Traveling can seem out of reach for many people, especially when they see picturesque photos on Instagram. However, it doesn’t have to be!
There are many ways to save money while traveling. From planning your trip carefully before leaving home to using financial apps like Albert, there are plenty of ways to make your dream trip a reality.
1. Be realistic about your budget.
When traveling, it can be easy to go over your budget if you aren’t realistic about it. This can mean that you spend money on activities you really shouldn’t, or that you don’t save enough for extra costs.
Be sure to consider all of your savings levers, including discounts from AARP, Costco, and membership programs. Also, look into work exchange programs such as WorldPackers and WWOOF. They allow you to travel while working in exchange for food and accommodation. Hitchhiking is another great option, but be very careful!
2. Stay in hostels.
Hostels are a great option for budget travelers because they offer shared dormitories and budget-friendly private rooms. They also usually include a kitchen and other traveler-focused amenities.
Ear plugs are a must for hostels. They help you sleep better on noisy planes, trains or buses and they’re an excellent way to block out noise in hostel dorms.
Many hostels have included breakfast, which can save you a lot of money on meals while traveling. Additionally, most hostels have kitchens so you can cook your own food and save even more money on restaurants.
3. Bring your own food.
Eating out every meal is not ideal if you are trying to keep your budget low. Instead, try to find grocery stores and cook some of your meals in the hotel.
Avoid buying too many souvenirs – they add up quickly. Instead, spend that money on a tour or another experience.
Always remember to haggle – prices are negotiable in most countries outside of chain restaurants. Also, bring a reusable water bottle for your travels as tap water is not safe in most countries. A water filter like a Life Straw is helpful too.
4. Stay off the beaten track.
Traveling off the beaten track can be an incredibly rewarding experience. It allows you to experience a country or city without the hordes of tourists.
It also helps you find hidden gems that aren’t mentioned in many blogs or guidebooks. This way, you can get a true sense of the culture and create lifelong memories.
Be sure to always listen to your gut when traveling off the beaten track. You don’t want to get ripped off! This is especially important in more sketchy areas. Make sure to research local customs and laws.
5. Pack light.
Learning how to pack light is a top priority for budget travelers. It saves money on baggage fees and makes travel much more enjoyable.
Start with one week’s worth of clothes. That’s enough to get you through the first part of your trip. Remember that you will need to do laundry at some point, so choose clothes that can be worn several times before washing.
Also, stick to a small color palette. This will help you to mix and match your clothing. Also, choose performance fabrics that don’t wrinkle easily or take long to dry.
6. Bring a flashlight.
Whether you’re lost on a night hike or need to signal for help during a blackout, a flashlight is an essential travel tool. It can also come in handy for night-time photography, helping you get the perfect shot. Plus, it’s a great way to keep your kids entertained during long travel journeys. Choose a small, lightweight, LED rechargeable flashlight and you’re good to go. It’s an easy addition that can elevate your trip. & a surefire way to turn strangers into traveling buddies.
8. Bring a pair of trainers.
A pair of trainers will be a great addition to your travel bag. They are comfortable and can be worn with almost any outfit. They also take up very little space compared to other shoes so you can pack more in your suitcase. When it comes to packing shoes, it is important to think about the weather and your itinerary. Make sure to choose a pair that is versatile and will work with both casual and dressier outfits. If possible, try to bring shoes that can be paired with both sandals and heels.
10. Pack a pair of sunglasses.
Whether you wear sunglasses to protect your eyes from the sun or just because they look good, they’re an essential part of any traveler’s kit. But packing them properly is key to ensuring that they don’t break or get lost during your trip.
To help prevent this, always pack sunglasses in a hard case, preferably in between or inside a spare pair of shoes. This will keep them from getting squashed by heavier items or being mishandled by airport baggage handlers. Also, pack a small sunglasses repair kit with backup screws and a screw driver.
