If you are a frequent traveler, you will bear witness to the fact that flight fees can be costly at times. It’s a familiar scenario: you diligently plan your trip, budgeting for the expected expenses, and anticipate paying around $1000 for your flight.
Cheap Ways to Travel Internationally
However, when the moment arrives to book your ticket, you are often taken aback to find out that the fee has ballooned to $1500 or even more. It seems to happen every time, leaving travelers frustrated. Even while on a trip, things can go high quickly.
As passengers, we want the best possible level of comfort at the cheapest price but from experience, this doesn’t come easy. If you are looking to find cheap international travel options, we are here to share with you cheap ways to travel internationally
Frequently use budget airlines
If you are looking for cheap travel, then you need to make budget airlines your friend. Budget airlines are a game-changer for frugal travelers. These airlines operate with a no-frills approach; they offer basic services at significantly lower prices.
The downside? Their amenities are limited, but who cares when you can save a significant amount, and get to your destination safely? Some examples of budget airlines are Ryanair, AirAsia, and Spirit Airlines.
Always travel off-peak
Off-peak seasons refer to periods when there is lower demand for flights, resulting in reduced ticket prices. Traveling during this period can save you a bundle. Peak seasons usually coincide with school holidays and major festivals.
Even though off-peak times vary depending on where you are going, they usually include periods just after major holidays or during a location’s shoulder season. When you travel off-peak seasons, you will not only avoid the crowds, but you will also get lower accommodations and flight prices.
You should be very flexible with dates
Cheap flights come around at different days of the week and times of the year. To get them, you should always use flight comparison tools to find the cheapest days to fly.
Instead of traveling every Friday, you can travel on Tuesdays when flight prices are reportedly cheaper, being flexible with your travel dates, even by a day or two, can help you save money. You can also use flight search engines, like Skyscanner, to compare prices across the month to find the best option.
Travel like a local
This is another cheap way to travel internationally, when you visit another country as a tourist, and live like locals, it helps to save money. You should consider staying in budget accommodations in residential neighborhoods instead of expensive tourist areas. This is where websites like Airbnb and Booking.com play a huge role, they have affordable options for you. You can check them out no matter the country you are in.
Use public transportation and walking
You don’t have to always fly especially when you are trying to connect two cities that are a few meters apart. Once you are in another country, you can use public transport to connect cities you wish to visit. Public transportation is a traveler’s best friend. Most cities worldwide have efficient and affordable public transport systems.
Check the options available at your destination, you can also purchase multi-day passes to save more. Additionally, you can walk, walking is not only a fantastic way to save money but also an excellent method to discover hidden attractions you might have missed when traveling by car.
Eat like a local
Sampling local cuisine is an integral part of any travel experience, and it doesn’t have to break the bank. Once you are out, avoid restaurants in touristy areas, because they are pricier. Instead, go for local markets and street food vendors.
Enjoying street foods not only gives you authentic flavors but they help you keep the expenses low- they are incredibly affordable.
Get travel insurance
To many, travel insurance is an additional expense, but it’s not, it is a necessary safety bag that every traveler needs. It protects you from unexpected events like trip cancellations, flight delays, or medical emergencies.
To get one for yourself, check the different insurance options available and choose one that suits your needs and budget. Additionally, check the health precautions for your destination.
Some countries require specific vaccinations or medications. Take any recommended vaccines or medication, it helps to save you from substantial medical expenses in the event of illness or injury during your trip.
Check for free activities
Some of the best travel experiences I have had come for free, you can do the same. Research your destination’s local attractions, museums, and parks. Many cities offer free entry to museums on specific days of the week.
If you intend to visit any attraction, go on days they are offering free entry, you can save money and still explore your target. Moreover, check if there are any free local events or festivals happening during your visit. You can also enjoy these events without paying extra money.
Go for a group journey
Traveling with friends or joining a group tour will significantly reduce your expenses. Group tours often offer discounts on accommodations, activities, and transportation. Additionally, sharing costs such as accommodation and transportation with others will help you save money.
Thanks to online platforms, websites like Meetup and Facebook groups can help you connect with fellow travelers interested in group trips.
International travel doesn’t have to drain your bank account. You can save money on your trips using any of the tips listed here.