The Ultimate Jordan Budget Travel Guide: Tips, Tricks, and Hacks
Jordan is a must-visit destination for any traveler who wants to experience the wonders of the Middle East and explore its unique culture. However, many people believe that traveling to Jordan can be quite expensive. In reality, Jordan can be an affordable destination if you plan your trip smartly. In this article, we offer you the ultimate Jordan budget travel guide, filled with tips, tricks, and hacks to help you save money and make the most out of your trip.
1. Plan Your Trip Wisely
Planning your trip is the first step to staying within your budget. Research is key. Choose the best time of the year to visit Jordan, as it affects the cost of flights, accommodation, and activities. Peak season runs from April to June and September to November, and prices will be higher during this time. Low season runs from December to February and July to August, and prices will be lower due to the low demand.
Also, consider your trip route. Fly into Amman rather than Aqaba, as flights to Aqaba can be more expensive. Moreover, avoid staying in primarily tourist areas as accommodation and food prices are typically higher.
2. Stay in Hostels
Budget accommodation in Jordan is plentiful, with many hostels and budget hotels available. Staying in a hostel is an excellent way to save money, and you may even meet other travelers who can provide useful tips and advice.
3. Use Local Transportation
Taxis in Jordan can be expensive, so opt for using public transport such as buses, shared taxis, or service taxis. Shared taxis, also called “servees,” are cheap and frequent and can be used as a form of public transport. They will take you everywhere, from cities to remote destinations such as Petra and Wadi Rum, at a fraction of the cost of a private taxi.
4. Eat Local Food
Jordanian cuisine is rich in flavors and affordable, making it an excellent option for budget travelers. Street food such as falafel, shawarma, and manousheh (a type of flatbread) are cheap and widely available. Moreover, traditional Jordanian restaurants offer excellent value meals, with hearty portions and prices that won’t break the bank.
5. Look for Discounts
Look out for discounts on attractions, tours, and transportation, as it could save you lots of money. The Jordan Pass is an excellent value for money option, giving you access to many of Jordan’s most famous sites, including Petra, Jerash, and Wadi Rum.
6. Use Free Activities
Jordan has plenty of free activities to enjoy, including visiting historic ruins, hiking trails, and viewpoints. Amman has several free museums, such as the Jordan Museum and the Royal Automobile Museum, that give you insight into the country’s history and culture.
7. Negotiate Prices
Negotiation is the norm in Jordan, and you can use it to your advantage. When shopping for souvenirs or bargaining for taxis, don’t be afraid to negotiate prices aggressively. If you struggle with bargaining, ask a local or other travelers for advice on reasonable prices.
Conclusion
Jordan can be an affordable destination if you plan your trip wisely. With the above tips, you can minimize the cost of your trip and make the most out of your visit to this unique country. By choosing budget accommodation, using public transport, eating local food, taking advantage of free activities, and bargaining for prices, you can have a wonderful trip to Jordan without breaking the bank.
