Summer is in full swing and the wanderlust is surely kicking in. If you’re after an adventure then it’s time to start packing your things. Easier said than done, right? After all, traveling is an expensive endeavor. Beyond booking your flights and securing a sweet spot for evening snuggles, costs are bound to pile up while you’re trotting the globe. That being said, your next Summer trip doesn’t have to break the bank. With these smart money saving tips, you won’t have to worry about your wallet while you’re enjoying your weeks away.
1. Stow Your Supplements
There are few things worse than falling ill with the flu while you’re trying to enjoy a fabulous time in Peru. Or catching a cold while you’re wining and dining in Rome. There’s no telling what sort of bacteria you may contract on your travels and the last thing you need is to be stuck indoors sniffling. Furthermore, traveling can be immensely stressful and these stresses can give your immune system a blow. Ensuring that you arm yourself with sufficient supplementation before you leave is key to avoiding costly health setbacks. There is an abundance of options on the market to consider. Luckily, Research and You are here to point you in the right direction. They provide quality reviews of the best products on the market to help you find the most affordable deal.
2. Learn The Lingo
For an immersive cultural trip, it is wise to learn the local lingo. Communicating in the native tongue will help you connect with the community, thus, promoting a more enriching experience. On top of this, your new buddies will let you in on some of their best kept budget-beating secrets. From the cheapest and most authentic cuisines to popular hangouts that serve beer for half the price, the locals will have insightful money-saving travel tips. Being able to communicate with locals will help you avoid rip-offs when bartering or ensure that your driver doesn’t ditch you in the wrong location. So, before you even pack your bags, download an app like Duolingo and expand your linguistic knowledge.
3. Get Thrifty
After speaking to the locals, you’re bound to know about a few affordable hidden gems. These probably haven’t even featured in travel mags. With this knowledge in your head and Google maps in your hand, you can start making wise purchasing decisions. Steer clear of major malls and retailers you would usually find back home. Invest in the culture and visit a busy market instead. There are bound to be items you would have never imagined existed and clothes you can find for a fraction of the cost. Macklemore’s lyrics ring truer than ever when on the hunt for a foreign bargain. There’s a lot to buy with $20 dollars when you travel off the beaten track.
4. Avoid The Tourist Trap
Sure, taking some time to do the touristy things can provide a wealth of worthy Instagram shots. But, avoiding crowded communities of foreigners fleeting to tourist attractions can save you time spent in dreaded queues and money for more fulfilling experiences. Instead, opt for free activities and events. Many places you visit will feature free guided walks (some spare change for a tip will suffice) or museums with minimal entry fees. Activities like these provide educational insight and give you an opportunity to delve into the history of the destination.
5. Prioritize Public Transport
Chances are that the country you are visiting doesn’t have Uber. Maybe they have their own equivalent but it will probably come at a hefty price. Transport should be the least of your budget concerns. Rather choose to take public transport. Different countries have different ways of getting around. For example, the Tuk Tuk is an extremely affordable mode of transport unique to Thailand. Do your research before you visit and find out the best means to get around. While public transport is cost-effective, ensure that you keep your personal belongings safe. That’s a given no matter what country you are in. This resource here offers a few safety tips to keep in mind when taking public transport.
Your next Summer trip can be as entertaining and exhilarating as planned without emptying your wallet. By following these few money saving tips, you will not only come home with some cash to spare but more enriching experiences to share.