The Ultimate Guide to Your Next Adventure: How to Travel for Less

Who doesn’t love traveling? Travel helps you to explore new places, people, and cultures, which can be transformative. But, very often, we think that travel has a price and not in money.

The good news? It doesn’t have to! It doesn’t have to be an expensive trip to be an amazing trip.

So, with a little planning and sage decisions, you can wander on the cheap. We round up some top tips on how to do this without breaking the bank and still make fantastic memories along the way.

Plan Ahead and Set a Budget

Perhaps the worst mistake travelers make is to plan ahead.

• Decide on a destination – a place that you can afford.

Facts: Some countries will cost you significantly less to visit than others.

• Set a daily spending plan – This must include room, food, travel as well as activities.
• Seek deals early — the sooner you book flights or hotels, the better the discounted rate.

Planning ahead enables you to buy early and ensures you get good deals instead of last-minute expenses.

Be Smart About Flights

When on the road, flights are typically one of your largest expenses. But with some savvy tricks, you end up spending a lot less.

• Book early – Flights are cheaper when you book as early as possible.
• Utilize flight comparison sites – Search engines such as Skyscanner and Google Flights will help reveal cheaper options.

Be open to different dates. Sometimes, flying a day earlier or a day later can save you a lot of time.

Think about budget airlines, "Low-cost carriers provide lower tickets but might charge added fees.

Knowing when to fly and which carriers to use can mean huge savings on airfare.

Choose Affordable Lodging

Though hotel prices can be high, many affordable options exist.

• Hostels – Best for solo troopers and backpackers. They are inexpensive and an excellent way to network.
• Airbnb's and Guesthouses – Usually cheaper than hotels and give a more local experience.
• Couchsurfing – A free option where locals provide a place to stay.
• Camping – If you are a nature lover, camping may be a great and cheap option for you.

Thrift to the max with free breakfast offerings or access to kitchen facilities.

Eat Like a Local

Food is another major part of your expenses when traveling. Dining does not require eating at pricey restaurants in order to enjoy delicious meals.

• Street food — Street food is not just cheap in most countries; it’s also delicious!
• Local markets – Purchase fresh fruits, snacks, and any ingredients to cook your own meal.
• Eat where the locals eat – Stay out of touristy restaurants; they are often overpriced.
• Food deals — Some restaurants have special discounts at certain times of the day.

If you learn to eat smartly, you can save money and eat great local food.

Use Public Transportation

Taxis and rental cars are pricey. Instead, use cheaper means of transportation.

• Public transport – Buses and trains are much cheaper than taxis.
• Walk, or rent a bike – It gets you moving free, allows you to overload.
• Ridesharing apps — In some cities, you can book economy rides using apps like Uber and Bolt.
• City transport passes — Some cities have passes that let you travel an unlimited amount for a fee.

Using public transport will be cheaper and allow you to see how the locals live.

Looking for Free Activities

Entertainment doesn’t have to break the bank. Free activities and attractions are offered by many cities.

• Free walking tours – These tours pay/update only if you like it.
• Public parks and beaches — Experience the great outdoors for free.
• Museums and historical sites — Some have “free” days.
• Local festivals — Enjoy culture and entertainment free of charge.

With a little bit of research in advance of your trip, you will identify a great number of free things to do.

Avoiding Overhead by Traveling Light

Travel smart and save money on baggage fees.

• Travel with a carry-on – e.g., no fees for checked baggage.
• Bring essentials — Don’t buy things where you’re going that you can bring from home.
• Get a refillable water bottle — Saves bucks & is good for the planet.

Traveling lightly will make your trip much easier and cheaper.

Utilize Travel Benefits and Discounts

If you travel frequently, maximize travel rewards.

• Use travel credit cards — You earn points for flights and hotels.
• Check for student or senior discounts – Lots of places give those a break.
• Join loyalty programs – Airlines, hotels, and travel agencies have reward points.

These small savings can soon have a big impact on your budget.

Final Thoughts

Last, but not least — plan ahead, travel on a budget and seek discounts along with free things to do.

Be sure, but a low-cost adventure is one of the most recent when you pack your bags and go! Where are you headed next to save the most on your trip?

FAQs

What is the least expensive way to travel?

The answer to traveling the cheapest is flying on budget airlines, taking public transportation and cheap accommodation (hostile, Airbnb, etc.).

How can I find cheap flights?

Searching for flights through flight comparison websites, booking in advance and having flexible dates can help search for the best offers.

Is Couchsurfing safe?

Yes, so long as you read the reviews and talk to your host in advance to ensure it’s safe.

How do you save money on food when traveling?

Eat street food, buy ingredients from local markets and cook as many meals as you can yourself.

Are Free Walking Tours Really Free?

Yes, however, it is customary to tip the guide if you have a good tour.