How to Travel on a Small Budget

Traveling can become incredibly expensive if you are not careful. It is easy to overspend while you're traveling because less expensive alternatives often are not considered. Traveling on a small budget can be fun and exciting, and it is not as difficult as it might first appear.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

1. Buy your tickets early. Whether traveling by plane, train or bus, tickets are generally less expensive if they are purchased well in advance.
2. Travel by bus when possible. Bus travel takes a bit longer than train or car, but the tickets are always less expensive, and you can usually meet some interesting characters sitting around you. The larger bus companies around the world offer comfortable accommodations, and sometimes you receive better treatment than you would on a plane or a train.
3. Hitchhike. Always proceed with caution, but hitchhiking is inexpensive and can be extremely fun if you watch out for your safety.
4. Stay in hostels. Hostels are a great way to save money and to meet really cool people. Most hostels have safes if you want to lock up your passport, money, and other valuables. You can choose to sleep in a room with other people, although most hostels offer the option of staying in a private room for a little more money.
5. Stay with friends when possible. If you know someone who lives in the city or town where you are traveling, call them and see if you can sleep on their floor or couch. Cook them breakfast every day as payment.
6. Cook your own meals. At hostels and at a friend’s place, you can buy groceries and cook your own meals. You will be surprised at how much money you will save eating in as opposed to going out for every meal of the day.
7. Begin your party where you are lodging - if partying is on the agenda. Instead of going out and drinking, pick up a bottle of wine from the local distributor and enjoy it in the comforts of your lodging.
8. Avoid shopping for souvenirs. Let the experience and the memories be your souvenirs. If you want to go into the market, walk around and enjoy the culture instead of spending lots of money on trinkets. If you have a camera, take pictures that you can save as souvenirs and give as gifts.