If you’re trying to save money, you might think that travel is well and truly off the cards, or that if you are able to get away, the experience will be more subdued than usual but you know what? That really does not have to be the case, and tons of people go away all the time, in a thrifty and fun way. Here’s how you can too:
1. Be Flexible with Flights (Unless You Enjoy Paying Double)
First things first: ditch the notion that flights are set in stone. Be flexible with your travel dates, times, and even destinations. Midweek flights? Cheaper. Flying at 2 a.m.? Practically free (and you might even get an entire row to yourself). Use flight comparison tools religiously—Skyscanner, Google Flights, you name it. And for the love of cheap tickets, delete those cookies before searching, or you’ll have airlines stalking your plans and hiking the prices faster than you can say “budget.”
Pro tip: If your dream destination is pricey, look at nearby airports. A short train ride could save you a fortune—and hey, more sightseeing.
2. Say No to Checked Luggage (Yes, You Can Do It)
Checked luggage is the evil twin of travel costs. Airlines will happily charge you an arm, a leg, and your nan’s knitting kit for it. Instead, embrace the art of minimalist packing. Capsule wardrobes, vacuum-sealed bags, and wearing all your heavy clothes on the plane are your new best friends.
And if you’ve got more baggage than an ex with unresolved issues, consider using the luggage storage Holborn Station and similar services offer. Drop off your oversized bags, explore freely, and stop resembling a pack mule on holiday. It’s often cheaper than an early check-in too!
3. Accommodation Hacks: Don’t Be Fooled by Fancy Sheets
You’re not moving in, so why shell out for five-star hotels when you’ll only use the room to sleep? Hostels, budget hotels, and even quirky Airbnbs can be just as comfy. Want to save even more? Try house sitting, where you stay for free in exchange for looking after someone’s cat. (Just don’t lose the cat.)
If you’re adventurous, Couchsurfing is still a thing. You might end up with a new mate and a free crash pad—or just a weird story about the guy who offered you instant coffee and an inflatable mattress.
4. Eat Like a Local (And Stop Paying Tourist Prices)
Repeat after me: I will not eat at restaurants with laminated menus. They’re overpriced, overhyped, and aimed squarely at tourists who don’t know better. Find where the locals eat, whether it’s a backstreet café or a bustling food market.
Supermarkets are also your wallet’s best friend. Grab snacks, breakfast bits, or even a picnic lunch, and spend that saved cash on something exciting—like gelato from that place everyone’s queuing for.
5. Walk (Or Cycle) Everywhere
Transport costs in big cities can feel like daylight robbery. Want to save cash and burn off all those pastries? Walk. Not only is it free, but you’ll stumble upon hidden gems you’d never see from a bus window. If walking isn’t your thing, rent a bike. It’s cheaper than cabs and will make you feel like a local (or at least someone trying very hard to be one).
Public transport is your next best bet. Just don’t forget to buy a day pass instead of paying per journey. And avoid taxis unless you fancy forking out your entire souvenir budget on a 10-minute ride.
6. Free Attractions Are Your Friends
Who says the best things in life aren’t free? Museums, parks, walking tours, street performances—you’d be amazed at how much you can do without spending a penny. Many cities have free museum days, so plan your visit accordingly. And if you’re a student, teacher, or pensioner, whip out that ID for discounts.
Keep an eye out for local events or festivals, too. They’re often free, and let’s face it, nothing beats people-watching at a lively street fair.
7. Plan Ahead, but Leave Room for Spontaneity
Sure, planning saves money—early bird deals, pre-booked tickets, all that jazz. But don’t overdo it. Leave room for the random adventures that make travelling so great. Like that impromptu sunset boat ride or the street food crawl you didn’t know you needed.
Balance is key. Book your big expenses in advance (flights, accommodation), but keep your days open for wandering and discovery.
8. Skip the Souvenirs (or Get Creative)
Souvenirs are like exes—tempting at the time, but you’ll probably regret them later. Save your cash and bring back memories instead. If you must buy something, avoid the overpriced tourist shops. Go for local crafts, edible treats, or even a quirky postcard.
Better yet, take photos and create your own travel memento when you’re home. It’s cheaper, personal, and won’t end up gathering dust in a drawer.
9. Know When to Splurge (Yes, It’s Allowed!)
Saving money doesn’t mean being a cheapskate 24/7. If there’s an experience you’ll genuinely love—like a hot air balloon ride or dining at that Michelin-starred restaurant—go for it. Just balance it out by cutting back elsewhere. Oh, and you’ll want to get that insurance just in case, of course!
Here’s to your best (and most affordable) trip yet!
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