Looking for the cheapest ways to travel?
Did you know U.S. airlines lost over $14.4 billion worth of revenue in the first quarter to 2018? Fewer people are traveling, and that’s significant.
Why, you ask?
Because airlines need to fill those seats. After expenses, they make only $5.42 from each seat they sell. Their margins are so high they have to pack their planes to capacity to turn a profit.
Here’s where you come in.
When they haven’t sold enough tickets through regular sales, they discount their prices. That’s why this year is open season for budget travelers like you.
With airline tickets out of the way, let’s shift gears and focus on other ways to cinch your purse strings. By the time you finish this article, you’ll have the tools you need to cut your traditional travel expenses in half. Read on.
The Cheapest Ways to Travel
Let’s begin by correcting a misnomer. Discounted does not mean second-rate.
You can purchase regular priced tickets for a luxury hotel. You can also keep your eyes peeled for reduced prices. The rooms and service are the same in either case, but you pay less for the later.
The same can be said for theater tickets, museum tours, and yoga classes. The list goes on. If you’re patient and diligent, you can find discounts on anything.
And it’s the only way to travel on a budget.
Booking Flights
If you’re headed to a different continent, your flight may cost up to a quarter of your budget. Be smart. Keep your eyes peeled for deals.
Consider using an alternative to U.S. airlines. There’s been a recent change to the Open Skies Agreement between the U.S. and Europe. Some overseas carriers, such as Aer Lingus, now fly between U.S. and European cities.
Regional airlines in Europe can also save you mounds of cash. Instead of searching for major carriers, see if you can find a one-way carrier. Some flights run as low as 22 euros.
Also, when you search for your flights, be sure you’re running your browser in privacy mode. In the Chrome browser, it’s called “Incognito Window.” Privacy modes won’t allow your browser to store cookies.
Airline and hotel booking sites use cookies to know what prices you’ve been quoted. They also used to give you time-sensitive deals. When you take away their ability to store cookies, you can go back to the same sites and qualify for the same “limited time deals” again and again.
Kill the cookies.
Note: if you want to make your travel less stressful, consider these 10 best travel hacks.
Focus on Experiences rather than Material Things
Avoid souvenirs. First off, they clutter up your luggage. Always limit yourself to one suitcase or backpack and one smaller day pack. Nowadays it makes plane flights less expensive because you don’t have to pay to store that extra bag.
It also makes getting around a zillion times easier. A large backpack is preferable to a suitcase for similar reasons. You can take it on a 3-day trek just as easily as throw it on a plane. You can’t say that for traditional luggage.
The best ways to travel cheap always include an adaptable mind-frame and dual-purpose equipment. You must be prepared for any opportunities that present themselves along the way.
Bring clothes you can wash in the sink, a portable device to check for ticket deals, and a backpack you’re comfortable hiking a few miles with. Be prepared for the opportunities when they arrive.
As you travel, speak to people. Concierges always know what’s going on in their city. They’re an excellent resource, but watch out. Sometimes they make an extra salary directing guests to specific businesses or events.
In that same spirit, talk to other travelers. That’s one of the main reasons people stay in hostels. They’re inexpensive, they offer free meals, and they’re loaded with other travelers just like you.
If one says hey, you’ve got to check out the waterfalls; they were life-changing. It’s a good time to change your plans to include the free hike to the waterfalls. Always get the inside scoop from fellow travelers.
You can buy souvenirs from E-Bay when you get home.
Note: If you’re wondering where to travel, consider these 10 amazing celebrity vacation spots.
Pick a Bargain Destination
With foreign exchange rates, some places are cheaper to travel than others. South American countries and the Dominican Republic to name but a few. Check foreign exchange rates and plan accordingly.
Remember, be flexible. If you find a country that fits your wallet but doesn’t sound appealing, do some research. Every country has something to offer. Don’t discount any travel destination until you learn more about its history, people, and sites.
Offseason locations will also save you bank. Cities hike prices during the tourist season. If you travel during the off season, you’ll find deals on everything from theatre tickets to five-star meals.
Bonus Material
The following is for those of you who prefer to scan rather than read an article. Here’s a list of other budget travel tips to save you money:
- Consider traveling by car, train, or bus
- Rent a house, condo, or stay in an Airbnb
- Opt for a tiny hotel
- Swap houses (yes, it’s really a thing)
- Sleep in dorms
- Stay with locals
- House sit
- Cook your meals
- Work overseas
- Use public transportation
- Look for city tourist cards
And don’t be afraid to talk to locals. If you’re an introvert, find a traveling-buddy who’s an extrovert. Even better, pretend you’re an extrovert for the short time you’re away. It just might change your life.
What’s Next?
Now that you know the cheapest ways to travel, where will you go? Do you crave a trip to Belize? Or maybe it’s a family vacation in Las Vegas?
Wherever you go, remember our motto: research first. Whether you want an airline ticket or a backpacking tour of the Congo, plan ahead. The deals are out there; you just have to find them.
If you enjoyed this article, check out the rest of our articles on travel hacks. Go on, do it now while it’s still fresh in your mind.
So long and good luck!
