When it comes to vacations, holidaymakers usually resign to the fact that it is going to be a financially-damaging experience.
But this is not always true! So many travellers have proven otherwise that a little preparation can go a long way, and holidays need not always leave us broke.
From renting your house out while you are away, walking whenever possible and packing light with only one carry-on, here are 10 Tips on Saving Even When You Are On Holidays.
#1 CHOOSE THE RIGHT EATERIES
As a rule of thumb, restaurants located along the main streets of iconic tourist destinations are always the ones that are ready to “extort” money off you. Avoid such dining establishments altogether and venture into local neighbourhoods and alleyways for authentic and more wallet-friendly options.
#2 PREPARE YOUR OWN FOOD ON SOME DAYS
Wouldn’t you be interested to check out what the local markets and grocers have to offer? This is a great opportunity to further assimilate in your designated vacation destination, whilst saving money too. Talk about killing two birds with one stone. A DIY meal is always going to be way more affordable and fun.
#3 EARLY BIRD RATES
Be it an award-winning theatrical performance or an overnight stay at a luxury hotel, make use of early bird promotions by planning way in advance and you would stand to save up significant amounts of money – sometimes even up to 50% off!
#4 PACK LIGHT
Packing light with only one carry-on will save you heaps of time, money and hassle. Most budget airlines will charge you a fee for checking in your luggage, and we suggest you skip that unnecessary step. You can also skip the painful waiting time at the conveyor belt upon landing and not have to resort to taxis.
#5 PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION
Public transport such as buses, trains and/or trams is always way cheaper than taking a cab. Some cities such as Melbourne do offer free public transportation around the CBD area, too!
Also, you can consider getting daily/ weekly/ monthly passes. They usually come in a few variations, depending on how many days you would need. And they are priced at bundled one-time fee for unlimited rides.
#6 RENT YOUR HOME OUT
If you are going to be away for a long period of time, why not rent out your house on Airbnb during the same duration so that you are effectively still getting a form of financial rebate? Do check out your city’s regulations before doing so.
#7 WALK WHENEVER POSSIBLE
Assuming that your next destination is actually within walking distance, we suggest you take a leisure stroll and immerse yourself in the city’s surroundings instead. This way, you get to save money, work out and also fully experience what the city has to offer.
#8 EARN YOUR STAY
Some places actually offer free stays in return for labour. Help out with mowing the lawn, taking care of a nursery, or milking cows. Anything at all! It would be an alternative experience, but no less memorable.
#9 TAP ON FREE WIFI
You may want to skip renting a wifi router or getting a SIM Card, and tapping on free wifi instead. But please do your research carefully. Beach destinations such as Phuket and Maldives are not the most generous with free wifi, as with cities such as Paris and Tokyo.
#10 SKIP THE SOUVENIRS
Know those cheesy souvenirs – magnets, notebooks and whatnot? Save your money and skip those, and take more photos instead. Captured moments are your best souvenirs and the most practical way to remember your holidays.