“Done laid around, done stayed around
This old town too long
And it seems like I’ve got to travel on”
– Bob Dylan
Travel experiences are unique, unforgettable, and highly enriching. If not for all my travels, I would never have learned so much about different cultural customs, foods, fashion, art, and music. For example, I wouldn’t know that it is considered rude in Tokyo to eat anywhere on the streets, but drinks like coffee are fine. I also wouldn’t be aware that in Spain, they close all restaurants and shops around 3 P.M. for siesta so if you miss lunch, you may be forced to skip it and stay hungry until dinner. As a foodie, I have learned a lot of food-related customs, as you can see.
As the years go by, airline travel is gradually becoming more practical and affordable to the public. This is amazing news for travel lovers! We can now see more of the world than our ancestors could even dream of seeing. Unfortunately, when travelling, it can sometimes feel like all the costs add up to an arm and leg. It can be too expensive!
That’s why we have conducted extensive research and compiled the ultimate list of ways to save money while vacationing abroad. Check out our recommendations and put them into practice on your next trip!
12 Tips for Saving Money While on Holiday
#1. Pack Light
When packing your luggage for the trip, be sure not to overpack!
Bring the minimum amount of shoes, hats, toiletries, and other items. This will save you the risk of having to pay additional fees during your flight, train, or bus. Also, this ensures you will not be persuaded to pay for baggage transport to your hotel room or any other accommodations.
#2. Bring Snacks
On the other hand, do not be stingy when packing snacks for yourself!
It is fully legal to bring snacks, like sandwiches, with you on airplanes or any other mode of transportation! Even if you fly from Alaska all the way to Antarctica. So, save some pocket money by bringing snacks that last as long as possible.
#3. Research Free Activities
Before your trip, use platforms like Google and YouTube to research all the free activities available to you!
Write them down somewhere and prioritize the ones you find to be the most suited to your interests. For example, in Montréal, Canada, the McCord Stewart Museum has free entry on Wednesday evenings. So, I organized my schedule to be able to enjoy this activity at zero cost.
#4. Take Public Transport
Renting a car has its limitations: the fees can get steep, you have to fill up on gas, pay for parking, sometimes even worry about securing a spot in a crowded touristic area.
Taking public transport is a great alternative since it’s eco-friendly, accessible, and very economical. Ensure to check out the public transport of the city you visit ahead of time, familiarizing yourself a bit so you don’t get lost when using it!
#5. Visit Local Grocery Stores
Grocery shopping in foreign countries can feel somewhat exotic and exciting. Personally, I love browsing and finding differences and similarities between the products there and the ones at home.
It is wise to visit these shops since it will save you a great amount of money, compared to eating at any restaurant.
#6. Avoid Tourist Traps
Unfortunately, not everyone you come across in your travels wants you to have a perfect time.
As natural as it is, try your best to avoid engaging scammers. Always stay alert of your surroundings. Go to shopping centres or markets where you expect to find more locals than tourists. And never be afraid to bargain for discounts where it seems to be the cultural norm!
#7. Avoid Paying Foreign Transaction Fees
Wherever you’re from, paying extra fees is unpleasant. This is even more frustrating when you are trying to relax on a holiday!
To avoid the pesky foreign transaction fees (FTFs): pay in cash using local currency, ensure your chequing account has no FTFs, or get a credit card with no FTFs.
#8. Book Activities Ahead of Time
The sooner, the better! This doesn’t go for getting old, but for booking your trip and all its adventures.
You will secure lower prices, with sites like Get Your Guide, for the most popular and highly-rated activities your heart desires.
#9. Ask the Locals
Where is the best ramen in Tokyo? Would you rather ask that question to your Google search bar or a nice person born and raised in Japan’s capital?
Our recommendation is to go with the latter. Step out of your comfort zone, and ask around for suggestions when you need some! Locals know best.
#10. Set a Daily Budget
Every day is a new day to spend money. Budgeting helps you save some! Daily budgets can be made for the following categories:
(1) Food/drink, (2) Souvenirs/shopping, (3) Entertainment, and (4) Transportation.
Also, don’t forget to include a small cash fund for emergencies.
#11. Track Spending
If you never look at your bank account while traveling, it’s like you never spent a thing!
That’s not the reality of course. For your best interest, keep track of your expenses throughout your journey to make sure you do not go over your budget.
#12. Make Money while Traveling
No need to budget too hard if you plan on taking a working holiday! Working while traveling is how some people backpack across continents.
This option can be done by using sites like WorldPackers.
Final Remarks
In conclusion, traveling looks different for every individual. We all vary in our likes, dislikes, and of course, financial backgrounds. Choose the tips that best suit your traveling wishes and customize your vacation plans to your taste!
Your wallet and heart will thank you. 🙂
Do you have a tip that you did not see listed here? Let us know in the comments below!
Check out our previous article to figure out what your best vacation destination would be based on your traveller type.
