“I don’t have enough money to travel.”
If I had a dollar for every time I heard this, I’d have enough money to definitely travel! The truth is that one of the most common misconceptions is that you need to be rich in order to see the world. While this may have been the case in the past, things have come a long, long way! With globalization and the increase in worldwide connectivity, traveling is now a luxury that is accessible to almost everyone — especially those who are informed and know how to plan smart.
Below, I’ll teach you what I’ve learnt over the years: from travel hacks that allow you to score cheaper flights and bargain accommodation costs, to ways to maximize your travels on a minimum budget. A trip doesn’t need to cost thousands of dollars, and backpacking doesn’t always need to be a hitchhiking affair (but should always be an adventure!)
If you’re a fellow wanderluster, and find yourself often daydreaming of faraway lands — you’ve come to the right place. Read on to find out how to travel the world for cheap and on a budget!
Seek cheap destinations
This is a fairly obvious one, but must be reiterated. All things remaining equal, a trip to Italy is going to be more expensive than a venture to India. Consider alternative destinations that may focus on the same points of interest, especially hidden gems that are still cost friendly. For example, while you may have dreamed of seeing the Colosseum in Rome, consider getting your fix of ancient architecture by visiting Ayutthaya in Thailand instead.
Generally, more economically developed countries will be more expensive, so perhaps swap out that European destination for one in Asia or South America instead. Also, take into consideration wherever you’re traveling from, and currency conversion rates at the time.
Here are some of my favorite budget destinations:
Travel during low season
As a general rule, avoid traveling during the summer months (June/July/August), Christmas, and New Year. These are often holidays around the world, and prices sky rocket due to an increase in demand. Depending on where you’re heading to, additional events may also factor in (think Carnival, Thanksgiving, and national holidays) so always research carefully when deciding on a destination.
So am I supposed to travel during low season?
Not necessarily! Though there are often many hidden gems that are overlooked during certain “low” seasons, focus on visiting during “shoulder season” instead. This helps minimize travel costs, while still maximizing the benefits of the location. For example, visit Europe in September, after the summer tourists have faded away and the weather cools down a little, or take a trip in late January/February to avoid the Christmas/New Year crowds.
Use airfare tracking websites/apps
I can’t recommend this enough! With access at your fingertips, there are a multitude of websites and apps that help with finding and tracking the cheapest flights, accommodations, and advising you on when to book. Some of my favorites are:
- Expedia — quick, comprehensive, and user-friendly, Expedia is one of my go to sites when I’m looking at just doing a quick check on a flight, or even while booking (hello, 24-hour free cancellation policy!)
- Hopper — this app tracks flight trends, letting you know when the best time to book your flight is. Super helpful in gauging when the cheapest flights are!
- Skyscanner — this is a great resource of finding cost-friendly flights. You can simply plug in a departure city and search for the cheapest destinations. Also be sure to sign up for their Price Alerts, to be aware of changes to the flight you’re interested in.
- HotelTonight — if you have the flexibility or are a risk-taker, consider using this app to book hotels for the lowest rates at last minute. I’ve used this app a few times, and always came out really happy with the result. Use code PNIRANDARA for $25 in credit!
- Hipmunk — this newer site is similar to Kayak or Expedia, but allows you to search according to “Agony” levels, taking into consideration price, stops, and travel time!
Sign up for a travel credit card and utilize points
I can’t emphasize this enough. Never pay for your travels (or anything, really) with cash! Allow your money to work for you, and to at least reap some reward for spending.
I personally use the Chase Sapphire Reserve credit card, which gives me:
- x3 points on all travel + dining expenses
- $300 bonus travel credit every year
- 50% more value when redeeming points for travel
- 1:1 point transfer to airline/hotel loyalty programs
- $100 credit for Global Entry or TSA Pre✓
- No foreign transaction fees
- Plus a TON of other benefits
Suffice to say, I’ve racked up enough points to book several upcoming flights/accommodations for free! You also get 50,000 bonus points after spending a certain amount in the first few months. Seriously, I can’t recommend it enough! If you want to make your money work for you, sign up here.
*I am not sponsored by Chase.
Learn accommodation hacks
Gone are the days I stay in hotel chains. In fact, I rarely ever book a hotel anymore, preferring more local vibes and cost-friendly options. Plus, when you’re going to be out sightseeing and playing tourist, what’s the point of splurging on an expensive hotel room anyway? The only time I really consider staying at a hotel is when the hotel itself is a destination — such as the Icehotel in Sweden or the Treepod dining hotel in Thailand.
Here are some of my favorite accommodation alternatives:
- Airbnb — this has got to be one of my absolute favorites. With more stringent safety procedures, Airbnb is a great way to save money staying at a comfortable place, often with more local charm than any hotel! You can choose to rent a shared room, private room, or even the whole home. There are also extremely unique Airbnbs that are out of this world, and accommodations you can’t find elsewhere. Sign up here for $40 in travel credit!
- Hostels — like hotels for the more cost-conscious, hostels are a great option for many types of travelers. Those in a group can find budget options in dorms, couples can stay in private rooms, and solo travelers looking to meet fellow backpackers can do so in an environment with like-minded folks. I generally use HostelWorld to book, or also do so directly with individual hostels as well.
- Couchsurf — though not for everyone, Couchsurfing is a great option if you’re comfortable staying in a home, oftentimes with the owner there! It’s an organic way to meet locals and forge friendships, and definitely on the more budget-friendly side.
Work and travel at the same time
One of the best ways to extend your travels is to work at the same time. This way, you’re not just spending money, but also earning as well (in order to keep traveling, of course). Some ways to do this include:
- Teaching English (or any language) — many places don’t require actual certifications, just ability! As a perk, you’ll often come out being a better speaker of the local language as well.
- Working as a tour guide — if you’re at a destination for a longer period of time, utilize your skills and show other tourists the city you’ve discovered.
- Volunteering — this is also a great way to give back to the community while abroad.
- Working at a resort/hostel — resorts and hostels actually oftentimes prefer people from various destinations, so that they may relate to guests from around the world.
- Freelancing — do you have a marketable skill? Especially with websites such as Fivver, online freelancing has never been easier.
- Being a photographer — it’s helpful to have a steady stream of online income. I use SmugMug, which is a great platform to keep your photos organized, and also set up your very own online store!
- Blogging — there’s a reason so many bloggers are travelers, and vice versa. You have a built in stream of new content.
- Working your job remotely — have you ever heard of RemoteYear? This program is pretty much based off the concept of working AND traveling!
Generally, think about the skills you can utilize and monetize. If you have experience as a bartender, consider bartending for extra cash. Teaching an instrument, yoga, or scuba diving are also ways to meet people, earn money, and travel — all at the same time.
And that’s it!
Well, most of it. The fundamental aspects of traveling cheaply are to be aware of travel hacks, do the work in searching for cheap options (using the tools I’ve provided above), and be flexible when booking your trip.
And in regards to travel costs, remember — travel is the one thing you can buy that makes you richer.
