made cutbacks all year, shouldn’t we be entitled to a bit of a break, even if it is on a budget?
Whether touring with the family around Europe, or backpacking as a single, or part of a couple, no
matter. Having to consider the financial implications of overspending while on holiday, can often lead to a greater, more enjoyable experience. Here are 5 tips to consider, wherever you intend to
holiday.
Touring Europe:
Do you intend to tour Europe by car with the family? If so consider arranging your car hire when
booking flights to your first destination. Many of the international hire companies offer a substantial
discount if you book online. Plus, you have the benefit of the company’s backing in every country
you visit.
Choose your Holiday Time:
Not always easy if the kids schooling has to be considered I know. If you are in a position where you
can pick-and-choose your time, large savings can be made holidaying out of season. Big savings can
be made on flight and accommodation costs, although be prepared for some hotels, and certain
attractions being closed out of season. Others, that usually charge for a guide, remain open, but with
no entrance charge without the guide. Of course, with a bit of careful planning, you can still arrange
your holiday and chase the sun. I often find that I prefer off season travel as the crowds are practically nonexistent.
Book Hotels away from the Tourist Areas:
Enjoy the hustle-and-bustle of the big tourist attractions. Visit the historical sites, ancient buildings, or monuments. Rub shoulders with the stars on the French Riviera. But when it comes to booking your overnight accommodation, check out the backstreet hotels and guest houses. Moving out of
town to the little village you past on the way in, could save you a considerable amount on your
overnight stay. But remember that it's a trade off. Location is often times the most important component when booking accommodation so be sure, especially if on a short trip, that the sacrifice is worth the savings.
Dine with the Locals:
No matter where you are, when it comes to eating, local is cheapest, and very often best. Buying a
cup of coffee, or an ice-cream, in the tourist capitals of the world can be an expensive business. With
a little exploring, checking out a few of the backstreet cafes, and the bars and restaurants the locals
use, can save you a fortune on your weekly eating and drinking expenses.
If you intend stopping over for a few days, use the same little bar/restaurant you found on your first
day. Often, once they realize you have become a tourist ‘local’, you will be showered with the little
extras, reserved only for their most favored patrons.
A Gap Year Travelling:
Firstly, ensure your travel insurance provides cover for the countries you intend to visit. Countries
like Australia are professionally set up for students planning a nomadic gap year. Purpose built
accommodation, and job boards advertising work on sheep farms or crop picking, are everywhere.
Wages are enough for your food and board, with a little left over for a beer.
If you’re heading toward Asia, then check things with your university. Many work with the big
charities like Oxfam, or Save the Children, looking for voluntary workers in places like Vietnam and
Cambodia. Pay is usually food and board, with the added satisfaction of knowing you are helping
improve the lot of some of the world’s most deprived children.
Tell us about your money saving tips in the comments below!
