Practical Tips for the Budget Traveler
Travel Guides (Photo credit: Vanessa (EY))
Travel is not a luxury for the privileged few. Contrary to what some people think, anyone can travel as long as he or she really wants to. It’s the same as the old adage that says, “if there’s a will, there’s a way.” Although there are places that are really more expensive to visit, you can always start with other places that are less pricey to explore. Make a list of the places you want to visit and choose one that is more feasible to visit at the moment. Leave the expensive one for later after you have saved enough money for it. If you are afraid that you will go beyond your budget when you travel, here are some tips that will help you stay within your allotted travel funds.
Two or More Heads are Better Than One
Although some people prefer to travel alone, sometimes it’s better to travel in a group so that you can save on accommodations and other shared expenses. Travel coupons also usually require two or more people before you can avail of them. Traveling in a group also makes it more convenient and a little more cheaper when booking a packaged tour. Your travel buddies would also have different likes so planning your itinerary is bound to be interesting. You might be able to explore other places that you never thought of going to before because of a friend who is keen to visit there.
Explore the Offbeat Path
Although package tours can save you money, they can be a little inconvenient especially when you are grouped with other people. Another thing that can be annoying about tours is that there is a limited number of places in your itinerary and time spent at each stop is also limited as you are following a schedule. Delays can also be caused by group members who might choose to dillydally. If you choose to explore the offbeat path, you might actually get to explore more places than if you were on tour. You can also customize your list of must-visit places, including those charming hole-in-the-wall places that would be difficult to find if you are part of a tour. If, however, it is your first time at a particular location, it would be wise to join even just a half-day city tour just to get a feel of the place and learn how to get around town.. Make sure to do enough research so you’ll be able to know the best way to get somewhere, including the cheapest way to get there.
Prepare a Contingency Plan
Having a delayed flight is one the unpredictable things that can happen when you travel. The worst case scenario is when you flight gets cancelled and you will be forced to spend an extra night at that place you’re visiting. The extra night is going to be a problem especially if you’re on a budget. You have to prepare a contingency plan for scenarios like this and that includes having travel insurance. Insurance will serve as your backup plan especially for situations beyond your control. Since you are traveling on a budget, it is important that you will be covered in case there is a sudden medical emergency or delayed flights.
About the Author
Based in San Diego California, Tiffany Matthews is a professional writer with over 5 years of writing experience. She also blogs about travel, fashion, and anything under the sun at wordbaristas.com, a group blog that she shares with her good friends. In her free time, she likes to travel, read books, and watch movies. You can find her on Twitter as @TiffyCat87.
Category: Travel
