Traveling the world is an expensive hobby. Many people typically reserve this activity for the one-to-two times per year that their budget allows it. However, avid adventurers often know how to adequately manage their spending in order to see as much as the world as they can without breaking the bank. Aside from scouring the web looking for the cheapest flights possible, there are a number of strategies you can implement to best maintain the money you have on hand.
When Planning…
Always pack enough to be prepared for wherever you are going, and how long you plan on staying. This includes clothing, toiletries, non-perishable foods, and anything you can pack that will prevent you from making frivolous purchases once you arrive.
Look into all-inclusive resorts or packages, so long as your chosen destination supplies them. Much of the features that come with a stay in these resorts are paid for with a relatively reasonable up-front fee.
When Flying…
Check airfares regularly. Prices are always fluctuating, so comparing them during down seasons or times in which tourism rates are lower in certain destinations can land you the cheapest tickets possible.
When traveling internationally, non-U.S. airlines tend to be cheaper when booked through regional discount sites like easyJet.com. Compared to major U.S. airlines, the prices you’ll find here can be astoundingly lower.
When Choosing Where to Stay…
Seek out options other than hotels, as they can be fairly expensive depending on the country you are staying in. Renting houses, condos, or utilizing the online traveling wizard known as Airbnb can help you find a residence that won’t run up your vacation’s total bill. In addition to saving a few hundred dollars, most two-bedroom apartments available to rent are often the same price, if not cheaper than one-bedroom hotel rooms.
Should you prefer the amenities of a hotel, opt for a smaller one. Large chains and brand-name hotels cater specifically to avid travelers, hiking their prices up to account for their regular customers. Independent businesses usually have flat rates that are much cheaper than their competitors.
When You Arrive…
First, research modes of transportation that cost you little to nothing. Many airports will provide you with train systems or busses directly to your place of stay, which can be significantly less expensive than taking a cab.
Check out your destination’s tourism website. Most countries offer deals for first-time visitors, or those traveling in groups. From museums, to parks, to local events, you can experience your location of choice like its local citizens, without spending much more.