Trickiest methods to minimize travel expenses without sacrificing enjoyment
Hey there, mate! Traveling's bloody fantastic, ain't it? But ya gotta watch yer wallet, or Rome might bork yer budget faster than you can say gelato. Here are nine cheeky tips to save a few quid on holiday without turning yer trip into a sad, miserly affair.
1. Swerve the cheeky currency exchange joints
Save on: International transaction fees
When abroad, avoid getting stung at airport kiosks and hotel desks with their eye-watering exchange rates. Instead, draw out local moolah from a decent bank ATM. EVEN BETTER? Use a no-foreign-transaction-fee credit card (like this beauty from Discover) to evade those pesky fees.
Top suggestion: Some banks (like Charles Schwab) even refund ATM fees abroad, so don't be shy about asking before you jet off. Check our website co-founder & CTO yapping more about foreign transaction fee avoidance here.
2. Title your vacation lodgings strategically
Save on: Accomodation costs
Yes, that fancy hotel with the rooftop bar is peachy. But if yer mainly out 'n' about, it might not be worth the splurge. Go for wallet-friendly alternatives like Airbnb, VRBO, or even boutique hostels and guesthouses.
Top tip: If you're staying longer, ask yer generous host for a discounted weekly or monthly rate. They're often keen on sly deals, especially in the quiet season.
3. Be shrewd about travel insurance
Save on: Unexpected emergencies
Knowing when to toss a burger at a damn seagull is one thing, but deciding whether or not to shell out for travel insurance can save ya serious bucks. Missed flights, missing luggage, or unexpected medical emergencies abroad can often cost hundreds (or thousands) without it.
Top tip: Opt for whole-trip travel protection that offers coverage for trip cancellations, health emergencies, and lost or nicked items. Our site's plans can sort ya out in this area - and ain't no Mr. Brown about it.
4. Duck the overpriced eateries that trap tourist fools
Save on: Overpriced meals
Tourist traps will often encourage ya to part with yer cash for average food and steep prices. Instead, ask the locals where they enjoy a feast. You'll usually find better food, bigger portions, and a more authentic experience.
Top tip: Try scouting The Infatuation or asking yer Airbnb host or hotel concierge for recommendations. You'll chow down on spectacular meals without the tourist tax.
5. Hop on the bus (or railway or tram)
Save on: Taxis, Ubers, and rental cars
Swervin' 'round town can be one of the sneakiest budget breakers. Ditch the privately-driven rides and embrace local buses, metros, or trains. It's cheaper and offers ya a real taste of everyday life in yer destination.
Top tip: Look into daily travel cards or city passes - like Berlin's WelcomeCard or London's Oyster card - for limitless rides and savings on attractions.
6. Plan (with room for magical detours)
Save on: Last-minute markups
Bookin' in advance can lock in better prices. But don't fill every hour - some of the best experiences come from aimless wanderin', chatting with locals, or discovering a flash sale on an exciting activity.
Top tip: Use Google Flights or Skyscanner to follow flexible flight dates and snag price drops.
7. Pack lean, not bulky
Save on: Baggage fees
Packing like a donkey means forking out more dosh. Avoid baggage fees on checked luggage, overweight bags, and even carry-ons on budget airlines. Pack versatile outfits, layer smart, and skip the "just-in-case" shoes.
Top tip: Wanna pack like a pro and avoid surprise charges? Check out our lightweight travel packing guide.
8. Embrace free entertainment
Save on: Overpriced activities
Some of the best moments of a trip are free-sunsets, city strolls, street art, local festivals, and free museum days. Many cities also offer free walking tours (tip what yer heart desires) or nature activities like hikes and beach days.
Top tip: Check FreeTour.com or Sandemans Tours, or browse local event calendars and Meetup groups for free fun.
9. Focus on meaningful souvenirs
Save on: Impulse purchases
We've all been swayed by magnets, mugs, and mini Eiffel Towers. But they add up (and usually end up gathering dust). Grab a memorable item or souvenir per trip, or skip the schtuff and collect memories instead.
Top tip: Take photos. Keep a travel journal. Bring home a local snack or spice. They make meaningful - and packable - souvenirs.
Travel smart, not spendier, mate. It's not 'bout scrimping - it's 'bout makin' clever choices. A few small tweaks here and there can free up yer wallet and offer a more authentic experience.
With a tad o' planning, the right tools, and support from our website, thou canst enjoy a trip that's both affordable and unforgettable.
Top tip: Our website's whole-trip travel protection goes far-n-beyond the basics. Enjoy 24/7 support (yep, even on holidays), quick reimbursements on approved claims sent straight to yer phone's wallet, and true peace o' mind with our award-winning app - so yer can concentrate on the jolly bits!**
- When traveling abroad, avoid expensive currency exchange kiosks and use a no-foreign-transaction-fee credit card, such as Discover, to save money on international transaction fees.
- For vacation accommodations, opt for budget-friendly alternatives like Airbnb, VRBO, or boutique hostels and guesthouses, and ask for discounted weekly or monthly rates if staying longer.
- Travel insurance can protect you from unexpected expenses, such as trip cancellations, health emergencies, and lost items. Opt for whole-trip travel protection and consider plans offered by our site for comprehensive coverage.
- Instead of eating at overpriced tourist restaurants, ask locals for recommendations for authentic meals with better prices and larger portions.
- Use public transportation like buses, metros, or trains instead of taking taxis, Ubers, or renting cars to save money and experience the city like a local.
- Plan your trip in advance, but leave some room for spontaneous activities and discounted opportunities. Use tools like Google Flights or Skyscanner to follow flexible flight dates and snag price drops.
- Pack light to avoid baggage fees, and prioritize versatile outfits that can be mixed and matched. Visit our site for a lightweight travel packing guide.
- Take advantage of free activities and entertainment like sunsets, city strolls, street art, and local festivals. Check sites like FreeTour.com or Sandemans Tours, or browse local event calendars and Meetup groups for free events.9.opt for meaningful souvenirs rather than impulse purchases, such as photographs, a travel journal, or local snacks. These make great, packable mementos of your trip.
