You’ve been saving your pennies all year for an unforgettable summer of travel…
So it seems a shame to blow the bank on the little things without even really realising! But, don’t worry, we have just the travel tips on how to make your money stretch that little bit further…
1. Pack light
Only bring what you absolutely need – paying for overweight baggage is a massive pain and definitely should be avoided. If you’re extremely savvy (and going for a short trip), try travelling with just hand luggage and avoid paying for checked bags altogether.
2. Self-catered accommodation
Eating is one of the biggest drains on a travel budget. By staying in a hostel with a kitchen or self-catered apartment, you can save loads of money on eating out and spend it on more important things!
3. Supermarket food
Staying on the theme of food, by shopping in a supermarket you can still experience local cuisine without spending a bomb. How about some cheese and fresh baguette for lunch in Paris? Yummm…
4. Travel apps
There are so many apps out there, by pre-downloading a few you can save money on guidebooks, maps and phrasebooks!
5. Travel like a local (and live like a local!)
Using taxis is a big no-no when it comes to travelling on a budget, try walking where you can or take public transport. Plus, you get to see and experience so much more of the place you are visiting – it’s a win-win! Save money on accommodation by checking out the local Airbnb’s, you can often get places in the heart of the city for a fraction of a central hotel’s price.
6. Book a train pass in advance
Buying a train pass in advance, especially if you know you’ll be travelling around a specific area, is crucial to making the most of your money. Bulk buying means the tickets are cheaper, and you don’t have the stress of waiting in long lines at train stations.
7. Stay away from the ATM
When you’re abroad, don’t withdraw any money from an ATM. You’ll probably get a poor exchange rate from your bank as well as being charged a fee for the withdrawal. No, thank you!
8. Take a friend
Travelling with a friend or in a group can be great for money saving. Double hotel rooms cost nearly the same as a single so why not split the cost? You can also split picnics, chores, and taxis when you have to, as well as having someone to share the memories with.
9. Haggle
Markets are often filled with amazing local products that you can’t find anywhere else, but they are notorious for ripping tourists off. You can still get some great deals but you need to remember that all prices are soft, so dust off your haggling skills and nab yourself some bargains!
10. Turn off 3G
Don’t get caught out, using your phone to access the web when abroad can lead to colossal charges if you’re not careful. To be extra safe, simply turning 3G off on your phone or putting it onto airplane mode will avoid the stress. Try an Internet café or a hotel with Wi-Fi if you need to check your emails or are desperate to post the perfect holiday ‘insta’.
Still haven’t decided where to go? Check out STA Travel, you’ll be amazed how cheap travelling to exotic places can be! Costa Rica? Don’t mind if we do…