International Travel On A Tight Budget: A Compact Guide

Pulling away from the usual day-to-day grind is what most people yearn for. After all, there’s nothing more refreshing than experiencing something different to enrich one’s life. And many find that traveling will do the trick. With unfamiliar sights and cultures at your fingertips, witnessing these new things will forever be a priceless memory.

But as fun as it is to take in everything the world has to offer, traveling costs money. Typically, this factor is limiting for those with wanderlust in their hearts. Fortunately, some ways could help resolve that problem. Thus, you can join in the fun instead of holding yourself back from your first vacation out of the country.

Here are some tips on how to travel internationally while sticking with a tight budget:

1. Do Your Research

Many aspiring travelers assume that following their bucket list is the only thing that matters. After all, their destination is what makes traveling so fun and fulfilling. But only focusing on what’s shown in travel brochures or blogs might set you up for a rude awakening. What tends to happen is that everything advertised to tourists is way beyond your price range.

Instead of ending up homeless or buried in credit card debt, consider looking up everything you need to know about your destination. While the local language and currency are a no-brainer, research different lodgings that suit your budget. Check legitimate travel blogs or websites to have a full list of options. See if there are any reviews about the place to peek at what they offer.

Aside from lodging, consider the attractions found at your destination. Popular spots tend to cost a pretty penny. Even leisurely activities there are pricy. Although you can sign up for travel loans to make your time worthwhile, it doesn’t hurt to go where the price is low. Figure out what else your destination has. For example, cities with nature preserves would be the perfect spot for nature lovers.

2. Make A List

It’s almost impossible for a trip to succeed without a list keeping everything in line. But aside from listing everything you need in your travels, lay down your expenses. From your travel documents to transportation, everything costs money. Given how travel prices change regularly, having a list of your expenses could give you a rough estimate of what you’ll need. That way, you’ll have an easier time allocating your budget. 

3. Consider Using Discounts

Travelers get to enjoy discounts when going to new places. But only some know about them because they got there without research. For example, major destinations offer city tourist cards at the local tourism office. They come with discounts or free access to popular attractions and public transportation.

Even some lodging establishments or flights offer discounts in the form of reward points. Collecting these points is only accomplished by traveling frequently. Once you’ve gathered enough, you can appreciate all kinds of perks in your big trip, from room upgrades to discounted flights. 

4. Pick The Right Time When To Travel

Even though you’ve made a list or planned where you’ll stay, some of your travel costs rely on when you leave. 

In traveling, there are two seasons you must pay attention to: off-season and in-season. Off-season often falls when the weather doesn’t permit traveling, prompting destinations to discount their attractions. Meanwhile, in-season happens during holidays or summer vacations, making it the busiest time for travelers.

Booking your lodging and transportation during the off-season is the best strategy for those with a tight budget.   

5. Make Your Own Meals

Eating in different parts of the world is any food lover’s dream come true. But considering you’re traveling on a budget, eating out frequently might cut a hole in your wallet. Instead of dining in five-star restaurants, cook your own meals from local ingredients. If you still want to eat out, avoid going to ‘touristy’ food places. Enjoy your meals where locals love to eat and drink. That way, you can experience the full extent of the local life. 

6. Plan How You Earn

Traveling tends to be viewed as a luxury by many. After all, getting to and from one location to another isn’t cheap. Yet even college seniors could start traveling once they figure out a way to earn while moving around. Look for jobs to keep having money on the go. Offer your services in exchange for lodging or food. Maximize and hone your skills to travel without worrying too much about money.

Takeaway

There’s no need to hold yourself back from traveling because of your limited budget. Granted, your experience might be different from those with cash to spare. But as long as you’ve done your research and planned for everything, your international trip will go out without a hitch and well within your budget.