Cheap Ways to Travel and Save Money While Traveling the World
Traveling doesn’t have to be expensive. I’ve been to amazing places on a small budget. There are so many cheap ways to travel if you plan smart.
In this blog, I’ll share 50 ways to save money while traveling the world. These tips are simple and easy to follow. I’ll show you how to save money on flights, food, and hotels. You’ll also learn about affordable travel hacks and ways to avoid wasting money.
I’ve made mistakes too, like spending too much on fancy meals or booking flights at the wrong time. But I’ve learned how to travel smart. Now, I can help you avoid those mistakes and save big! Let’s dive into these budget travel tips and start your adventure.
Why Saving Money While Traveling the World is Important
Saving money while traveling lets you do more with less. Using cheap ways to travel means you can stay longer, visit more places, and worry less about your budget.
Budget travel reduces stress and helps you focus on enjoying the trip. Budget travel tips, like cooking and using public transport, can help you. You can stretch your money and have amazing experiences. Saving money doesn’t mean missing out—it’s about making smart choices and finding value in your journey.
Budget-Friendly Travel Planning Tips
1. Travel during off-peak seasons
Off-season flights and hotels are cheaper. Tourist spots are less crowded. However, the weather might not be ideal in some places. To avoid surprises, research the seasonal weather for your destination and pack appropriately.
2. Be flexible with travel dates
Being flexible with your dates can help you find the best deals on flights and hotels. But keep in mind that last-minute plans might not work for every trip. Use tools like Google Flights to find the cheapest travel days and plan accordingly.
3. Use flight comparison tools like Skyscanner or Google Flights
Flight comparison tools are great for finding affordable tickets. But watch out for hidden fees on budget airlines, like extra baggage charges. Always read the terms and conditions carefully before you book. Skyscanner makes it easy to compare flights and find the best deals.
4. Set up price alerts to track fare drops
Price alerts help you catch discounts without constantly checking websites. Sometimes, though, deals disappear quickly, so you need to act fast. Use apps like Hopper to get notified and book as soon as you see a good price.
5. Book flights and accommodations in advance
Booking early often means better prices and more options. Just make sure your plans won’t change, as many budget bookings are non-refundable. Check cancellation policies before committing to a deal.
6. Consider alternative airports
Flying into smaller or nearby airports can save you money on tickets. But transportation from the airport to your destination might add extra costs. Compare the total price, including transfers, before making your choice.
7. Plan an efficient itinerary to avoid unnecessary transit costs
Group nearby attractions in your daily plan. It can save time and money on transport. If you don’t plan well, you might end up wasting money on unnecessary travel. Use Google Maps or city guides to plan your route wisely.
8. Use budget travel apps for exclusive discounts
Apps like Hopper, Skyscanner, and Rome2Rio offer great discounts on tickets and transport. Just make sure the deals are valid for your dates. Always double-check prices on multiple platforms to avoid overpaying.
9. Research low-cost destinations before choosing where to go
Some countries, like those in Southeast Asia or Eastern Europe, are very budget-friendly. However, long-distance flights to these places might cost more. Calculate the total cost, including flights, to see if the trip is worth it.
10. Bundle bookings for discounts
Booking flights, hotels, and car rentals together can save you money. But not all bundled deals are cheaper than booking separately. Compare individual costs first to make sure you’re actually saving.
Affordable Transportation Hacks
11. Use public transportation
Public buses, subways, and trains are much cheaper than taxis or ride-sharing services. However, figuring out the routes in a new city can be confusing. To avoid getting lost, download local transit apps or maps before you go.
12. Travel overnight by bus, train, or ferry
Overnight travel saves you money on transportation and accommodation. But it can be uncomfortable and noisy. Pack a travel pillow, earplugs, and a blanket to stay comfortable during your journey.
13. Use ride-sharing apps like BlaBlaCar
Ride-sharing services are cheaper than renting a car or taking long-distance buses. But sharing a ride with strangers may feel unsafe for some people. Always check the driver’s reviews and choose verified profiles to ensure your safety.
14. Consider hitchhiking where it’s safe
Hitchhiking can be a completely free way to travel. But it’s not safe everywhere, and finding a ride can take time. Research if hitchhiking is common and safe in the country you’re visiting. If so, try to hitchhike during the day with a companion.
15. Rent bikes for city exploration
Biking is an affordable and eco-friendly way to explore a city. Some cities may not have bike-friendly roads, which can be risky. Before renting, check if the city has dedicated bike lanes and wear a helmet for safety.
16. Buy regional or multi-city rail passes
Rail passes, like Eurail or Japan Rail Pass, let you travel unlimited routes for a fixed price. They might seem expensive upfront, but they save money on long-distance trips. Calculate the total cost of individual tickets to see if a pass is worth it. If you’re traveling by train, check out Seat61 for tips on rail passes and schedules.
17. Walk whenever possible
Walking is completely free and lets you experience a city up close. But long walks can be exhausting and time-consuming. Wear comfortable shoes, carry water, and plan your walking route before heading out.
18. Download offline maps for navigation
Offline maps are helpful for navigating without using mobile data. But they might not always be updated. Download apps like Google Maps or Maps.me and save your routes ahead of time to avoid losing your way.
19. Carpool with other travelers
If you’re traveling with a group, splitting the cost of car rentals or taxis can save you money. However, group travel requires coordination, and disagreements can happen. Make sure everyone is on the same page about schedules and budgets.
20. Use budget airlines for short-haul flights
Budget airlines offer cheaper tickets for short trips. But they often charge extra for baggage, seat selection, and meals. Travel light with just a carry-on and avoid unnecessary add-ons to keep the costs low.
Money-Saving Accommodation Ideas
21. Stay in hostels for affordable lodging
Hostels are one of the most popular cheap ways to travel and meet other travelers. They are budget-friendly, especially for solo trips. But some hostels can be noisy or crowded. To avoid a bad experience, read reviews on Hostelworld. Choose highly-rated options.
22. Try Couchsurfing to stay with locals for free
Couchsurfing lets you stay at someone’s home for free. You can experience local culture. However, staying with strangers can feel unsafe if you don’t know the host. Always choose verified profiles with good reviews. Communicate with your host before arriving. Platforms like Couchsurfing connect you with locals who offer free stays.
23. Camp where wild camping is legal
Camping is a great way to save money while staying close to nature. Many countries, like Norway, allow wild camping for free. The downside is that campsites might lack facilities like bathrooms or electricity. Check local camping rules. Then, pack essentials like a stove and water purifier.
24. Book accommodations with free breakfast included
Hotels and hostels that offer free breakfast help you save money on food. But some free breakfasts are very basic and might not be filling. To make the most of it, grab some extra snacks like fruit or bread for later in the day.
25. Use house-sitting platforms like TrustedHousesitters
House-sitting allows you to stay in someone’s home for free in exchange for taking care of their property. However, it often requires trust and responsibility. Make sure you fully understand the tasks required before accepting a house-sitting job.
26. Split Airbnb costs with friends or fellow travelers
Sharing an Airbnb with others can reduce costs per person. But coordinating plans and sharing space with others can sometimes lead to conflicts. Agree on budgets, room preferences, and schedules beforehand to avoid disagreements.
27. Volunteer at hostels in exchange for free accommodation
Many hostels offer free lodging in exchange for a few hours of work per day. This is a great way to save while traveling the world. However, volunteer work can limit your free time for exploring. Make sure the work schedule allows you enough time to enjoy your destination.
28. Use last-minute deal apps like HotelTonight
Last-minute booking apps often offer big discounts on hotels. But availability might be limited in smaller towns or busy cities. Check multiple apps and compare prices before booking to get the best deal. Apps like HotelTonight offer last-minute discounts on hotel rooms.
29. Stay in monasteries or religious guesthouses for low rates
Religious establishments often provide clean, simple accommodations at a low cost. But the environment might be very quiet or have restrictions, like curfews. Research the rules of the guesthouse before booking to make sure it fits your needs.
30. Look for free or discounted stays through forums or local groups
Some forums or social media groups connect travelers with cheap places to stay. But scams can be an issue. Always verify offers. Avoid sharing personal info unless you trust the source.
Eating and Drinking on a Budget
31. Cook your own meals
Cooking is one of the easiest cheap ways to travel and save money. Eating out every day can be expensive, especially in Switzerland or Japan. However, not all places you stay will have kitchen access. To avoid this, book hostels, Airbnbs, or hotels with kitchens.
32. Eat street food for authentic and affordable meals
Street food is not only delicious but also budget-friendly. It’s a great way to experience local cuisine while sticking to your budget travel tips. Be cautious, though—some vendors may not follow strict hygiene standards. To stay safe, choose stalls with long lines or vendors cooking food fresh in front of you.
33. Take advantage of free breakfasts
Many hotels and hostels include free breakfast, which can save you money on food. But sometimes, the options might be limited to toast, coffee, or basic snacks. To make the most of it, grab extra items like fruit or bread to eat as a snack later in the day.
34. Shop at local grocery stores
Buying groceries from local markets or supermarkets can save you a lot of money. It is cheaper than dining out. This is one of my favorite affordable travel hacks, especially in expensive countries. You might not find brands you’re familiar with, but this is a great opportunity to try local ingredients.
35. Bring snacks for travel days
Packing your own snacks for long trips can save you. It avoids spending too much on overpriced airport or train station food. Be mindful, though—perishable items may not last in hot weather. Stick to non-perishables like granola bars, nuts, or dried fruit.
36. Carry a refillable water bottle
A refillable water bottle is not only eco-friendly but also a great way to cut daily costs. Bottled water can add up quickly. However, in some countries, tap water may not be safe to drink. To solve this, use a bottle with a built-in filter or carry water purification tablets.
37. Look for local lunch specials
Many restaurants offer lunch specials at lower prices compared to dinner menus. It’s an easy way to save money while still enjoying local food. These deals are usually available only during certain hours. So, plan your meals around lunchtime to save money.
38. Avoid touristy restaurants
Restaurants near major tourist attractions often charge inflated prices. You can save money and enjoy better food by walking a few blocks away from the tourist hotspots. Use apps like Google Maps or TripAdvisor to find affordable, well-reviewed local eateries.
39. Limit alcohol consumption
Alcohol is one of the easiest ways to blow your travel budget. Drinks are often heavily taxed, making them even more expensive. Stick to local drinks. Drink in moderation. Buy alcohol at grocery stores, not bars, to save money.
40. Use dining discount apps and coupons
Apps like Eatigo or Groupon can help you find discounts at restaurants. But not every deal is as good as it looks. Always read the fine print and compare prices to ensure you’re actually saving money.
Saving Money on Attractions
41. Use free walking tours
Free walking tours are one of the best cheap ways to travel and explore cities. Many cities offer these tours where you pay only what you feel is fair as a tip. However, some tours can get crowded, especially in tourist-heavy areas. To enjoy the experience, arrive early and choose tours with smaller group sizes.
42. Visit attractions on free or discounted days
Museums and attractions often have free or discounted entry days. This is an excellent budget travel tip for saving money. But be warned—these days can attract large crowds. Plan to arrive early in the day to avoid long lines and make the most of your visit.
43. Buy city passes for multiple attractions
City passes bundle entry fees for popular attractions. They even include free public transportation. However, not all passes are worth the cost if you don’t plan to visit enough sites. Research what’s included and calculate if it saves you money based on your itinerary. City passes like the Go City Pass provide access to multiple attractions at discounted rates.
44. Explore free outdoor landmarks and natural attractions
Parks, hiking trails, beaches, and iconic landmarks are often free to visit. This is one of the easiest cheap ways to travel while enjoying beautiful sights. Some natural attractions may require permits or have limited access. Always check entry requirements beforehand.
45. Look for local events and festivals
Local festivals and cultural events often offer free entertainment. This is an excellent way to experience the local vibe without spending a dime. However, some events may require prior registration or tickets. Check local tourism websites to stay informed.
46. Create DIY tours instead of hiring guides
Hiring private guides can get expensive, especially for solo travelers. Instead, use free resources to create your own tours. Check blogs, YouTube videos, or guide apps. The only downside is that you might miss out on local insights from a professional guide. Balance your DIY tours with a few guided ones when necessary.
47. Use apps for free audio tours
Apps like izi.TRAVEL offer free audio tours for many popular tourist attractions. These apps are a great alternative to hiring guides. But not all attractions are available on every app. Download the app and check for available tours before you arrive.
48. Leverage student, senior, or group discounts.
If you qualify for student or senior discounts, carry an ID to save on attraction tickets. Group discounts are also a great way to save money if you’re traveling with friends. The challenge is that some places don’t clearly advertise these discounts. Always ask if discounts are available, even if they aren’t listed.
49. Avoid guided tours when unnecessary.
Guided tours can help at some historical sites. But, many attractions are fine without one. This saves you money and gives you more flexibility. However, some places may not have enough information posted for self-guided exploration. Use apps or guidebooks to fill in the gaps.
50. Research free attractions before you travel.
Some of the best attractions are free. They include public art, parks, and historic sites. This is one of my favorite affordable travel hacks for saving money. The only downside is that it takes time to research. Use travel blogs, forums, and official tourism websites to find hidden gems.
Some Extra Tips For Managing Money While Traveling the World
Use travel credit cards to earn rewards.
Travel credit cards can help you earn points or miles for free flights, hotels, or upgrades. However, some cards have high annual fees or interest rates. To save money, pick a card with no foreign transaction fees and pay off the balance each month. It’s one of the best affordable travel hacks for frequent travelers.
Withdraw cash only when necessary to save on ATM fees.
Withdrawing money often can lead to high ATM fees. Taking out larger amounts reduces the number of withdrawals and saves you money. But carrying too much cash can be risky. To stay safe, keep most of it locked in a secure place and carry only what you need for the day.
Track your spending daily with budgeting apps.
Apps like Trail Wallet and Mint help you budget. They manage your expenses and prevent overspending. The problem is, some apps need the internet to update in real time. To avoid this, choose apps that function offline or update your budget when you access Wi-Fi. Staying on top of your expenses is one of the simplest budget travel tips.
Exchange currency at banks or ATMs for better rates.
Airport kiosks and exchange shops often charge higher fees. Banks and ATMs usually offer better rates. But, some ATMs still charge exchange fees. Research the best banks or ATMs in the country you’re visiting to cut extra costs.
Pack smart to avoid buying overpriced items abroad.
Buying items like sunscreen or adapters in touristy areas can be expensive. Overpacking, yet, can lead to extra baggage fees. Make a packing list ahead of time and pack only the essentials you’ll need for your trip. Packing smart is one of the easiest, cheapest ways to travel without overspending.
Avoid tourist scams to protect your money.
Scams targeting tourists can drain your wallet in no time. They’re common in crowded areas or unfamiliar spots. Stay safe by researching scams in your destination beforehand. Always agree on prices upfront for taxis or services, and trust your instincts.
Buy travel insurance to cover unexpected costs.
Travel insurance can save you from high costs. It covers medical emergencies, cancellations, and lost luggage. Some policies, however, may not cover everything you need. Compare options to find affordable insurance that fits your trip and gives you peace of mind.
Set aside an emergency fund.
Unexpected costs like medical bills or canceled flights can happen anytime. Having an emergency fund ensures you’re prepared for surprises. Be careful not to use it for non-emergencies. Keep this money separate from your daily budget. Use it only in emergencies.
Secure your travel documents and money.
Losing your passport or money can lead to unnecessary stress and extra expenses. Theft is common in busy areas, so keep your valuables secure. Use a money belt or hidden pouch to carry your cash and ID, and make digital copies of your documents as backups.
Plan ahead for big expenses.
Booking flights, accommodations, or tours at the last minute can cost more. Plan for these major expenses in advance to save money and reduce stress. This also helps you stick to your overall budget and avoid overspending.
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Traveling doesn’t have to be expensive. With these 50 cheap ways to travel, you can save money and still have amazing experiences. Small changes can help. Use public transport, cook your meals, or book off-peak flights.
Use these budget travel tips and hacks. They’ll stretch your budget and give you more adventures. Planning ahead and staying flexible are the keys to traveling smart.
What are your favorite ways to save money while traveling? Share your tips in the comments—I would love to hear them!
