Genius Budget Travel Tips For Beginners

Always looking forward to a trip abroad but anxious about not knowing how to plan? Or are you an experienced traveler who finds travel planning too troublesome, opting for group tours for safety and efficiency? Solo travel is something you should experience at least once in a lifetime! It brings many new insights and adventures beyond daily life, and it doesn’t have to be troublesome or expensive. With a bit of preparation and this post of budget travel tips, you can have a fantastic experience on a small budget.

My Personal Travel Journey

At 12, I took my first cruise to Ishigaki-jima, Japan. By 16, I joined my mom on an LV employee reward trip to France. At 20, I went to the United States for a working holiday, traveling across the East and West Coasts for a month. At 26, needing a break to realign my career goals, I embarked on a 35-day solo trip across Europe. My travels in the United States and Europe were well-spent, creating unforgettable memories for a lifetime.

These journeys, spanning over 50 cities, taught me the joys of independent travel. From searching for information, planning itinerary, purchasing necessary items, arranging all these on Excel (maybe this is because I am an INFJ) to embarking on the journey.

Or else, finding low-cost options, such as taking low-cost airlines and night buses, moving between different accommodations, trying to save a little more money, and for a bit of a different life experience, it has also added different landscapes to my life, unique and one-of-a-kind.

After my trip to Europe,I discovered the art of budget-friendly travel—a skill I’ve since shared with friends.

Travel Tips for Female Solo

In solo trips, I also have a say on how to ensure a safe trip for women. The article will mention how I was robbed of 500 euros in Italy and how I continued my journey.

This travel tips guide may be more like a collection of stories and tools, mixed with some of my personal experiences, and I hope it can help you to start your first independent international trip more efficiently and without worries, on a relatively low budget.

Plan a Budget-Friendly Trip

Set a Budget

Budgeting for travel involves both time and money. Most blogs will tell you to plan according to your budget, but I want to add the condition of “number of days“. Start by deciding how long you want to travel—this directly affects your expenses.

For example, although the cost of traveling in Thailand is on average one-fifth of that in the United States, if you only have 5 days, flying to Bangkok and back leaves only 3 days, which is not suitable.

• Planning a Asia Trips: 10+ days are ideal. If a country is the destination, it is best to have more than 3 weeks. Although 3 weeks in China is really not enough.
• Short trip to Europe: A relaxed 10-day trip or a 7-day whirlwind adventure works well.
• Travel to Africa: Plan for at least 7 days due to long distances between attractions.

Choose the Destination Fits Your Interest

• History and Culture: Europe is perfect for architecture enthusiasts and history buffs. If you’re on a budget, Portugal and Spain are fantastic options offering affordable yet rich cultural experiences.
• Nature and Adventure: The U.S. boasts unparalleled natural landscapes and is ideal for road trips. note that road-tripping in China is overwhelming but challenging for foreigners due to driving restrictions.
• Island Lover: For island-hopping or diving, look no further than Thailand or Malaysia. Further to indulge in local and outdoor activites or lie on the beach while getting a diving certificate, etc.
• Skiing Enthusiasts: Japan offers exceptional skiing in winter at reasonable rates. (You can find more details in Best Budget-Friendly Ski Resorts in Japan 2024)

Outline Your Travel Expenses

Determine the overall budget of this trip. First, outline a rough range of travel expenses you are willing to spend, such as a month’s salary or the entertainment and leisure account in your savings account. Then, allocate reasonably according to the components of the travel budget

• Transportation: Airfare, trains, and car rentals.
• Accommodation: Hostels, B&Bs, or budget hotels.
• Food: Dining out or cooking.
• Activities: Tickets and tours.
• Shopping and Souvenirs: Allocate based on your preferences.
• Insurance and Emergencies: Always include these!

Smart Travel Tips for Saving Money

1. Compare Flight Prices: In addition to students, most 9-5 routine office workers, it is actually difficult to travel during the off-season, and there is little room for adjustment in the part of the air tickets. Use tools like Google Flights to find the best deals is the best way.
2. Take Connecting Flights: If you have plenty of time and don’t mind transfers, you can choose some cheaper connecting flights, which are often save up to 20% compared to direct flights. I think this one is a top solo budget travel tip due to my personal experiecne. For my 35-day trip to Europe, I initially considered starting the journey from Spain or Amsterdam, because the ticket from British Airways with a 5-hour layover in the UK to Amsterdam was nearly 20% cheaper than flying to Madrid. Finally, I took theconnecting flight of British Airways.
3. Leverage Loyalty Programs: Accumulate airline miles or credit card points for free flights or upgrades is a smart travel tip for sure!This method is more friendly to office workers, especially frequent business travelers, who can concentrate on accumulating membership points of one airline or one alliance. There are often credit card cooperations, and daily consumption can accumulate membership points, which can eventually be used for upgrades, meal exchanges, or even a free ticket.

For example, I work in China and choose the airline where I work, the Star Alliance, to accumulate points for Eastern Airlines, and redeemed a free one-way ticket to Taipei, saving about 180 US dollars a year.

Adjustment of Travel Budget

After roughly determining the destination, travel time, and setting a general budget, based on destination research, allocate the budget for each items.

Assuming you are planning to go to Japan, accommodation and dining in Japan are not cheap, but most attractions are free, and you may buy a lot of souvenirs; in Southeast Asia, there are many cheap options for accommodation, dining, and transportation, but local tours usually require more expense; in Europe, there is a big difference between the north, west, south, and east.

Based on my travel experiences in Japan, Southeast Asia, China, and Western Europe, I have compiled the following cost reference table for your convenience.

Steps to Create a Perfect Itinerary: Smart Travel Essentials

Planning daily budgets and crafting a detailed itinerary requires thorough research. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you:

Budgeting Tips

• Use travel budget templates or apps to streamline your planning, such as Wanderlog
• Refer to travel forums and blogs for budget suggestions.
• Consider the impact of travel time on prices (e.g.peak seasons are typically more expensive).

Step-by-Step Itinerary Planning

Step 1: Research Popular Attractions and Activities

• Utilize social media platforms like Instagram, YouTube, Pinterest, or Red (in China) to discover must-visit destinations and activities.
• Draft a blueprint outlining the number of days needed, major transportation costs, and unmissable attractions or activities.

Step 2: Select Accommodation Areas

• Based on your draft, choose areas to stay in and compare prices on OTAs (Online Travel Agencies) like Booking, Agoda, or Trip.com.
• Use calendar views to check daily price differences and identify peak and off-peak seasons.

Step 3: Research Costs and Reviews

• Search for travel blogs discussing attractions, tickets, and dining options at your destination.
• Confirm prices for activities and tickets using tools like Viator, GetYourGuide, and Klook.
• Review average dining costs through blogs like Saltinourhair.

Step 4: Adjust Your Budget

Reevaluate your planned expenses (e.g., airfare, accommodation, tickets, and dining) and adjust as needed.

• Reduce spending on shopping or souvenirs and allocate more for food. For example, I prefer to prioritize unique dining experiences over shopping.
• In Thailand and Malaysia, I’d allocate more for SPA treatments while saving on food costs by enjoying street food.
• In Europe, I often forgo shopping and souvenirs to ensure I can explore all the attractions and museums. During a 35-day trip, I only purchased a piece of cheese in the Netherlands as a gift for an Italian restaurant owner who helped me during my journey. While I didn’t indulge in daily gourmet meals, I made sure to savor at least one famous local dish per destination.

Pro Tip for Solo Budget Travelers

The biggest challenge for solo backpackers is trying local cuisine without overspending or wasting food. A great solution is to share meals with hostel companions.

• Example 1: In a Dutch hostel, I joined an Argentine couple for a traditional Dutch meal.
• Example 2: In Portugal, I shared a seafood dinner with a travel companion I met on Facebook, splitting costs and enhancing the experience.

Flexible Budget Travel

If you’re looking for surprises and lower costs and have a flexible schedule, visit platforms like lastminutes.com to grab a last-minute deal and embark on an unplanned adventure!

Packing Tips for Budget Travelers

Pack Light

I don’t think there’s a more important packing tip than this! When I was carrying a large 32-inch and 35-kilogram luggage back and forth to different cities in the United States, going up and down the subway station, I already wanted to go home.

So when I traveled around the Europe for 35 days, I only carried a hiking bag and a Longchamp shoulder bag.The hiking backpack was specifically chosen for its support frame, as this feature is essential for long walks. Without proper support, carrying a heavy load for extended periods can become extremely uncomfortable and tiring.

Traveling light isn’t just convenient—it saves money. With just a hiking bag and a carry-on, you can avoid baggage fees and easily navigate public transportation.

Essential Packing Checklist

In this limited accommodation space, there are still many essential items that must be packed, otherwise you will regret not doing it when you travel to the local area!

1. Passport and Visa

• Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months from your travel date.
• If a visa is required, apply in advance. Print at least two copies of your visa and save a digital copy on your phone.

2. Travel Documents

• Print copies of your airfare and accommodation confirmations for easy access.

3. Universal Travel Adapter

• Invest in an adapter compatible with outlets worldwide to avoid any inconvenience.

4. Power Bank

• Carry a high-capacity power bank to avoid running out of battery. In regions like Europe or Southeast Asia, electronics stores might not be as accessible as in China, where you can rent or purchase one for approximately $20.

5. Trtl Pillow

• Essential for long-distance travel, especially on planes, night buses, or hostels. A neck pillow provides comfort and warmth during transit or in waiting areas.

6. Medicine Kit

• Pack essential medicines, including stomach medicine, cold medicine, allergy medication, and gastrointestinal treatments. These can be lifesavers in case of sudden health issues due to environmental changes.

7. Storable Down Jacket

• A lightweight, foldable down jacket, like those from Uniqlo, is perfect for varying climates. Opt for a thicker one if visiting colder destinations like the Jungfraujoch.

8. Stainless Steel Water Bottle

• Many European destinations offer free water refills. This saves money (up to 2 euros daily) and supports environmentally friendly tourism.

9. Clothing

• Pack 2-3 versatile outfits and a sweater. Most hostels and accommodations in Europe offer laundry facilities. For Southeast Asia, consider buying lightweight, local clothing upon arrival.

Travel Tips for Mental Preparation

Acculturation: Respect and Inclusion in Global Travel

In today’s globalized world, travel is not just about geographical migration—it’s also about cultural blending. As a travel blogger, I’ve come to appreciate the importance of acculturation through my journeys across Japan, Southeast Asia, and Europe.

Japan: Respect for Personal Space and Privacy

In Japan, maintaining personal space is highly valued. People tend to avoid unnecessary physical contact and maintain a respectful distance in public. Additionally, the scarcity of garbage cans on Japanese streets requires travelers to handle their waste responsibly, showcasing respect and self-discipline toward the environment.

If you are a vlogger, make it a point to seek consent before filming individuals to respect their privacy, aligning with Japanese cultural norms.

Southeast Asia: Respect for Religion and Culture

Countries such as Thailand, Malaysia, and Sri Lanka have deeply rooted religious influences from Buddhism and Islam. Travelers should dress modestly, remove shoes before entering places of worship, and adhere to local customs.

For example:

• In Thailand, I learned to greet with a “namaste” as a sign of respect.
• In Sri Lanka, I observed and respected Buddhist rituals, deepening my understanding of the local culture.

Europe: Independence and Personal Respect

In Europe, personal space and time are highly valued. Whether staying in a hostel or an Airbnb, adhering to rules and respecting others is essential.

• In hostels, maintaining quietness ensures others’ comfort.
• At Airbnbs, I follow house rules and keep the space clean to honor the host’s hospitality.

Through these acculturation practices, I’ve not only enriched my travel experiences but also fostered cross-cultural understanding and respect. I hope my insights inspire you to prepare mentally for your trips and enjoy your journeys to the fullest.

In addition, as a beginner on a first-time international trip, when arriving in a new cultural environment, it may experience culture shock, which often manifests as a sense of discomfort with the new environment, including loneliness, homesickness, and doubt about the new culture. This state of mind can lead to anxiety, depression, and feelings of loss. Building a support network (such as friends, family, or the local community) during your trip, such as sharing your daily travel impressions on Facebook or reporting daily updates in a chat group, can help you get emotional support and practical help when you get stuck, as well as alleviate loneliness and anxiety.

Solo Budget Travel Tips

Safety First

It’s important to know the culture of your destination country when traveling, but it’s also important to be alert in a foreign country, especially if you’re traveling alone, so here are some tips to pay special attention to.

Safety Travel Tips

Know Your Destination

Before you travel, research the safety status of your destination. Look into any geopolitical conflicts, dangerous areas, and local laws or customs. Being informed will help you avoid high-risk areas and ensure a smoother trip.

Emergency Contacts

Keep a list of local emergency numbers handy, including:

• Police
• Ambulance services
• The nearest consulate or embassy

Having these details readily available can save precious time in an emergency.

Keep a Low Profile

To reduce the risk of being targeted by crime:

• Avoid displaying valuables such as jewelry, cameras, or large amounts of cash in public.
• Blend in with the local culture to avoid drawing unnecessary attention.

Be Cautious with Food and Drink

In unfamiliar surroundings, exercise caution with:

• Food or drinks offered by strangers to avoid the risk of being drugged.
• Street food or local dishes if you’re unsure of their hygiene standards.

Stay Aware of Your Surroundings

Remain alert, especially in crowded or noisy places where distractions are common. This will help you identify and avoid potential threats.

Use Safe Modes of Transportation

• Choose reputable taxi companies or official public transportation.
• Avoid illegal vehicles or unverified roadside transport services.

Accommodation Safety

• Select accommodations with good reviews and secure facilities.
• In hostels, lock your luggage and store it in a safe place when leaving your room.
• In apartment hotels, lock all doors and windows before going out and be aware of anyone following you into the building.

Health and Safety Precautions

• Carry essential medicines based on the hygiene conditions of your destination.
• Be vigilant about food hygiene to avoid food poisoning.

Cybersecurity

• Use public Wi-Fi cautiously and avoid sensitive operations like online banking.
• Utilize VPNs or secure networks whenever possible.

Stay Calm in Emergencies

If you face an emergency:

• Stay calm and quickly assess the situation.
• Take appropriate actions, such as contacting emergency services or seeking help from locals.

By following these safety tips, you can minimize risks and ensure a more enjoyable travel experience.

My Personal Experience with Travel Safety

From my own experience, I’ve always been mindful of safety rules—particularly tips four through ten. However, I failed to follow tip three during a visit to Rome, and it led to my wallet being stolen. After withdrawing cash from an ATM, I put my wallet back in my bag and proceeded to take a bus. Unfortunately, I was distracted by using my phone, which gave a thief the perfect opportunity to steal my wallet and exit the bus immediately.

At this moment, following the second safety tip became crucial. I promptly called the consulate to report my stolen documents and credit cards. Then, I visited the local police station to file a report and ensured I kept a copy for insurance purposes. Next, I contacted the Taiwanese office abroad, and they went above and beyond by connecting me with a Taiwanese restaurant owner near the Colosseum. This generous individual lent me cash to continue my journey while my family transferred funds to his Taiwanese bank account. To show my gratitude, I later gifted him a piece of pesto-flavored cheese I bought in the Netherlands, which I had genuinely enjoyed.

This incident underscored the importance of travel insurance. Although it didn’t cover the entire loss, it compensated me for a significant portion of the 500 euros (roughly half a month’s salary) I had lost. Travel insurance is an essential safety net, offering various coverage options to suit different needs. If you’re planning a trip, consider purchasing insurance to safeguard your journey—it’s worth the peace of mind!

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Be Prepared for the Unexpected

Transportation Tips

Affordable transportation options vary greatly between countries, and there are two effective strategies to plan your journey: active and passive methods.

• Active Planning: Check the traffic or transportation status for your next leg of the journey in real-time.
• Passive Planning: Subscribe to alerts or notifications from transportation companies, including airlines, trains, and buses.

For travelers constantly on the move, real-time updates might not always be practical. In such cases, booking tickets online in advance is the best option.

Examples and Tips:

• During my 35-day trip across Europe, I discovered that booking tickets for services like Flixbus, Rede Expressos, or ALSA more than 30 days in advance often unlocks significant discounts.
• At some stations, tickets bought from vending machines include discount codes printed on them. Use these codes to save on subsequent ticket purchases.
• Sign up for alerts from low-cost airlines. I once snagged a ticket for just 10 euros by booking the day before departure—a perfect hack for backpack travelers.

In Asia, purchasing package tickets tailored for tourists is usually the most economical choice. For example, Japan offers comprehensive travel passes for long distances at relatively low prices. Similarly, in Southeast Asia, platforms like Klook and 12Go provide promo codes and discounts for online bookings. Booking in advance ensures convenience and cost savings while avoiding language barriers that might lead to misunderstandings or higher prices.

Be Ready for Delays

Unexpected delays can disrupt travel plans. In Spain, I encountered a bus strike that left me stranded at a stop for over an hour. By the time I reached the station, my long-distance bus had already departed. Fortunately, I had purchased a flexible ticket, which allowed me to reschedule for a later bus.

Pro Tip: When traveling in Europe, always allow extra time for connections. Opt for tickets that offer free changes to minimize disruptions. For more detailed information on buses and trains in Europe, platforms like Omio provide schedules and booking options to streamline your journey.

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Booking Accommodation Tips

Accommodation Options

Understanding the pros and cons of various accommodation types can help you make informed choices:

Hotels:

B&Bs:

Youth Hostels:

Shared Accommodation (e.g. Airbnb):

Recommended Platforms:

Booking.com and Hostelworld offer diverse options with user reviews to guide your decisions. Use comparison tools like Expedia to secure the best deals and opt for flexible booking options to accommodate last-minute changes.

Budget Tips for Accommodation

• Book early to take advantage of lower prices, especially during peak seasons.
• Consider traveling during off-peak periods for discounts.
• Explore accommodations slightly outside city centers to balance cost and comfort. For instance, in Rome, I stayed at a charming B&B for the same price as a hostel.

Maximize Savings:

Leverage credit card points and coupons. Many cards offer travel-related rewards, and platforms frequently provide promotional codes. My work with Marriott loyalty program taught me that buying points during promotional periods which is twice a year, and redeeming points for room nights is a cost-effective way. There are a lot of different offer campaign every quarters.

Dining on a Budget

Economical Dining Options

• Local Markets and Street Food:In Thailand, night markets are ideal for experiencing authentic cuisine at low prices while enjoying the vibrant atmosphere.
• Cooking Your Own Meals:In Europe and the U.S., buying cooked chicken or fresh ingredients from supermarkets saves money. In Japan, supermarket discounts after 7:30 p.m. are perfect for budget travelers.
• Hostel Meal Sharing:Dining with hostel companions not only reduces costs but also enhances the travel experience.

Cheap Recreational Activities During Travel

Free or Low-Cost Activities

Many cities offer free admission to public museums and parks on specific days. Even from the outside, many attractions provide stunning views worth admiring.

Free Walking Tours:A fantastic way to explore local history and culture. You can enter the destination + free walking tour on google or some small travel agencies offer city walk tour at a relatively cheap price.

In Munich and Seville, I joined engaging tours that introduced me to fellow travelers and enriched my understanding of the cities. I definitely recommend this free walking tour in Munich, which made a good impression of Munich because it told the history of the buildings and landmarks in a lively and interesting way!

Summary and Thoughts

I prefer not to dwell on off-season travel or discount booking strategies, as these are commonly covered by other travel bloggers and may not always align with everyone’s schedule. Instead, I believe that being mindful of financial risks and prioritizing safety—such as investing in travel insurance—not only helps save money but also enhances the overall experience. Striking a better balance in packing, budgeting, choosing transportation, exploring alternative dining options, and embracing affordable experiential activities is a more practical and effective approach to budget travel. This mindset allows you to maximize savings while enjoying a seamless journey.

Remember, travel is not just about the destination visiting but about the growth and memories you gather along the way. Take the plunge and explore the world on a budget!

Your Next Adventure Awaits!

Whether you’re enjoying your Christmas vacation or gearing up for the upcoming Spring Break, now is the perfect time to start planning your budget-friendly trip. Use the tips and instructions shared here as a guide to make your journey smoother and more enjoyable.

This blog post reflects many of my personal stories and the mistakes I made while traveling on a budget—I hope they help you avoid similar pitfalls. If you have travel stories of your own, I’d love to hear them!

And if you have more in-depth travel questions, don’t hesitate to reach out—I’m here to help. Happy traveling!