Many people live for their holidays, but with the financial crisis leading to more people needing to watch their budgets, some may be cautious about taking time off work, and spending on expensive trips away. The good news is that holidays don’t need to be pricey. There are plenty of ways to make holidays more affordable. Just make sure you have travel insurance for the unforeseen.
Eat Where The Locals Eat
Restaurateurs and budding touts at tourist hot spots can be very enthusiastic in guiding unsuspecting visitors into “tourist” restaurants. Often the most authentic, tasty and inexpensive eateries are simple street-side eateries. While you probably won’t get fancy decor or air conditioning, you will get character as well as a chance to mix with the locals, along with some tasty fare. South East Asia’s a great spot for these types of eateries, with an average meal often setting one back just a dollar or two.
Self Catering
In other destinations like Europe, cheap street-side eateries may be non existent. Fortunately there is another option to save a few Euros – self catering. Calling on well stocked supermarkets shouldn’t make one feel that they are depriving themselves by missing out on dining out. One can take joy in the variety of different products and produce on sale that is not available at home. In France this could mean fresh baguettes and specialty cheeses!
Catch Local Transport
Being cocooned in a taxi can be very comfortable and convenient, but this comes at a price. It also creates a barrier between you and the locals (save your interesting conversations with the taxi driver). Admittedly being crammed into a subway carriage in a strange city may come with a level of discomfort, but it will certainly be an experience. Many towns and cities actually offer specially priced transport tickets for frequent users, some including unlimited travel, which can be ideal for sightseers. There’s also off peak travel for more spacious journeys!
Try Alternate Accommodation
Hotels can be a major expense in holiday budgets. If you are looking to save money in this area, there are a few options. Youth Hostels are one. Far from the image of crowded dormitories, many youth hotels offer private rooms, and can actually be quite upmarket, with facilities such as swimming pools, games rooms and internet cafes.
Camping can be a cheap option. While your bed is unlikely to be as comfortable as a hotel bed, camping can bring options like staying amongst the beautiful surrounds of national parks.
Homestays are another option worth considering, with the wonderful benefits of experiencing life with a local family likely to provide many great memories.
Overnight Trains & Ferries
When moving about on holiday, consider travelling by night. A bed on an overnight sleeper train, or cabin on a ferry is not only an experience, but also saves on a night’s accommodation.
The examples above will not only save you money on holiday, but also often enhance your holiday experience. While they don’t need to be employed all the time, they are options for when one is feeling the pinch. Shopping around for a good deal on cheap travel insurance is another way to say a few pennies.
