Traveling is always a thrill, but we can’t always afford to splurge on every trip. That’s where budget travel comes in, it’s a great way to keep exploring without breaking the bank. In fact, budget travel not only saves you money but often leads to more authentic and enriching experiences. When I visited a few European countries, I made it a point to minimize spending on non-essential items, allowing me to stretch my budget further.

Here are some strategies that worked for me, and I hope they help you too:

Plan Early: Booking your trip well in advance can save you 30% to 50% on flights, hotels, and other tickets. Early planning gives you access to cheaper rates compared to last-minute bookings.

Travel in Low Season: Not only will you save money, but you’ll also avoid the crowds. Traveling during the off-season means cheaper flights, accommodations, restaurant prices, and even entry fees for tourist attractions.

Take Advantage of Free Museum Days: Before you travel, research when museums offer free entry, often on national holidays or during special festivals. This can save you a significant amount of money on cultural experiences.

Pack Light: Traveling light not only makes moving around easier but also saves on baggage fees. Plus, it leaves room for any shopping you might want to do. Bring a few foldable bags that can double as cabin baggage.

Stay in Hostels: If you’re traveling solo or with friends, consider staying in hostels. They’re more affordable than hotels and offer a great way to meet people from around the world. After all, if you’re only using your accommodation to sleep, why spend more than you need to?

Look for Complimentary Breakfast: Choose accommodations that offer a complimentary breakfast. A hearty breakfast can keep you full enough to skip lunch, allowing you to save money by snacking on fruit or small bites throughout the day.

Get a City Pass: If you’re staying in a city for a few days, invest in a city pass that offers unlimited access to public transport like metros, buses, and trams. This made getting around Paris much easier and more affordable during my six-day stay.

Hunt for Deals: Don’t book anything without researching first. Use various search engines and booking websites to find the best deals. For flights, try Skyscanner, and for hostels, check out Booking.com or Hostelworld.

Cook Your Own Meals: Shopping at local supermarkets is cheaper than eating out, and you can prepare simple meals like sandwiches or pasta. While you should definitely try local cuisine, cooking most of your meals can save a lot of money.

Walk Everywhere: Walking is free and the best way to truly explore a city. It gives you the freedom to discover hidden gems and observe the daily lives of locals.

Use Your Student ID: If you’re a student, your ID card can unlock discounts at many tourist sites and museums. Don’t miss out on these savings!

I hope these tips help you plan your next budget-friendly trip. If you’ve already mastered budget travel, I’d love to hear your experiences and any additional tips you might have!