Going on vacation can be expensive, but it doesn’t have to cost an arm and a leg. There are many ways that people can cheaply book and plan their vacation, but what about when you’re actually at your destination?
Things can get very expensive very quickly, with travel, activities, eating out and staying in hotels. But it doesn’t have to be that bad, there are plenty of ways to reduce the impact on your wallet. Here are some varied ideas, suitable for all types of tourists.
ACCOMMODATION
Youth hostels: Despite the name, many youth hostels have family rooms. If you imagine a dirty, cramped and noisy accommodation, put those ideas out of your head. Youth hostels are definitely basic, but if you do your research ahead of time, you’ll find many that are clean, well located, and at least well soundproofed.
House exchange: This system has been around for a while now and there are many sites created to cater to those who would rather switch houses with other travelers than pay for a hotel room. Make sure you choose who will trade with you based on good reviewers and trust your gut.
couchsurfing: Great for the single traveler, not so much for families. Couchsurfing is a relatively new phenomenon. The idea is that you meet people through the web and they offer you accommodation in their home. It’s usually free, though sometimes people exchange services or gifts in exchange for sleeping arrangements. It is also possible for couples to find accommodation, although it is more complicated.
Hotel budget: They certainly aren’t a romantic or special option, but if you plan to use your hotel room just for sleeping, why pay more? Large hotel chains often have locations in many countries around the world and offer very cheap rooms.
Haggle for hotel rooms: Try calling a hotel to ask about room availability. Then leave it for a few weeks and call them again; If the room is still available, there’s a good chance they’ll be willing to haggle. You can also do it via email if you hate talking on the phone.
EATING
Picnic: This is the easiest, but probably the one that I work the most. Just head to any cheap local store and buy food that you can easily prepare. It definitely won’t be a gourmet meal, but it’s cheap and easy and you can eat outside enjoying some people watching. If you find small local delis, you can also make it a little special. Imagine a brie and baguette picnic with a bottle of red wine in Paris, for example. Hmm!
Investigation: By doing your research ahead of time, you can find out which local restaurants and bars they prefer, and hopefully which ones have the lowest prices. Local knowledge is really important if you want to save money, because otherwise you’re unlikely to find places unless you stumble upon them. Also, I’ve always found that the best places are often hidden and you’d need someone to tell you they’re there.
Go vegetarian: The vegetarian options may seem like a drag to some, but you’re spoiled for choice these days. Also, they are always cheaper than the meat menus and sometimes even come in much more generous portions!
Buy at sunset: It depends where you are, but many stores will sell cheaper food at the end of the day, especially if it is on or past its expiration date. Baked goods generally drop in price as well. Take a look and you will see.
ATTRACTIONS
coupons: Take a look online before you go and see if there are any coupons available for sights or attractions you want to visit. If so, be sure to use them! Also check the prices to see if there are any age-related discounts or loyalty schemes.
Go free: In many cities, you’ll find free attractions everywhere. For example, in London, most museums do not charge. However, particularly in the summer, it’s easy to have a complete vacation without having to go to the paid attractions.
Check your schedule: Particularly for events like plays, shows, and concerts, time is an issue. Ticket costs vary wildly. Matinees are usually a good bet and cost a fraction of the price of the evening. If not, find out if the night was sold out standing room or cheap. This is the case with many theaters and opera houses, although if you get fixed tickets be prepared for it to be hard on the knees! You can also try staying at the venue right before the show starts; you will often find people trying to download your tickets due to an emergency or change of plans.