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Saving Money While Traveling: Essential Do's and Don'ts

Is it possible to indulge in the wonders of the world without draining your savings? Absolutely!


Dive into these unique do's and don'ts of saving money while traveling. Let's redefine travel on a budget.

Traveling in a van
Photo by Dino Reichmuth

Do's

1. Do Opt for Night Travel

  • Why? Traveling overnight saves on accommodation for that night and maximizes your day for sightseeing. Just make sure you are able to sleep while you're traveling to your new location!

  • How? Book overnight trains, buses, or budget flights and make sure to check reviews beforehand to ensure safety and comfort.


2. Do Tap into Digital Resources

  • Why? Technology has revolutionized budget travel. There are many free apps and tools that can help you plan and find great locations to visit, saving money while traveling!

  • How? Use apps like Splitwise to manage group expenses or GasBuddy to find the cheapest gas nearby when on a road trip.


3. Do Attend Free Local Events

  • Why? Every city has local events, festivals, or public gatherings.

  • How? Check community boards, local websites, or ask residents. It’s a great way to immerse in the culture without spending much.


4. Do Go For Multi-Attraction Passes

  • Why? Single-entry tickets are typically more expensive.

  • How? Research city or regional passes that allow entry to several attractions at a discounted rate.

Travel
Photo by Eva Darron

Don'ts

1. Don't Ignore Small Towns

  • Why? Lesser-known towns offer rich experiences at a fraction of the cost of tourist-heavy cities. They're also less touristy and so it might be easier to take pictures free of tourists!

  • How? Budget a part of your trip to explore hidden gems. You’ll discover authentic experiences and capture the world through a different lens.

2. Don't Buy Bottled Water

  • Why? It's expensive and not eco-friendly.

  • How? Carry a refillable bottle. Many cities have safe tap water or free water refill stations, or you can always ask at for a refill at a coffee shop or restaurant.


3. Don't Skip Travel Insurance

  • Why? While it's an upfront expense, you never know when something bad might happen and you don't want to end up with a hefty unexpected expense.

  • How? Compare policies online and choose one that fits your travel needs. Often your credit card company will offer a decent deal for travel insurance so make sure to check them out!


4. Don't Always Opt for Hotels

  • Why? Traditional hotels and resorts can be expensive. Even an airbnb can add up!

  • How? Consider alternatives like agritourism, where you stay on working farms, or university dorms that rent out rooms in the summer.


5. Don't Use Data Roaming

  • Why? International data charges can be obscenly expensive.

  • How? Download maps, translation apps, and other essentials for offline use before you venture out. You can also try to find a carrier that offers an e-sim for travel and discounted data prices.


Pro Tip: Loyalty Programs and Cashback Deals

Enroll in airline or hotel loyalty programs, and keep an eye on cashback offers on credit cards. Over time, the points accumulate, and you can get free flights or stays, turning your regular expenses into future savings!


Navigating the world with an eye for savings doesn't mean compromising on the experience. It’s about smart choices, a bit of research, and asking around to get similar deals to what locals get. As you start exploring the world, keep in mind these tips to help you save a bit! 🌎📷💵


 

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