Budget Hacks For Savvy Travellers

We have put together this list of tips to help you save money on your adventures:

• Book during low-peak season and do your research to avoid school holidays and other holiday seasons that may affect costs and the general hustle bustle of your destination.
• Book directly from the hotel. Often you will save on extra fees added on by travel agents and websites and it’s easier to negotiate upgrades, especially if it’s off-peak season.
• Always have a re-usable drink bottle or make sure to keep water bottles, so you don’t have to keep buying new bottles.
• If you have a rental car, be careful where you park and try and see if you can get a car without the company name on it. Car thieves target tourists so it’s important to be wary of where you’re keeping your passports and money.
• Find destinations where the dollar is in your favour. For example instead of Bali look at Thailand deals, and you’ll often find huge savings and can extend your holiday!
• Familiarise yourself with the local forms of public transport. It’s a lot cheaper to catch a bus or train than a taxi and will give you an opportunity to have a look around areas you might not have seen on main highways.
• If you’re travelling for a special occasion like your birthday or an anniversary, always let your hotel staff know because they’ll often give complimentary wine or something nice to ensure you have a good stay.
• When packing take half the clothes you have planned and twice the money. If your luggage weighs too much, airlines can charge big fees and it’s often cheaper to buy at your destination.
• See if you can negotiate a long-term rate if you’re planning to stay in the same place for an extended stay. They may advertise one, but you’re best to contact the hotel directly.
• Sign up for hotel loyalty programs. They’re often free to join and offer great perks like free Wi-Fi, late-checkout, and free room upgrades. You can also accumulate points over time and get free stays.
• If your accommodation offers complimentary breakfast, make the most of it! Get as much food as possible and save some snacks for later.
• Take the night train instead if you’re planning to travel by train. They’re often cheaper and it also means you save on accommodation you would have booked that night.
• Book things in a group. Whether it’s a taxi, quad-share hotel/hostel or a tour, the rates usually favour groups and will save you significantly.
• Plan daily itineraries so you know the general cost of each day. If you’re more of a “go with the flow” person, then just budget a certain amount of money and don’t take anything else with you.
• Avoid eating in touristy districts and find out where the locals eat. Not only will this save you on money but experiencing the food authentically will give you more of an idea of their culture.
• If you’re travelling to more than one country, try and do as much of your shopping for necessary items in the countries where your dollar is worth more.