Dear travelers,
I often get asked how I manage to travel a lot, so I want to share my secrets with you. Don’t worry if you don’t have a lot of money – you can still see the world! Just plan carefully and make wise decisions, and you’ll be able to go on amazing adventures without spending too much. Here are some helpful tips for traveling on a budget:
1. Plan ahead
Planning your trip well in advance is the key to saving money. Booking your flights early means cheaper tickets, and you can have better deals on places to stay. You can always choose budget-friendly places like hostels or guesthouses for a comfy stay without spending lots of money. I’ve relied on Booking for years for accommodations, and I’ll tell you why it’s my go-to choice.
- Diverse Options: From hotels to hostels, guesthouses, and apartments, Booking.com has something for everyone.
- Genius Loyalty Program: Enjoy discounts, free breakfasts, and room upgrades through their Genius program.
- Level 1: Automatically activated when you sign up.
- Level 2: Earned after 5 bookings in 2 years, unlocking up to 15% discounts and extra perks.
- Level 3: Achieved after 15 bookings, offering even more savings.
When you book using the links on my site, I earn a small commission that helps me keep sharing valuable travel tips.
Another option for places to stay is Airbnb, but personally, I prefer Booking because it has a great loyalty program, and I’ve never had any issues with it compared to Airbnb’s fees and occasional last-minute cancellations.
2. Travel off-season
Off-season travel means lower prices for accommodation, flights, and attractions. Plus, fewer crowds allow for a more intimate experience.
3. Be flexible
Be flexible. Flexibility matters not just in your travel dates but also in your departure options. Sometimes, flying from the closest airport to your destination can be pricey. Consider traveling a bit further for better prices. Cheaper tickets might also mean spending more time waiting at airports or having multiple layovers.
4. Choose Cost-Effective Transportation
Instead of renting cars or relying on taxis, use public transport like buses, trains, and subways. For flights, budget airlines like WizzAir and Ryanair offer excellent deals.
WizzAir
WizzAir has the Wizz Discount Club. If you join, you get extra discounts for a year, and it costs 35 euros. This is a good deal if you plan to travel a lot with WizzAir. The club doesn’t give you priority boarding or a free carry-on bag, but you get a 5 euros discount on checked baggage and 10 euros off tickets that cost 20 euros or more. The discount works for you and one companion, but if you’re not traveling, your friend can’t use the discount even if it was booked through your profile. One cool thing I noticed is that when I had the membership, I always got a window seat. I’m not sure if it’s because of the membership or if I was just lucky.
5. Do your research
Research is really important. I use:
- Skyscanner: To compare flight prices (though I usually book directly with airlines).
- Pinterest: To discover attractions, itineraries, and hidden gems.
For example, while planning a trip to Bali, I:
- Checked flights on Skyscanner and booked with Turkish Airlines.
- Used Pinterest to explore Bali itineraries, must-visit spots, and travel tips.
- Organized my findings in Notion for easy access.
And hey, remember to follow us on Pinterest!
6. Travel insurance
Get travel insurance to cover unexpected costs, like getting sick, canceling your trip, or losing your bags. Look at different plans to find the best one for the price.
7. Pack smart
Packing wisely saves money and hassle. Opt for versatile clothing and essential items to avoid buying extras on the go. Don’t forget:
- A reusable water bottle to save on drinks.
- Snacks to avoid pricey airport or tourist spot food.
For more packing tips and a detailed packing list, take a look at this blog.
Truly yours,
The Creation of Us