There is no getting around the truth that it costs money to travel and explore the world around you. However, there are a number of ways you can cut your overall travel budget without sacrificing your sense of wanderlust. Yes, you can have a great experiences traveling on a budget!
5 Great Money-Saving Tips for Traveling on a Budget
Here are five great ways to save money on your next trip so you can stick to your budget.
Choose Your Travel Dates Carefully
Every aspect of your trip will be less expensive if you choose travel dates during the off-season. Traveling during peak times will come with larger airfare costs, higher accommodation fees, and up-charges of food and entertainment. Even flying during a peak travel season but on a slower day can save you a significant amount of money. For example, it’s often cheaper flying on Tuesdays when compared to Fridays.
While you may encounter reduced hours at certain tourist attractions when traveling during the off-season, you will also enjoy fewer crowds. If you still want to take advantage of better weather without the top dollar prices of peak season, a good compromise is to travel during the shoulder season months.
Consider Accommodations with Budget in Mind
You can’t expect to save money if you’re splurging on an all-inclusive resort for your lodging accommodations. Choosing accommodations with your budget in mind will ensure you’re getting the best bang for your buck. For example, choosing a condo will give you more space and the ability to accommodate more people.
Another great choice if saving money is your goal: plan a trip that takes advantage of all of the California glamping opportunities. These glamping options deliver stunning natural backdrops that combine with a moderate climate in premium lodging settings. You will enjoy a host of comfort and convenience amenities while still connecting with Mother Nature when you choose a glamping vacation.
Be Purposeful About Eating In
One of the biggest costs of any trip is the food, particularly if you’re traveling with a large family. By cutting down on your food budget, you’ll reduce your overall budget. Finding a place with a kitchen will give you the opportunity to cook your own food and avoid eating out for every meal.
By choosing a camping adventure, you’ll also cut down on the standard up-charges on restaurant meals. Get creative with your vacation meals by shopping at local grocery stores and markets and preparing the food back at your campsite or in your condo. This will give you a local flavor without the high tourist prices.
Find a Destination with Free Activities
Another big budget buster for any trip is the activities you choose to participate in while enjoying the destination. Choosing a location with a variety of free or affordable activities will automatically slash the cost of your trip.
In general, big cities will require that you spend more. Museums, theme parks, and other major tourist attractions generally come with hefty admission fees. Conversely, vacations that focus on the great outdoors will usually provide more affordable entertainment options. For example, heading to the beach does not cost much more than parking and food costs while there.
Rely on Public Transportation
Renting a private vehicle not only costs you the general rental fees, but it will also require that you spend more on gasoline and parking. The best way to get around any area is simply on foot. Not only does it cost nothing, but it also provides the opportunity to immerse yourself in your surroundings. In addition, relying on public transportation will eliminate all of these costs, reducing a major line item from your budget.
Depending on your destination, public transportation may come as trains, subways, or busses. If these options are not available, be sure to look into the feasibility of using ride share services such as Uber or Lyft. As a bonus, using public transportation will give you more chances to connect with locals. This will enhance your overall travel experience.
You do not have to stay home just because you do not have a limitless budget. These five money-saving tips will afford you the opportunity to travel without breaking the bank.
About the Writer: Samantha Higgins is a professional writer with a passion for research, observation, and innovation. She is nurturing a growing family of twin boys in Portland, Oregon with her husband. She loves kayaking and reading creative non-fiction. If you are interested in glamping in California, you might consider the campsites from Tentrr.