Sep-2014
How to travel cheap
We’ve all said it – well, at least probably once; ‘I want to travel, but I don’t have money enough to do so.’
How about you start changing that phrase from “want to” into “will” – I will travel. Changes a lot right? Don’t let your empty wallet stop you and let’s find ways to travel without having to leave in the middle of a hurricane season. And trust me; there are plenty of ways to travel cheap!
It is possible!
We all know that the best things in life are for free like the pleasure of a casual smile from a stranger or smelling flowers. And yes, those are nice things, but aren’t we thinking inside the box right now? How about those big things in life? Can they be for free – like flying to the other side of the world?
If not for free, then at least very cheap. If you wish to do something international and you think you can’t do it because you don’t have the thousands of dollars to do it, then this article is especially for you.
1. Travel like a local
Go to the places THEY go to. Such as the local bar, restaurants, swimming pools, anything you can think of. There are plenty of things the local people will pay a lower price for in comparison to the average tourist. It might be a restaurant where you will have to translate the menu filled with traditional dishes, but then you won’t pay the touristy price anymore. It’s worth it.
One time in Costa Rica I got the advise of going to one of the great Spa locations where you had to pay a quite big entrance fee, but as I spoke to the local taxi-drivers I learned about the natural hot springs where only the local inhabitants go to. The best thing was that the local “spa” was the same hot spring as the tourist’s spa (well, no toilets or lockers) and it’s for free!
Go to places they go to and enjoy it.
2. Cheap offers
Look out for those cheap offers in transport, hotels, or really anything. There are plenty of offers in the travel world, you just have to find them. Subscribe to newsletters of websites who browse the web for you in search of offers or check the low-season prices for a better rate.
3. Hitchhike
You can find someone who is going the same direction you are and get aboard, or when you are the one with a car, you can find people who need a ride and share fuel costs. You can meet local characters, other interesting travelers and it is eco-friendly.
4. Stay at people’s homes and hostels
Ever heard of Airbnb? Check it out! It is a great website where you can find places from locals you can stay at. The local people offer their extra bedroom or even their entire house during your stay for a low fare if you plan it right. It’s kinda like doing some house-sitting. Some places, such as the apartments in Rio de Janeiro during Carnaval are still even cheaper than the hotel rooms. On the other side there are the hostels; another great option. Cheap places to stay at any destinations.
Travel tip: meet locals
5. Become a budget flyer
Names such as Ryanair, Easyjet and Transavia are basically a travelers religion in Europe. Often these low-cost airlines offer their flights for a couple of euros more than the taxes which makes the train look expensive.
6. Trade labour
Consider approaching a restaurant or perhaps the hostel you’re staying upon arrival. If they’re short of staff you can eat or sleep for free in exchange for the job. Trading labor for accommodation and food can also be good for the visa issues.
7. Raise money for charity
If you like a challenge like climbing some high mountain to raise money for a charity then this if something for you. You get your adventure, raise sponsors and they take care of the rest.
8. Travel contests
I know, I know, this sounds like the most unlikely thing, but you never know. Try finding some travel contests on the web and enter them. Sending your best photo, uploading your most awesome travel video or writing the best story might get you free travel gear, cash or even a free trip!
9. Meeting locals
I have to say, spending time abroad with people from that certain place is definitely a money-saver. They know other people from around and more often than you’d think they know owners of businesses that love having a foreigner in their company and they invite you over for a beer. Not only that, but if you make friends with the locals you can experience their local traditions and save money at the same time.
Go eat some local dish at your new friend’s home and set your mind open for this new culture.
About Renate Rigters
Ever since I left my home country I felt at home at any other place I went to. I enjoy getting to know more cultures by talking to strangers and hearing their philosophy about life. Speaking with gestures when you can not find a shared language, finding places only the locals go to and learn about their customs and values. Hanging out with local people makes me happy. The experience of every new place is a step out of your comfort zone where I like to wander around until it feels like a second home.
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Handig!
Thanks Greg!