Travelling the world doesn’t have to cost an arm, a leg, and your dignity. With a bit of cunning, a sprinkle of creativity, and a pinch of British pluck, you can stretch your budget further than a pair of old elasticated trousers. So grab a cup of tea, settle in, and let’s explore how to globe-trot without emptying your pockets.
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1. Flights: The Art of Flying for Less
Cheap flights are the holy grail of budget backpacking. Here’s how to find them:
Be Flexible: If you’re willing to fly on a random Tuesday at 3 a.m., you’re already ahead of the game. Use tools like Expedia to scout for deals.
Incognito Mode is Your Friend: Airlines aren’t above sneaky tactics. Browsing in private mode keeps them from jacking up prices because you looked at that flight to Bali ten times.
Budget Airlines: Embrace the no-frills experience. Who needs legroom anyway? Airlines like Ryanair and EasyJet might have you sitting on a folding chair, but they’ll get you there for pennies.
Pack Light: Budget airlines charge for luggage as if they’re moving your belongings across interstellar space. Stick to carry-on bags and invest in a solid cabin-sized backpack. Check out our Best Travel Backpacks.
2. Accommodation: Sleeping on a Shoestring
Forget luxury hotels; you’re a backpacker, not the Queen. Here’s where to lay your weary head:
Hostels: The heart and soul of budget travel. Sites like Hostelworld can help you find cheap and cheerful options. Just pack earplugs for the inevitable snorer in the bunk above.
House-Sitting: Websites like TrustedHousesitters let you stay in lovely homes while looking after someone’s cat or watering their plants. Cheaper than Airbnb and you get a furry friend to boot.
Camping: If you’re the outdoorsy type, pitch a tent and channel your inner Bear Grylls. Just make sure it’s legal—you don’t want to be chased off by an angry farmer. Check out some great tents for backpackers.
3. Food: Eating Like a King on a Peasant’s Budget
Food is one of the great joys of travel, but it doesn’t have to break the bank:
Cook Your Own Meals: This definitely applies when you find yourself in an expensive play! Hostels often have kitchens, so pop down to the local market and whip up something delicious. Pasta and Rice is cheap, easy, and universally comforting. Make it even cheaper by combining with other travellers and cooking in bulk with everyone chipping in!
- Eat Local: Eat your weight in sushi, curries, or whatever’s on offer. Local cuisine is 100% the way to keep your costs down.
- Street Food: In many countries, the tastiest dishes are found on the street for pocket change. Just follow the locals and avoid anything that’s been sitting out longer than a soap opera plot twist.
Check out our Ultimate Guide to Backpacker Cuisine.
4. Transport: Getting Around Without Going Broke
Public Transport: Buses, trains, and trams are your best mates. Grab a day pass to save on multiple trips.
Walk or Cycle: It’s free, it’s good for you, and you’ll see the city in a way no taxi ride can offer.
Night Buses and Trains: Travel overnight and save on accommodation. Just don’t forget your eye mask and a good travel pillow like this one.
Carpooling: Apps like Uber have options that have an option that can connect you with drivers heading your way. It’s cheap, and social.
- Motorbike Taxis: In many third world countries there is always a motorbike taxi option. These are always substantially cheaper than your average car taxi and also substantially more fun.
Side Note: Whatever the initial price they offer you, divide it by 3 and that’s the fair price of the taxi ride. Don’t take any rubbish and move along if the taxi man persists. Watch him come back to you instantly with a fair price!
5. Hacks for Saving in Specific Situations
Attractions: Look for free walking tours, museum discount days, or city passes. You’ll learn loads without parting with much cash.
Laundry: Washing your smalls in the sink beats paying for a laundry service. It isn’t the most glorious job in the world but certainly does the job.
Sim Cards and Wi-Fi: Local SIM cards are often cheaper than international plans. And always ask for the Wi-Fi password wherever you go.
Travel Insurance: It may seem like an expense, but it’s a lifesaver in emergencies and we have had to use it on numerous occasions. It really is a must have!
6. The Golden Rule: Know When to Splurge
While saving is the name of the game, don’t be a complete miser. Treat yourself to a once-in-a-lifetime experience now and then. After all, you’re making memories, not just pinching pennies.
The key is to save where you can so you can spend at the right times. We saved for a while so we could Scuba Dive in The Galapagos Islands, as seen above. The meals cooked and long public bus trips are all completely worth it when you get to do something special! At the end of the day that is what you’re out there for.
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