Solo travel is an extremely rewarding experience, with freedom, self-discovery, and the ability to see the world your way. One of the only disadvantages of solo travel, however, is the cost. Solo travel can be expensive, but if you are aware of what to do, you can travel the world without spending an arm and a leg. Below are some budget travel tips for solo travelers that will enable you to get the most out of your trip while keeping costs low.
Plan Ahead, But Stay Flexible
One of the easiest ways to save money is to reserve in advance. Reserving flights and accommodations in advance will often get you a better price, especially if you’re going abroad. But be willing to be flexible if you’re going on a tight budget. Being flexible with flight dates can really save you some money. If you have a little flexibility, you may be able to score a cheaper flight by altering your departure or return date.
Use Budget Airlines and Trains
Low-cost airlines have revolutionized the way we travel. While they might not offer the luxury and amenities of full-service airlines, they can significantly lower the cost of your airfares. Use low-cost airlines like Ryanair, EasyJet, or Southwest for short flights, or long-distance flights like AirAsia and Norwegian Airlines. For traveling within a region, buses and trains are generally cheaper modes of transport.
Stay in Budget Hotel
Accommodation has the potential to be one of the most costly aspects of visiting another country, but it shouldn’t be. Consider staying at hostels, guesthouses, or Airbnb flats. Hostels are particularly convenient for solo tourists because they’re an opportunity to mingle with others like yourself at affordable prices. For greater discretion, Airbnb costs less than staying at a hotel. You have Couchsurfing too, allowing you to couchsurf with natives at no expense!
Use Public Transport
Instead of taxis or private transport, use public transport whenever possible. Most cities have good and cheap metro, bus, or tram systems. Not only will you be cutting costs, but by taking public transport, you get to experience the real local culture, interacting with locals and visiting places that are not in the standard tourist brochures.
Eat Locally
Dining out is easy to spend a lot of money on, but there are many options for saving money on food. Street food is an excellent option, as it is usually delicious and much cheaper than eating at touristy restaurants. Most countries have local markets that sell fresh fruits and vegetables, snacks, and prepared foods at reasonable prices. If you have access to a kitchen, buy groceries and prepare your own meals. This not only saves you money but also gives you a chance to experience local food and cooking techniques.
Travel Off-Season
Traveling in off-season can help you save a great deal of money. In the peak tourist months, flights, hotel stays, and activities cost more. If you travel during the shoulder season or low season, you’ll not only get more affordable options but also experience smaller crowds. Moreover, several tourist spots give discounts or run special offers in these periods.
Avail Free Activities
Most destinations provide free activities and experiences that allow you to find out about things without having to spend a single penny. Look into free walking tours, museum free days, or outdoor activities like swimming or hiking. Parks, beaches, and town or city festivals are also full of entertainment for next to nothing. And don’t forget to take advantage of free events like local markets, cultural events, or live open-air concerts.
Travel with a Carry-On Only
Avoid checked bag fees by traveling with a carry-on only. Not only will you save money, but airport and transport hub travel will be easier and faster as well. Travel light, and take only the essentials. You’ll be shocked at how little you actually need when traveling with a carry-on.
Utilize Travel Rewards and Frequent Traveler Programs
Frequent flyer miles, hotel reward programs, and travel credit cards all can help you save money on your travel. Rewards programs are available for most airlines, hotels, and travel agencies that give you points or miles for every purchase that you make and then use those points to get flights, rooms, or upgrades. If you travel often, consider getting a travel rewards credit card so that you earn points on all of your purchases and receive bonus deals.
Travel Slow
The faster you travel, the more expensive it is. Instead of going from one spot to another in a rush, slow down and stay in each spot for longer. Slow travel allows you to become deeply immersed in the surrounding culture, establish relationships, and save on travel costs. On top of this, longer visits tend to cost less for accommodation, and it will be easier to monitor your finances in the long run.
Use Travel Websites and Apps
There are various apps and websites that help budget travelers save money. Skyscanner, Google Flights, and Momondo are the perfect websites to book the lowest flight prices. To book low-priced rooms, explore Hostelworld, Booking.com, or Agoda. Never forget to use apps like Maps.me for maps offline and TripAdvisor for tips on activities to explore at your location.
Travel Insurance is a Smart Investment
While it can seem like an added expense, travel insurance will pay for itself if there’s an emergency. It’s particularly important for traveling alone, since you’re more at risk of getting hurt or falling ill while on your own. Look for a policy that covers health, trip cancellations, lost luggage, and evacuations in the event of an emergency. Feeling secure is well worth the investment.
Conclusion
Solo travel on a budget requires some planning, creativity, and adaptability. Doing these will make you get more value out of your travel money and have more to spend on adventures and activities. Solo travel is one of the most fulfilling experiences to experience the world, and with preparation, it need not be expensive. So pack lightly, travel wisely, and start your adventure on a budget today!