trip by utilizing free activities on your intended destination. Do research before your trip so that you can identify free tourist spots and avoid spending on unexpected costs.
Most of the time, free activities pertain to visiting natural spots (parks, beaches, hiking trails) and architectural wonders (buildings, historical landmarks). Some of these spots may require fees for them to be further explored but you shouldn’t have to spend if so many things can already be seen and explored for free.
5. Take public transport
Yes, riding a taxi or hailing a private car service is much more convenient but it can take a good chunk of your budget. You’ll also get stuck in traffic which only adds to your stress. With this, take public transport especially if the destination you’re going provides fast and efficient transport services such as buses and trains.
Remember not all destinations offer fast and efficient public transport and you may experience the same stress levels just as you with for riding a taxi. Ask help from locals if you get lost or do your research ahead of time so that you’ll know what routes to take.
6. Get in touch with locals
Speaking of locals, you can achieve a complete travel experience by not just asking help from locals for directions but also getting in touch with them to experience their culture. You don’t have to be a blogger to do this as you can strike up conversations with locals and join in social events I if you get the chance.
Of course, not all locals will be friendly and accommodating especially when traveling abroad. Being aggressive can only lead to unnecessary conflicts and this will only ruin your vacation. Another way to easily get in touch with locals is to find tourist culture activities online. You won’t only be introduced to locals but also with fellow travelers.
7. Travel in the off-season
A winter or summer vacation is usually the most booked travel schedule in the world. Spring is another season where plane or boat trips are fully booked depending on the location. It’s not a coincidence why travelers usually pick snow or beach vacations. Aside from kids taking a break from school, adults are also permitted to take a break to spend time with their families during these times.
While activities are plentiful during the said seasons, travel can be taxing to even the most experienced of tourists. First, since a lot of people are out traffic can pose a serious problem. Even if you opt to take public transport, you won’t be guaranteed of reaching your destination on time. Second, traveling during the peak season isn’t cheap. Transport companies and retail shops take advantage of the huge wave of people strolling and shopping to jack up prices of their products and services. To limit stressful stress as much as possible, it’s better to travel in the off-season instead. The first days of spring and autumn are usually the best (and most affordable) time to travel but also remember to avoid traveling to holidays in your intended destination as shops may be closed and access to tourist spots may be limited.
In closing
You don’t have to spend big when traveling whether it be weekend getaway romantic vacations or a family vacation to another country. With the seven tips listed above, you’ll be able to maximize your vacation while spending less money in the process.
