It's actually a pretty funny story but I'll give you the short version. My friend Chris posted that she got tickets to Milan, Prague & Thailand for $200. I immediately wanted to know how that was possible, she sent me a link to a blog explaining that Priceline was having a fluke that allowed you to put in this route & it would come out to around $200 dollars. I am pretty spontaneous & wanted to book it. My sister on the other hand is not as crazy as I am but somehow I convinced her to do it. So now here we are planning a worldwide trip!!
Planning a trip on a tight budget has been tough! But I've learned some tips along the way, here they are:
1. Save on Hotels
Staying at hotels every night can really add up. Why spend a ton of money for a place where you are going to be sleeping? We are staying at Airbnb's in Rome & Prague. You can also save money by staying at hostels.
2. Cook at Home
I love to try new food while I am on vacation. I believe it's part of the experience but you can limit yourself to eating out. If you stay at an Airbnb you will probably have access to a kitchen, which you can use to make a couple of dinners at home. Also pick up snacks to keep on you while you explore.
3. Use public transportation
You can save a lot of money by not taking cabs everywhere! If the place you are visiting has a public transportation system, use it. It's a great way to learn more about your surroundings & it gives you the opportunity to interact with locals.
4. Discounted Tickets to Attractions
Check to see if the attractions you're visiting offer a special discount for students, groups or certain ages. Some places offer hop on & off buses, which can be a great deal to see a lot of attractions for your money. In Rome we are considering doing the Roma Pass to save on attractions + public transportation.
5. Talk to Locals
Locals are your greatest resource! They can offer advice on cheap eats, attractions & may even invite you over. Talking to new people is something I really enjoy especially in a new place!
6. Walking Tours
Check to see if there are free walking tours. This is a great way to see the sites & get insight from a tour guide.
7. Rent a Bike Instead of a Car
Renting a car can really put a damper on your budget. Look up city biking programs & rent one for the day to get around. This really helps save $$ for other activities + it's fun!
8. Walk
I walk a lot! I know a lot of people are used to driving but walking is a great way to explore a new place. You may find hidden gems you might not have known about otherwise!
9. Experience It
Don't spend all your time shopping! I always tell myself "collect experiences not things." This is very true! Shopping while on vacation can be expensive. I would rather spend that money checking out museums, local hot spots & the sites.
10. Save Money
I have been saving money since the beginning of summer for my trip. Each paycheck I put $200 away for my vacation– I have also cut back on little things that add up (do I really need that #PSL?) I would rather spend money abroad & do what I can with the money I've saved.
Do you have any tips for planning a budget friendly trip? If so, I would love to hear!
2. Cook at Home
I love to try new food while I am on vacation. I believe it's part of the experience but you can limit yourself to eating out. If you stay at an Airbnb you will probably have access to a kitchen, which you can use to make a couple of dinners at home. Also pick up snacks to keep on you while you explore.
3. Use public transportation
You can save a lot of money by not taking cabs everywhere! If the place you are visiting has a public transportation system, use it. It's a great way to learn more about your surroundings & it gives you the opportunity to interact with locals.
4. Discounted Tickets to Attractions
Check to see if the attractions you're visiting offer a special discount for students, groups or certain ages. Some places offer hop on & off buses, which can be a great deal to see a lot of attractions for your money. In Rome we are considering doing the Roma Pass to save on attractions + public transportation.
5. Talk to Locals
Locals are your greatest resource! They can offer advice on cheap eats, attractions & may even invite you over. Talking to new people is something I really enjoy especially in a new place!
6. Walking Tours
Check to see if there are free walking tours. This is a great way to see the sites & get insight from a tour guide.
7. Rent a Bike Instead of a Car
Renting a car can really put a damper on your budget. Look up city biking programs & rent one for the day to get around. This really helps save $$ for other activities + it's fun!
8. Walk
I walk a lot! I know a lot of people are used to driving but walking is a great way to explore a new place. You may find hidden gems you might not have known about otherwise!
9. Experience It
Don't spend all your time shopping! I always tell myself "collect experiences not things." This is very true! Shopping while on vacation can be expensive. I would rather spend that money checking out museums, local hot spots & the sites.
10. Save Money
I have been saving money since the beginning of summer for my trip. Each paycheck I put $200 away for my vacation– I have also cut back on little things that add up (do I really need that #PSL?) I would rather spend money abroad & do what I can with the money I've saved.
Do you have any tips for planning a budget friendly trip? If so, I would love to hear!
Xo,
Emily
