Dream of exploring stunning landscapes, cultural wonders, and bustling cities around the globe, but think your bank account will stand in the way? The reality is, traveling the world doesn’t have to cost an arm and a leg. With a bit of preparation, creativity, and a willingness to go off the beaten path, you can make your globetrotting dreams a reality, even on a shoestring budget.
This guide will also provide you with the knowledge, tips, and tools you’ll require to travel the world on a budget, from securing cheap accommodation to discovering the best travel deals. Regardless of whether you’re a seasoned backpacker or a traveling rookie, there’s never been a more ideal time to see the world without breaking the bank.
Why travel on a budget?
Budget travel is not just a strategy but also a way to have more meaningful connections, problem-solving skills, and integration with local cultures. Being able to make your money last longer can also allow you to travel longer and visit more.
Think about it: Instead of spending $5,000 on a week’s vacation, imagine being able to make that money last several months by making smarter spending decisions. It’s a win-win!
Budget travel planning ahead
Research is your best friend
All great budget trips begin with good research. Prior to booking, invest time in reading travel blogs, forums such as Lonely Planet or Reddit‘s r/travel, and even YouTube channels dedicated to budget travel experiences.
The most important things to research:
- Destination costs: Estimate average daily costs (accommodation, food, transport) at your desired destination with the help of BudgetYourTrip.com.
- Seasonal offers: Traveling during off or shoulder seasons can save you up to 50% on airfares and hotel accommodations.
- Visas and documents: Understand necessary travel documents and visa fees. Most budget-friendly destinations, like Southeast Asia or Central America, have relaxed visa policies.
Make a realistic travel budget
Budgeting begins with a knowledge of how much you wish to spend and where. Here’s a simple budget breakdown template:Download apps that track spending in real-time like Trail Wallet or Wally. You’ll be surprised at how much more in control you’ll be by simply being aware.
| Expense Category | Percentage of Budget |
| Accommodation | 30% |
| Transportation | 25% |
| Food & Drinks | 20% |
| Activities & Sightseeing | 15% |
| Miscellaneous Expenses | 10% |
Budget-friendly accommodation options
Gone are the days when hotels were the sole accommodation option. Today, you can find diverse and affordable accommodations to fit every traveler’s budget. Here’s how:
1. Hostel stay
Hostels are not just for 20-something travelers. They are among the most affordable options for budget travelers and provide excellent opportunities to meet other travelers.
Top websites to book hostels:
- Hostelworld for user reviews
- Booking.com for deals
Price Range (per night): $8–$25 depending on the location.
Pro Tip: Choose hostels that offer freebies like breakfast, WiFi, or even walking tours.
2. Try house sitting or couchsurfing
Sites like Trusted Housesitters or Couchsurfing allow you to either take care of someone’s property when they’re away or stay with locals for free. Both options provide you with cost-free alternatives to hotels while also enriching your cultural experience.
3. Airbnb vs. Homestays
Opt for Airbnb or homestays in the area for privacy at non-hotel prices. Apply the “Entire Place” or “Private Room” filter for comfort at a reasonable price.
| Accommodation Type | Average Cost Per Night (Global) |
| Hostel Dorm | $8–$25 |
| Couchsurfing/House Sitting | Free |
| Private Airbnb Room | $20–$50 |
Transportation hacks to save big
Flight and transport costs can take up a large chunk of your travel budget. However, the following hacks can help you save plenty:
Book flights like a pro
- Utilize price comparison websites such as Skyscanner, Google Flights, and Hopper.
- Flexible Dates? Search for flights with date ranges or via low-cost airlines such as Ryanair or AirAsia.
- Don’t forget to delete browser cookies when searching for flight tickets!
Use public transport and rideshares
Upon arrival, skip expensive taxis. Instead:
- buy bus/metro tickets for multi-day savings.
- take apps like BlaBlaCar or Grab for affordable ride-sharing.
Pro tip: Certain cities such as Berlin or Budapest have free walking tours. This is ideal for discovering without additional cost.
Dining on a shoestring while traveling
Cuisine is among the greatest aspects of travel, yet eating out three meals daily can be costly. Here’s how to enjoy a destination’s cuisine without breaking the bank.
- Eat where locals do: Notice where locals eat. Street food stalls and hole-in-the-wall diners are often tastier (and cheaper) than eateries in tourist zones.
- Cook your own meals: If your accommodations include kitchen facilities, visit a local market to purchase fresh, cheap ingredients.
- Lunch specials & buffets: Most restaurants offer lunch specials or buffet meals that cost less than dining later in the day.
Free (or almost free) things to do
Budget travel does not mean less status or fun. There are plenty of free or inexpensive things to do in every major destination.
- Nature walks or hiking in national parks are usually free or have minimal entrance fees.
- Museums and historical sites usually have free admission days or discounted rates (e.g., the Louvre is free on the first Sunday of every month for EU citizens under 26 years old).
- Local Festivals & Events are ideal for immersing yourself in culture without spending a cent. Look up event calendars online.
Make friends while traveling
Meeting locals and fellow travellers is an incredible way to travel on a shoestring budget and create lifelong experiences. Join meetups, volunteer through websites such as Workaway, or simply strike up a conversation with someone new.
For example:
- Work 4 hours daily on a Spanish olive farm and receive free accommodation and meals through Workaway.info.
- Or exchange skills like teaching English for free accommodation in Central America.
Action steps to start your journey
Creating lifetime travel memories need not be costly. With a little planning ahead, traveling at the right time of year, and seeking out budget-friendly alternatives, you can see the world on a budget.
Your next step: Bookmark or print this guide and start planning your first destination.