Traveling internationally doesn’t have to be expensive. With the right strategies, you can explore new countries, immerse yourself in different cultures, and create unforgettable memories without breaking the bank. In this guide, we’ll be focusing on innovative tips that will help you save some cash without sacrificing the fun. This guide won’t be like any other budget travel guide you’ve read before!
Section 1: Planning Your Trip
Have you ever heard the saying “fail to plan, plan to fail”? Well, this definitely applies when it comes to international travel!
Book Early, but Stay Flexible
Secure your flights early for the best deals, but remain open to adjusting your travel dates. Flying mid-week, during the off-season, or using “hidden city” ticketing can lead to significant savings. Use tools like Google Flights and Skyscanner to track and compare prices. My favorite app for booking cheap flights is the Hopper app. If you haven’t tried it out yet, you are seriously missing out! I have gone to Portland 3 times this year because my tickets have been around $20!
Choose Budget-Friendly Destinations
Consider destinations where your currency goes further or where the cost of living is lower. Southeast Asia, Eastern Europe, and South America offer rich cultural experiences at a fraction of the cost compared to Western Europe or North America.
Travel Insurance
Don’t skip travel insurance, even on a budget. Consider using credit cards that offer built-in travel insurance as a perk.
Section 2: Finding Affordable Accomodations
Never sacrifice personal safety when it comes to finding budget accommodations. That doesn’t mean you need to be staying at the four seasons though! One thing to remember is that you probably aren’t even going to be spending much time in your room anyway, so save money here so you can spend more on experiences!
Hostels and Guesthouses
Stay in hostels or guesthouses instead of hotels. Many hostels now offer private rooms, giving you privacy at a lower cost. Plus, hostels often organize social events, making it easier to meet fellow travelers. Depending on the size of your group, it can also be cheaper to rent a vrbo (similar to airbnb) and then split the cost between everybody.
House-Sitting and Home Swapping
Stay in someone’s home for free through house-sitting or home-swapping programs. These options allow you to live like a local while saving on accommodation costs. If you have friends who live abroad this could be an awesome way for both of you to save some serious coin!
Work Exchange Programs
Use platforms like Workaway or WWOOF to find hosts who offer free lodging in exchange for a few hours of work each day. This not only saves money but also offers a deeper cultural experience.
Section 3: Saving on Food & Drink
Even when you’re not on vacation, your grocery bill is normally one of the highest! There is a way to save money on food and drink, but still enjoy your vacation…I promise!
Eat Like a Local
Skip the tourist restaurants and eat where the locals do. Street food stalls and local markets offer authentic meals at a fraction of the cost. This also gives you a more genuine taste of the local cuisine.
Cook Your Own Meals
If your accommodation has a kitchen, take advantage of local markets to buy fresh ingredients and cook your own meals. This can be a fun way to try new foods while saving on dining expenses. You don’t have to do this for every meal. When we travel I like to make our own breakfasts saving us about a third of what we would have spent!
Take Advantage of Food Tours
Join local food tours that focus on street food or traditional cooking. These tours often include meals and offer insights into the culinary scene, all for less than a typical restaurant meal. You’ll probably also meet some new people along the way!
Section 4: Exploring without Overspending
Travel doesn’t have to leave you deep in debt! There are so many amazing things to explore that cost very little or even nothing at all!
Free Walking Tours
Many cities offer free walking tours that operate on a pay-what-you-can basis. These tours provide a great overview of the city and its history, guided by locals who know the area well. Bonus points if you take lots of pictures to take home as free souvenirs!
Outdoor Adventures
Hiking, biking, or spending a day at the beach are budget-friendly ways to explore the natural beauty of your destination. Most outdoor activities are either free or come with a minimal fee. Make it fun by packing a lunch and bringing your camera!
Museum Free Days and Local Events
Research museum free days or look for local festivals and events. Many cities offer free cultural activities that allow you to experience the local culture without spending much money. If you are flexible on your dates, you could even plan your trip around these events!
Section 5: Smart Transportation Choices
It is really easy to overspend in this category especially if you are relying on pricey taxis to get you everywhere.
Use Public Transportation
Opt for buses, trams, and trains instead of taxis. Public transportation is often the most cost-effective way to get around, and it allows you to see more of the city. Look into multi-day transit passes for additional savings. Most locals travel this way so you can also look at it as a cultural experience!
Walk or Bike
Explore your destination on foot or by bike. This not only saves money but also lets you discover hidden gems that you might miss when using other modes of transport. Even in my hometown I have found hidden gems while I am walking instead of driving.
Consider Rideshares and Travel Clubs
For longer distances, look into rideshare options or join travel clubs that offer discounted rates on transportation. These alternatives can be cheaper than traditional taxis or car rentals and provide a more local experience.
Section 6: Budget-Friendly Souvenirs
Everyone loves bringing home cool treasures from the places they visit, but they don’t have to burn a hole in your wallet to be special.
Shop at Local Markets
Skip the tourist shops and buy souvenirs from local markets or craft fairs. You’ll find unique, handmade items that are often more meaningful and less expensive than mass-produced souvenirs. You’ll also be supporting local, small businesses!
Create Digital Memories
Instead of buying physical souvenirs, take photos and videos to capture the essence of your trip. These digital memories are not only free but also allow you to relive your experiences long after your trip is over. This is also a great option if you don’t have much space in your luggage.
DIY Souvenirs
Collect small items like tickets, maps, or postcards throughout your trip and create a travel journal or scrapbook. This personalized keepsake will be a unique reminder of your adventures. I did this almost everyday of my time in Russia and I ended up with a cool interactive journal that I could show my family when I got home. I remember cutting out the top of my Big Mac box because it looked cool in Russian and that is still in my journal to this day!
Section 7: Leveraging Technology for Savings
It’s insane how much money you can save just by using the right apps!
Use Flight Comparison Apps
Tools like Kayak, Momondo, Hopper and Google Flights help you find the best deals on international flights. Set price alerts to get notified when fares drop. My favorite so far is Hopper! I have seriously saved so much using that app!
Find Discounts with Travel Apps
Apps like Airbnb, Hostelworld, and Groupon offer discounts on accommodations, activities, and dining. Always check for promo codes or special offers before booking.I was surprised when I went to book our airbnb in Japan and had discounts applied for booking early and for booking a long stay. I think different properties have different discounts so be sure to cross check a few different properties before making your selection!
Earn Cashback and Rewards
Use credit cards or apps that offer cashback or travel rewards. These programs can help you save on future trips or provide discounts on current travel expenses. Be sure to check your current credit cards to see if you already have some travel perks.
Conclusion
Traveling internationally on a budget doesn’t mean missing out on the adventure. By planning wisely, choosing affordable accommodations, and exploring free or low-cost activities, you can enjoy your travel adventures without overspending. Whether you’re visiting bustling cities or remote landscapes, these tips will help you make the most of your journey while keeping costs low. Good luck on your future adventures!
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