How To Afford To Travel?

Dream of visiting new place without spending too much? That's what I did when to Austria. I knew I needed a plan to enjoy it fully without spending a lot. Want to know my tricks? Here are some tips to travel on a budget and still have a great time.

Be Flexible

While it might be challenging to have open travel dates, if you can manage it, you often find cheaper tickets during weekdays or less busy hours. And I skip the part talking about  seasonal influence on some places because you already know it. The same rule applies for lodging. There are numerous online platforms to help with your search. Personally, for a hassle-free experience without hours of scrolling, I lean on Google Flights for finding flights & RatePunk for finding the best hotel deal.

Say “Hi” to Low-Cost Airlines & Special Deals

Searching for affordable fares across various airlines can be challenging and time-consuming, especially with flexible travel dates and a packed schedule. However, keep an eye out, and you'll find good deals. I mentioned previously that Google Flights, Skyscanner, or any other platform can greatly help you. Yes, sometimes you might stumble upon what's termed in the industry as "mistake fares," where airlines incorrectly price tickets. Proceed with caution, as airlines might take up to a month to decide whether to honor such prices. Comparing prices between standard and budget airlines is a wise move.

For budget airlines, it's crucial to be aware of baggage rules and any extra charges. Stick to their guidelines closely, as they won't hesitate to add fees where they can. If you need suggestions on which low-cost airline to choose, say no more. Check our blog post : Wizz Air vs Ryanair, Ryanair vs. EasyJet, Alaska Airlines vs Delta, Vistara vs. Indigo Airlines,  Frontier vs Spirit

Try Skiplagging

Often, mixing up destinations on a trip can cost less than sticking to a single location. While this might not be feasible for shorter trips, it's an excellent choice for budget travelers. It lets you experience more while possibly saving money. Many travelers nowadays are tapping into multi-destination trips. By juggling dates and hunting for cost-effective flights and trains, significant savings can be achieved. The trade-off? It requires time and effort to sync different travel elements seamlessly.

Honestly, I also thought it was nonsense, but this summer, I tried it myself. I needed a quite last-minute (week in advance) trip from Frankfurt to Debrecen. After seeing the flight ticket price, I decided to ride buses and visit Dresden, Prague, and Budapest rather than overpay. So in total, it was twice cheaper including all the tickets to museums, meals,  bus tickets, and some souvenirs.  

Various Accommodation Options

Hostels are a great choice if traveling with friends and you are young; they offer a dorm-like environment without the responsibility of cleaning up. Plus, you often have the option to prepare meals, further cutting down on expenses. Vacation rentals, while stylish and fun, can quickly become pricey, especially with a larger group. However, for solo travelers or couples, sifting through the multitude of options can sometimes lead to discovering a hidden gem.

For my solo trips, I lean towards hotels. I've found that many offer seasonal promotions or special rates. Moreover, I work in RatePunk myself, so I scroll through many options quickly, till I find the perfect option with an affordable price. Download for free & try it yourself. 

Choose Local Cafes & Bars

While the allure of high-end restaurants and Michelin-starred dining is strong, truly immersing yourself in the local culture—and staying within budget—often means eating where the locals eat. There is only one rule - pay attention to where the crowds are; locals know the best spots and they flock to places with good food.

Don't overlook street vendors. Observe the vibe around them; a bustling atmosphere and satisfied customers can be a good sign. Street food is quick, affordable, and often deliciously authentic. If you're unsure where to start, turn to your smartphone. Use apps like Google Maps, Yelp, or TripAdvisor to discover popular spots, read reviews, and even check out photos from fellow diners. This way, you can ensure a great dining experience that won’t break the bank.

Having Best Travel Apps 

Travel apps have revolutionized the way we approach globetrotting, often making it more affordable and accessible than ever before. By consolidating information, comparing prices in real-time, and highlighting discounts, apps like Skyscanner, Kayak, Airbnb , or Get Your Guide allow users to snag deals that might otherwise go unnoticed. Beyond flights and accommodations, some apps offer last-minute deals on activities, tours, and experiences, further stretching a traveler's budget. 

Additionally, budgeting apps help travelers monitor and control their spending, ensuring they get the most value out of their trips. The ability to read reviews and ratings allows travelers to make informed decisions, ensuring they pay for experiences that are genuinely worthwhile. In essence, travel apps have democratized travel, making dream vacations achievable and allowing more people to explore the world without breaking the bank. Find more about the best travel apps for budget travelers. 

Use Travel Rewards Cards 

Opting for travel rewards credit cards can be a game-changer for budget-savvy travelers. These cards let you accumulate points or miles with your regular spending, which can then be redeemed for flights, accommodations, and more. Websites like NerdWallet or The Points Guy provide comparisons and insights to help you pick the card best suited to your travel habits. However, be mindful of the fine print. Sometimes there might be blackout dates or other restrictions when redeeming your points. Still, the idea that your daily purchases could be inching you closer to your next vacation is certainly appealing.

Avoid Scams

Tourist-heavy areas can often be pricey and packed, so why not venture to lesser-known locales or seek out undiscovered treasures? Many resources, including blogs like this one, can guide you towards a more genuine and distinctive travel adventure. Doing your homework both before and during your trip can truly elevate your travel experience! PS. check our work on top 10 scamming countries. 

Enjoy Free Activities

Many places have low-cost or free things to do, like museums, parks, or historical sites. Look for special discounts or days with free entry. Join free walking tours where you tip what you want at the end. Check out TimeOut, Free Tour, or local Facebook events for ideas. With these tips, you can have a great time without spending much. Safe travels!