Money-saving Hacks for Budget Travelers

20 Money-saving Tips for Budget Travelers

Traveling is a dream for most people who want to get out and see all the wonderful exotic places that they read about or hear about. We all want to figure out how to go on our dream vacations without spending a fortune.

Whether you travel close to home or go on a vacation abroad, the trick is to plan a trip that will fit into your budget and stick to it. Traveling can be very expensive, but there are tons of hacks and tricks to avoid draining your wallet while on vacation. Unfortunately, some would-be globetrotters may be discouraged from exploring our amazing planet due to the financial burden of traveling.

Let’s look into some money-saving hacks for budget travelers.

Do your research

Don’t rush into plans, although it might be tempting. Take time to read some helpful blogs, talk with other travelers, and read as many reviews as you can find. There is no one better to ask than someone who is a real traveler.

Depart on the cheapest travel days

The most expensive days to travel are Friday and Sunday. If you do have to travel over the weekend, Saturdays are the best. Rather, schedule your flights for weekdays; Tuesdays and Wednesdays are the cheapest days to fly.

Book extra-long layovers on flights

This might be a good idea, as you might have time to explore the city while on your layover. Many airlines also offer free tours and even hotels if you have a long layover.

Bring a carry-on bag

A great packing hack is to travel light to avoid baggage fees, and most airlines will give you one free carry-on bag along with a personal item. Just check the size restrictions ahead of time for the airline you’re traveling with.

Book a last-minute cruise

Cruises are often the cheapest vacation if booked at the last minute. Especially if it is a long cruise. Your package will also include meals and entertainment.

Don’t exchange money at the airport

If you need to change currency, don’t do it at the airport, as this is one of the most expensive ways to trade your currency for the currency of the country you are traveling to. Rather, order currency at your local bank or use a debit card that has no foreign transaction or ATM fees.

Check visa costs before you travel

Some counties do not require a visa for entry, while others charge for the right of admission. Traveling to countries with easy and inexpensive visa procedures is possible, but only if you know what you're getting into. Check out beforehand if you need a visa for your country of choice to visit.

Stay in hostels

It is common knowledge that budget accommodation options like hostels are way cheaper compared to hotels or resorts. You pay much less, making memories that will last forever.

Make lunch your main meal

Food, and especially eating out, is one way to quickly drain your travel funds. It is a good idea to stock up on healthy snacks to fill you up and try to eat only one big meal a day at lunch time.

Take free walking tours

If you really want to get to know and experience the vibe of a city, take a free walking tour. Most of these tours are advertised in the local tourist office, hotel, or hostel. You can also google “free walking tour” and add your city of choice.

Avoid the tourist traps

Go to areas that are off the beaten track. You will still be able to see and experience some incredible things, meet people, and eat local food. This is where you will find the hidden gems to tell everyone at home about.

Don’t waste money on souvenirs

In most cases, souvenirs are a waste of money. It would be more meaningful to gather experiences and memories than to return with a bag full of tourist trinkets. Your trip will be more enjoyable, your luggage will be lighter, and your bank account will be fuller because of it.

Shop at local markets

Eat seasonal products and local products. Get closer to the local market and observe the prices and offers. What you can find more easily will be the cheapest.

House-sit

Why not look after someone’s house if you can’t afford your vacation? You don’t have to pay for accommodation this way and get a kitchen where you can prepare your own food with ingredients you bought at the local shops.

Don’t pay for WiFi; find it for free

If you're traveling, you'll have no trouble finding free WiFi near restaurants and pubs, although many open WiFi zones will require you to pay for a certain amount of data. You can always find WiFi where there are a lot of people.

Connect with an eSIM

Don’t waste money by purchasing a SIM card and using a mobile carrier in the country you are visiting. Get connected by making use of eSIM technology. You simply switch between carriers at no extra cost. KnowRoaming eSIM packages keep you and your devices seamlessly connected in more than 200 international destinations.

Avoid taxis

Whenever possible, especially while visiting a foreign nation, opt for public transportation instead of a cab. One of the best ways to acquire a feel for a new city quickly and cheaply is to use the public transportation system, such as the metro or bus.

Get Multi-Day Passes

If you plan on staying in one city for more than a few days, an all-inclusive multi-day pass is a great way to save money. What you save, you can use as much as you like to get around town.

Negotiate prices

Don't be afraid to ask for a discount on certain things when traveling. If you are flexible, there is no need to pre-book your accommodation. It is often a better idea to negotiate better prices in person.

Be flexible

For a careful traveler, this may be the single most significant quality. Being flexible and open to last-minute changes can allow you to make the most of unexpected opportunities and offers while traveling. Break free from your plans.