5 Budget Travel Tips from Gillian Bowler
Gillian Bowler is a travel enthusiast and an author known for her book ‘Money-saving tips for travelers.’ Her extensive experience in budget travel has led her to come up with the following tips that can help you save money during your travels:
1. Use Public Transport
Transportation is one of the significant expenses when it comes to travel. Opting for public transportation can save you a considerable amount of money. Gillian believes in exploring a new place on foot or using public transit for the most authentic experience. In addition, it is essential to research your options and get a transit card if there is one available. Transit cards can save you up to 50% on public transportation costs.
2. Choose Budget Accommodation
Gillian suggests staying at budget accommodations such as hostels, where you can meet other travelers and share resources. Hotels can be expensive, and by choosing hostels or Airbnb, you can save a lot of money. You can also try to stay in the suburbs or areas outside of the town center where hotels and accommodations are often cheaper.
3. Eat like a Local
Instead of eating at expensive tourist spots, try to eat where the locals do. You can try out local street food or visit local markets. You can also prepare your meals if there is a kitchen available in your accommodation. Gillian suggests researching local cuisines and finding cheaper options outside of tourist spots. Local markets provide fresh produce, and you can create your meals to your taste.
4. Travel during Off-Peak Seasons
Traveling during peak seasons can be expensive, and certain locations become overcrowded. Gillian suggests traveling during off-peak seasons to save money and avoid crowds. You can also find cheaper accommodations and travel deals during off-peak seasons. Off-peak seasons often have their advantages, such as better weather, fewer crowds, and more affordable prices.
5. Plan Ahead
Planning a trip ahead of time can help you save money. Gillian suggests creating an itinerary with all expenses associated with your travel, such as accommodation costs, transportation, meals, and activities. Doing research on shareable resources such as guidebooks and apps can also help save you money. You can also create a budget to monitor your expenses, and adjust accordingly.
Conclusion
Traveling on a budget can be challenging, but it’s achievable with proper planning and research. The above tips can help you save money and make your trip more enjoyable. The key is to plan ahead, research your options, and try to live like a local. By following these tips, you can create a memorable travel experience without breaking the bank.
