Your first trip outside your country can be exciting but also quite expensive. So, how to save money traveling abroad?
In this blog, we bring you our list of tips and tricks for saving money while traveling internationally. From saving on flights to going local, we’ll show you how to make the most of your money while still having a great time.
How to Save Money Traveling Abroad – 16 Practical Tips
Saving money on international travel requires you to take care of small details. Read through and see how you can make small changes to save big bucks –
1. Get Cheaper Flight Tickets
Flight tickets are going to account for the bulk of your travel costs which is why it is important that you look for ways to get cheaper plane tickets. This includes booking ahead of time to choosing VPN and making use of airline miles among other things.
2. Book the Right Accommodation
Choose budget-friendly accommodations such as hostels, vacation rentals, airbnbs, guest houses or camping instead of hotels. This can help you save tons of money while having a great experience with fellow travellers. You can spend the money you save on other activities and experiences.
3. Use Local Transport
Use public transportation like buses, trains and pool taxis instead of renting a car or taking taxis. Most cities have buses, subways and trains that can take you to all the major attractions. This can be a great way to save money, and being a responsible traveller as you cut down your carbon footprint.
4. Save on Your Food & Drinks
While travelling abroad, you might be tempted to try fancy restaurants and meals. This can cost you a lot of money. We recommend you research the food options available at your destination, and plan ahead for meals and snacks that fit your budget. Try eating the local food instead of international cuisines as much as possible. Also, carry with you a reusable water bottle and refill it instead of buying bottled water.
5. Be Mindful of Exchange Rates & Fees
Acquaint yourself with the currency exchange rate of the country you are visiting. We recommend bringing local currency with you and exchanging it at a local bank or currency exchange office. Also, choose a credit card or debit card that doesn’t charge foreign transaction fees. These cards are widely available, and can save you a significant amount of money in the long run.
6. Explore Free Attractions
Many cities around the world offer free or low-cost activities and attractions. These include things like free walking tours, museums, and parks. As a traveller, take full advantage of these activities. Not only do you save money but also learn a lot about the culture and history of the place you’re visiting with these authentic experiences.
7. Look for Discounts on Tickets & Passes
Before making your itinerary, make sure you research the attractions well. Look out for discounts on tickets and passes for visiting attractions and using local transportation – like the Japan JR Pass or Swiss Travel Pass. This can help you save a lot of money while travelling in a new country.
8. Choose Travel Insurance
You might think that this will substantially add to your travel costs, but trust us, it won’t. Consider buying a travel insurance policy that covers things like trip cancellation, medical expenses, lost or stolen luggage, and other unexpected events that may occur while you’re traveling. However make sure you check all the important details of the insurance policy and make sure it fits your needs and budget.
9. Use Apps & Online Resources
There are many apps and online resources that can help you find deals and discounts on local restaurants, shopping, and other activities. These resources include review sites, coupon and deal sites, etc.
10. Get A Travel Rewards Credit Card
Try using a credit card that rewards you for travel-related purchases. Many such options are available but make sure you compare different options before getting one. These cards often offer points or cash back on things like flights, hotels, and rental cars, which can add up quickly and be used to save money on future travel expenses. However, be aware of the fees and interest rates associated with these cards.
11. Avoid Shopping Sprees
Buying souvenirs is an important part of any travel plan but make sure you don’t splurge on it. Try to find souvenirs in shops aways from the main attractions. Local markets are a good place to head over to for such things. Also, buy all at one place so that bargaining becomes possible.
12. Save on Your Phone Bill
Be mindful of your phone and mobile internet usage. Turn off cellular data and use wifi instead. If you will be staying for a longer period, purchasing a local SIM card is a better idea. This will help you stay in touch with your family and friends, without having to worry about your roaming charges.
13. Carry Your Medicines
As a traveller, we advise you to take your prescription medicines along with you. Not only will you be saving money but also will be able to avoid a situation where the said medicine isn’t available. Also, keep handy medicines for your regular ailments like stomach bugs, cold, cough, etc. Don’t forget that prescription.
14. Pack Wisely
Pack light to avoid baggage fees. However, this does not mean that you don’t pack the essentials. Carry your most used items with you so that you don’t have to buy them in your travel destination while keeping the bag light. Packing light can make it easier to navigate public transportation, taxis and walking around.
15. Choose The Destination Wisely
When narrowing down on the places to visit, choose wisely. The most popular destinations are most of the time the most expensive ones and not necessarily that great. By visiting destinations that are not as popular, you may also be able to find deals and discounts on accommodations and activities.
16. Be Mindful of the Dates
Once you select your destination, the next step is choosing your travel dates. Avoid the peak season since they are overcrowded and expensive. During the off season you will likely be able to pay lower prices for flights, hotels, and other travel expenses.
We hope this blog was able to answer your “how to save money traveling abroad” query. If any of you travellers have a tip to share, feel free to drop it down below in the comment section.
Happy Wayfaring 🙂
