Scrolling through TikTok or travel forums like Reddit, I often see people underestimating how affordable travelling can be. Sure, luxury resorts might break the bank, but learning how to travel cheaply is far from impossible.
Some of the best travel experiences come from spontaneous, budget-friendly moments—like finding an incredible local eatery or taking a free walking tour that leads you to hidden gems.
In this post, I’ll share practical tips and strategies to help you travel cheaply without compromising on amazing experiences. Let’s dive in and make affordable travel your new norm.
Planning Smart – Saving Before You Go
Planning your trip carefully is one of the best ways to master how to travel cheaply while still making the most of your adventures. Here are some strategies to get you started:
Set a Budget and Stick to It
When my friends and I plan trips, we often try to predict how much everything will cost to persuade others to join. But in the early stages, we’d overlook hidden costs like baggage fees, cleaning charges for Airbnbs, or even basic expenses like food and drink.
Setting a budget early on is one of the golden rules for how to travel cheaply. While your budget doesn’t have to be rigid, setting a target—like £1,000 for a trip—and allowing for an additional emergency fund of around 10% can help you stay on track without overspending.
Choose Affordable Destinations
Travel doesn’t have to mean luxury resorts or once-in-a-lifetime splurges. Backpacking, for instance, is a fantastic way to travel on a budget while learning how to travel cheaply on the go.
There are countless affordable destinations to explore. In Europe, you can find flights for as little as £20 to major cities. For a longer, more adventurous trip, regions like Southeast Asia or Central America offer incredible value, with low-cost accommodation, transport, and activities.
Hunt for Deals
Being savvy about deals can make a big difference in your travel expenses. Skyscanner is excellent for finding cheap flights, and Booking.com is my go-to for comparing accommodation options.
To maximise savings, keep an eye on prices over time and consider booking your trip well in advance. Many airlines release flights at specific times of the year, offering discounts to early bookers—a proven trick for how to travel cheaply.
Travel Off-Season
If you’re familiar with my blog, you’ll know how much I love Egypt. Travelling to Hurghada in December—well outside of the peak tourist season—saved my family hundreds on flights alone.
Off-season travel can significantly reduce costs across the board. Avoid peak months like August, when school holidays drive prices up. Instead, aim for shoulder seasons or less popular months for a more budget-friendly experience.
Saving on Transportation
Transportation costs can quickly eat into your travel budget, but learning how to travel cheaply makes it possible to get from A to B without breaking the bank. Here are a few ways to do it:
Flights on a Budget
Finding cheap flight deals is easier than ever with tools like Skyscanner and Google Flights. These platforms compare multiple airlines and dates to show you the best times to fly for the lowest prices.
I’ve relied on Skyscanner countless times for my travel itineraries, and it’s helped me save significantly. When possible, I prefer booking directly through the airline, but having multiple options at your fingertips makes it easier to choose what suits your budget.
Budget-Friendly Local Transport
Once you’ve reached your destination, local transport can be one of the most affordable ways to get around. Apps like Uber and Bolt are popular in Europe, but don’t overlook local buses and trains—they’re often cheaper and just as efficient.
Using Google Maps is a lifesaver here. It provides real-time information on public transport options, including exact departure times and routes, so you can plan your journey with ease.
Overnight Travel
Overnight travel is another clever way to save money. Opting for overnight trains or buses means you’ll cover long distances while skipping the cost of a night’s accommodation. For example, Egypt’s overnight trains have been recommended by fellow travellers as a cost-effective option—though some find them more comfortable than others.
At the end of the day, taxis and private hires aren’t your only options. More often than not, local public transport offers a budget-friendly and efficient way to explore new places.
Affordable Accommodation Options
Luxury stays can be tempting, but they’re not the key to unforgettable travel experiences. In fact, embracing budget-friendly accommodation is one of the best ways to learn how to travel cheaply without compromising on the adventure.
Stay in Hostels
Hostels are my go-to for saving money and enhancing the travel experience. You trade the luxury of a private room for the chance to stretch your budget further—and, honestly, the privacy offered by a simple curtain is usually enough!
One of the best parts of staying in hostels is the social aspect. You’ll meet fellow travellers from all walks of life, and it’s one of my favourite ways to forge connections on the road. Hostelworld is a fantastic resource, offering a wide range of hostels and even a group chat feature for meeting people before you arrive.
If you’re planning long-term travel, hostels are a budget-friendly and efficient choice. Just don’t let the horror movie “The Hostel” scare you off—it’s all fiction, after all!
Alternative Stays
While hostels are my favourite, they’re not the only way to save on accommodation. Exploring other options is key to mastering how to travel cheaply. Guesthouses, homestays, and even camping can provide a cosy night’s rest without emptying your wallet.
During my Iceland trip, I stayed in several guesthouses along the Ring Road. These were budget-friendly, comfortable, and perfect for travellers looking to save while still enjoying a warm bed.
Work for Accomodation
If you’re open to a little work, you can save even more by exchanging your skills for a place to stay. Platforms like Workaway and WWOOF connect travellers with hosts who offer free accommodation in exchange for help with tasks like farming, teaching, or housekeeping.
You don’t always need a formal arrangement, though. Many travellers find work opportunities simply by exploring a destination and deciding to stay longer. It’s a great way to extend your trip without draining your funds.
Cheap (and Delicious) Food
Food is a huge part of the travel experience, and learning how to travel cheaply doesn’t mean missing out on amazing meals. In fact, some of the best culinary adventures come from affordable, local options.
Street Food and Local Restaurants
While Western food is available almost everywhere, it’s often far pricier than local alternatives. Street food and small, family-run restaurants serve delicious, authentic dishes at a fraction of the cost. Plus, eating like the locals is a surefire way to immerse yourself in the culture.
A great tool for finding budget-friendly eateries is Google Maps. Simply scan the area for highly-rated restaurants—hidden gems often pop up in places you wouldn’t expect! As a rule of thumb, stick to places with a minimum 4 out of 5-star rating to ensure a great meal without the risk.
Cook for Yourself
Cooking your own meals while travelling is one of the most effective ways to stretch your budget. Even if you’re not a master chef (I’m certainly not), preparing simple meals can save you a lot of money in the long run.
During my trip to Iceland, I stayed in guesthouses with well-equipped kitchens, which made cooking a breeze. Buying groceries locally and cooking over several days helped me avoid overspending while still enjoying fresh, hearty meals.
If you’re staying somewhere with a shared kitchen, take advantage of the opportunity to meet other travellers while whipping up a meal—it’s a win-win for saving money and socialising!
Travel Hacks to Stretch Your Budget
When it comes to learning how to travel cheaply, small changes can make a big difference. By packing smart, avoiding hidden fees, and planning for the unexpected, you can extend your budget and enjoy your trip for longer.
Pack Smart
Packing the right items can save you money and hassle. Essentials like a durable towel, comfortable walking shoes, and quality suncream are often pricier or lower quality at your destination. Packing these beforehand ensures you’re prepared and avoids unnecessary spending.
Equally important is managing your luggage weight. Overpacking can lead to hefty fees for overweight bags, which can easily derail your budget. Invest in a small luggage scale to double-check your bag’s weight before heading to the airport—it’s a simple trick that can save you a surprising amount of money.
Avoid Hidden Fees
Hidden fees can sneak up on you, especially when using ATMs, roaming abroad, or checking luggage. To minimise these costs:
- Double-check baggage allowances when booking flights to avoid unexpected charges at the airport.
- Withdraw larger amounts of cash at once to reduce transaction fees.
- Use a travel-friendly debit or credit card that doesn’t charge foreign transaction fees.
Travel Insurance
Skipping travel insurance to save money might seem tempting, but it’s a risky move. A single medical emergency or lost item can cost far more than the insurance premium itself. Look for affordable policies that cover your needs without breaking the bank. Comparison websites and travel blogs like Nomadic Matt often offer great recommendations for budget-friendly options.
The travel insurance I will use for my backpacking trip next year is True Traveller.
Be Flexible and Spontaneous
Flexibility is a secret weapon for travelling cheaply. Being open to last-minute changes—like altering your travel dates or choosing alternative destinations—can lead to significant savings. Spontaneity often results in unexpected adventures, which can make your trip even more memorable without adding to your costs.
Conclusion
Learning how to travel cheaply doesn’t mean sacrificing amazing experiences. With a bit of planning, some creative thinking, and the willingness to adapt, you can create unforgettable memories without breaking the bank.
From picking affordable destinations to packing smart and embracing flexibility, there are countless ways to make your travel dreams a reality on a budget. Whether it’s savouring street food, staying in vibrant hostels, or finding unbeatable flight deals, every small decision adds up to big savings.
If you’re ready to take the plunge, start planning your next adventure today. You might be surprised at how far your budget can take you when you follow these tips. Safe travels—and remember, the best journeys are about the experiences, not the price tags.
