There are lots of things to consider before traveling. Learn more on “How to Travel Abroad on a Tight Budget With Accommodation & Food Hacks”.
It can seem like a wealthy person’s game to travel overseas, let’s face it. You wonder, “How in the world are they affording all that?” while you browse Instagram and see folks enjoying the good life in Bali, drinking cappuccino in Rome, or watching sunsets in Santorini.
But here’s a little secret: Traveling the world doesn’t require a trust fund or a six-figure salary. All you need is a clear plan, a little bravery, and the appropriate hacks. I’ve taken more budget-friendly trips than I can remember, and I promise you that you can too, if you follow the correct plan.
Therefore, continue reading if you’re hoping to pack your bags and move to a new nation without spending all of your savings. I’m going to spell everything out in the manner of a real chat. With insider advice on how to eat healthily and sleep well without breaking the bank, here’s how to go overseas on a limited budget.
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How to Travel Abroad on a Tight Budget With Accommodation & Food Hacks
Make a plan first, but keep it adaptable.
A broad outline is necessary, but you don’t have to lay out every hour of the day. Why? Because impromptu decision-making is where the largest financial leaks occur.
Start by picking reasonably priced travel locations. Extremely affordable countries include those in Southeast Asia, Eastern Europe, sections of Latin America, and some areas of Africa. Unless you have a very good reason to travel, stay away from pricey locations like Oslo or Zurich. If you do, you’ll need to work even harder to save money.
To locate the most affordable flights from your departing city, use resources such as Skyscanner’s “Everywhere” function. Avoid peak months to save a lot of money on flights and lodging by traveling during the off-season.
Realistic Flight Hacks
Although flights can consume a significant portion of your budget, you can reduce those expenses with a little perseverance and ingenuity:
When looking for flights, use incognito mode to stay away from dynamic pricing.
Be accommodating when it comes to dates and timings. Tuesday or Wednesday flights are frequently less expensive than those on the weekends.
Try other airports. Taking a bus or train instead of flying into a nearby city can save hundreds of dollars.
Register for flight notifications. You can find out when costs decrease by visiting websites such as Google Flights, Airfarewatchdog, or Scott’s Cheap Flights.
Remember: You can discover insanely good discounts if you’re ready to forgo a little comfort (hey, 3AM layovers).
Tips for Traveling – Don’t Just Consider Hotels
Hotels are fantastic for convenience, but you have to be a little resourceful if you’re on a tight budget:
Not All Hostels Are for Party Kids
In addition to being cleaner, safer, and kinder than before, many hostels now provide private rooms. Additionally, you’ll frequently run into other budget-conscious tourists who are willing to split expenses or exchange advice.
Housekeeping and Pet Care
Yes, if you watch their dogs, folks will let you stay in their house for free. Websites such as MindMyHouse and TrustedHousesitters link homeowners and vacationers. It benefits both parties.
Couchsurfing
Couchsurfing is still a great way to meet people from different cultures and get free lodging, but it’s not for everyone. Just make sure your hosts are trustworthy. Examine reviews. Have faith in your instincts.
Work to Stay
You can trade a few hours of labor for food and accommodation through websites such as Workaway, Worldpackers, and WWOOF. It could be teaching a language, working on a farm, or providing assistance at a hostel.
Eat Like a Local (And Occasionally Like a Student on a Budget)
One of the best things about traveling is the food, but dining out all the time? You most likely can’t afford such luxury on a daily basis.
Here’s how I manage to eat healthily without going over budget:
Your best friend is the local market.
Go to open markets instead of touristy restaurants. You’ll find fresh, real, and affordable meals. It’s also a fantastic method to learn about the local way of life.
Prepare Your Own Food
Make use of the kitchen if it is available at your lodging. Cooking even one meal a day can save a lot of money, and grocery stores and corner stores are stocked with local foods. Local vegetables, rice dishes, and pasta can make a big difference.
Sit-down Street Food
In many cases, street food is both better and less expensive than restaurant fare. Quick scan: It’s probably safe and delicious if locals are eating there.
Eat a lot at once.
I occasionally eat a big dinner in the late afternoon and then have small snacks throughout the day. It’s just budgeting, not starving.
Steer clear of tourist traps such as the plague.
There are expensive frauds everywhere there are tourists. Recognize them:
- Avoid dining at establishments that have images of their food and laminated menus.
- Steer clear of cabs without meters or drivers who “forget” to turn them on.
- Don’t go on guided tours unless they are really worth it. Free walking tours are available in many cities; simply tip your guide.
- Do further research. Spending $20 on a $5 activity can be avoided by spending a few minutes reading blog postings or Reddit threads.
Move Around Wisely
Transportation quickly adds up. Here are some tips for managing it:
- When you can, take a walk. You get to find hidden treasures in addition to saving money.
- Make use of local transportation. When compared to ridesharing or taxis, buses, trams, and shared vans are incredibly affordable.
- In Europe, you can share a journey with natives traveling in the same direction by using ride-sharing apps like BlaBlaCar.
- Spend the night somewhere. You can save a night’s lodging by taking an overnight bus or train.
Look for Free Experiences
There are plenty of free things to do in the world. Public parks, festivals, street performances, museums with free admission days, and nature treks are all free. Before you get there, look up “free things to do in the city” online and compile a list.
Another helpful tidbit is that a lot of colleges and cultural institutions provide free public lectures and events.
Don’t Ignore Travel Insurance
You may believe it’s a waste of money, particularly if you’re trying to save every cent, but believe me when I say that one stolen phone or unexpected hospital stay can completely deplete your budget. Seek out affordable insurance that serves both long-term and low-budget travelers, such as SafetyWing or World Nomads.
Budget Apps Can Help You
Although you don’t have to keep tabs on every penny, using apps like Mint or Trail Wallet keeps you informed. I promise you that spending $80 on coffee in a single week is a wake-up call.
Budget Travel Is a Talent, Not a Sacrifice
Budget travel is frequently thought to entail hardship. It’s not that way. Spending wisely forces you to take a more deliberate approach to seeing the world. You get to meet folks you might not have otherwise met. You dine where the locals dine. You stay in areas that reflect a place’s true spirit, not just its upscale tourist side.
Therefore, it is possible to visit overseas without breaking the bank. All you have to do is get rid of the nonsense, enjoy the grind, and keep in mind that adventure isn’t expensive; rather, it comes from being willing to take the risk and go for it.
I’ll see you on the road.
