Exploring the world is a dream, but it doesn’t have to cost a fortune. As a broke 20-something who managed to travel every month last year, I’ve mastered the art of budget travel. Cheap flights, great hotel deals, and clever hacks make all the difference. Whether you’re off to cheap spots like Hungary or pricey London, saving money means more adventures ahead. Read on for my top travel hacks and yes, they’re as exciting as scoring a live bet on your favorite game!
Ten Simple Travel Hacks to Help You Explore the World on a Budget
Choose The Destination Carefully
The first and most important thing to do is choose your destination carefully. You may love the idea of visiting Hawaii. But, if you live in London, the flight is too expensive. So, look for an alternative. You want a beach holiday. So, why not swap Hawaii for the closer Tremiti Islands?
Travelers from East Africa may prefer Seychelles to the Maldives. Those in Canada may favor Mexico over Fiji. You will find beauty and wonder wherever you go. So, don’t dismiss a place for not being on your bucket list.
Traveling on a budget ultimately comes down to finding the right balance.
Avoid Tourist Traps
Big cities and tourist hotspots are often much more expensive than going off the beaten path! The Grand Bazar in Istanbul has centuries of history. It’s an incredible experience to wander its shops. But, buying your Turkish Delight on the side streets will be hundreds of Liras cheaper. In Venice, avoid the main square for food. The narrow alleys have better prices, a better vibe, and more diverse menus.
Sometimes, a 5-minute walk from any city center will escape the tourist traps. Your bank account will thank you.
Travel Off-Season
The best travel hack for traveling on a budget I can share is to travel off-season. Visiting Santorini in September can be as magical as it is in the peak summer months of July. Marrakesh in November is even better than in March. Shoulder or off-season travel may not bring perfect weather. But, it beats half-price flights, 3* hotels at hostel prices, and no crowds. Nothing is more lovely than taking beautiful pictures. I wouldn’t mind having fewer crowds around—it makes exploring so much more enjoyable.
Have Flexibility With Travel Dates
Not everyone has the freedom to adjust their travel plans, and that’s completely okay. But, if you can, avoid traveling between Friday and Sunday. Prefer early morning or late-night flights, if possible. They’re often cheaper and less crowded. 6 a.m. and 10 p.m. flights are almost always cheaper than those at 9 a.m. and 5 p.m.
It’s worth checking departure dates a few days before or after your ideal schedule to snag better deals.
Don’t Be Afraid Of Hostels
If you travel during peak season, especially in summer, hostels are the cheapest place to stay. It’s a popular, low-cost way to travel. It’s a fantastic opportunity to connect with fellow travelers and build new friendships. Hostels are particularly wonderful for extroverted solo travelers and large friend groups. £20 a night instead of £50? Count me in!
Make Use Of Public Transport And Walk
Not every city has great public transport. But, if you’re in a place with good connections, there’s no reason to use Uber or cabs. Larger cities often offer discount travel through travel cards. You should take advantage of them. A travel card costs about £25. This pass offers 72 hours of unlimited travel, making it a great value for exploring the area. That’s about the cost of a 30-minute Uber trip.
Besides using public transport, walk as much as you can! Walking is a fun way to find hidden gems and explore a place freely.
Search For Free Attractions In Your Chosen Destination
I’ve discovered that being selective about the attractions can save a lot of money. Even cities as expensive as London offer a wealth of free things to do. You can take photos of Big Ben. You can visit the National Gallery. You can enjoy iconic events like the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace, which won’t cost you a penny. So, be sure to find a healthy balance between free and paid adventures.
Buy Travel Insurance
Although it might feel like an extra expense, travel insurance is essential. It will save you if your flight gets canceled, you become sick abroad, or you lose your luggage. You can get a year’s insurance for as low as £40. That’s cheap for peace of mind, especially if you plan to travel several times.
Final Thoughts
Budget travel hacks come down to two things. First, set achievable money-saving goals. Second, find a balance between saving and spending. For example, avoid takeout the month before you travel. You do not want to grip your card with such force that you forget to enjoy yourself and act on impulse.
And, if you want some luxuries when traveling, work hard to afford them! Who’s stopping you from following your dreams?