Traveling is one of the most fulfilling things a person can do. It’s fun, it’s educational, and if you plan accordingly, it can be affordable too. Here are our 10 tips for seeing the world on a budget. 

1. Travel During Off-Peak Seasons

It’s simple supply & demand: flights, accommodations and attractions tend to cost a lot less during off-peak seasons. Avoiding the busier travel times, like summer and major holidays, can help you save significantly while also allowing for a more relaxed experience, surrounded by fewer tourists. Off-peak seasons can vary by location, so be sure to do some research ahead of time for your preferred destination.

2. Book Flights in Advance (and Be Flexible)

Last minute flights almost always cost exponentially more than advanced reservations. As exhilarating as it is to plan a trip and jump on a plane all within 24 hours, it’s in your best interest (and your wallet’s) to know where you’re going well in advance, and plan your flights accordingly. Save even more by booking the flights nobody else wants, like red eyes or ones with multiple layovers. Just consider investing in a good travel pillow, too.

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3. Choose Budget Airlines (and Don’t Check Bags)

Airlines charge more for just about everything nowadays. If you’re willing to sacrifice a little leg room and some in-flight entertainment, you can save quite a bit through a budget airline. Checked bags will also cost you more (in money AND time if you factor in waiting at baggage claim), so get yourself a quality carry-on bag that fits everything you need. 

4. Consider Alternative Accommodations

Hotel stays can often be the most expensive part of an international trip. But do you really need all those amenities if you’re going to be out exploring the city all day anyway? Consider alternatives like hostels, housesitting, or just crashing with a local.

5. Use Public Transportation

Many cities across the globe have fantastic public transportation systems. You can save quite a bit by opting to take a bus or a train instead of a cab to your destination. Google Maps can direct you along public transportation routes, or you could download an app like Mapway that will plan your journey for you, complete with interactive maps and user-friendly live navigation. Learning the route may take some time, but immersing yourself in the local culture can be even more rewarding beyond just savings.

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6. Eat Like a Local

Treating yourself to a fancy meal three times a day can be very tempting while on vacation, but it can add up quickly. Consider hitting up food carts or local fast food spots to still get a new experience while saving a few more bucks. Or save even more by getting groceries for the whole trip at a local market once you arrive.

7. Plan Free or Low-Cost Activities

You don’t have to spend your entire trip at a theme park to make memories. Many places have hidden gems that cost very little, or nothing at all, to visit. Parks, museums, zoos and beaches are just a few of the places you can visit for cheap while you’re on vacation.
 

8. Leverage Travel Reward Programs

If you’re an avid traveler, the right reward program can be a real game changer. Whether it’s earning points with your favorite hotel chain, banking miles with your favorite budget airline, or just maximizing your cash back with a low-interest credit card, there are many reward programs you can join to save more with each trip.

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9. Get eSIM for Affordable Wireless Connectivity

A reliable wireless connection while traveling is valuable, but it doesn’t have to be expensive. Consider switching to eSIM to avoid hefty roaming fees. Ultra Mobile offers international calling to over 90 destinations and affordable roaming options to 210+ countries worldwide, so you can stay in touch with family & friends without eating into your souvenir budget. Speaking of…

10. Set a Daily Budget (and Stick to It)

This might be the most difficult step, but if you can pull it off, it can be highly rewarding. Set cost expectations by checking restaurant menus, ticket prices for any activities you have planned and deciding what souvenirs you’ll want to bring home. We recommend over budgeting a bit, in case something comes up on the day that you want to participate in. Any leftover funds can rollover to the next day, or drop them in a savings account for your next trip. 

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Now you see how traveling on a budget is not only possible but can be highly rewarding when done effectively. Using these tips, you can immerse yourself in another country’s culture, chow down on delicious local food and make incredible memories without racking up a ton of debt. And if you want to keep in touch with any friends you make along the way, switch to Ultra Mobile and enjoy unlimited talk & text to 90+ countries. Bon voyage! 

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