11 Tips for Traveling on a Budget
My tips & tricks for doing and seeing what you want, while not breaking the bank
Pack snacks. I always try to pack a few protein bars ahead of trips. This way I don’t get caught overpaying for a meal just out of convenience
Find Happy Hours. Go to the cool spots, but pay half the price
Snack or go for a meal at a local/ inexpensive place. Then go for cocktails after at a nicer place
Go to a nice restaurant and limit yourself to one drink. Maybe add an appetizer to share, but eat before and have plans for after so you don’t end up staying for more
Walk and use public transportation (subway, bus, etc.) before opting for an Uber. It’s a better way to see the city and experience the city like a local when you take the local transport. You may even learn a bit of the local language
Don’t splurge on accommodation. At the end of the day, when you’re traveling you really just need a place to sleep. Find something safe where you’ll feel comfortable, but don’t overdo it. Traveling is about the experience and usually that’s outside of your hotel room. My exception here would be unless you’re going on a vacation where you want access to a nice beach and pool and your hotel impacts your experience
Download a currency app if you are traveling abroad. That way you can check the prices on things right when you get off the plane. Don’t get ripped off at airports.. or anywhere when you’re abroad
Know the country’s policy on tipping. I always have to remind myself that not every city around the world follows the tipping rules of the U.S. I learned this lesson very late, and it cost me. Obviously, it’s always nice to tip when you experience great service, but it’s not required for every single expense
Have a picnic. Pick up food at a grocery store or deli and eat it somewhere scenic. It’s cheap and fun to eat somewhere outside with a view (at a park, on a bench somewhere, along the water, etc.). Just maybe check the weather ahead of time
Be smart when packing. Check the weather and pack layers. For example, London gets quite chilly in the summer (my first summer there I had packed only NYC/NJ summer outfits) - my feet were freezing and wore my boyfriend’s “jumpers” (sweaters) most days
Treat yourself to one night in a nice/fun hotel. If you did well/stuck to your budget and can afford this one, then I highly recommend this. I usually do this my last night of trips. Also, call the hotel ahead of time and say you are celebrating (birthday, anniversary) and ask if they do any complimentary champagne that they could have on arrival at the room. I usually say it’s a boyfriend’s birthday and I want to surprise him.. even if I don't have one ;) Sometimes places say they don’t do that, so your second chance is to ask again when you arrive (as if you didn’t call) and hope that you get a nicer person who agrees to do this for you
