How To Save Money When Traveling
When we plan a vacation we consider the cost of the tour package which probably includes the tickets, the hotel accommodation and the meals but what we mostly forget is to add the additional expenses we incur on food apart from the regular meals and also the money we spend on shopping. These are the two main reasons why most of us over shoot the budget and end up spending much more than we planned.
While it is not recommended that one goes hungry just because one has to save on the money but there are few practical tips which any traveler can follow to cut the cost. When booking the vacation try and make sure you book the hotel which has breakfast included in the cost this means you do not have to go out in the morning looking for it , it not only saves money it is also quicker and makes it easier for you to leave for the day sightseeing and other activities.
If the meals are part of the package you can carry packed food for the day excursions instead of spending money in restaurants. If you must eat out, check out the prices on the menu card before deciding the place. Ask the locals for the places to eat and not the hotel manager or the tour escort, people who work in tourism may advise you to eat in fancy places which are touristy and not authentic apart from being overpriced. Try to carry at least one meal’s worth food whenever on a long excursion, so that you can avoid the overpriced restaurant if none other is available.
To take care of the in between hunger pangs carry fruits which are not only healthy they are also cheaper. You may consider carrying multivitamin pills and powdered nutrition drinks to supplement a meager diet. You can also consider buying food stuff from the near by store and carry your favorite spices to liven up store-bought food.
Try to walk if you have to travel short distance, it is healthier and also cheaper. You may also try to use the local transport the bus or the train it will help you know the area better and easy on the pocket too.
When you go shopping look for the place where locals shop not only will it be cheaper it will be a good cultural experience for you. Look in the local newspapers and magazines for bargains stores. Check for special discounts, promotions and sales in the area.
It is a good idea to carry a sheet of paper with currency conversion rates if you are not good with numbers, you could save that extra money which you might end up giving without realizing, due to the conversion issue.
The experience of the vacation will also become a great achievement if you manage to stick to the budget and this can be achieved by following simple and practical tips. Additionally this will mean that you can travel more and more by saving on all the unnecessary expenditure.