Jetsetter on a Budget: Ignite Your Inner Explorer Without Breaking the Bank!

Ramya Rao
3 min readDec 26, 2023

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Just with a few Do’s & Don'ts in a nutshell — your wallet and wanderlust will thank you!

Picture Credits- Pexels-pixabay

Traveling has become a dream for many, but the thought of draining your bank account often holds you back. Fret not! However With some savvy planning and some of my insider tricks, you can embark on a budget-friendly adventure that won’t let your wallet weeping.

Being an avid explorer, I understand the struggle of wanting seamless travel without the financial headaches. After much personal trial and error, I’ve distilled my own dos and don’ts to transform your travel dreams into a reality.

DOs:

  1. Plan Ahead to Snag the Best Deals: Booking your flights and accommodations well in advance can save you a lot. Keep an eye on those flash sales and off-season discounts. You know what? Timing is everything!
  2. Leverage public transportation: Taxis and rental cars can burn a hole in your pocket. Choosing public transportation such as buses, trains, and metros is not only cost-effective but also offers you a local experience.
  3. Tap into the Power of Street Food: Indulge your taste buds and save money by sampling local street food. Not only is it delicious, but it also gives you a true taste of the destination’s culture.
    (Quick Note: local street foods are worth a try, but remember to prioritize your health as well. Choose to savor the culinary delights without overindulging or ending in unexpected stomach issues.)
  4. Opt budget-friendly accommodations: Skip the luxury hotels.
    Hostels, guesthouses, and vacation rentals are not only cheap but can offer more genuine experience.
  5. Pack Smart: Avoid last-minute purchases by packing wisely. Maximize your luggage using compressed bags, flexible clothes, etc. and make sure to check the weather, make a list, and stick to it. Don’t forget essentials like a refillable water bottle, a universal adapter, a power bank, a travel-sized-first aid kit, etc.

DON’Ts:

  1. Overlook for Free Activities: Many destinations offer free walking tours, museums on certain days, and outdoor activities that won’t cost a dime. Research more and plan your itinerary in accordingly.
  2. Exchange Currency at the Airport: Plan ahead and exchange your currency at a local bank for a better deal. Because, Airport currency exchange counters are notorious for offering unfavorable rates.
  3. Rely solely on tourist hotspots: Popular tourist areas often come with huge prices. You can try to explore the less-crowded, more authentic parts of the destination to find hidden gems and affordable options.
  4. Shopping Spree: Souvenirs are tempting, but do you really need that sixth keychain? So set a budget for souvenirs and stick to it. Your wallet will definitely thank you.
  5. Ignore Travel Insurance: It might seem like an unnecessary expense, but travel insurance can be a lifesaver in unexpected situations. Don’t cut corners when it comes to your safety.

Begin your budget-friendly adventure with confidence by following these essential tips. Stay on course with smart planning, thrifty choices, and a dash of spontaneity. Become a frugal globe-trotter and start making memories without any financial stress.
Wishing you a very happy budget travels!

Note: This list of dos and don’ts is useful for solo travelers or adventurous couple or a group.
Some points above suit families, but you can definitely comment on my post, so that I can make a budget-planning trip for families too.
Feel free to let me know.

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Ramya Rao

Do you know? Coffee brews words. Welcome to my universe of words. But first, Coffee.