With a few strategies on how to save money when traveling, you can not only enjoy the trip but also save money intelligently. This helps not only to ensure longer trips, but also to be able to create savings habits, both during them and in your routine.
Although it may seem like a difficult task, putting into practice tips on how to save money when traveling is a very interesting action, especially when you consider the costs of accommodation, food, airfare and tourist attractions. However, the best part is that you can enjoy an international trip while saving money. Check out our tips!
1. Plan ahead
Planning ahead is the crucial first step among international travel tips. Before starting your journey, it's essential to research airline tickets, accommodation, weather, tours and more. This is one of the main ways to save money, after all, these are the most expensive items on your trip.
Also, remember to compare prices, accumulate miles and buy tickets in advance. Don't forget to plan your outings before your trip. Include places you want to go, restaurants and attractions on your list to avoid unnecessary expenses.
Also, take into account how to save money when traveling by bringing enough personal items such as clothes, shoes, deodorant, perfume and other personal hygiene items. Also, be sure to check out our checklist so you don't forget anything!
2. Travel in low season
One of the most important factors when planning a trip is deciding what time of year you want to go. Usually, high or low season periods depend on the place you want to visit. However, traveling in low season can be more advantageous as it contributes to factors including:
- Airline promotions;
- Less flow of people at the sites;
- Cheaper accommodation;
- Lower food costs;
- Restaurants without reservations.
To find out when the low season is, search online and consume video or text content from people who have already been to the place you want to go. Also do some regular research to see when ticket prices decrease or increase. This way you can save money before you even set off.
3. Opt for Airbnb rooms or hostels
It's much easier to save money on travel by opting for an Airbnb or hostel, which are cheaper alternatives to traditional hotels, as well as providing a more immersive experience.
Airbnb is a more comfortable option that can provide privacy by offering different types of accommodation. You can usually find anything from rooms to entire houses or apartments.
Hostels, on the other hand, are usually best for people who want to interact with others when visiting another country and ensure a better experience during their trip. This alternative is especially ideal for those who don't have a lot of money to invest in their trip.
Both options can help you make significant savings during your trip. However, it's very important to do your research not only on prices, but also on the area you intend to stay in. Check that the place is safe and look for tips on how to guarantee your safety in the place in question. This is an indispensable tip, especially for those who intend to travel alone.
4. Cook whenever possible
One of the best strategies for saving money when traveling is to cook. This is a tip especially for those who are looking for a healthy lifestyle and want to avoid processed foods, which are usually cheaper depending on the location.
If you're wondering how to find certain ingredients, you can research the types of food you can find at your destination. Consider looking for cheaper restaurants, convenience stores and supermarkets. In some places, you can find street markets that offer food at more affordable prices than markets, for example.
5. Pay all the fixed costs of the trip before embarking
Paying for all your fixed travel expenses before you set off is a smart strategy that can help you save significantly. Try to make reservations, tickets for tourist attractions, flights and others that can be bought online in advance.
This process can help you avoid inconveniences such as price increases and high expenses during your trip. This will help you prepare financially and enjoy your trip with peace of mind.
6. Buy tickets on the airlines' anniversary with miles
Using miles can significantly reduce the cost of airline tickets. If you don't already have them, find out how you can start earning them and start when you can.
You can usually earn miles by making purchases with a credit card. However, it's important to check if your bank has a points program or if it offers something similar.
Another important point for saving on travel is to keep an eye out for the companies' anniversary promotions to get discounts, which allow for greater savings and a more affordable budget.
7. Research the free days of the attractions you want to visit
Some attractions offer free admission on specific days. This includes tourist attractions, museums and other places you might want to visit. When you're planning your trip, do some research on the official websites of each attraction.
Another important issue is to look for discounts that make it possible to pay less for tickets. Official websites or newspaper websites usually advertise and report when there is a possibility of a promotion. Also pay close attention not to buy from parallel websites.
8. Avoid tourist restaurants
The gastronomic experience is also part of saving money on your trip. Opting for restaurants further away from the tourist attractions is an option to consider.
Normally, well-located and frequented restaurants are more expensive and not as tasty as those further away from the tourist attractions, where the locals usually go. You can check out some tips on good and cheap restaurants through video or text content. Write down the address of the ones you like best and get ready to visit them.
9. Use public transport during your stay
Well-frequented areas often have a variety of public transport options so that locals and tourists can easily get from one place to another. Some of these include
- Bus;
- Boat;
- Subway;
- Streetcar.
Before you travel, do some research into the public transport available in the area you want to go to. In some countries, such as Thailand, the most popular transportation app is Grab, which works like Uber. If you prefer something more exclusive, rent a car with insurance.
Don't forget to research the payment methods used by each of them. This is essential if you don't want to experience any embarrassment or inconvenience during your trip. Also try to understand how the metro lines work, as well as the trains and other means of transportation.
By including these tips on how to save money on international trips, you can save money while still enjoying the sights, attractions and incredible gastronomic experiences. Make a list of everything you want to do, eat and see in your destination country. Don't forget that the key to saving money and having a good trip is to prepare in advance!
