The current economic landscape has resulted in millions of people postponing or canceling travel plans and vacations, and those still able to travel often do so on a shoestring budget. Traveling on a budget doesn’t mean sacrificing the joy of exploration or missing out on making memories; it just requires the right mindset and a few smart strategies. Employ these, and you can see the world without breaking the bank.

Here at Sarah Funky, we’re renowned for creating itineraries for holidaymakers and travelers of all budgets. We’re also aware that some people prefer to do all the hard work themselves, and we’re cool with that; every traveler is unique. With that in mind, we have crafted this article with six proven tips to help travelers working on a tight budget. Enjoy!

Use a VPN Throughout Your Travel Planning

A Virtual Private Network (VPN) is software that encrypts your internet connection, making it completely private. VPNs have other uses, such as preventing websites from installing cookies onto your device and mimicking your location. Both are handy when making travel plans. Millions of internet users use the geo-location mimicking feature to access websites unavailable in their country or state, such as some Netflix or Disney+ shows, the top online sports betting apps in Illinois, or the ever-popular BBC iPlayer.

Experienced travelers know that a VPN can save you money on flight tickets. Recently, a friend traveled from London in the United Kingdom to Barcelona in Spain. They used a VPN to trick the Spanish airline that they were located in Spain and discovered flights were almost 23% cheaper than booking with the same company in the UK. This is not always the case, but it is worth checking out because even the most minor savings add up when your budget is small.

Additionally, the VPN’s cookie-prevention stops airlines and hotels from cranking up their prices when they know there is interest in them. Have you ever noticed that you sometimes check flights or accommodation a couple of times and the prices increase? This is often due to supply and demand, but it’s also because the website knows you have visited several times. Sneaky! Stopping these websites from installing cookies prevents those price increases.

Plan Your Trip During the Off-Season and Be Flexible

Planning your trip during the off-season is one of the best ways to save money while traveling. Popular travel times, such as summer and major holidays, usually drive up the cost of flights, accommodation, and attractions because they are in high demand. Traveling during the off-peak times can result in significant savings, and your destination is less likely to be crowded!

Flexibility is a traveler’s best friend. Being open to different dates or destinations can lead to incredible money-saving deals. Use a flight search engine like Google Flights or Skyscanner to search for the cheapest flights to various destinations. You may discover low-cost flights to a country or city that wasn’t initially on your radar.

Also, be flexible with the days and times you are prepared to travel. While red-eye flights are not ideal for some travelers, super-early flights are often much cheaper than those at more pleasant times. Likewise, mid-week flights are more affordable than those taking off on a weekend.

Choose Your Accommodation Carefully

Accommodation is often one of the biggest expenses when traveling, sometimes surpassing the cost of transportation to the destination. We all love a bit of luxury in our lives, especially when on vacation, but do you really need five-star facilities in the heart of the city?

Hostels are popular among budget-conscious travelers. They offer dorm-style rooms and communal spaces, with some offering private rooms at a fraction of the cost of hotels. If a hostel isn’t for you, consider rental platforms like Airbnb and see if you can grab a bargain.

By all means, splash the cash on lavish accommodation, but if you plan to spend all day exploring, you only need a clean place to rest your weary head; a big, expensive chain hotel may be overkill.

Be Smart About Food and Dining

Eating out results in more expense while traveling. Save money by avoiding restaurants near tourist attractions. These places often overcharge for what is mediocre food. Instead, ask the locals where they eat or search the internet for eateries away from the beaten track.

In addition, consider making some meals if you have the facilities to do so. Eating a simple breakfast before you head out for the day or making a sandwich for lunch can save you a small fortune over the course of your trip.

Lastly, look out for street food vendors. Many countries are famous for their street food options, from tacos in Mexico to kebabs in Turkey. Not only are these far cheaper than most restaurants, but they give you a taste (literally) of authentic flavors.

Public Transport Will Save You a Packet

Getting to a destination can be expensive, as can traveling around once you arrive. While jumping into a taxi is tempting and convenient, transportation costs can quickly add up and eat into your available funds. Many cities have excellent public transport that is much cheaper than back home. Budget-friendly options like buses, subways, and trams help you explore a destination like a local. Day and multi-day passes can further drive down costs.

Conclusion

Traveling on a budget does not necessarily mean missing out on memorable experiences. By using VPN technology while researching your trip, thoroughly researching your options at home and at your chosen destination, and remaining flexible, you can explore new places without damaging your bank balance.

Once you arrive at your destination, be conscious about where you eat and drink, utilize public transport, and find low-cost or free activities. Then, you’ll be able to enjoy everything your destination has to offer.