Tips on budget travel
Traveling can be expensive IF NOT planned well. We all know a trip planned impromptu can blow out of budget and you end-up spending much more than you expected. After traveling a couple of times in Zimbabwe I have a few tips to help you plan your trip that might save you a bit of money without compromising your experience.
1. Plan for the trip way before hand.
This is an obvious one, ad-hoc traveling might spoil your splendid adventure. Do a research on your destination, figure out where you can find cheap accommodation, be familiar about the activities you would want to do and make a decision of what you are going to do and not. Research on route you are going to take (transport requirements and costs) and come up with the number of days you will be on vacation. You are likely to get better deals on accommodation, flights, activities etc if you plan & make bookings earlier.
2. Save for Travel
Start saving for the trip say a year prior your adventure, that way traveling will be easier for your pocket. Having enough time to save money will also give you a clear picture of what you can or can’t afford.
3. Travel on Shoulder or Off-Peak Seasons
Traveling on shoulder and off-peak seasons can save you some bit of money, there is less demand and also many promotions/specials run during these times. Take a vacation leave and travel, traveling isn’t always for public holidays and weekends.
4. Travel as a group
Group travel helps in sharing costs (accommodation, transport etc) as well as taking advantage of discounts.
Specifically for road trips, you can make use of one vehicle – it might be feasible to hire travel equipped vehicles as it might turn out cheaper per person.
5. Self-catering Accommodation/Camping
Accommodation is one of the major costs driver when traveling, settling for cheaper self catering chalets/lodges or campsites could help keep it on the lower side of the budget. Eating out everyday when you are on your adventure may be fun but costly, instead, you can opt for self catering options and get to have your own space.
6. Draw up a budget
Drawing up a budget of all the possible trip expenses might be helpful to avoid unnecessary costs. A well thought budget might end up saving you a bit of money as you are likely to avoid impulse spending. Create a simple spreadsheet with simple formulas on your PC or mobile and build a budget! Thank me later.
7. Buy all the basics before you travel
Travel destinations are usually expensive so you will save yourself a great deal if you buy all you need for the trip before you travel. Always remember to carry your first aid kit as well.
Let us know some of the tips you might have in the comments section below.