The travelling bug hits most people, but the thought of having no money can snap you back to reality. Fear not, intrepid explorer! Who says that you need to be rich and famous to travel around the globe? With a minimalist approach and some tricks, anyone can do that! This guide is the ultimate guide to traveling on the cheap, or for the backpacker and shoestring traveler.
Embrace the Hostel Life
Forget luxurious accommodations and open the door to the lively surroundings of hostels. For a fraction of the price, you get a dorm bed, an opportunity to interact with other people, and free pancakes, and sometimes parties. Hostels are a starting point for adventures and a good opportunity to find accommodation at a reasonable price. However, it has been established that hostels are not a panacea for all institutions. For those who want even more personal space, there are private rooms within the hostels that are for a considerably lower price than hotel rooms. Family rooms are also a common feature in many hostels, especially for large groups or families on a low budget.
Master the Art of Self-Catering
Avoid fancy restaurant lunches and dinners – go shopping at the markets instead. Local products are very cheap, and you can enjoy making the food that is commonly prepared in the region. Carry a refillable bottle with a filter to reduce the consumption of bottled water, and a spork or light cutlery for meals. However, it is important not to be confined to merely markets only. Choose hostels with shared areas such as kitchenettes so that you get a chance to cook with other people and discuss recipes. Eating in parks through purchasing packed foods is one of the best things I have come across while out and about in different cultures.
Become a Public Transport Pro
Taking a taxi might seem convenient, but hey, public transport is your friendly budget companion. Subway, buses, and even ferries are much cheaper means of transport that will transport you to your desired destination. Buy travel passes if you are going to be in cities for longer durations because this way, you end up saving money and the constant need for tickets every time you are going to ride. But using public transport is not always as luxurious or comfortable. Expect long queues, overcrowded areas, and sometimes people who do not understand your language. But with some time and effort, you’ll master the art of navigating like a true native.
Embrace Free Activities
There are always those places in every city that have so much to offer at no charge. Go to museums on days when they offer free admittance, explore public parks and gardens, and observe the crowds at popular squares. Most cities have free walking tours that will give a historical view and recommend other places to visit. Free audio walking tours can be downloaded on one’s phone to make the tour more casual and personal. Facilities such as free access to Wi-Fi, available toilets, and cooler temperatures during hot weather are easily accessible in libraries. Take a book or a journal and transform a visit to a library into a pleasant and enjoyable undertaking.
Become a WWOOFing Wonder
WWOOF (World Wide Opportunities on Organic Farms) is an organization that arranges homestays on organic farms where the visitors are expected to work for a few hours each day. You will receive meals and free accommodation, as well as the opportunity to learn about sustainable farming. A perfect solution for a budget and experience! However, being a WWOOFer is not the only way to go. Consider work exchange programs for hostels, guesthouses, or even eco-lodges. You might exchange some of your time for a cheaper rate or even a free room and food.
Pack Light, Pack Smart
Minimalism is your mantra. Buy durable and lightweight apparel that can be worn in different situations and do not take time to dry. Forget about the large trinkets and start accumulating memories. Always note that by carrying less luggage, mobility is easy and cheap. However, packing light does not mean packing with little concern for comfort. Bring comfortable shoes that will be suitable to handle the cobblestone streets and walking around all day. A good scarf could be used to keep you warm or protect you from the sun; it can even serve as a substitute for a picnic cloth.
Utilize Free Travel Apps
It is possible to travel using an app since there is an app for everything that one can imagine. Install apps that provide a free guide for walking tours, map navigation, translation, and currency exchange. These tools will assist you in getting around the new location, interacting with the people, and managing your finances. However, do not underestimate the potential of analog resources! You can obtain a free map from the local hostel or tourist information center. In non-English-speaking nations, phrasebooks containing basic words and phrases are a must-have.
Travel During the Off-Season
This is true because flights and accommodation are cheaper during the shoulder seasons and off-seasons. Though the weather may not be ideal, it will allow for a less crowded experience and maybe glimpse into a less touristic part of the destination. You should also check on the shoulder seasons of your preferred destinations and be very open with your choice of dates for travel.
Travel Slow
Do not make the mistake of trying to visit as many destinations as you can. Slow travel means that a traveler spends more time at a destination and focuses on its cultural and historical aspects rather than tourist attractions. This way, you will spend less money on transportation and accommodation since you will be in one or two places for an extended period. Also, you will get a chance to wander more slowly, which is uncharacteristic of a minimalist traveler.
So, when it comes to the broke backpacker lifestyle, always keep that in mind, the goal here is to be creative, learn how to make do with what is available, try new things, and have fun. If you put some effort into planning and utilize these cost-saving tips, traveling is definitely within your reach. Therefore, pack your bags, have your spork in your pocket, and let’s go on a journey like no other.
