To save money on travel, first you have to break the collective belief that the journey is always expensive. This myth was skillfully created by the tourism industry, in order to make you to spend more.
Most famous world’s travel lovers will tell you that more money does not necessarily mean more enjoyment in a specific destination. There are a few good tricks to enjoy more and spend less.
These are some of them.
– Make a good plan for your trip
Determine where, when and with whom you are traveling. Be flexible in determining the period of time for travel and always have a plan B – very often you can find a variety of discounts and a significant difference in price depending on whether you travel on weekends or weekdays.
– Save money on your airplane ticket
If you plan to travel by plane, it is useful to know that you can get the best ticket price if you buy it 6 weeks earlier. In this way you can save up to 30% because the ticket price is formed on the basis of the number of available seats on the plane at the moment when you make a reservation. Also, you will save money if you immediately buy a return ticket.
– Take tickets for connecting flights
If you are traveling to distant destination, you can save if you buy a ticket for a flight with a number of transfers. There are numerous sites for air ticket booking, and besides saving time, you can compare prices also – ScyScanner, Quest Organizer, Wizzair, Momondo.
– Use the tourist organization services of your destination
Tourist organizations can be an excellent information source on what to visit, how to get there, on the working hours of the site… In addition, they can also give you brochures and flyers with discounts for the certain services. The recommendation is to visit attractions on weekdays, because then visits are cheaper.
– Save on accommodations
Try to avoid accommodation in a downtown area. Inquire about decent hostels or some alternative ways of logging. If you still staying in the hotel, ask about so-called hidden costs and services that are not included in the price.
– Use local public transport
Buy several days ticket or a weekly pass for public transport. You will avoid taxi drivers who sometimes tend to charge a higher price to tourists and you will also check your knowledge of the local language and gain immediate impression of the locals and their customs.
– Spend less on food
Many choose to prepare their own meals on their trip. This is a great way to walk thru green markets and local shops and try some new groceries. If you chose not to waste time on cooking, be sure to find a restaurant outside the tourist areas, because the prices of meals are 20 – 50% cheaper.
– Travel out of season
Swimming in the warm sea on an exotic beach, while winter is in your home town, has a special charm. Then you will not only pass cheaper than during season, but you can also avoid crowds.
– Find free events in your traveling destination
On forums or any official presentations you can inform yourself about destination you plan to visit. Instead of buying tickets every time, you will surely find free events and entertainment programs.
– Be sure to include travel insurance
For the personal safety it is almost mandatory to buy travel insurance, whether you are traveling in your own organization or with an agency. There is also almost free travel insurance for 1 euro per day. In this way you can be sure that you will be compensated in case of damage you may have on travel.
No matter how far you want to go, there are always ways to make some savings. The important thing is to be open for the idea that you can have a perfect adventure with a smaller budget.