It’s never easy saving money up for travelling. When the inspiration hits, you just want to hit the road. To bad if your pocketbook is looking a little thin… Saving money takes time and organisation but there are some things you can do to help in the process. At least these are 5 very smart ways to plan more holiday with less money and keep saving even while you’re travelling.
1. Cheap airfare
Scope out the coupons, discounts, promotions and cash in any frequent flier miles you have when you shop for air tickets. Email alerts and newsletters are the best way to stay informed all year-round. It’s the best way to follow price trends so you know exactly when to book.
2. Apartment rather than hotel
One of the smartest things I started to do while travelling is staying at apartments rather than hotel rooms. Where ever you stay, I can’t stress enough to make sure you read the fine print. If you’re staying at least a week in one place, think about renting out a flat. This way you can cook instead of eating out every night and have a more homey base to come back to at the end of the day. It’s usually cheaper per night as well if you double up with friends.
3. Sightseeing
Make sure you have enough to do and see everything that you really want to do. It would be a shame to arrive in Rome without enough to see it all, or at least you top 20. You can often book tickets and reserve visits online these days, making it easier to pre-plan. Just leave room for some spontaneity.
4. Souvenirs
It’s worth checking out what your destination is famous for before arriving, that way you know what you’re looking for when you arrive and shop for souvenirs. Try to avoid the “tourist districts” when shopping around. Also, you’d be surprised what you find at the grocery store: teas, speciality coffees, chocolates and other tasty treats. Because honestly… who needs another key chain with an Eiffel Tower on it that’s been made in China.
5. Know the limits of your budget
If you’re travelling tight, then know exactly how much you have for each day and stick to it. Also, it’s good to know what you’re willing to go cheap on and what you’re not. For example, youth hostels are cheap but you may end up sharing a room with 8+ other people (no privacy). If you have food allergies or a sensitive stomach then cheap street foods won’t be your first choice for dinner.
Have any tips of your own to share to fellow travellers? How do you budget for your trips?
