Vacations might be associated with physical and mental health breaks but it’s also side by side with burning pockets. Many people neglect the importance of travelling due to the lack of budget. They view vacations as something of a big deal, and something to save up for.
While travel can often be expensive, it’s still possible to enjoy the vast world full of wonders on a limited budget. It’s still possible to create beautiful memories with your loved ones in an amazing travel destination without hurting your savings. You just have to do the legwork and be financially wise.
In this article, we’ll share 10 things frugal travellers do to save money when going on a vacation.
1. Frugal travellers know which ones to skimp and which ones to splurge
Frugal travel isn’t all about booking everything that’s cheap or free. Wise travellers make the most out of their vacation by understanding their travel priorities. They splurge on things that matter to them while skimping on things that don’t.
For instance, if you’re travelling to explore attractions for most of your trip, you may put more money on experiences and local food and spend less on accommodation. If you’re travelling for relaxation and will be staying in your hotel more, you can splurge on the best accommodation with everything you need.
2. They explore accommodation options
Hotels might be the first that comes to mind when you think of a relaxing vacation. The problem is they’re usually expensive. You can stretch your dollar and still enjoy your trip by looking for cheaper hotel alternatives. These include hostels, short-term room or home rentals on Airbnb, religious housing, dorm rooms, bed and breakfasts, and privately-owned apartments and houses for lodging.
If you’re looking for a cheaper way to stay without losing the luxury of hotel accommodation, you may try serviced apartments. This serviced apartment in Manchester UK, for instance, is complete with a living room, dining area, and fully-equipped kitchenette, making you feel close to home. It comes with housekeeping and reception services too, as well as 24/7 security and grocery delivery services.
3. They know when to book directly and when to choose third-party sites
Who doesn’t love cheap deals? Frugal travellers love third-party sites that offer the same accommodation for less. But again, they know their travel priorities and know when to choose direct booking.
If the price listed on third-party sites and agents are similar or just slightly cheaper compared to the ones advertised on the hotel’s official website, it’s better to book directly with the hotel. Aside from saving yourself from possible scams, you can get access to exclusive offers the property only gives to their direct bookers. Plus, you’ll guarantee a gorgeous room with better views and bigger space — another perk that can’t be enjoyed by those who book via third-party media.
4. They use their connections/references
Does your aunt live near a popular travel destination? How about your cousin who lives in a coastal area? Or your travel vlogger friend who has known a lot about affordable hidden gems?
Before searching online, seek references from your friends and family. They might know a couple of cheap accommodation, resorts, and restaurants only locals are familiarised with.
5. They love hunting for cheap and free attractions
Accommodation, food, and transportation — these three usually make up your travel spending. But as for the travel attractions, which are the star of your vacation, they often come free of charge.
Frugal travellers make the most out of their vacation by looking for free or cheap attractions. These include museums, parks, eco attractions, and even beaches.
6. They travel offpeak
Frugal travellers research their destination well to know which months or days are offpeak. Peak seasons, like summer, holidays, and weekends, not only make the destinations crowded but also push the prices forward. You can enjoy fewer crowds and lower rates on hotels, airfare, and attractions if you time your trip when business is slow.
7. Frugal travellers avoid tourist traps and unnecessary travel costs
Okay, you know that you have to save up for these four major aspects: accommodation, transportation, food, and attractions. You do your budgeting prior to the trip and felt some relief that, yes, you can afford this vacation. But have you ever had a time when you scratch your head and recall the things you’ve spent on because you went over your budget?
Frugal, seasoned travellers are aware of these unnecessary and unexpected travel costs that are often omitted in the planning process:
- Unplanned snacks and drinks
- Baggage fees
- Souvenirs
- Overpriced items inside of the attraction and the hotel
- Pre-paying your seat in advance
- Cab fees
- Paid wi-fi
- Resort fees
- Corkage fees
While it’s nice to always bring extra cash and credit card for these unexpected expenses, it’s good to know what they are and how exactly they cost. With this, you can think of ways how to avoid them.
8. Frugal travellers tavel frequently
Instead of making one big and expensive vacation, why not do cheap yet frequent ones? No need to book overnight stays every time — you can have a self-guided day tour, road trip, museum visit, or picnic in a nature-filled attraction.
This 2022, challenge yourself to go out and visit a new place that’s under the radar every time you’re free.
Author Bio: Carmina Natividad is a content writer during the weekends, and a travel and food blogger 24/7. She may be an awkward introvert but she’s got a lot to say about travel, food, and cultural appreciation. To know more about hotels and travel blogs, you may visit PREMIER SUITES Manchester.