Travelling on an ‘almost empty’ wallet
What do you do when wanderlust strikes, but you have just hit rock bottom on your wallet? Feed the lust, is what. Of course, travelling first class, shopping at branded stores and staying at five-star accommodation may not be on the cards for you but none of those things have anything to do with actual travelling. If you are already laughing, save the giggles for we may just change your mind by the end of this article.
Travel Local
Travelling to exotic locations can wait. Look for nearby vacation spots that you have not explored yet. Travel is all about discovering new sights, smells and tastes and that can be done as well within the country as without.
Red Eye Flights
If you must go out of the country, take notes. Flights will almost always become more expensive closer to your travel dates so buying tickets in advance can save you a bundle. Red Eye flights and longer layovers are comparatively cheaper.
Opt for Hostels
If you can rough it out without silk pillows and feather beds, opt for hostels instead of hotels. The accommodation may be shared and the amenities less than perfect, but the amount of money you save can really make the rest of your trip.
Some hostels also offer free classes or crash courses for its dwellers so be sure to glance at the notice boards for something that interests you. While you are there, fill yourself up with the fruits and cereal breakfasts they offer. It can fill you up and keep you from salivating at the windows of every bakery you see.
Street Food or Seasonal Produce for nourishment
While we are on the subject of food, it is always a good idea to shop for food at the local markets and buy seasonal produce. Not only is it tastier and healthier, but also cheaper. Cooking at an unused hostel kitchen can save you some much needed cash and if you make friends at the hostel and share meal costs with them, there's nothing like it!
If you must treat yourself, opt for a nice lunch rather than a fancy dinner. For reasons known only to them, restaurants offer day time meals for much cheaper than evening or night time feasts.
Free Sightseeing Tours
Walking tours and free sightseeing can help you save on intercity transportation costs and free museums and other public attractions can help occupy your time. Unconventional transportation such as non-touristy cable cars can help you move from one place to another faster and sleeper coaches can transport you while also doubling as accommodation.
Go the extra mile - Bike
If you must go the extra mile to see a choice location, you can rent a bicycle and ride along the streets for a healthy and cheap commute option. Buying weekly tram or metro passes can further help save money.
Spend on making memories
Shop for experiences rather than for souvenirs. Most touristy areas hike up prices for cutesy trinkets because they know that travellers will want to take back memories. However, making memories can be cheaper with a polaroid shot, shells from the sea shore or a pretty pebble from the street. Shopping from vintage, pre loved racks can be just as satisfying and can also be your contribution to sustainable fashion.
Seasoned bag-packers know these insider secrets but now so do you.
So, what are you waiting for? Flip out your passports, pack your lightest luggage and jet, set, go!