What’s that one thing that holds you from visiting destinations on your wish list? Yes, it is none other than -MONEY! It is indeed concerning that individuals struggle to save money for the things they love. However, you don’t need to regret not being able to land at your favourite destination. You can indeed travel affordably regardless of what budget you are on.

Well, free travel could be an exaggeration and is highly unlikely. It is because you need money to book flight tickets and accommodations and purchase important traveling stuff. If not free, let’s analyse how to save money on your travel. The blog lists some of the best tips that may help you plan your trip within budget.

8 Strategies to plan a budget-friendly trip

Before checking the ways to save money on a trip, you must have travel insurance. If you have, check the validity. It is one of the most important documents that may help you save accidental costs. Here are other ways to travel the world on a budget:

• Go networking

It is one of the rarest strategies that individuals try. Check on the friends that need someone to accompany them to a destination. What more? Join in! Contact the friend and ask about the destinations and other details.

If you two share a great bond, it would indeed be a memorable trip.  However, it must be someone you feel safe and rely on with finances. No wonder you may re-kindle your long-lost friendship on the way!

• Identify the free accommodations

Yes, if you are a woman, you may spot many free accommodation sources online. Platforms like Couchsurfing provide one to solo women travellers. However, you must connect with them at least 3 months before going on the trip. Platforms like these host multiple programs for travellers to participate.

For example- you can volunteer from their side in one of their events. Also, check the possibilities of participating in the local meetings. It may help you win up the free accommodation. However, making connections is always helpful. It is regardless of the benefit the bond offers.

• Set a budget, even if it hurts

Yes, no matter the sources you get, you still need to feel some money in your pockets. It is especially true when you plan to travel. Trips involve unexpected expenses that may turn out challenging. Therefore, having a budget is critical. Identify the total earning sources- part-time income, earnings from rental income, or dividends.

Check the expected costs to travel to a specific destination. Always save more than the approximate expenses. It helps you ensure financial flexibility when travelling.  Here are some tips for budgeting under grim financial conditions:

• Identify and cut unnecessary expenses
• Try to increase basic earnings by finding another part-time job
• Identify the savings that you have (don’t use it all)
• Check money saved from schemes, scholarships, severance pay, or any other sources

However, if you still encounter a challenging financial need during the trip, don’t panic. Check loans for people with benefits income. You must carry the benefits card if you receive such payments. It may help you get instant cash against the slip. It provides immediate relief from the cash urgency. Provide relevant income proof to qualify.

4)    Earn while you explore the city

Yes, you can earn even while relaxing at your favourite beach. It just requires you to plan such things before packing the bags. Search for freelancing or part-time online job opportunities. You may get a writing gig, photography, or any other job that you share expertise in.

However, always choose one with a flexible timing. It will help you cover travel expenses or critical cash needs. It is a must if planning a trip longer than 20 days. However, always read the reviews of the company you work for. Check how you would get the salary if travelling internationally.

5. Check on walking tours

What could be better than exploring the city on foot? Some destinations like Paris, Italy, Singapore, and London grant immense opportunities to do so. Moreover, you will enjoy walking by the river and the bridge.

You may spot many in such locations. Walking tours help you know about a region better. It helps you explore the place with a detailed eye. You get to know the culture, language barriers, and other hidden gems about a place. It simply makes your journey worthwhile.

6. Save money on transportation

Yes, you can travel without spending much on using public transport. The best game would be to decide the accommodation around the popular visiting places. It should be things that you can cover just walking a few miles from your accommodation. Believe it or not, this strategy indeed helps you save money. Moreover, check on the travel card that the city hosts.

Yes, visitors may especially benefit from this. It is especially true if you plan to explore every corner of the country. Identify the best card and recharge it. Don’t over-recharge, as it will go to waste. Instead, calculate a fair amount it may take you to explore the country.

7. Check for freebies in expensive cities

Yes, you may get lucky here! It is all about how good you are at your research skills! Leverage it to identify the freebies you may spot on food, travelling, exploring popular places and other perks. Countries like- London, Chicago, Sydney, Kauai, New York, and Sydney host such opportunities. Don’t forget to grab the freebies if travelling to any of these destinations. It could cut your travelling budget by half!

8. Avoid eating in expensive restaurants

Most travellers spend about 40% of their travelling budget on food itself. Yes, you may be eager to try the specific country cuisine. However, remaining within budget is more important. It may prevent you from unexpected and unavoidable financial situations. Instead, prefer to cook yourself. You must carry some packaged foods like noodles and soups. It may help you get going.  You can also cook from scratch if you are good at it.

Bottom line

These are some of the best ways to save money on travel. It may be challenging to travel for free. However, you can spot some freebies in cities. It may help you save money on eating, travelling and even exploring some popular destinations. Always create a budget and spend money within that. It protects you from entering debt unnecessarily.