Traveling on a budget can be challenging, and you may have to compromise on accommodations, modes of transport, and travel time to get the best price for your trip. However, affordable tours today offer much better options than some years ago.
Budget travel also has its upsides — eating at street stalls, staying with local families, and traveling overland can provide a far more authentic experience than luxury travel.
Traveling on the cheap will probably mean a longer trip and more time to explore a destination. When you swap the fancy restaurant for a local cafe, a luxury hotel for a tent, and a private taxi for a shared van, you will get to experience more things, learn more stories, and enjoy unique experiences along the tour (all while saving a ton of money).
Accommodation on Affordable Tours
When traveling on a budget, accommodation will likely consist of hostels, tents, homestays, and basic guesthouses or hotels — not necessarily bad.
Hostels can be wonderfully social places, with lively common areas and lots of like-minded travelers. Small, locally run guesthouses and hotels typically have a charm and warmth unheard of in large hotel chains. Homestays are a good choice for getting insight into local life unlike any other.
Camping tours can be a great way to experience nature and experience the thrill of roughing it in the wilderness. And don't worry — most camping sites offer basic amenities, and your tour operators will ensure you have access to what you need for an enjoyable trip.
Transport Options on Affordable Tours
You can save significantly by using local buses, shared vehicles, and trains instead of flights wherever possible. Traveling overland offers views and local experiences that are missed out on by those in the air.
Affordable tours on Travelstride don't squash you into the back of a shared jeep or pack you in a bus for a 20-hour journey. They are usually evenly paced and ensure comfortable travel irrespective of the mode of transportation.
You can save time and money by choosing overnight transportation as you sleep away from the distance between destinations. The comfort level varies from region to region, so ask your tour operator to read tour reviews to ensure a comfortable night on a bus or train.
For example,
South America has overnight buses with seats comfier than any bed, while
Europe has trains with individual cabins to rival some hotels. However, parts of Asia and Africa have overnight buses that can test your patience. But, you can get incredibly cheap accommodation in these regions, so overnight transportation is not worthwhile anyway.
Wherever you are, when booking tickets, look at the price differences between classes — sometimes, a tour with air conditioning or a reclining seat is worth the extra dollar or two.
Saving Money on Food and Drink
When dining abroad on a budget, you'll have to forgo snooty restaurants with pristine tablecloths and imported drinks. Instead, you'll rely on fresh, local food, drink local beer with plenty of cheap refills, and chat with local people at roadside stalls or in cozy diners.
Tour operators will ensure you have access to hygienic food and usually engage local guides to take you to reputable local stalls and restaurants so you can dine cheaply without getting sick. This sounds quite appealing, doesn't it?
Activities To Enjoy on Affordable Tours
Travel costs can really spiral out of control when you engage in different activities on a trip. For example, a
visit to a safari park can be a camping trip with basic amenities or a private tour with luxury hotels, with thousands of dollars in the difference.
Look at the most affordable trips available by choosing a suitable filter on Travelstride. Make sure to filter the list for your activities and interests to find one that suits your needs.
It's not worth saving money if you miss out on memorable experiences or go on a tour you don't enjoy. Instead of going for the cheapest option and going on a trip you never wanted, it's best to find an affordable trip that offers great value for money.
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City Exploration: Join free guided walking tours in cities like Prague, Berlin, and Buenos Aires to explore historical landmarks and hidden gems at no cost. Public markets are also an excellent source for cultural exploration and buying souvenirs. Wander through bustling markets like Chatuchak Weekend Market in Bangkok or La Boqueria in Barcelona to experience local culture and sample affordable street food.
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Nature Excursions: Explore scenic hiking trails in destinations such as Cinque Terre in Italy or Tiger's Nest in Bhutan for breathtaking views and outdoor adventures. Or head to the beach for relaxation — spend a day lounging on the pristine beaches of Goa in India or Railay Beach in Thailand, soaking up the sun without spending a fortune.
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Cultural Immersion: Join local Workshops, like pottery classes in Bali or cooking lessons in Hanoi, Vietnam, to learn traditional crafts and culinary skills from locals. For a nominal fee, enjoy folk performances, traditional dance, and music concerts at cultural centers like the Temple of Fine Arts in Kuala Lumpur or the Fes Festival of World Sacred Music in Morocco.
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Historical Sites: Visit world-class museums like the British Museum in London or the Louvre in Paris, many of which offer discounted or free entry on certain days. You can also take self-guided tours of UNESCO World Heritage Sites such as Angkor Wat in Cambodia or the Acropolis in Athens to learn about ancient civilizations without spending a lot.
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Local Cuisine: Indulge in culinary delights on street food tours in cities like Hanoi or Istanbul, sampling delicious and affordable dishes from local vendors. You can also learn to cook regional specialties like pad Thai in Thailand or tapas in Spain by joining cooking classes offered by local chefs at reasonable prices.
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Outdoor Adventures: Rent bicycles to explore cities like Amsterdam or Kyoto, enjoying scenic rides along canals or through historic districts at a fraction of the cost of guided tours. You can also take inexpensive boat trips on rivers or lakes, such as the Vltava River cruise in Prague or Lake Bled boat tour in Slovenia, to admire picturesque landscapes and iconic landmarks.
Budget Destinations by Region
The easiest way to keep costs down on a trip is to choose a cheap destination. Budget destinations increase the value of affordable tours by offering incredible experiences without breaking the bank.
Discover new cultures, landscapes, and adventures without exceeding your budget. Whether you're drawn to the bustling streets of Asia or the breathtaking scenery of South America, there's a budget-friendly destination waiting to be explored.
Asia is a prime destination for budget-conscious travelers seeking unforgettable experiences without breaking the bank. With countries like
India,
Nepal,
China, and much of Southeast Asia offering remarkably affordable living costs, travelers can stretch their budgets while immersing themselves in rich cultures and breathtaking landscapes.
Countries like Thailand, Vietnam, and Cambodia beckon with pristine beaches, lush jungles, and fascinating historical sites — all accessible to budget travelers.
Whether sampling street food in Mumbai, exploring the ancient temples of Angkor Wat in Cambodia, or cruising along the Mekong Delta in Vietnam, Asia offers many affordable and enriching experiences for travelers seeking adventure on a budget.
Despite their tourist appeal, countries like
Kenya and
South Africa offer surprisingly affordable options, especially for those who make savvy choices in planning their trips and safaris.
In Kenya, visitors can embark on budget-friendly safaris in national parks like Maasai Mara or Amboseli, renowned for their spectacular wildlife viewing opportunities. Meanwhile, in South Africa, travelers can explore the vibrant city of Cape Town, ascend Table Mountain for panoramic views, or venture along the picturesque Garden Route—all within a reasonable budget.
Whether witnessing the Great Migration in Tanzania's Serengeti National Park or discovering the ancient rock-hewn churches of Lalibela in Ethiopia, Africa beckons with a wealth of affordable adventures for budget-conscious travelers.
Many less-visited African countries can be very budget-friendly but may pose challenges for travel and sleeping conditions. They make up for this by offering authentic cultural encounters. If you choose an affordable tour with good value for money, your tour operator will ensure a comfortable and enriching experience.
South and Central America
South and Central America offer a diverse array of budget-friendly destinations and experiences, making it an appealing choice for affordable tours.
Countries like
Argentina offer affordable travel options, budget accommodations, delicious street food, and inexpensive transportation.
Exploring the stunning landscapes of
Patagonia or indulging in the vibrant cultural scene of Buenos Aires can be done without breaking the bank. Similarly, countries like Peru offer budget-friendly adventures such as trekking to Machu Picchu or exploring the Sacred Valley.
While some destinations like
Chile may be more expensive, savvy travelers can still find affordable vacation packages, particularly in regions like the Atacama Desert or the Lake District.
With careful planning and flexibility, South and Central America provide ample opportunities for budget-conscious travelers to explore breathtaking landscapes, rich cultures, and vibrant cities without overspending.
While North America may not be the first choice for budget-conscious travelers, there are still ways to explore the region affordably. The easiest way to keep costs down is to avoid covering vast distances and focus on smaller areas.
If you want to see as much as possible, try renting a car or a camper van. While initial rental prices may seem reasonable, consider additional expenses such as insurance.
Exploring destinations like national parks, small towns, and off-the-beaten-path attractions can offer rewarding experiences without breaking the bank.
Europe
Even a short visit to London, Paris, or
Rome comes with a price tag that would shock some luxury travelers. Despite its reputation for high costs, Europe is within reach for budget travelers.
Interrailing (traveling by train on a multi-stop ticket) and road-tripping can provide affordable means of exploration. Camping is famous across the continent, offering budget-friendly accommodation amidst stunning natural landscapes.
Central and Eastern Europe, in particular, offer significantly lower costs than their Western counterparts, making destinations like Prague, Budapest, and Krakow accessible to budget-conscious travelers without compromising on experiences.
While Australia and New Zealand are renowned for their beauty, they can be challenging for budget travelers. Not only are they two very expensive countries, but their locations are also remote and widely distributed, making them costly for most travelers to reach.
However, affordable options exist for those willing to plan carefully. Camping or couch surfing can provide free or low-cost accommodation options, particularly in more rural areas. Hostels are another budget-friendly choice, often equipped with kitchen facilities for self-catering.
Additionally, traveling during the off-peak season can lower airfare prices, making it more feasible to explore these stunning destinations without breaking the bank.
