Could You Save On Your Next Trip with These 7 Savvy Tips?
In today’s fast-paced world, travelling on a budget isn’t always easy. We manage it by hoping to find cheap flights, catching public transport when abroad, staying in hostels or travelling to ‘cheaper’ countries altogether.
But if you’ve got your heart set on a destination or simply don’t want to bunk in a hostel with a shared bathroom, what else can you do to save?
1. Find deals on Airbnb
Airbnb has transformed the way we stay, and it’s a great option for travellers looking to save without compromising on location.
You can rent anything from a room in someone’s house (great if you want to make friends with a local!) to an entire private apartment or house.
If you’ve never used Airbnb before, look for first-timer coupons that offer $25-50 off your first booking.
2. Look for meal deals
If you still want the benefit of eating out overseas without the costs, seek out a venue that offers a happy hour that also includes food.
You’ll often get to eat the same food from the regular menu, but at a heavily discounted price. Happy hours usually take place in the late afternoon or later at night after peak dining times – they’re a great excuse for an early dinner in the sun … or a late night snack to finish the day!
Other offers, like 3-course meal packages, can be great as well, so keep your eyes peeled.
3. Travel on trend
Travel, like any other industry, has trends. The good news is that you can take advantage of this and score yourself a cheaper holiday.
For example, Frommer’s recently speculated that the oversaturated river cruise market is currently in trouble – meaning prices are slashed and may well stay that way for 2016.
It’s not great for tourism operators, unfortunately – but for travellers, this means the opportunity to go on an amazing river cruise holiday for less.
4. Eat where locals eat
Don’t go the tourist route, especially when it comes to restaurants. These places – where the signs and menus are usually in English – cater to tourist tastes and prices.
Instead, look for spots filled with locals, like out-of-the-way eateries, markets or shacks.
You might have to get your translation skills ready, but the food will often be much more authentic and much cheaper. And in many cases, restaurant owners will appreciate your business too.
5. Hit Up the “Other” Cities
Major cities around the world can be lots of fun, but hitting up other cities and destinations nearby can be just as rewarding when you travel.
Think Osaka instead of Tokyo, Tarragona instead of Barcelona, Cabo San Lucas instead of Los Angeles.
A lot of the time, costs in these places – hotels, food, drinks, transport – will be much cheaper and you’ll get to experience more diversity and a different type of culture than what a big city can offer.
6. Browse ‘Deal’ Websites
Chances are, you’re probably signed up to Groupon, Living Social, Travel Zoo or one of those deal or coupon sites for your own city/country.
But in most cases, deal websites operate in a multitude of destinations, meaning you can snag a range of coupons and savings – for meals, tours, shows, etc. – for wherever you’re going. You should check out Canadian Shopping Sites for great coupons and travel discounts.
Just be sure that if you book an activity (e.g. abseiling, scuba tour), it’s covered by your holiday insurance.
7. Fly out in the early morning
We all know that flying red-eye can help you save, but so can departing in the early morning.
Airlines tend to discount early morning (e.g. 6-7am) flights while making flights at ‘ideal’ times more expensive. Ergo, the early bird flight is your money-saving friend.
This might require getting to the airport early, but it also means you’ll avoid some of the crowds and arrive at your destination a lot earlier, giving you more time to play and explore.