How to Travel Cheap: 18 Tips for Budget-Friendly Adventures
Travelling on a budget can feel a bit like trying to solve a never-ending puzzle. As someone who loves to travel yet prefers quieter, more introspective moments, I've learned a few tricks to save a buck.
How does one enjoy new experiences while keeping costs low, especially if you're an introverted Asian traveller? This question has steered me through cobblestone streets, bustling markets, and countless budget-friendly adventures.
1. Book Flights Early for the Best Bargains
Booking flights early can save a lot of cash. I once delayed booking and watched the price go up. Planning ahead can give you the chance to snag the cheapest fares.
Flexibility is key. If your dates aren’t set, you can use tools like Google Flights to check different dates.
2. Fly Mid-Week: Score Cheaper Flights
Flying on a Tuesday or Wednesday can be cheaper. Airfares tend to drop during these days because fewer people are flying. Most folks prefer weekends. You can avoid crowded airports and overpriced tickets.
3. Use Budget Airlines
Budget airlines is a great way to travel without burning a hole in your pocket. The flight experience can be a bit no-frills, with meals and luggage costing extra. I realised I didn't need those inflight meals, especially if I packed a light snack.
Make sure you check the airport location. Some budget airlines might fly to smaller airports far from the city. It could take a while to get to your destination, but hey, if you’ve got the time, it’s just another way to explore more along the way.
4. Travel Off-Peak Season
I've learned that travelling during off-peak season can really save a lot of ringgit. Off-peak season means fewer tourists, and airlines are encouraging travel by lowering the fares. This is true for cruise lines as well.
Weather might be a bit unpredictable during these times, though. Like in Bali's rainy season, I got soaked a couple of times. Still, it was worth it for the empty beaches. Always pack a waterproof jacket just in case.
5. Avoid Checked Luggage Fees with Carry-On
Every time I pack for a trip, I think about saving those baggage fees. Packing light just feels right, you know?
First, pick a good carry-on bag. Something lightweight and roomy, but still small enough to fit in the overhead bin. It helps if it's got lots of pockets to keep everything organised.
Packing efficiently is an art. Stick to essential items, and think about what you can mix and match. Don’t forget the travel-sized toiletries. Those little bottles are a life-saver and take up much less space.
Consider wearing your bulkiest clothing on the plane. Packing light means easier travel and saving money for more fun adventures.
6. Earn Travel Points through Credit Cards
I don’t use a credit card but I’ve learned that credit cards can be more than just a way to buy stuff. They can actually help you travel cheaper! When you spend using a credit card, you earn points, which can be redeemed for flight rewards.
7. Stay in Hostels or Dorms
Staying in hostels and dorms may feel a bit daunting – the thought of sharing a room with strangers spooky. But then it's cheaper than a hotel, and you meet people from all corners of the globe.
When I travelled with a friend to Indonesia, we managed to find a hostel that offered private rooms at a fraction of a hotel’s price.
8. Bring Your Own Snacks
When an accommodation promises free breakfast, then pack up something extra for lunch. Grabbing an apple or a sandwich can make all the difference. For the long bus rides, a bit of adventure in your snack choices is a lifesaver.
9. Use Local Public Transport
Riding local transport, like a bus or train, keeps things cheap. Many cities and regions offer rail passes that can save even more. Planning and knowing the routes help to avoid surprises, though sometimes, I just hop on and see where it takes me.
10. Get Around with Ridesharing or Ride-Hailing Apps
Travelling can be a hassle. But apps like Grab, Uber, and inDrive have made it easier. Using these apps means no haggling with taxis and knowing the fare ahead of time.
Whether you're navigating bustling city streets or heading out for an exploration, ride-hailing apps are a budget traveller's best mate.
11. Cook Your Own Meals
Dining out every day whilst travelling can burn a hole in your pocket. Even if you're staying at an Airbnb, take the time to use the kitchen and save some money. Buying fresh ingredients at a local market can be quite the adventure.
12. Explore Local Markets for Cheap Meals
Visiting local markets is like stepping into a colourful world full of flavours and surprises. These places often offer the most authentic and affordable meals. Markets not only provide cheap meals, but they also let you try different dishes all in one place.
13. Seek Out Free Walking Tours
Free walking tours usually let you explore the city with a guide who works for tips, ensuring they're passionate and knowledgeable. You just have to be ready to fork out some cash if you liked it.
14. Discover Free Attractions
Free tours often have guides who really know their stuff. You learn about history, culture, and maybe even discover a hidden eatery spot the locals love.
Parks and beaches are great. Museums often have free days or discounted entry at certain times.
15. Travel with a Reusable Water Bottle
Water refill stations have become more common, especially in airports and train stations. You just fill up your bottle and go. Plus, it’s good for the environment. Fewer plastic bottles mean less waste. Your future self will thank you, and so will everyone else.
16. Use a Local SIM Card or International eSIM
Getting connected while travelling can seem like a pain, but it's actually quite simple.
Local SIM cards are usually cheaper. You just pop by a kiosk at the airport or a mobile shop in town.
A couple of years ago, I discovered and tried an international eSIM. No more fiddling with tiny cards! It was pre-installed on my mobile, so I could switch countries without a hitch.
17. Embrace the Power of Slow Travel
Staying longer in one place saves money on travel expenses. No more constant flights or train tickets. If you rent accommodation by the week or month, it's usually much cheaper. Plus, you get to experience the local lifestyle, which is priceless.
Slowing down also means taking the time to uncover hidden gems. There's less stress in planning each day. Over the years, I’ve found overpacked itineraries tiring. With slow travel, I've learned to appreciate small, spontaneous adventures instead of ticking attractions off a list.
Budget Travel Considerations
When it comes to budget travel, comfort and a hint of luxury don’t have to be sacrificed entirely – it’s all about finding the balance.
Choosing affordable accommodations, like hostels or budget hotels, can free up funds for those occasional splurges, like a memorable meal or a day pass at a nice spa.
Public transportation is often the cheapest way to get around, but if a taxi or ride-share after a long day will improve your comfort, it can be a worthwhile expense.
Similarly, while cooking your own meals can save money, setting aside a little for a local dining experience can add richness to your journey.
Budget travel isn’t just about pinching pennies; it’s about being mindful of where you spend so you can enjoy meaningful, well-chosen luxuries along the way.