Hi, I’m Dani,
Welcome to my Website / Blog.
I really appreciate you taking the time to stop by and just thought I would share with you the vision for my website.
I am really passionate about holidays with my family, I love travelling and all the experiences that it brings – my aim is to share via my Website / Blog all of my knowledge, experience and research to help everyone have the best holidays and travel experiences possible!
I hope you will follow me on this journey and if you have any top tips you would like to share, then please contact me on my Instagram page. Thanks and happy holidays / travelling!
Main Menu
Travelling on a Budget!
Traveling on a budget doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice any fun or comfort. It’s all about smart planning, creativity, and making the most of what you have. So, let’s explore some tips and ideas to help you travel the world without breaking the bank.
1. Research and Plan Ahead
First things first, do your homework I never go anywhere without researching my destination thoroughly.
- Look for budget-friendly destinations where your currency has a may higher value. Southeast Asia, Eastern Europe, and parts of South America are known for being relatively inexpensive but still offer incredible experiences.
- Plan your trip during the off-season. Travelling during peak tourist seasons means higher prices for flights, accommodation, and even food. Off-season travel can save you a lot of money and also allows you to experience a place with fewer tourists (Remember to check the climate however during these times).
- Travelling school Holidays are always more expensive. Education is of course important and I am in no way an advocate for taking your children out during important exam years. However that being said travelling to different cultures and countries is an education of life experience and one they will not get in school. Way up the cost difference and make your own decision, (Bare in mind and fines that may be imposed).
2. Flights: Be Flexible
Flights can be one of the most significant expenses of your trip.
- To save money, use flight comparison websites like Skyscanner and Google Flights to find the best deals.
- Set up price alerts for your desired destination and be flexible with your travel dates. Sometimes flying a day earlier or later can make a huge difference in price.
- Consider budget airlines, but be wary of extra fees. Budget airlines can offer fantastic deals, but they often charge for things like checked baggage, seat selection, and even snacks. Pack light to avoid these additional costs. I would recommend the – UNIQUEBELLA Travel Duffel bag this will help you maximise your carry on luggage.
- Get yourself some Packing cubes to maximise space in your luggage – Eco hub
2. Accommodation
Hotels can be pricey, so consider alternative accommodation options.
- Hostels are great for meeting other travellers and are often much cheaper than hotels. Websites like Hostelworld can help you find highly-rated hostels at reasonable prices.
- Another fantastic option is Airbnb. Renting a room or an entire apartment can sometimes be cheaper than a hotel, especially if you’re traveling with a group. Plus, having access to a kitchen allows you to save money by cooking your own meals.
- For the more adventurous, consider Couchsurfing. This platform connects travellers with locals who offer free accommodation. It’s not just about saving money; it’s also a great way to meet new people and experience the local culture firsthand.
3. Food and Drink
Food is another area where costs can add up quickly.
- Avoid touristy restaurants and seek out local eateries off the touristy track, these often offer delicious local food at very affordable prices. Street food is often delicious and very affordable.
- Visit local markets for fresh produce, bread, and snacks. Not only is this a budget-friendly option, but it’s also a fun way to experience local life. If you have access to a kitchen, cooking some of your meals can save you a significant amount of money.
- Don’t forget about grocery stores, they’re perfect for picking up essentials like water, snacks, and breakfast items. Many supermarkets also have hot food counters where you can get a tasty meal for cheap.
- Ask for tap water (if its drinkable in your holiday destination) with your meals saving on the cost of a drink.
- Ice creams don’t have to break the bank if you’re a family consider sharing a large tub rather than getting a small one each.
4. Activities
One of the best ways to save money while traveling is to take advantage of free activities.
- Many cities offer free walking tours where you can learn about the history and culture from a local guide. Just remember to tip them if you enjoyed the tour.
- Museums and attractions often have free or discounted entry days. Research these in advance on the internet and plan your itinerary around them. Many parks, gardens, and historical sites are free to visit and offer a great way to spend your day without spending a dime. Take yourselves a picnic and enjoy the weather.
- Explore nature! Hiking, beachcombing, and exploring natural landmarks are often free and provide unforgettable experiences. National parks and reserves can have a small entrance fee, but it’s usually worth it for the beauty and adventure they offer.
4. Getting around
Transportation within your destination can be a significant expense if you’re not careful.
- Public transportation is usually the most budget-friendly option. Buses, trams, and subways are often much cheaper than taxis or rideshare services.
- Consider walking or biking if your destination is pedestrian or cyclist-friendly. Walking is not only free but also a great way to see the sights and get some exercise.
- For longer distances, look into budget bus companies like FlixBus in Europe or Megabus in North America. Trains can also be a cost-effective and scenic way to travel, especially if you book in advance.
5. Staying Connected
Staying connected while traveling is essential, but international roaming charges can be exorbitant.
- Consider buying a local SIM card or a portable Wi-Fi device. Many cafes, restaurants, and public places offer free Wi-Fi, so take advantage of these whenever possible but stay safe and always use a VPN -a great free option is Windscribe
- If your phone has the capability for an e-sim site like Airalo (use referral code DANIEL5657 for $3 off) and Maya are a fantastic way to save money on your roaming fees.
- Many Carriers also do prepaid sims with include roaming for europe try – O2 Sim for UK and Europe and for USA try – T-mobile Travel sim.
Money Saving Tips
Here are a few additional tips to help you save money while traveling:
Use a travel rewards credit card: Accumulate points or miles that can be redeemed for flights, hotels, or other travel expenses.
Travel insurance: It might seem like an unnecessary expense, but it can save you a lot of money in case of emergencies.
Avoid foreign currency fees: Use a bank/credit card that doesn’t charge foreign transaction fees.
Bring a reusable water bottle: Save money and the environment by refilling your bottle instead of buying bottled water. I use the Chilly’s water bottle.
Local SIM card / E-sim: Instead of using your home country’s expensive roaming plan, buy a local SIM card for cheaper data and call rates OR if you phone allows get your self an e-sim from Airalo or Maya.
Negotiate: In many countries, prices are not set in stone. Don’t be afraid to haggle in markets and with local vendors.
Disclaimer: As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.