- Research available flights
An aeroplane can be one of the most significant expenses for backpackers and young travellers. According to Dave and Deb, credit cards with a rewards program are a big help when paying for plane tickets. Dave also notices that travel agents can sometimes offer something better than what you would find online.
If your trip includes a long-haul flight to Europe or Asia and several other short flights there, Allison Wallace, director of media and communications at Flight Center Canada, advises flying with a major airline for the long-haul flight and taking local airlines for shorter flights. Students may also benefit from discounts.
- Opt for inexpensive hosting
Hostels are a great way to save on accommodation and meet other travellers, but Dave notes that renting an apartment short-term can also save money, especially if you can share it with others. ‘other people. Another economic idea is to keep a house or participate in a home exchange for more extended stays.
While it might be easy to find a small hotel or even a hut on the beach in budget locations like those found in Southeast Asia, Dave and Deb say reasonably priced accommodation can also be found in typically more expensive destinations.
“We have been travelling around Europe a lot recently, and we were able to do it on a tight budget. We camped everywhere,” admits Deb. Many campgrounds are located on beaches or near major centres and often include complimentary shuttle service to town — all for a fraction of the cost of a hotel.
- Avoid high season
One of the best times to travel to any destination is off-season, Dave reminds us, either just before or just after a high season when most attractions are still open, and you may be able to find discounted flight and accommodation.
Ms Wallace agrees, adding that if you have to travel during high season, changing your departure date by a few days can make a big difference, as can choosing to travel on certain days of the week rather than others, depending on your destination.
- Book on site
Dave and Deb suggest waiting until you reach your destination rather than booking a guide, tour, or transportation ahead of time, either online or over the phone. This way, you can haggle or even find other travellers to split the cost with. - Forget expensive restaurants
Spending tens or hundreds of dollars a day on meals will quickly smash your budget. Instead, Dave and Deb recommend getting creative, like buying your food at a market and picnicking, eating where the locals eat, or even bringing a camping stove and cooking your meals if you can. - Look for free activities
In many places, hiking or visiting national parks is free, recalls Deb.
“When we started travelling, we had a lot of adventures that cost very little. Adventures like climbing Adam’s Peak in Sri Lanka are free, and it’s exhilarating climbing,” says Deb.
For the city, do some research to find out when admission to interesting sites is free or inexpensive. Deb recalls that museums offer low-cost evenings or even free access on certain days of the week in several European cities.
Ultimately, the more you save on day-to-day travel expenses, the more money you’ll have for unparalleled experiences.
“If you can find ways to save on accommodation and food, then you can use that money to have the adventure,” concludes Deb.
And of course, before you go, don’t forget to get travel insurance that will protect you against surprise medical bills and provide assistance when you’re away from home and don’t speak the local language.
