Low cost holidays are something we all can’t do without. What with bills to pay and everything, everybody needs a break now and then. Here are some ways to unwind on a budget:
- Book cheap flights online
Rather than heading straight to the travel agent, there are many cheaper flight options online that offer 1-for-1 deals or promotion prices.
Phone bookings usually come with an administrative cost and are probably helpful for the not-so-Internet savvy. If you book your trip via an agent, they would naturally take a cut off your travel fees. So, get online and get clicking.
More adventurous and cheaper flight options include taking a cheaper flight from an alternative airport or mixing and matching your flights to find the cheapest option.
- Save on accomodation
Sites such as agoda.com, booking.com and hotels.com typically offer lower rates than the hotel site itself. But do check for promotions just the same.
I like to go into each of these sites and compare prices for the same hotel. Also, it pays to read the fine print. Some sites may look cheaper at first glance but may have other add-ons after you have selected the ‘Payment’ option.
Alternatively, ditch the hotel and rent a private room from a local. Websites such as WhereToSleep.co.uk and CouchSurfing.org offer not just hotel-killer rates but some times, free accomodation (and local knowledge) as well!
- Pack light
Going on holiday with my mother used to be a nightmare as she would pack everything from multiple sets of clothing to the kitchen sink, if she could.
Be wise. Pack only the essentials and don’t forget necessities such as your phone charger, camera batteries,
It pays to pack as little clothing as possible. And if you’re travelling in another city, chances are laundry services will be available.
- Travel in the off season
This might not be a great idea if you’re looking forward to a beach holiday and it rains during the off season but otherwise, don’t head to major cities during school holidays.
Go in the off season and not only will your destination be less crowded, flights and accomodation are also cheaper. Many locations still have beautiful weather and scenery in months such as Japan or Europe in September.
- Go with a friend or group
First off, food, accomodation and transport costs get cheaper because you’re splitting the costs with your friend (and probably get to sample more delicious food because you’d be too full finish more portions on your own). Second, shopping costs might get cheaper due to higher bargaining power e.g. street hawkers or flea market sellers would be more willing to lower their prices in hopes of making a bigger sale.
For the avid solo-travellers, simply make friends with fellow backpackers while you’re there and hang out together.
- Eat like a local
Ditch the hotel restaurants, Starbucks coffees and avoid going to McDonalds when you’re on holiday. Eat like a local and you’re probably going to end up eating far better for a much lower cost. Moreover, local produce is usually tastier and cheaper.
Did I mention going to the local supermarkets? One can get a pretty decent meal there too e.g. sashimi/sushi roast chicken, salads etc. Who needs hotel buffet spreads?
- Do your research before going
Travel blogs and forums do contain wisdom on how to get the best deals when in a certain area or city. Usually, such wisdom is obtained via personal experience in the country itself so do take advantage of such blogs and accumulate as much information before you go, rather than learn the hard way when you’re there.
- Save on foreign currency exchange
Withdrawing money abroad can cost a lot. In some countries, this option is out for foreigners unless you had instructed your bank to give you access prior to leaving the country. Having said that, most banks will charge for each withdrawal on top of a commission fee.
Bring enough local currency for daily use, or you might find yourself in a bind not being able to locate a money changer or worst still, having to go to a bank.
It’s also useful to have a credit or debit card on hand while travelling but it’s best to use this only for big items and at reputable shopping malls. Getting your currency before arriving at the airport is what I’ve found to be the best way of securing the best rates.
- Avoid taking taxis
You’re on holiday! No need to rush around, so take the opportunity to walk as much as possible. Goodness knows how much our bodies degenerate just sitting in front of our office PCs.
Get to know the area better by taking the local bus and train. Besides, in cities such as Tokyo and London, taxis can cost a fortune.
Also, save money on airport transfers by not taking a taxi to your hotel. Many cities have cost affordable options from getting to and from the city to the airport, such as express buses.
In some places, it can even be safe to hitchhike a ride – and save on transport altogether!
- Get paid while on holiday!
If you’re on an extended travels, it’s possible to have part of or the entire trip funded, or even come home with extra cash in one’s pocket. From waiting tables, picking fruit to travel writing or teaching English, a paycation can not only help make ends meet but let you have a vacation at the same time. Got a talent for music? How about entertaining passers-by for a few hours a day? Just get a visa and go! [7372] Turn your low cost holiday into one that pays.
