You’ve probably heard the adage about traveling: “Bring half of what you think you need, and twice as much money.” From food to accommodations to transportation and more, the price of traveling abroad is climbing higher than ever – and it isn’t showing signs of slowing down anytime soon. While you can’t lower exchange rates or make airlines reduce fees, there are a few solutions to make traveling abroad less expensive. Trust us, your bank account will thank you.
Planning Your Perfect Trip
Saving a little extra spending money should be your number one priority before taking a big trip. “I think in today’s economy, cost plays a very large factor,” says Michelle Murray, Director of Sales and Marketing for Contiki, a company that specializes in arranging tours and trips for 18- to 35-year olds. “We try our best to offer specials and great pricing to clients because, hands down, we love travel. It’s a life lesson. It’s worth scraping those pennies for the experience.”
When travel companies like Contiki book blocks of hotel rooms or arrange for transportation for large groups, you benefit from special bulk pricing. If you book a tour or trip with a bunch of friends (hello, summer after graduation!), Contiki even offers group discounts. And, the company makes traveling budget-friendly with its “Trips Under $1,200” category and Layaway program. If your birthday or graduation is approaching, suggest Contiki Layaway to friends and family and ask them to put money into your Contiki account. You can keep track of your savings online, and turn it into awesome memories abroad.
Knowing When To Travel
Murray recommends traveling during what’s known as the “shoulder season” – right before or after the peak summer season. Airfare will probably cost less, hotel vacancies are more common and there are fewer tourists. Plus, the weather is usually great during those months. Bonus!
Finding A Temporary Home
Websites like HostelBookers, Hostelworld, Booking.com, and Flashbooking will compare prices, show past reviews and provide detailed descriptions so you can make the best decision when choosing a hostel or hotel. You may be surprised, but hostels are not always cheaper than hotels!
If you want a fun, easy, and inexpensive way to meet new people, check out CouchSurfing. When you create a profile online, you instantly join a network of people all over the world who are willing to open up their house to you for free when you’re traveling. “I CouchSurfed all over Ireland and Belgium and met some wonderful, fascinating people!” says Kayla Riley, a University of Maine recent graduate. Kayla recommends that, for safety reasons, you CouchSurf with a friend and thoroughly check a person’s profile before you stay with them.
