The traveling bug has bitten you, but you’re also living with a budget. How can you go on your dream trip abroad without compromising your financial plan? The best thing is that it’s quite easier and simpler! Here are 9 ways to save money on your dream trip abroad.
While some of them may not seem applicable at first glance, they can add up and allow you to explore the world—without sacrificing your bank account! Note that the following tips and methods apply to both domestic and international travel, but we’ll focus primarily on international travel in this article as it tends to be more expensive.
There are many people who would love to go on a foreign tour but for various reasons have not been able to. However, with the advent of technology, you can now plan your budget-friendly foreign tour without actually leaving your home.
1) Use Points And Miles
The best way to save money is by using points and miles. You can use a credit card that rewards you with points for purchases or you can transfer your points from an airline company. If the point values are not high enough, you can also buy gift cards from certain retailers and then convert those into more valuable travel rewards.
2) Do Bookings In Advance
The next thing that can help you to save money is to do booking in advance. Whether it is transportation, accommodation, or local sightseeing, you should do advance bookings to get huge discounts. Some websites offer world tour travel packages, you can check these and do advance bookings. It is one of the best ways to travel on a small budget.
3) Stay In Hostels
You can save money by staying in hostels while traveling abroad. Hostels are cheap, clean, and offer shared rooms with between 4-6 beds. You should carry your own toiletries and towels because these items may not be available to you in hostel rooms. Moreover, the hostels also have kitchens and you can cook your own food.
4) Use Public Transportation
Public transportation is a great way to save money while traveling abroad. You can use buses, trains, trams, and subways to get from point A to point B without spending a dime. If you need help finding these modes of transportation or want more detailed information about them before your trip, consult an Internet search engine or ask a local for suggestions.
5) Find Free Activities
There is one more best way to save money while traveling abroad is by engaging in free activities. A lot of these are often overlooked and don’t cost anything at all, so give them a try! You should visit museums or art galleries, visit historic landmarks and also go for a jog or hike through a park.
6) Bring Your Own Food
Bringing your own food will not only save you money but will also help you eat healthier. When you are away from home, it can be difficult to find healthy options, and preparing your own meals will ensure that you know exactly what is going into them. Plus, who doesn’t love a good PB&J?
7) Get Travel Insurance
One way to save money on your trip is by purchasing travel insurance. You can purchase a plan before you go or after you buy tickets, but it’s important that you get one with at least some coverage. Don’t forget that the cost of an emergency medical evacuation could be more than $100,000, which is not something you want to risk!
8) Use Special Credit Card
Travelers looking to save money abroad should consider using a credit card that doesn’t charge foreign transaction fees. With these cards, you can avoid paying 2-3% of your purchase price in fees. If you’re planning an international vacation, this could really help cut down the cost.
9) Avoid Tourist Traps
When it comes to saving money, avoiding tourist traps is one of the best ways. Tourist traps are usually overpriced because they cater to tourists who don’t know any better, so take advantage of your knowledge and save some cash! Avoid attractions that have long queues for tickets or entry. This indicates that the attraction is popular with tourists and will be more expensive than if you avoided it altogether.
10) Shop At Local Markets
When you’re in a foreign country and you don’t speak the language, it can be easy to panic when you’re not able to find what you’re looking for. This is where your knowledge of the culture and some basic words come in handy. For example, if you want food, try asking for Comida or alimentos. If all else fails, ask someone nearby and they’ll likely point out where the nearest supermarket is located.