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Summer is approaching and you’re probably hearing about all of your friends’ amazing vacation plans. This can be such a bummer, especially if you’re on a tight budget and traveling isn’t part of your schedule this year. Well think again! There are many cost-effective ways to travel, and we’re here to tell you how.
Carpool
Check websites like Zimride, RideShare, and even Craigslist (but proceed with caution) for people willing to sell seats in their car for a roadtrip. Many times this is much cheaper than taking a train, plane, or bus. However, speaking of buses, Megabus and Chinatown buses also tend to have cheaper prices than other traveling options, especially if you buy tickets in advance.
Literally surfing on couches! Just kidding… Many people have opened their homes for guests to stay for free. This might sound sketchy, but don’t judge this book by its cover. The site has millions of members and each person has a profile where people who have previously stayed with them leave references telling about their stay. I know people who have done this before and have always had great experiences. Not only will you be saving lodging costs but you will also meet new and potentially awesome people!
Eating
Bring a lot of your own food. This saves the cost of having to eat out for every meal, and around travel destinations even grocery stores tend to jack up their prices. If you do eat out, try vendors and street carts as they tend to be local, unique, and inexpensive.
Souvenirs
Gift shops and travel stores also jack up their prices. Do you really need a coffee mug, a t-shirt, AND a keychain that says what beach you went to? Instead, take lots of pictures and pick up things you find laying around as memorabilia.
Free Attractions
Many museums, landmarks, memorials, festivals, events, and other various tourist attractions are free. Research these places for your travel destination and even ask the locals where to go.
Volunteer
Most music festivals need volunteers. For a minimal price, you can send in an application and as long as you fulfill your duties, you get access to the festival for free!
Travel Agencies
A lot of these companies will have package deals that turn out to be cheaper than paying for everything individually. Contiki is a travel site dedicated to providing affordable traveling options for ages 18-35 for places across the world!