Top 10 best budget-friendly travel hacks
We all love to take a break and spend quality time with our family, but taking a hard-earned holiday can be pretty costly when you factor in transportation, accommodation, food, and entertainment expenses. However, there are ways to travel on a budget without compromising fun and comfort. Here are some handy, budget-friendly travel tips to help you save money while still enjoying a fantastic getaway.
1. Plan and research in advance
Planning your trip well ahead can help you take advantage of early booking discounts, particularly if you travel by air. Booking ahead can lead to significant cost savings; naturally, it will depend on the airline, the time of day you choose to travel, and how much luggage you wish to take (carry-on is the cheapest option)!
For instance, if you're planning a return trip for two adults and two children from Sydney to Cairns this month, departing mid-to-late morning in each direction is likely more expensive than taking the earlier red-eye 6:00 am flight when fares are cheaper. If you book the same or similar flights in October or November 2024, you will likely pay less, which means you can use the money saved to cover your accommodation, dining, or activity costs.
Remember - prices for accommodations, flights, and attractions are usually lower during non-peak times. So, if you can plan your holiday during the off-season, you'll undoubtedly save money, avoid the crowds, and enjoy a more peaceful experience.
2. Set a budget
Before planning your holiday, it's important to determine and stick to your budget. If the cost of accommodation is high, consider looking into campgrounds, as many offer cabins that are typically much cheaper than hotels.
3. Use comparison websites and be date-flexible
Use comparison platforms such as Skyscanner to compare prices for flights, rental cars and hotels across multiple airlines and booking sites. Try to be flexible with your travel dates, which can help you take advantage of lower prices. For instance, mid-week flights that aren't during peak times are often cheaper.
4. Use apps to help you manage costs
If you're travelling with others, it's a good idea to utilise apps such as Splitwise to manage expenses and track who has paid for what. It's available for iPhone and Android users and is a convenient and easy way to share the costs of groceries or activities among your group members.
5. Use public transport
When you arrive at your destination, public transport like buses, trains, and trams can be more cost-effective than taking a taxi or rideshare. Many cities offer tourist passes for unlimited public transportation during your stay too!
6. Pack light
Airfare prices may seem affordable at first glance, but once you factor in baggage fees, they may not look so attractive anymore. You can, however, avoid those additional charges by packing light and using only carry-on luggage. Try wearing bulky clothing instead of packing them, and opt for versatile clothing items that you can mix and match to save space.
7. Eat where the locals eat
If you're looking to save money, eating and shopping where the locals do is a great idea, particularly if you're travelling in Asia. Explore local street food vendors and markets for authentic, budget-friendly meals.
8. Use loyalty programs
Loyalty programs may seem like they take forever to accumulate enough points for a free flight or cheap accommodation for a night or two, but every time you spend, you can earn something towards your holiday. Many loyalty programs, such as Flybuys, are free to join, and you can redeem points for travel.
9. Look for free and low-cost activities
It's surprising how many exciting and enjoyable activities you can engage in are free or cost very little. These can include nature walks, visits to parks, museums, and cultural events in your destination. You can also make the most of hiking trails and city walking tours or explore on your own. And don't forget to check the website of the local Council in the area you're going to visit to see if they have any offers or free events available.
10. Take out travel insurance
Travel insurance doesn't cost much; if your luggage gets lost or a flight is cancelled, you'll be glad you have it. It will cover unexpected expenses like trip cancellations, medical emergencies, or buying new clothes and toiletries until your bags turn up.
Woo hoo! Get ready for a cheap holiday
Planning and discipline are crucial for budget travel, but they can lead to inexpensive accommodation and a fantastic vacation that won't strain your finances. Tailor the above tips to your specific destination and preferences to make the most of your budget-friendly adventure. If you're a little low on funds but still want to get away, we're always here to help. Take a look at our cash loans up to $5,000 to learn how quick and easy it is to obtain some extra funds. Once a loan is approved, the cash is usually in your bank account within a few hours, so you can start researching and booking your next holiday destination!