10 Tips for Money Savvy Travelling
Travelling is an integral part of life and a high priority for most of my clients when it comes to their spending plans and financial goals. On the surface travelling may appear to be about going to new places, sitting along the beach while sipping a cocktail, and taking pictures for the ‘gram but it’s more than that. Travelling is an investment in yourself. It is a chance to experience life in different ways and evade the monotony of your day-to-day environment. Travelling opens you to learn and experience new ideas, perspectives, cultures, landscapes, and even cuisines if you love to eat. Travelling has unbounded advantages. The good news is you do not need to have a massive load of cash in your bank account to travel to new and exciting places. Even with a small pool of savings, it is possible to gift yourself some fabulous adventures.
Note I say ‘small pool of savings’ not small credit card limit. Going into to debt to take a holiday can end up costing you double the initial purchase price and see you paying for the holidays for years to come. Plan, save, spend - that’s the approach to take!
Let me share with you some of my favourite travel hacks to ensure your next trip gives you some real bang for your buck:
Tip 1: Avoid traveling during peak season
During peak season, the demand is high, and prices skyrocket. The best way to avoid the high prices is to avoid being one of the masses. The upside of off-peak travel? Smaller crowds mean more enjoyable vacations with shorter lines at airports and booking offices. Plus, the weather is often more pleasant, allowing for extended outdoor activities. Plus, services during the low season are also of higher quality and more personalised.
Tip 2: Book at the 'right' time
Booking and traveling at the right time can make a huge difference in your expenses. Generally, booking around 2 months prior to your trip is a good rule of thumb, but this can vary depending on your destination. Utilise free online tools like Google Flights' price tracking to monitor fare fluctuations and set price tracker alerts to catch fare drops when they hit.
Tip 3: Be sure to purchase travel insurance
Think of travel insurance as an investment in peace of mind. It can save you money during emergency situations, such as trip cancellations, lost baggage, unexpected illnesses or, you know, global pandemics. Don't leave home without it.
Tip 4: Use public transport
Public transportation is often cheaper than taxis or private rides. If you're road-tripping with a rental car, consider carpooling to offset costs.
Tip 5: Choose hostels or apartments
You probably don’t need me to tell you that hotels can be expensive, especially during peak seasons. Opt for hostels or holiday apartments, which are often more budget-friendly. If you have friends or relatives in your destination, couch surfing can also save you money—just be sure to prioritise safety, of course.
Tip 6: Pack like a pro
Travel light to avoid extra baggage fees at airports. Only pack what you need and layer your clothing. Travelling light not only saves money but also makes navigating crowded train stations and other situations easier if you’re not dragging a massive suitcase around.
Tip 8: Don’t pick your rental care up at the airport
Rental companies often price their vehicles in peculiar ways, too. For example, cars rented at the airport are almost always more expensive because of added taxes and fees. Typically, when you rent at an off-airport location, you could save 20 percent or more. You can take advantage of the airport's public transportation options to get yourself to the city centre to pick up your car or take a taxi to a nearby off-airport site.
Tip 9: Wear your heart on your sleeve
If you're on a romantic trip, don't hesitate to mention it to flight attendants, waiters, and hotel managers. You might receive complimentary upgrades and special surprises.
Tip 10: Make your splurges count
Sticking to a tight travel budget doesn't mean you can't indulge in the things you love. Make those splurge moments count by balancing them with frugal days before and after. It's all about finding the right balance.
And finally, remember that shopping and eating like locals while traveling are more ways to save money while immersing yourself in the local experience.
That’s a wrap of my budget travel hacks! Traveling on a budget doesn't mean sacrificing the quality of your experience. In fact, it can enhance it. By following these tips, you'll not only save money but potentially uncover new and unexpected adventures on your trip. You'll certainly interact more with locals, savor authentic cuisines, and discover hidden gems that aren't in the tourist brochures. The magic of travelling lies in the moments you create, the connections you make, and the memories you collect. It's not about how much you spend but how deeply you immerse yourself in the journey. So, go ahead, explore the world and relish the beauty of a well-planned, wallet-friendly adventure.