What is budget travel?

Budget travel isn't about being cheap. It is about spending on the experiences you care about and saving everywhere else, so you can travel longer or more often.

The five habits that save the most

1. Sleep somewhere simple

Accommodation is usually the biggest daily cost. Hostels (many have private rooms), guesthouses and budget hotels cost a fraction of 4- and 5-star hotels. Staying a little outside the centre, near public transport, often halves the price.

2. Get around like locals

Metros, buses, trains and shared rides are far cheaper than taxis and rental cars. Many cities have day passes or fare caps on contactless cards.

3. Eat where locals eat

Street food, markets, food courts and set lunches are cheaper and often better than tourist restaurants. A supermarket breakfast or picnic saves even more.

4. Mix free and paid activities

Free walking tours, parks, beaches, viewpoints, temples and free-museum days fill many days. Spend your money on the one or two paid experiences you really want.

5. Travel off-peak

The shoulder season (just before or after the busiest months) usually has good weather and much lower prices. See shoulder season travel.

Know your daily number

The easiest way to stay on budget is to know a realistic daily amount before you go. Use the trip budget calculator to get one for your destination and style, then track it with the expense tracker.