Don’t let limited funds dampen your curiosity or dreams of learning more about a new place and culture this year. Check out these smart and frugal travel tips for exciting international experiences.
• Be flexible with transportation. If you’re willing to take a red-eye flight on a weeknight, you can probably score cheaper flights. When getting around in the city you’re visiting, consider alternative options like public transit, biking and walking over cabs and renting a car. However, always think of your personal safety first. If you are in a country with a tried and true public transit system that is known to be safe, and the area you want to get to is also considered safe, then give it a try. Keep an eye on your personal belongings at all times.
• Look for free activities. You can find many free events and attractions if you know where to look. Do your research beforehand and you’ll be surprised at the number of free public museums, markets and festivals you can find all over the world.
• Eat local. Restaurants that cater to tourists often demand big bucks, so avoid having meals near tourist hotspots. Do some wandering and see where the locals eat and don’t be afraid to shop at the grocery store for no-cook ingredients and grab on-the-go snacks or meals you can enjoy in a local park.
• Set priorities. Do you want to get tickets to a must-see show? Or maybe you need a premium seat with more legroom on the plane? Decide on the one travel element that you consider most valuable to enjoying your trip, and spend your money on that while opting for less expensive options for everything else.
