6 Thrifty Tips for Traveling on a Budget
Growing up in a black household carries certain stereotypes, like not being cultured, well traveled, or leaving the 'hood. I’ve had this experience growing up in white suburbia. On the contrary, I consider myself blessed to have a mother who made sure I knew what was out there such as new places, foods, and experiences. I took my first airplane ride at 3 years old years. I still have the memory of getting airline wings pinned to my shirt. For as long as I can remember, my favorite place has always been on an airplane. While most kids shotgun the front seat in a car, I shotgun the window seat in an airplane.
It’s so important for me to experience everything that I am able to because I didn’t grow up getting things right off the bat. I love talking with strangers and exchanging new energy and insights. This leads to different perspectives that can eventually bring me closer to what I want.
Traveling allows me to gain new insights and perspectives from so many vantage points. You don’t have to be rich to travel. It’s not what you make, it’s how you save! Strategize, explore your options, and don’t be afraid of the possibility that it may work out. Here are 6 tips that have helped me explore and travel on a tight budget.
1. Enroll In a Budget or Savings Challenge
Enrolling in a savings challenge of some sort is a great idea. It means your not alone. Pick an accountability partner and watch the money grow. The Live Richer Challenge with Tiffany The Budgetnista is my favorite. You get daily emails guiding you through every step. Tiffany has helped me save hundreds of dollars in a matter of months.
2. Use Resources Such as Google Flights and Groupon for Cheap Airfare
I find that using Google flights gives me the best deals. Any flight highlighted in green is on special. My dirty little secret is also buying two one-way tickets to save.
3. Check Out Airbnb, Couchsurfing or Hostels
We all know hotels can get pricey so get adventurous with Hostels, Airbnb and even Couchsurfing. The opportunities can be endless if you are open-minded.
4. Start Small
It's okay to go 500 miles instead of 5,000. Take a road trip, get on a train, or even tour your own city. Anything can be an adventure!
5. Pack Efficiently
Packing efficiently is a huge help when you're balling on a budget. You don't want to have to pay extra for baggage fees and extra miscellaneous charges. Always make sure to have portable chargers handy, because chances are you're using your phone to document the journey. Every moment is important, so be ready with that extra charge.
6. Research Your Destination Using the Inside Scoop
Talk to people who have been where you want to travel, talk to locals if you can, and research as much as you can. Getting the inside scoop can save you a lot of money on avoiding tourist traps.
In time you’ll find tips and tricks that work for you and you’ll be traveling like a pro. Whether it’s weekend trips with your ladies or two weeks in Paris, don’t let money stop you. Live it up on the fruits of your savings labor.