Wondering how to travel on a budget is one of the most commonly asked questions in the world.
Undoubtedly travel excites us and takes us to unexplored and unknown destinations. It also makes us unwind and rejuvenate from the city madness and revitalize fond memories in the backdrop of hills, beaches, and beyond.
The very idea of budget-friendly travel may double the excitement but sometimes lacks constructive ideas. The world has countless exotic places to explore.
What you need is a systematic approach in making travel easy on the wallet. Here are some cool tips on how to enjoy travel without digging a hole in your pocket.
1. Make a Good Journey Plan
A big thumbs up to the idea of going on an impulse trip. But how well are you prepared for the unexpected expenses that might pop up during your trip?
A plan is not just essential; it will also guide you on many things.
For example, when to book a journey (Spring, Summer, or maybe Fall)? Would a weekend booking or weekdays be good?
Monday morning flights attract business rates, whereas weekend travel is less pinching.
Which destination will have an excellent and easy-going climate? What are the budget-friendly attractions of the place (cuisine, hobbies, heritage, nature walk)?
Once you have answers to these basics, go ahead and book your travel. If you are traveling by road, the roof rack storage of your vehicle will give you ample space to place extra luggage.
Several booking portals give you the best prices across numerous flights, hotels and car hire. They also tell you the best time to book and offer good deals on short-trips to adventure-breaks.
2. Out-of-Season Travel is Budget-Friendly
School breaks in a year are an excellent time to go for short holidays. Try and minimize travel in such a period as the room rates and flight tickets are prone to a hike.
Do your research and schedule your trip ideally before or after these breaks. This strategy will also give you the benefit of traveling in not-so-hot weather.
When researching cheap flight options, try out booking portals to get price alerts of your preferred destination.
3. Make Your Accommodation’s Preferences Flexible
Eyeing a fancy hotel room for you and your family before you travel?
It comes with a price tag. Consider dorms in the hostel as the next best option. When you share a room, you not only split the costs but also get a chance to meet and interact with fellow travelers in the same room.
Airbnb lets you book a spare room in a local person’s house at half the cost you pay for 5-star accommodation.
If you have known relatives and friends in the travel destination, then staying with them will reduce the cost of living. It will also double the joy and memories of having a good time with them.
Related Article: Top 50 Travel Destinations to Visit Before You Die
4. Packing Makes the Difference
For your journey, make sure your baggage has the essential items. Items include lingerie, bathing kit, medicine box, eye mask, camera, SPF, books, munchies, extra clothes, and an extra pair of shoes.
It’s good to carry a waterproof jacket and a warm set of clothes for unforeseen weather changes.
5. Make Advance Bookings
The seasonal rush in the travel and hotel industry is always there. Make it a point to book your return tickets in advance so that you don’t end up waiting in the queue.
Ticket fares increase when you are nearing your departure date so that early booking would help.
6. Don’t Overspend on Eating
Eating in an overpriced fancy restaurant has its thrill, but the total cost and the tip you pay at the end of a meal may be challenging to swallow.
Go in for pocket-friendly dinners and lunches. And it’s a good option in case you have a big family to feed on a travel holiday. You can buy budget meals at a local food mart.
Similarly, avoid splurging on the beer. Plain water is an excellent option to keep you hydrated.
Conclusion
Before going for a budget trip, do prior research on the deals in air travel (to and fro) and accommodation.
Talk to your friends for suggestions and recommendations on the budget-friendly destinations that they have visited. Their experiences will also help you make up your mind.
A little bit of planning done beforehand will help you save unwanted expenditure and make your experience joyful.
James is the Founder & CEO of GurusWay.com. Majoring in Business and other life-changing sectors, James covers helpful content and shares his experience with the targeted audience.