50 Secrets To Traveling The World Cheaply
Almost anyone would love the opportunity to travel the world. The big problem for most simply comes down to money. There are some amazing ways to travel on a shoestring and we are about to share not just one or two tips on how to do this but a whopping fifty ways to travel the world on the cheap.
Know Your Money
If you are going to be traveling to different parts of the world then you are going to need different currencies. You can save on exchange rates and extra charges by having access to this. This can be done by setting up online wallets and keep different currencies within them. Don’t put all your “eggs” in one basket either, so keep some cash on hand, and have a few debit and credit cards.
Working As You Go
Not everyone can afford to quit their job so they can travel the world. Even if they can do this cheaply. But, a great solution for both is to work on the go. Think about picking up work in each of the countries that you want to visit. Of course you need to adhere to visitors working but there still should be plenty of opportunities to pad your finances with temporary work.
Choose Your Accommodation Wisely
One of the biggest expenses when it comes to traveling is the cost for accommodation. The good news is that there is plenty of lodgings that can be found in most countries that are super cheap. A good example of these is the backpacker’s hostels. You can also inquire about cheap lodging once you arrive at your destination.
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Eat Healthy But Cheap
There is always a temptation when in a new location to try all the different cuisine. You can still do this but to really save on some money consider cooking it yourself. What you can do in your spare time is check out some recipes that are based on the common foods that will be found in the area that you are visiting.
Point Paying
No doubt if you have a credit card then you have become familiar with earning points. Don’t ignore the value of these. There are a lot of things that you can purchase with them. Even if you just use them for the incidentals the savings will add up.
Plan You Travel Methods
It is exciting to be able to go to one country from another. Take the time to source out the cheapest modes of travel. You may find that flying is not always the best option and is not always necessary. Plan your travel itinerary wisely so you can capitalize on the best prices for the destinations that you want to go to.
Choose Who You Do Business With Wisely
There will be times where you will need to do some shopping. Especially if you are on an extended trip. You may be doing your globe trotting in long spurts. Which means you may have to replace some of the clothing you have taken with you. Look for bargains and sales and check out Mom and Pop stores as they often have some great prices.
Rely On The Right Resources
Always make sure that you familiarize yourself with your next destination. This can save you time and money. But, use resources that are free for this. Such as the internet but making sure the information that you are going to rely on is up to date and accurate.
Keep Your Phone Calls To A Minimum
It is always wise to let people back home know where you are and what your plans are. This can get costly if you are using your phone. Make sure you know what your phone plan covers and how it applies to the different countries that you are in.
Getting Around Locally
When you are in a city you will still need to get around locally. Check out the cheapest way to do this. You may be tempted to rent a car, but renting a bike will be a lot cheaper and may give you an even better experience.
Protect Your Cash
It goes without saying that no matter what country you are visiting you have to be careful with your cash. Don’t carry large amounts with you at one time. Carrying your money with you in a money belt may be a safer way as opposed to a wallet or purse.
Understand The Prices
You are not likely going to be fluent in every language that will be present in the regions you are visiting. Make sure that you fully understand the prices of anything you are going to purchase before you finalize a sale.
Check Out The Markets
No matter whether you are buying food or other items always check out the local markets. This is where you will always find some great deals. Don’t be afraid to barter as this is a common practice although it is not always successful.
Watch Your Tipping
Every restaurant or hotel you stay at will probably have some policy about tipping. It doesn’t hurt to ask what these are when checking into a Hotel. Or when using a restaurant you can ask the locals what is the custom for tipping.
Check Out Passes
You may find that a lot of the destinations that you visit will offer passes that encompass several different events or sight seeing locations. These can be great money savers and allow you to really get the most out of what the region has to offer.
Save Before You Travel
Anyone that is going to do any type of traveling is excited about their upcoming journey. At the same time saving for this adventure will end up saving you money. Otherwise if you run short of funds you will need to rely on your credit cards, which usually have hefty interest rates.
The Right Time To Travel
There is always a perfect time to travel. Ideally going to popular destinations in their off seasons can bring you some substantial savings. You may have to make some compromises but these will be minimal compared to the savings you will enjoy.
Become Flying Savvy
Learn about the different ways that you can save on your flights. You can capitalize on cancellations by other flyers to help you get a cheap seat. Also, watch for deals. There are lots of ways to save on your airfare.
Price Comparing
It is well worth the time and effort to do some price comparing. No matter whether this is for travel or accommodations. There are plenty of price comparison websites for travellers.
Check Out Tour Prices
It is isn’t just a matter of going from one country to another. No matter what destinations you arrive at you want to make the most of your time there. For your sight seeing activities check out what tours are available. These are often cheaper than go about on your own.
Know The Difference Between Wants and Needs
There are plenty of things that you will want to do but try to focus on the things that you really need to do. For example, you really need to see the most important events that a locale has to offer. Aside from this there will be some that you want to see but choose carefully.
Stay In Tune With The Internet
You will find that there are many online travel magazines and sites. You can use these as powerful resources to find some of the best deals that may be taking place at your next destination.
Overnight Travel
If you don’t mind some minor inconveniences you may find some big savings by doing your traveling at night instead of the peak times of the day. You may be quite surprised at just how much money you can save.
Avoid The Express Services
You may be tempted to avoid the crowds by using express services. This is okay once in a while but not something you want to do on a regular basis as these can add up with unnecessary costs.
Rent Your Permanent Accommodation
If you are going to be away from home for a lengthy period of time consider renting out your home. There are several advantages to doing this. Not only will you home be protected with someone living there you will be generating some extra money for your travels.
Beach Locations
If you are going to be staying in Hotels you will be tempted to look for those with the best amenities. Like those with a swimming pool. If you choose to stay near a beach then you won’t have any need for this.
Camping
If you have decided to travel to destinations that you can reach by road you may be thinking about camping. This can be an economical way to travel but some camp sites can be quite costly. Do your research.
Budget Hotels
There is nothing wrong with using budget hotels. Especially when you are in a location that you are just stopping over in. Most likely you will only want it for one night. So the extra amenities that comes with the more expensive hotels won’t be necessary.
Tax Free Shopping
You are probably quite aware of how the taxes can increase your cost of many different items. There may be opportunities for some tax free purchases. Find out what these are before you go shopping.
Don’t Be Afraid To Walk
It is always convenient to have some form of travel. However a lot can be seen while on foot. Check out what can be conveniently walked to then opt for this as it will add up over time by reducing your travel costs.
Travel Passes
There may be some locations where you want to stay longer compared to others. If this is the case check out to see if there are any travel passes that you can buy to give you some extra savings.
The Senior Advantage
One of the most common times for travelling in peoples lives is when they have become seniors. Many cities have locations that offer senior rates. Don’t be embarrassed to take advantage of them if you qualify.
Car Rentals
While you will probably want to avoid car renting as much as possible there may be times when this is unavoidable. Take the time to look around for who is offering the best deals. In popular places car rental is competitive so there are usually promotions taking place.
Watch Out For Fines
Every country has their own laws. These will also include driving rules. Breaking some of the laws could at the very least incur a fine. Avoid these as they can be pretty hefty. Know what the rules are for pedestrians as well as for drivers.
Avoid The Hotel Perks
It is very common for hotels to have room service as well as mini bars in the rooms. These come with some increased costs that can really add up. Avoid them if you are intent on saving money during your travels.
The Breakfast Offer
A lot of Hotels will offer a continental breakfast. This is great but not if it is going to cost you an arm and a leg. Find out if it is included in your hotel fees. If not it just may not be worth it.
Eating When The Price Is Right
If you are going to eat at restaurants then you may want to change your eating patterns. Eating a heavier meal at lunch time is much cheaper than eating a big meal at dinner times when the prices are higher.
Watch Your Wine Choices
For wine lovers it is a wonderful experience to try different wines at the various destinations they are going to. This can be costly but not so much so if local wines are chosen. This will also make the wine adventures more intriguing.
No Charge Water
Many of the restaurants will offer specialty waters on the menu. Unless these are really important to you then stick with the free servings of water that are usually provided at most eateries.
Travel Medicine
There are some locations that you may going to where you need extra protection by way of vaccinations. Chances are you will have to pay for these. Make sure you only get those that are necessary.
Keep An Eye On Your Health
One thing that you do not want to discover is that you cannot afford to get sick when in a strange country. Make sure that you keep an eye on your health. Encourage good health by eating healthy meals and getting the proper rest.
Buy Health Insurance
You may be tempted not to spend the extra money on health insurance. It is a worthy investment. The costs of becoming ill when away from home can be huge. This is not something you want to have to deal with.
The Entertainment
There will be all kinds of entertainment to enjoy no matter where you go. Seek out that which is free or has a minimal cost to it. For example check out if there are any festivals taking place.
Out Of The Hub Of The Activities
You will find that if you stay right within the tourist regions that costs are much higher. Walking a few blocks down the street to find a place to dine can cut your meal costs in half.
Short Term Stays
If the decision has been made that you are going to stay at one location for a period of time then focus on your choice of accommodations. Sometimes short stay units can be more economical than even the budget hotels.
Choose Your Credit Cards Wisely
Travel Insurance
This comes down to personal preferences and what kind of risks you want to take. Buying a basic package is usually reasonable and offers decent coverage.
Advanced Bookings
Whenever possible book your accommodation in advance. Normally you will end up paying more if you look for accommodations when you arrive. Especially if there is some type of event going on.
Stretching Your Money
Seek out destinations where you currency is going to get you the most for what you are paying. You will be surprised at just how many wonderful locations will allow you to do this.
Travel In A Group
You may find that travelling in numbers can be a very economical way to enjoy multiple or extended vacations. Many of the costs can be shared among each of you. For example Hotel rooms, or car rentals just to name a few.
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