We will write a full guide on How to avoid spending so much money traveling, this guide is for you especially if it’s your first time going abroad or planning to extend an international trip for a few weeks or months.
Traveling can become expensive quickly if you’re not mindful of your spending habits. Here’s a travel guide on how to avoid spending too much money while still making the most of your trip.
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How To Avoid Spending So Much Money Traveling
1. Budget Planning
Set a Daily Limit: Allocate a specific amount per day for food, activities, and other expenses to keep your overall budget in check.
Research Costs: Investigate the average cost of accommodation, transportation, and activities in your destination beforehand.
Determine a reasonable daily spending limit and stick to it. Track your expenses using budgeting apps or a simple spreadsheet.Resist the temptation to buy things on impulse, especially souvenirs and luxury items. Think twice before purchasing to determine if it’s necessary.
2. Transportation
Flights: Use fare comparison tools and be flexible with dates and destinations to find cheaper flights. Consider budget airlines or alternative airports. If you pack light for your trip, you will avoid paying for your luggage in the flights.
Public Transit: Use local buses, subways, or trains instead of taxis and rideshares.
Car Rentals: If necessary, compare prices and book in advance. Opt for smaller vehicles to save on gas.
Data and Calls: Use local SIM cards or Wi-Fi-based calling and messaging apps instead of international roaming plans.
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3. Accommodation
Alternative Lodging: Hostels, vacation rentals, or house-sitting can be significantly cheaper than hotels.
Stay Outside Tourist Areas: Accommodations outside city centers or tourist hotspots often offer lower rates.
You can rent an Airbnb and get public transportation and save 30-40% of the money in your accommodation and in the restaurants around the neighborhood that you are staying.
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4. Food and Drink
Street Food and Markets: Eat where locals eat. Street food and markets offer affordable, authentic cuisine.
Cook Your Own Meals: Choose accommodations with a kitchen and prepare your own meals using local ingredients.
Avoid Tourist Restaurants: Restaurants near major attractions often charge more for lower quality.
Dining out frequently can add up. Limit restaurant visits and avoid pricey tourist areas when you do eat out.
Especially if you are traveling to areas like South America, Southeast Asia and East Europe you will find many affordable places for street food and the quality can be great!
5. Activities and Sightseeing
Free Attractions: Take advantage of free museums, parks, walking tours, and local festivals.
Discount Passes: Research city passes that bundle multiple attractions at discounted rates.
Self-Guided Tours: Organize your own walking tours and excursions instead of paying for guided ones.
Many cities offer free walking tours, performances, or other activities—take advantage of these to enrich your experience without spending.
6. Currency and Banking
ATMs: Withdraw local currency from ATMs with minimal fees.
No-Fee Cards: Use credit or debit cards that don’t charge foreign transaction fees.
Monitor Exchange Rates: Exchange currency when rates are favorable.
7. Souvenirs and Shopping
Limit Purchases: Plan souvenir shopping thoughtfully to avoid impulsive buys.
Bargain Markets: Shop at local markets rather than tourist stores, and negotiate prices where appropriate.
8. Hidden Fees and Extras
Extra Baggage Fees: Travel with just a carry-on to avoid checked baggage fees.
Hotel Extras: Avoid hotel mini-bars, expensive laundry services, and other unnecessary amenities.
Tourist Traps: Steer clear of activities and attractions pushed by aggressive vendors or tour operators.
ATM Fees and Currency Exchange: Withdraw cash from ATMs in larger amounts to reduce transaction fees, and be wary of currency exchange booths with high fees.
9. Travel Insurance
Coverage: Choose travel insurance that includes health coverage, cancellations, and lost baggage to prevent unexpected financial losses.
Investing in travel insurance can save you a lot of money in the event of unexpected medical issues, trip cancellations, or lost luggage.
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10. Loyalty Programs
Points and Miles: Utilize travel credit cards, hotel, and airline loyalty programs to earn points towards future trips.
About the Author: Ruben, co-founder of Gamintraveler.com since 2014, is a seasoned traveler from Spain who has explored over 100 countries since 2009. Known for his extensive travel adventures across South America, Europe, the US, Australia, New Zealand, Asia, and Africa, Ruben combines his passion for adventurous yet sustainable living with his love for cycling, highlighted by his remarkable 5-month bicycle journey from Spain to Norway. He currently resides in Spain, where he continues sharing his travel experiences with his partner, Rachel, and their son, Han.