Tips for Cheaper Travel: Maximize Your Adventures!

Date: Oct 5, 2024

Introduction

Traveling doesn't have to drain your wallet. With a few savvy strategies, you can enjoy more experiences while spending less. Here are some top tips to help you travel cheaper without sacrificing quality:

1. Utilize Fare Finders and Flight Comparison Services

One of the best ways to find affordable flights is by using fare finders (see above for an example of the Wizz Air Fare Finder) and flight comparison services. Websites like Skyscanner, Google Flights, and Kayak allow you to compare prices across multiple airlines and travel dates, ensuring you get the best deal available. Sign up for fare alerts to keep an eye on price drops and grab tickets as soon as they become available.

2. Smart Parking Choices at Airports

Parking at the airport can be incredibly expensive. Instead of paying inflated rates, consider using services like YourParkingSpace to book a space on someone’s driveway. For example, when we traveled to Lithuania, the airport quoted us £90 for a week of parking. However, we found a space through YourParkingSpace for just £40, resulting in significant savings.

3. Fly with Low-Cost Airlines

Low-cost airlines are a fantastic option for budget travelers. We’ve scored flights to Poland for as little as £40 and Morocco for £60 by opting for these carriers. While you might have to forgo some luxuries, the savings can add up quickly, allowing you to allocate more funds toward your adventures.

4. Ditch Package Holiday Providers

Skip the package holiday providers and plan your trip independently. By booking your flights, accommodations, and activities separately, you can cut out the middleman and often save a considerable amount. Plus, this allows for a more personalized travel experience, letting you choose exactly what you want to see and do.

5. Use Coaches for Country Hopping

When traveling between countries, consider using coaches instead of flights. Not only is it usually cheaper, but it can also be a more scenic and rewarding experience. For instance, we traveled from Montenegro to Albania for just £30 each round trip. The journey was comfortable and provided us with stunning views we wouldn’t have seen from the air.

6. Use Filters to Find Budget-Friendly Accommodation

When booking apartments, use the price filter to find the cheapest options that meet your preferences. For us, self-check-in and a washing machine are must-haves. Having a washing machine allows you to pack lighter, wash your clothes during the trip, and avoid extra luggage fees, making your travel experience smoother.

7. Research Dining Options in Your Destination

Before you travel, research the local dining scene to find the cheapest restaurants with decent ratings. We made the mistake of not doing this in Montenegro, which resulted in a £50 meal, while in Bosnia, we paid only £15 for a fantastic dinner thanks to our research.

8. Clear Cookies or Use Incognito Mode

When searching for travel deals, make sure to clear your cookies or use incognito mode. This can help you get better prices, as many travel websites track your searches and may increase prices based on your browsing history. Additionally, using a VPN to connect to a server in a country with a weaker economy can lead to more favorable prices.

9. Evaluate Your Spending Habits

Take a close look at your spending at home. For instance, if you’re spending £40 a month on coffee after work, that’s equivalent to a round-trip flight to Bydgoszcz in Poland. Even small savings can add up to fund your travel plans!

10. Spread Out Payments

Rather than paying for your trip all at once, consider breaking down the payments. Use services like Klarna to pay in installments. For example, you can pay for flights one month, accommodations the next, and any additional travel costs in subsequent months. This approach makes traveling more manageable and less overwhelming financially.

Conclusion

The best way to start traveling is thowing any doubts out the window and work out how to make it happen, me and Tam started travelling when I was still a college student with little money, but the small savings make the big differences, you can also watch the below video for more context and information too.