How to Save Money While Travelling
January 5, 2010 by Jessie Goh
This article is about Rest & Relax
Despite the current recession, people are still taking long haul holidays. However, more people are looking for ways to economise while on holiday. There are several approaches that can be taken in order to save money. Firstly, a choice of location for a holiday will dictate how expensive or economical a holiday is going to be. Some locations are expensive to get to, but once there, food, drink and accommodation is relatively inexpensive. Secondly, if travelling abroad it is often cheaper to travel independently rather than buying a package holiday, although this is not always the case. Most package holidays are for a set amount of time, either 7 or 14 days, but a great way to economise is to visit for a shorter length of time. By booking flights and accommodation separately, much money can be saved, especially if the person is not limited to travelling during high season. With so many cheap flights operators flying from most major UK airports it is now possible to fly to a country for a bargain price. If travelling out of season, for example and by avoiding school holidays it is also possible to find last minute package deals. If the visitor is prepared to travel at a couple of days notice, knock down prices can be found easily online or through a travel agent.
Once at a holiday location it is easy to fall into the habit of eating meals in cafes and restaurants. With such wonderful bakeries selling local specialities and excellent supermarkets selling a vast choice of products, self catering holidays are a great way to save a considerable amount on food. Wines and beers are ridiculously cheap in many countries if bought from supermarkets and Australia is no exception, while barn prices can be considerably higher. Travel and transport is another area where great savings can be made. If local transport is available, such as buses or trains, it is worth while using these forms of transport rather than hiring a car. However, if hiring a car, it is advisable to share the cost with others, the more people to share between, the more economical. Instead of hiring a car for the whole of a stay, hire on a daily basis or look out for deals that give a few days hire with one free day thrown in. Avoid souvenir shops as they are always tempting to visit while on holiday. Instead of taking organised coach trips and excursions which are expensive, become an independent traveller and savings will be made. Many locations have well equipped youth hostels available, particularly around famous sites such as the Great Barrier Reef and these are far cheaper accommodation options than hotels. Outdoor pursuits such as cycling, surfing or walking do not cost a lot of money and are a great way to spend the day.
Camping and caravanning holidays are a cheaper option and camper vans can be hired, with enough space for several people. An excellent way to enjoy a money saving holiday is to save money at the resort, by working in a bar or restaurant, or by harvesting crops and grapes for local producers..
Related Articles
Enjoyed the post?
Subscribe via RSS | Subscribe to Save Money Sydney by Email | Follow us on Twitter
This is the first time I visit your blog. I read some of your posts and want to let you know I like your writing style.
Thanks.