How to Travel Cheaply
Just because you’re short on cash doesn’t mean you can’t see the world.
Up next in How to Travel (53 videos)
Don't book your next vacation or plan your next business trip without checking out the travel tips in these Howcast videos.
You Will Need
- Patience to sniff out the best deals
- Willingness to rough it
- The ability to be flexible
- Budget travel guidebook
Steps
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Step 1
Use travel consolidators
Use travel consolidators, on- and offline. They snatch up empty airline seats and unsold cruise cabins and resell them at a great discount. Sign up to receive information on last minute deals.
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Call hotels directly to see if you can negotiate a cheaper rate.
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Step 2
Consider youth hostels
Consider youth hostels, especially in the more expensive cities around the world. You’ll sacrifice privacy, but you’ll save a bundle.
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If you live in a popular travel destination, consider swapping homes with someone.
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Step 3
Eat at street vendors
Rely on street food vendors for most of your meals.
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If you like to eat out, make lunch your daily restaurant treat instead of dinner.
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Step 4
Check student travel rates
Check out student rates on bus and rail passes.
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Be a 'voluntourist' in a country you’d like to visit. You’ll get to explore a new culture while helping out the locals—and maybe even wrangle some school credit for the experience.
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Step 5
Be flexible
Be flexible. Monday and Thursday departures are generally cheaper than weekend fares. And save a bundle by flying into a less popular city and then catching a train or driving to your desired destination.
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Step 6
Vacation in off-season
Vacation in the off-season, when prices are cheaper and you don’t have to fight the crowds.
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According to one survey, French air travelers rate safety as less important than getting a cheap seat!
