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When you plan your travel there are always many things to consider. Some of them are: dealing with finding the best deals, packing efficiently, knowing the requirements, and others. Thankfully, traveling these days is made easy as there are so many tips and tricks for travelers that help to be on top of everything.

 

Since I started my solo travel experience, I have learned a lot of smart travel tricks and tips, which I want to share with you. These top travel tips helped me to save lots of money, avoid travel-related problems, travel lighter, and much more.

70 Smart Travel Budget Tips and Hacks

1. Wake Up Early to Avoid the Crowd

There are many advantages of that: you can avoid parking or entrance fees if you come before business hours. Also, you can take the best pictures as nobody will be on your way to picture beautiful moments/architecture or view, and if you like silence, it will be all yours :).

 

 

2. Take Lots of Beautiful Photos

Even if you travel alone and do not want to ask random people to take your photos, take a lot of selfies for yourself and picture the beauty of the places you visit. Those memories will stay with you forever (if you back up your photos in case of an accident with your phone :)). Your best travel accessory can be a  flexible tripod. 

3. Bring an Empty Bottle For Water

As you already know, the prices at the airport and in some countries are high. So why do you have to pay for water? If you can, take an empty bottle with you and refill it when necessary. So simple!

 

4. Take a Portable Charger For Your Phone

THIS IS YOUR LIFESAVER. I never travel without it anymore. There are always situations when there is no charging station around, or no charger at all, and the phone is running off a battery at the very needed moment. In that case, having a portable mobile charger makes your life much easier.

 

5. Learn Some Foreign Words

Do not be afraid to speak your “broken” foreign language. Locals love it when you try to speak their language, and it’s easier to start a conversation. For example, when I was in Barcelona, the taxi driver had limited English, so I had no choice and started speaking with him in my basic Spanish

 

It was fun and good practice for me. I find Duolingo to be a helpful language app I use when I need to refresh my Spanish or practice it more in general. It’s user-friendly, enjoyable, and offers a variety of topics to explore

 

6. Be Flexible With Dates and Destination

Another simple travel tip for flying is to be flexible with dates and a place (in that case, you will get cheaper tickets). Skyscanner allows you to also search for “Everywhere,” which is super cool if you do not know where to go.

 

Everywhere search will show you your best and cheapest options. The cheapest tickets you can find are usually during the week.

 

Once, I bought a ticket to New Orleans for just $80 for two days (Tuesday and Wednesday). Not bad, I think.

7. Take a Free Walking Tour

I lost so many opportunities before in my early travels as I discovered this option in my 8th year of traveling only. Oops! My bad :(.It is so easy to book online and select what tour you want. It is free, informational, and entertaining; you just leave some tips to the tour guide.

 

8. Search For Cheap or Free Places to Stay

If you travel alone, stay in hostels to save money. I always use hostels as my accommodation. Some of them are of poor quality despite good reviews, but most are very good. So you will know only when you come, unfortunately.

 

It is an excellent opportunity to meet like-minded people and save money. Also, you can try Couchsurfing. I have tried it only once so far and had a good experience. Read more about my Couchsurfing experience here.

 

9. Get Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is essential and can often be quite affordable. For about a week, you can get it as low as $10. Having travel insurance doesn’t mean you have to use it, but in case of any medical issues or an emergency, you are protected. And it is a requirement for a Schengen visa application.

 

10. Pack Light

Never pack extra clothes for the maybe occasion as this maybe event is never going to happen in 99% of the cases. Just fill in the stuff you are going to wear for sure.

 

11. Use Credit Card Reward Points

This is another good travel tip to save your money which is to buy tickets or accommodation with your cc points. Just keep in mind that tickets bought with your miles through the bank directly are a bit overpriced as they have more expensive airline options, but there are more options, such as transferring your miles directly to the airline partners. So check the details with your cc company first.

 

Read about HOW TO TRAVEL FOR FREE WITH CREDIT CARD POINTS.

 

12. Eat Local Food

Ask about the best recommendations from locals to taste the best of the best. If you are not afraid to try street food, do it. Street food is usually cheap and widely available. I was scared to try street food in Thailand as I have a sensitive stomach, but all looked and smelled so delicious. Maybe next time :).

 

13. Search for FREE  Things To Do

Free things are everywhere, and sometimes we spend money on what we can get for free, like city tours, attractions, food, and more. So before buying any tour, check if there are free alternatives.

 

Did you know that traveling is good for your mental health? If not, check out this article on why traveling is good for mental health.

 

14. Buy Multi-Ride Tickets for Public Transport Instead of a Single-Ride

Multi-rides are usually cheaper than single rides if you need to travel several times. For example, a single-ride ticket in Paris costs 2.10 euros, and a ten-ride ticket costs 16.90 euros. Do your math :).

 

15. Keep An Eye On Your Belongings

Put your documents, money, and other valuable belongings into the inner pocket of your purse, so they can not be easily accessed.

 

Be aware of the most common travel scams.

 

16. Keep Snacks in Your Bag

Having snacks for travel keeps you energized and satisfied during your journey.  It is beneficial for long-hour flights if you fly with budget airlines especially as they do not provide a meal onboard for free.

 

17. Trust Your Intuition

If you feel something is wrong or you are uncomfortable going to places or meeting with some people, don’t do it. Your intuition knows better.

18. Travel More Often

It is easy if you are flexible with dates and destinations as well. Tickets and accommodation can be affordable if you know all the helpful travel tricks and tips.

 

19. Avoid Visiting Restaurants in Touristy Areas

Visiting restaurants in touristy areas can often be more expensive and less authentic. Exploring local eateries away from the tourist hotspots allows you to enjoy genuine cuisine, connect with locals, and potentially save money while having a better experience.

 

20. Use Uber/Grab Instead of a Taxi

Taxi is generally costly, and you don’t know if there will be a cab available if you try to catch it on the street. Uber/Grab will be more convenient and affordable.

 

It is also helpful to use your downloaded Uber app from the US, for example, in Europe, so you don’t have to download it again and pay in the original currency of the country you registered in.

 

I was lucky to use it in Russia for a couple of years as prices were always cheaper, but recently they changed the rules, and another company bought Uber, so I couldn’t use it anymore.

 

Just keep in mind that in rare cases, your app won’t be working, and you will have to figure out a different way to get to your destination. So better research upfront and download it earlier if needed.

 

21. Wear Sunscreen

Sunscreen is essential. I didn’t pay much attention to it before, but now I am trying to have it all the time. I learned a painful lesson when I severely sunburned my skin due to insufficient SPF protection. Since then, I try to use sunscreen with SPF levels ranging from 30 to 50 to prevent sunburn consistently.

 

22. Go Outside of Your Comfort Zone 

Sometimes we are super lazy or have no mood to go on a tour or to visit a new place, but if not NOW, then NEVER. So never lose the opportunity to have a good memory and experience from your trip.

23. Book a Hotel/Hostel With Free Breakfast

Booking a hotel or hostel with free breakfast saves money and time during your trip. Of course, some breakfast is basic, but it is better than nothing.

 

24. Book a Hotel/Hostel With a Free Cancellation Policy

Selecting a hotel or hostel with a free cancellation policy provides flexibility and peace of mind for your travel plans. If your plans change, you can always get a full refund.

 

25. Carry Extra Cash

It is always good to carry some money as in developing countries, especially, they won’t take cards, or there will be a minimum amount to spend if you pay with a card which is not very convenient if you are trying to buy something small which can cost you a dollar only. For example, in Thailand, if you want to make a cc purchase in 7-Eleven, you will have to meet a minimum spending requirement first (~$15).

 

26. Do Your Research 

Look up the country rules (as some are very weird and strict), safety information, and in general, to ensure you know how to behave there and what to expect.

 

27. Check Visa Requirements 

Some countries require an e-visa which you can get very quickly, but for most, you will need an actual visa which can take some time to be approved and delivered.

 

28. Don’t Go Out On Your Own Late At Night

Instead, try exploring a city during the day and return to your accommodation place before it gets dark outside. But, again, your safety should be always your main priority.

 

29. Use Google Maps to Get Around

Google Maps always saves my life. Of course, sometimes it gives weird, unexpected directions, but if you like me and do not understand actual maps :), Google Maps is your best navigator. Make sure to download offline maps as well in case you won’t have internet.

 

30. Adjust Your Sleep Schedule Before Your Flight

If you want to avoid jet lag, slowly adjust your sleep schedule in the days before your flight to correspond with your destination.

 

31. Carry a Dry Shampoo

This is a must-have item for every girl as usually there is no time or place to wash hair as you are very busy exploring places. The last time I stayed in the hostel, they had an emergency and there was no water in the morning. Unbelievable. And, of course, I didn’t have a dry shampoo. But, thanks to the location, I could easily find it in the store nearby.

 

32. Get An Adapter If You Travel Internationally

It is always a must-have. When I went to Singapore, my adapter for Europe didn’t work (I thought it would), but my hostel was offering to rent out theirs for some little cash. OK. I thought it was nice, but I didn’t have any money. So… Before you buy an adapter, make sure it will be compatible with the country you are going to.

 

33. Don’t Buy Souvenirs At the Airport

They are usually overpriced and they offer a limited selection compared to shops in the city.

 

34. Use a Credit Card With No Foreign Transaction Fee

If you pay with your credit cards abroad, make sure your bank does not charge a fee for using that. In case you didn’t know, and your bank charged you, you can always ask for a refund, but it might work the first time only.

 

35. Before Buying Tickets With a Third Party, Check Airline Websites Directly

It’s wise to double-check airline websites before purchasing tickets through third-party platforms. Airlines Sometimes have lower prices and better flights overall. Also, they often offer exclusive deals and promotions. This simple step can help you secure the best fares, optimize your travel experience, and stay informed about any important updates or changes directly from the source.

 

Do you like my clever travel tips? Then, read further to learn more.

 

36. Carry a Hand Sanitizer

You will especially need it on the plane before your meal, and in case you touch the seat pocket (as it is the dirtiest spot on the plane if you didn’t know).

 

37. Carry a Pen If You Fly Internationally

You will need it to fill out the border form, and you won’t have to ask your neighbors if they have one or stay in lines if you didn’t fill it out earlier on board.

 

38. Get An Inflatable Travel Pillow

It worked well for me, and I am glad I got one. It doesn’t take up a lot of space as it’s inflatable (and I keep it in my backpack side pockets).

 

39. Book a Tour Online Before Your Trip

Booking a tour online before your trip is a smart choice for several reasons. Firstly, it guarantees your spot, eliminating the worry of missing out on popular attractions or activities. Secondly, online booking often comes with financial perks, so it can be cheaper. And third, online bookings provide transparency and flexibility so you can see all updates and get notifications.

 

40. Always Have Your Medicine and First Aid Kit With You

In certain situations, you may require your medication without immediate access. To ensure it’s readily available when needed, keep it nearby and easily accessible.

 

41. Wear Sunglasses

Even if you do not like wearing sunglasses, just do it. It’s good for your eyes as they protect you from irreversible sun damage.

 

42. Wear a Hat

If you are going to a hot place, it is your necessary accessory. It can protect you from the sun, can keep you cooler by providing some shade and also, and can even complement your outfit.

 

43. Take Flip-Flops

These are essential if you are staying in hostels (to use for common areas and bathrooms). Flip-flops are lightweight, compact, and proven to be incredibly handy in numerous situations you might have on your trip.

 

44. Don’t Keep Your Documents in Your Backpack

Always keep them separate (in the inner pocket of your purse or locked in a safe place) so they only can be accessible by you.

 

45. Be Early At the Airport

Better to be earlier than to miss your flight. Isn’t it?! Make sure you have plenty of time for commuting to the airport, security, checking your luggage (if needed), eating etc.

 

46. Be Patient

Patience is the key. You will ruin your mood if you are nervous. So stay calm in any problematic situation.

 

47. Always Check the Weather

The weather is so important; you don’t want to ruin your vacation if there is rain, super cold, or tornado.

 

48. Carry an extra bag for the laundry

Carrying an extra bag for laundry is a practical idea as it keeps your dirty clothes separate from your clean ones,  prevents your worn clothes from mixing with the rest of your luggage, and simplifies the laundry process when you return home as you know where all your dirty clothes are. Pro-Tip: If you don’t have one, use a shower cap from the hotel.

 

49. Download Your Own Entertainment 

In that case, you can ensure you are not bored on the plane if there are no screens and/or not a good movie/music selection.

 

50. Carry Your Headphones

In some airlines, you will get the basic ones for free (if you have a long-haul flight), but not in all. Anyway, it is better to use your own.

51. Weigh Your Luggage at Home to Avoid Overweight

In my opinion, this packing tip for carry-ons is crucial because it helps avoid additional fees for overweight luggage, a cost some travelers frequently incur.

52. Keep Clothes in Your Luggage Smelling Fresh With Dryer Sheets

This simple and cost-effective method enhances your overall travel experience, ensuring your clothes remain clean and fragrant throughout your journey.

Tip: You can buy these sheets just for $1.25 at the Dollar store instead of paying over $5 somewhere else for the same ones.

 

53. Another Suitcase-Packing Tip is to Save Space by Rolling Your Clothes Instead of Layering

I recently adopted this practice, and I must say, I’m quite pleased with the results. Here’s a pro tip: consider folding your clothes using the army method for added convenience and organization.

 

54. Make Copies of Your Documents and Keep Them Separate From the Originals

In this case, you can make sure you have a backup in case of originals are lost or damaged.

 

55. Donate Your Remaining Cash Before Heading Home

It will reduce the hassle of dealing with the exchange back home and in the end, you might end up with almost nothing, so it’s not really worth it to take it with you. It is better to donate which will make a positive difference in others’ lives and you will feel better, too.

 

56. If you have plugged ears in the plane, use gum

Chewing gum is a helpful remedy for plugged ears during a flight. Chewing typically gets rid of the clogged feeling in your ears, so you can feel normal when altitudes change.

 

57. Ask for Expenses Reimbursement in Case of Delays/Cancelations

If your flight is delayed or canceled, check with your bank if they have the option to reimburse you. Eligibility for reimbursement will depend on the different factors and carry between the company/country. If you have no luck on that side, you can also contact the US Department of Transportation or a similar department in the country you flew to.

 

58. If You Are Unsatisfied With Your Hotel Room, Ask For An Upgrade

They might say no, or they might give you a better room. In both cases, you won’t lose anything.

 

59. Mark Your Checked-in Luggage As Fragile

In that case, there is a chance that it can be treated better than other luggage, but of course, there are no guarantees.

 

60. Take Your Blanket or Scarf to the Plane

I heard that plane blankets are not washed often, so in this case, it’s better to bring your own.

 

61. If You Sit By the VIP Lounge, You Can Use Their Fast Wi-Fi

In most cases, you won’t be able to use their WIFI as it is granted to certain passengers with special privileges (lounge membership, specific cc holders, etc.), but in some cases, you might be lucky and use it if those are not required.

 

62. Check-In Early

Early check-in might give you several benefits: availability for better seats, better chances for flights not to be overbooked, less stress in the check-in/security lines, flexibility, and extra time.

 

63. Use Your Student ID and Get a Discount on Attractions

Many theaters, museums, and other cultural sites around the world offer discounted admission prices for students. You might be able just to provide the student ID, but to play it safe, make sure you have the actual ID with you.

 

64. Plan Your Visits in Advance to Ensure You Don’t Miss Any Must-See Sights

The extra time gives you the ability to make better decisions, to do more comprehensive research about the place, destinations, or things to do, and reduces the related stress.

 

65. Use Twitter to Communicate With Airline Customer Service

They can get back to you faster than in other channels. Keep in mind it doesn’t work all the time, but worth trying.

 

66. Reuse Hotel Toiletries

It minimizes plastic waste by avoiding the use of single-use bottles, conserves resources, and minimizes the need to pack and carry personal care products. However, they meet the airline’s sizing rules and might be helpful for you.

 

67. Avoid Exchanging Cash At the Airport

Airport exchange services often offer less favorable rates and charge higher fees compared to local banks or ATMs. So, it is always not recommended to use their services and instead, to exchange money in the city or prior the arrival.

 

68. Use Offline Maps and Free Apps

If you don’t have internet access, you should be able to use the maps just normally as if you had internet.

 

69. Wear Your Heaviest Layers At the Airport

If your luggage is full and you still have some clothes you want to take, it is a good idea to wear them before you board, and you can always take some layers off once you get on the plane.

 

70. Don’t Make Jokes At the Border

Border agents don’t like this behavior. Instead, be calm and relaxed, and answer directly to their questions.

Bonus Travel Tip

71. Get Better Fair With a Price Drop

Did you know that some airlines allow you to update the price of your ticket for free? If not, you are missing out on a lot of savings. Some airlines like Delta, Southwest, and a few more will give you a credit for your current tickets if there is a price drop.

 

Final Thoughts

Learning how to do traveling effectively involves mastering the art of packing light, navigating new destinations easily, knowing what to do in certain cases, and more. Knowing all these tips and tricks can save you time, money, and hassle during your trips. Be a smarter traveler and enjoy every adventure.

 

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