Budgeting tips

Published on 23 September 2026 at 11:12 am

To plan a successful holiday while keeping the budget low can be stressful but here are my best tips:

Stay Beyond Tourist Hubs: Choose hostels, guesthouses, or rental apartments in residential neighbourhoods rather than right next to major attractions.
Look for Long-Stay Discounts: Many rentals and hostels offer weekly or monthly discounts if you stay in one location longer.
Work Exchanges & House Sitting: Platforms like Workaway, Worldpackers, or TrustedHousesitters let you trade basic tasks (like house sitting, gardening, or hostel desk work) for free accommodation.

Cook Your Own Meals: Choose accommodations with a kitchen or access to a microwave. Shopping at local grocery stores and neighbourhood fruit stands saves a significant amount compared to eating out three times a day.
Eat Like a Local: When you do eat out, opt for street food, local bakeries, or neighbourhood lunch specials rather than sit-down restaurants in high-traffic tourist areas.
Carry Snacks & Reusable Water Bottles: Avoid buying overpriced convenience food or bottled water on the go by keeping daily essentials with you.

Use Public Transit: Rely on local buses, trains, metros, or trams instead of taxis and rideshares. Look into daily, weekly, or multi-ride transit passes for extra savings.
Walk or Bike: Exploring cities on foot is free and often the best way to uncover hidden neighbourhood spots.
Book Long-Distance Travel Early: If moving between regions or countries, train and flight tickets are usually cheapest when booked several weeks in advance.

Take Advantage of Free Days: Many museums, galleries, and historic sites offer free entry on specific days of the month or late afternoons.
Focus on Outdoor & Free Attractions: Parks, historic plazas, walking trails, public beaches, and self-guided walking tours cost nothing and offer authentic local experiences.
Ask Locals for Recommendations: Local residents can direct you to budget-friendly spots and free regional events that aren't listed in major travel guides.