Almost everyone has had the dream of travelling all over the world, and while these experiences might seem unattainable, the only thing stopping us from living this dream is our budget. The good thing is that you do not need a trust fund to travel; you need a flexible budget and a little bit of creativity.
This guide will show you the best ways to save money to get the most valuable experiences travelling has to offer without going into debt. From getting discount flights to finding affordable food, this guide shows you how to do all of that and more.
Master the Art of Flexible Planning
The biggest expenses in travel usually hit before you even leave your house. Flights and timing can make or break your budget.
Travel During Shoulder Season
Don’t go during peak tourist seasons like the plague. Summer in Europe or Christmas in New York is too expensive. Go during the “shoulder season,” which is just before or after the rush. You get the better weather than the off-season, fewer people, and pay a lot less for flights and hotels.
Be Flexible with Your Destination
You may have to rely on the airline’s flexibility if your destination and travel date are set in stone. But if you let the travel deals guide you, you can save hundreds. Consider turning to the travel search engines Google Flights and Skyscanner to set your destination to “Everywhere”. You can enter a $300 round-trip ticket to a place you may have never thought of, and walk away with the $300. Just keep in mind these adventures do not have to break the bank.
Transportation: Getting There and Around
Once you have a destination, getting around doesn’t have to cost a fortune.
Embrace Slow Travel
In Europe and Southeast Asia, taking a train or bus is usually much cheaper than taking a flight. Also, overnight buses and trains can save you an extra night’s accommodation cost since they fulfil the same purpose as a hotel.
Walk or Use Public Transit
Instead of spending money on Uber or taxis, use public transport. It is far cheaper than private transport and is available in almost all large cities. If the weather is nice, you can walk instead. It is free and lets you discover interesting places, little shops and local restaurants, and street art that can be easily missed if you are in a car.
Accommodation: Sleeping Cheap (But Safe)
Where you rest your head consumes a large chunk of your budget. Move beyond traditional hotels to find savings.
Hostels are Not Just for Students
Modern hostels have evolved. Many offer private rooms that are cheaper than hotels but still clean and comfortable. If you don’t mind sharing a dorm, the savings are massive. Plus, hostels usually have kitchens, allowing you to cook your own meals and save even more.
Consider House Sitting or Volunteering
Platforms like TrustedHousesitters connect travellers with homeowners who need someone to watch their pets while they are away. In exchange for walking a dog or watering plants, you get free accommodation. Alternatively, programs like WWOOF or Workaway allow you to work a few hours a day in exchange for room and board.
Eat Like a Local
Food is a highlight of travel, but three restaurant meals a day add up fast.
Street Food is Your Friend
In many parts of the world, street food is not only the cheapest option but also the tastiest. From tacos in Mexico to Pad Thai in Bangkok, street vendors offer authentic flavours for pennies on the dollar. Look for stalls with long lines of locals—that is always a sign of quality and safety.
The Grocery Store Picnic
You don’t need to eat out for every meal. Visit a local supermarket or farmers’ market. Grab some fresh bread, cheese, fruit, and wine. Head to a nearby park for a picnic. You will enjoy a delicious meal with a view for a fraction of the restaurant price.
Free and Low-Cost Activities
You didn’t travel halfway around the world to sit in your room. Fortunately, many of the best experiences are free.
Free Walking Tours
Most major tourist cities offer “free” walking tours. These are led by local guides who work for tips. It is a fantastic way to get oriented, learn the history, and get recommendations for cheap eats. Just remember to tip your guide what you can afford at the end.
Enjoy Nature and Public Spaces
Beaches, parks, hiking trails, and public plazas are almost always free. Instead of paying for an expensive observation deck view, hike up a local hill for a panoramic sunset. Visit museums on their “free days” (often the first Sunday of the month or specific weeknights).
The Bottom Line
Budget travel isn’t about depriving yourself; it is about spending intentionally. By cutting costs on logistics like flights and fancy hotels, you free up resources for what truly matters: the experiences. Start planning, stay flexible, and see the world.
