Sometimes, one of the most expensive things is not getting to a destination but rather the amount you spend while exploring. You can find a cheap deal on flights and hotels but transport, excursions, and food can add to the cost.
So here are cool money saving tips that I personally use to stay on budget when travelling.
Use public transportation
Recently I shared how you can save a ton of money when visiting London by combining hotel and transport outside the city.
With better developed public transport bigger cities offer discounts for daily, weekly and monthly travel cards. And if you are in a smaller city you can always go by foot and see all that it has to offer and take great photos!
Cook what you eat
Something simple of course 🙂
Well, this one is easy if you have booked a room with a kitchen or rented an apartment through Airbnb you can cook your own meals. That way you can be sure it is halal and you can make it the way you want and you are sure to save money. Even if you don’t cook every single meal at home, just by having breakfast and a light dinner you can save a ton of cash.
Consider different options rather than a hotel
Nowadays, there are many options other than hotels, that you can consider for a cheaper stay. You can stay in an Airbnb if you have a large family and if you are travelling solo you can even stay in some cool hostels like Generation. Airbnb is currently offering £25 for new sign ups towards your first stay, which is a great discount.
If you prefer the security of a hotel, then try and find options that are further out of the cities.
Read more: How to Find Cheap Hotels & Two Hotel Sites I Consistently Find Cheap Deals
Don’t shop around tourist areas
Where there are tourists, there are people who want to take their money, whether it’s just for a souvenir or a cup of coffee or a meal. If you’re not prepared to say goodbye to your precious money don’t do any of the aforementioned near a tourist area. When we were in Budapest earlier this year, we saved ⅔ of the price of a desert just by crossing the street (literally). Thanks to our local guide who shared the tip with us.
Take a free walking tour
This takes me to the best option in town for cheap travel; taking a free-walking tour. Free-walking tours are a great way to explore a city for free with the help of a guide! In most big cities this service is offered, and all that is asked of you is to be in the right place at the right time. Nothing more! We saved a ton of cash and we ate in some really cool local places just by going on a free-walking tour.
Look for better exchange rates
When you’re visiting a country with a different currency than yours, you should always be prepared for the exchange rates. Some places are better than others who are robbing you. So be careful which service you are using. You can exchange at home before you travel or you can withdraw money from your card or you can even take one of the travel cards with you.
Use apps – for communication and for budgeting
In the 21st century, a phone with apps is not a luxury anymore and for most people, it is something they can’t live without. Thankfully there are smart people, who want to make our life easier and think of awesome apps. When you want to keep track of the money you’re spending, there is an app for it. I love Mint. When you want to be in contact with your family or friends at home there is an app for it too (Skype, Viber, Whatsapp and now even Facebook). You just need internet access and here comes tip 8.
Get a good telephone plan
I have been looking to get a phone plan with free roaming minutes and data. This way you can keep in touch and order an Uber in the airport even before you manage to get a local sim. There are a few options in the UK but I know that they are widely available in the USA and even Bulgaria. I can say my mum is further ahead of the game on this one. 😉 When you are outside you can always use the free wi-fi available and thankfully Starbucks are everywhere. Just make sure your phone and information are protected. I personally use Avast.
By Tourist Passes for Local attractions
Just like transportation passes, many cities offer museum and sites passes which you can buy and have access to many museums and attractions. These passes usually work cheaper if you love museums and attractions and if you have many days available. Otherwise, try out the local Groupon website or Mastercard priceless cities. They offer great discounts to local attractions.
Check if the museums or attractions offer a free entrance
Many local and national museums offer free entry, such as the British Museum in London. Others offer them on certain days such as national bank holidays, so always check before you visit. For example, Acropolis in Athens is free every Sunday between the 1st of November and 31st of March. A great deal for exploring an ancient site.