While travel is something that everyone should do, the reality is that it can be expensive. But there are still people who manage to do it, so what are their secrets? Even if you don’t have a ton of money, it’s still possible to see the world. You just have to know how to travel cheap, and that’s the topic we’ll be covering here today.

The world is a big place, and there are lots of little tips and tricks that you can use to save money and travel cheaply. Let’s look at some different ways to keep your budget under control while you are globetrotting.

How to travel cheap

How to Travel Cheap: Start Small For Big Savings

There are a lot of parts that go into planning any trip. If you can save just a little (or even a lot) in each category, it will add up to big savings overall. It’s definitely possible without breaking the bank, so start small. You just might save thousands of dollars when traveling the world.

What Are Necessities and What Aren’t?

One of the best ways to travel the world on a budget is to figure out exactly what you need and what you don’t. This is different for everyone, so one person’s must-have will be another’s “nice but not necessary”. For example, if you need privacy while traveling, but aren’t necessarily someone who absolutely needs to stay in hotels, consider a private room hostels offer.

There’s also the option of Airbnbs. These give you the benefit of having a kitchen, much like staying in a hostel, but are a more private, upscale experience. Another great tip is to rent out your room or house while you are away. You won’t be using it, and the extra cash in your pocket can go towards your travels.

While we’re talking about accommodation, there are also the possibilities of house sitting, as well as couch surfing. If you know someone who lives in the major big cities of the world, you can also stay with your friends and use their home as a base.

House sitting is a great option if you plan on sticking around for two weeks or more. Websites like HouseCarers, MindMyHouse, Nomador, HouseSitMatch, and TrustedHousesitters are great places to get matched with owners looking for house sitters. You’ll usually need to upload a profile and pay an annual fee which lets you access the house sitting gigs available. Contact the owners directly to chat and then go from there. You can also check to see if they need you to water plants, care for animals, or do any other special tasks.

Take a look at your budget as well as your preferences to figure out the cheapest option possible for your trip. The same is true for housing as well as transportation. The most important thing is to remain flexible and open-minded if you are a budget traveler.

How to Travel For Cheap: Know Where to Look

One of the secrets to travel hacking is to know where to look to find a great deal. If you want to know how to travel for cheap, the key is to look in the right places. It could be that you’re looking for websites like Travelocity, Expedia, Kayak, Momondo, or Mobissimo. These sites are perfect for budget travels and finding a plane ticket at a discounted price.

Travel cheap and save on airfare

Flights cost a lot, so in addition to look at looking at budget airlines, you should also try out some of these discount sites. Another way to get a good deal is to browse for error fares. I recommend signing up on platforms like The Flight Deal, Airfare Watchdog, Scott’s Cheap Flights for Mistake Fares, and Secret Flying. These glitch fares tend to either sell out or get corrected in a matter of hours, so be sure you’re on top of it if you’re looking to take advantage.

And of course, set up alerts for price drops on websites like Skyscanner. A lot of times these last-minute fares and discounted flights require quick action and have a relatively close departure date. Have your suitcase and packing list ready to go so you’re prepared for anything.

How to Travel the World Cheap

One of the best ways to minimize your budget while traveling is to save money on food. I always recommend whenever possible while on the road. It’s especially easy to do this when staying at some of the accommodation options mentioned above. Stretch your travel budget by popping into the closest grocery store and picking up some items for dinner. Cooking for yourself just as you would when you’re at home is a great tactic for stretching your funds.

Dining in restaurants and trying local food is great, but if you eat out for every meal then your wallet will not be very happy. Stay in the kitchen for most of your meals and your bank account will thank you. You should also try stocking up on wine, beer and liquor at duty-free. If you plan on going out, you can save on your bar tab by pre-gaming. Alcohol can be quite expensive, so either buy it yourself or take advantage of happy hour specials.

Travel Cheaply by Going During the Off-Season

Visiting a country during its off-season or shoulder season is one of the best ways to travel cheaply. It’s even better if your summer travel season falls at a time that’s not high season in your desired destination.

Tourists flock to popular destinations year in and year out. But if you can find a way to beat the crowds, it always works in your favor. Not only will you have more access to sites and activities, you’ll also save a pretty penny. Generally, off-season and shoulder season will bring huge discounts and savings for travelers. This is especially true in countries with a tourism-heavy economy.

Cheap travel tips and off-season

If you want to know how to travel for cheap, do it when not many other people are.

How to Travel the World Cheap: Opt For Travel Insurance

Spending money when you’re trying to save money might seem a bit odd at first. But you never know what can happen when you’re in a foreign place, especially if you’re a solo traveler. I highly recommend getting travel insurance just in case. You never know what unexpected problems could pop up. Travel insurance lowers what you pay out of pocket, so check out the different policies available. It’s always better to be safe than sorry.

How to Travel Cheaply

The cost of travel is not something that needs to hinder you from exploring the world at large. If you know how to travel cheap, the world is your oyster. All you have to do is pick where you want to visit and go for it.

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