After selling most of our worldly possessions, we set a budget of $3000 a month to “live on” while traveling. Our goal was to stay under this amount for our lodging, food, and entertainment. We’ve done really well sticking to this budget in places like Bali and Thailand where the cost of living is low, and not so well in places like Australia and Europe. Even in more expensive areas of the world, we’ve found ways to save money while still having the adventures we always dreamed of.
Here we are heading off on our first adventure after selling everything we owned!
To us, traveling on a budget doesn’t mean sacrificing quality or missing out on unforgettable experiences. With the right approach and a bit of savvy planning, you can explore the world affordably and make the most of every moment. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or embarking on your first adventure, our top tips will help you stretch your dollars further and create memories that will last a lifetime.
1. Plan Ahead and Be Flexible: One of the most effective strategies for traveling on a budget is to plan ahead and be flexible. Start researching destinations, accommodation options, and transportation well in advance to take advantage of the best deals. Keep an eye out for discounts, promotions, and special offers, and be willing to adjust your travel dates to score the best prices. By planning ahead and remaining flexible, you can save a significant amount of money on flights, accommodation, and activities. Join a flight deal alert service like our company Jet Set Club. For just $59 a year, we email you cheap flight deals. We save hundreds on every flight we book through Jet Set Club. We like to say to let the deal determine the destination. For my 50th birthday, we found roundtrip flights from Phoenix to Barcelona on Delta Airlines for $235 each. Barcelona wasn’t necessarily on our radar for this trip, but we quickly booked this deal and headed to a week in Mallorca.
2. Set a Realistic Budget: Before you embark on your journey, it’s essential to set a realistic budget and stick to it. Determine how much you’re willing to spend overall and break it down into categories like accommodation, transportation, food, and activities. Be sure to account for unexpected expenses and factor in a buffer for emergencies. Once you have a budget in place, track your expenses throughout your trip to ensure you’re staying within your means and making the most of your resources.
3. Travel Off-Peak: Traveling during off-peak seasons can result in significant savings on flights, accommodation, and activities. Avoiding peak tourist seasons means you’ll encounter fewer crowds, enjoy more comfortable weather, and have a better chance of securing discounted rates. Consider traveling during shoulder seasons or off-peak months when demand is lower and prices are more affordable. Not only will you save money, but you’ll also have a more authentic and enjoyable travel experience without the crowds.
4. Embrace Alternative Accommodation: While hotels can be convenient and comfortable, they’re not always the most budget-friendly option. Consider alternative accommodation options like hostels, guesthouses, or vacation rentals, which often offer more affordable rates and a more authentic local experience. Websites like Airbnb and Booking.com are excellent resources for finding budget-friendly accommodation options that cater to every traveler’s needs. Whether you’re looking for a private room, a shared dormitory, or a cozy apartment, there’s an option to suit every budget and preference. We always try to book a place with a kitchen so we can save money making our own meals. Check out housesitting websites like Trusted Housesitters.com. For a small annual fee, you can apply to house-sit or pet-sit for people all over the world in exchange for a free stay at their home.
5. Be Smart About Transportation: Transportation costs can quickly add up while traveling, but there are plenty of ways to save money on getting from point A to point B. Look for budget airlines, bus or train passes, and ride-sharing options to save on transportation costs. Booking flights well in advance and being flexible with your departure dates can result in significant savings, as can choosing overland travel options like buses or trains instead of flying. By being strategic and resourceful with your transportation choices, you can maximize your travel budget and make the most of your adventures. While planning a recent trip to Europe, we priced traveling from Paris to Amsterdam for a few days. A flight was over $300, the train was over $200, but we found tickets on Flixbus for under $40. Best of all, the bus was only about 3 hours longer than the train. In our case, this was worth the savings.
6. Eat Like a Local: Sampling local cuisine is one of the best parts of traveling, and it doesn’t have to break the bank. Instead of dining at touristy restaurants, seek out street food stalls, markets, and local eateries where you can enjoy authentic dishes at a fraction of the cost. Not only will you save money, but you’ll also have the opportunity to experience the local culture and flavors firsthand. Nothing is better than enjoying a street taco in Mexico, a crepe in Paris, or Nasi Goreng in Bali. Consider cooking your own meals using fresh, locally sourced ingredients from markets or grocery stores, which can be a fun and budget-friendly way to experience the local culinary scene. During our recent month-long stay in Sydney, Australia, we ordered meal kits from Hello Fresh and found this a great way to stretch our budget.
7. Take Advantage of Free Activities: Many destinations offer a wealth of free or low-cost activities that allow you to experience the local culture and natural beauty without spending a dime. Take a self-guided walking tour of the city, explore public parks and gardens, or attend free cultural events and festivals. Not only are these activities budget-friendly, but they also provide a more authentic and immersive travel experience. Many cities have events like First Friday where museum entry is free on a certain day of the month. Check local tourism websites, ask for recommendations from locals, and keep an eye out for free guided tours or cultural performances to make the most of your time in a new destination.
8. Pack Light and Smart: Packing light not only saves you money on baggage fees but also makes it easier to navigate airports, train stations, and crowded streets. Before you pack, make a list of essential items and prioritize versatile clothing and travel essentials that you’ll use throughout your trip. Invest in quality travel gear like a lightweight suitcase, a durable backpack, and versatile clothing that can be mixed and matched to create multiple outfits. By packing smart and efficiently, you’ll save money on luggage fees and have a more enjoyable and hassle-free travel experience.
9. Look for Discounts and Deals: There are plenty of ways to save money on travel expenses by taking advantage of discounts, deals, and loyalty programs. Sign up for newsletters and follow travel deal websites and social media accounts to stay informed about discounted flights, hotel deals, and travel packages. Websites like Groupon, Travelzoo, and Skyscanner offer discounted travel packages, last-minute deals, and exclusive offers that can help you save big on your next adventure. Consider joining loyalty programs for airlines, hotels, and travel agencies to earn rewards points and enjoy perks like free upgrades, discounted rates, and exclusive offers.
10. Stay Mindful of Your Spending: While it’s tempting to splurge on souvenirs and extras while traveling, staying mindful of your spending is essential to staying within your budget. Set daily spending limits and prioritize experiences over material possessions to make the most of your travel budget. Consider using cash instead of credit cards to help you stick to your budget and avoid overspending. Be conscious of hidden fees and charges, such as ATM fees, currency exchange fees, and foreign transaction fees, which can quickly add up while traveling. By staying mindful of your spending and making conscious choices, you’ll be able to enjoy your travel experiences to the fullest while staying within your budget.
Traveling on a budget is not only possible but also incredibly rewarding. By following these top tips, you can explore the world affordably and make the most of every moment. Whether you’re backpacking through Europe, road-tripping across the country, or embarking on a budget-friendly adventure closer to home, remember that the best adventures often come with the smallest price tags. With a little planning, creativity, and resourcefulness, you can create unforgettable travel experiences that will last a lifetime without breaking the bank.
