20 easy ways to stretch your travel dollars

06-12-2022

There are people who have managed to travel the world completely free or at very low cost. It shows that you don’t have to have a lot of money to travel. All you need is to be creative. Here are 20 easy ways you can stretch your travel dollars.

1. Start saving

As part of saving for your trip, make a plan. When planning, in one column list all the things you would like. In another column, list how you can reduce or eliminate these costs. Project how much money you will need now and save for it.

2. Sign up for the benefits of flyer miles

Many companies now offer them as part of their product offerings. For example, banks will offer travel points on credit cards every time you travel and use them.

3. Keep an eye out for airline ticket deals

Popular airlines often have deals and ticket sales for certain times of the year. Schedule your trips around these times so you can save on airfare. Also, schedule your flights for the middle of the week, when most business travelers or vacationers don’t fly.

4. Search for destination packages

These are great ways to save money. You can get all-inclusive packages, especially at the resorts, for less at certain times of the year.

5. Check with your employer

If you work for the government or a large corporation, check with your employer to see which destinations around the world have benefits for employees when they travel. Take advantage of these benefits and save your money. Travel with proof of your employer to your destination. These can even apply even if you are retired.

6. Check with your school

If you are a student, especially a college student, check with your school about the travel benefits they may have for students. You may also be able to access international student programs that will save you money when you travel.

If you’re in high school, ask your parents or guardians to look up places for possible school trips. There are usually discounted group packages that will save you money and are cheaper than if you had to do it yourself. Usually a teacher or school employee will accompany students on the trip.

7. Join a charity or religious organization

There are some charities and religious organizations that have missions abroad. As a member on a mission, you will be able to travel for free. However, keep in mind that you are on these trips to help others and not for your own gratification.

8. Make a travel budget

It is very tempting to get carried away during the trip. You will find yourself with many things to spend money on. Make a travel budget and stick to it.

9. Stay in cheaper accommodation

If you’re not on a travel package that offered cheaper hotels, consider accommodation that costs less but is safe. These include bed and breakfast offers in private homes, rooms on university campuses, convents, motels, and cabins.

10. Try the surf couch

You may have a friend or family member who lives in another country. If they don’t mind having you, consider staying with them instead of paying for accommodation. Another thing you can try is a stay-at-home arrangement. This is where you occupy and keep an eye on someone’s property and their pets while they are away. Lastly, you can join couchsurfing communities where you can connect and hang out with the locals for free.

11. Walk a lot

Save money by using your feet and not spending it on taxis or Uber. You can also wear a pair of smart shoes during your trip. It can not only guide and give you instructions, but also burn calories.

12. Rent or buy your own means of transport

Instead of paying for taxi rides to places, consider renting or buying your own transportation. Two-wheeled vehicles, such as bicycles, scooters, or motorbikes, are usually the best to rent or buy, as they cost less. You will get more mileage out of these to go many places at a lower cost.

13. Use electronic guides

There are now many types of guides that you can access to help you navigate your vacation spot. You can access many of these GPS applications on your mobile phone. This will help you save money on tour buses and tour guides.

14. Cook instead of buying groceries

Don’t consider cooking on a trip to homework. You can make it fun by trying some new foods where you are. Buy fresh food at your local market and experiment with some new dishes. You can do an internet search to find out how to cook them, and it doesn’t have to be elaborate. This will not only save you money, but you will also be able to learn about cooking in another culture.

15. Look for meal deals

Meal deals are not only available at international fast food restaurants. You can also find them in other places. For example, buffet-style restaurants, where the size of the dishes far exceeds what you pay. There are also all-you-can-eat restaurants and other places that offer discounted meals on certain days. Some of them don’t mind you leaving with a “doggy bag” either.

16. Drink boiled water

You don’t have to spend money on bottled water, which can add up. Use normal tap water and boil it. Chill it and drink that. You can even use it to make drinks instead of spending on them too.

17. Entertainment offers

If you took a vacation package, then you don’t have to spend more on entertainment. This will be provided every night free of charge. If you are traveling alone, due to negative world events, avoid entertainment late at night and in certain locations. Consider a local movie or concert.

18. Use your debit or credit cards instead of cash

Make sure your card doesn’t charge a foreign transaction fee. Then, if you have to pay for something, use your debit or credit cards instead of cash. You may be able to save money on the currency exchange spread depending on which country you are in. In addition, your card may have benefits such as insurance that protects your purchases or points that you can redeem for something else later. Every little benefit helps.

19. Shop at discount stores

You don’t have to buy things in expensive shops for visitors or tourists. Duty-free shops at airports and shops in hotels charge much more for the same items than you might find at a local discount store. Look for these, they shouldn’t be that hard to find.

20. Gifts for others

If you must return gifts for friends and family, look for inexpensive items. Small souvenir items are great and you don’t have to buy them in expensive souvenir shops that cater to tourists. If you’re out exploring, you can find gift ideas at local shops and craft markets.