10 SECRETS ON HOW TO SAVE

Learn how to travel on a budget.

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1. TRY NOT TO TAKE ORGANIZED TOURS

• Don’t take the easy route and jump on a tour to see your surroundings.
• Public transportation can usually take you to the same places the tours do.
• Spend some time while having a drink on the beach the night before and check out the destinations so you can explore them yourselves.
• Don’t want to spend time figuring out what you should see in the town you’re in? No problem! Check out a local tour website - usually they break down the itinerary with each place they visit! This will take you 5 minutes and now you know all the popular places to choose from!

2. SPEND TIME RESEARCHING ACCOMMODATION

• Booking last minute you can find cheaper deals since hotels don't want empty rooms.
• If you are in the town walk around and get a feel for it before you book.
• Hotels/Hostels will often give you discounts if you book directly with them. Just ask for one!
• Don’t always trust hotel booking sites reviews - a lot of times these are paid reviews.

3. HOLD BACK ON BUYING TRINKETS

• You are going to see things you’ll want to bring home everywhere you go - don't give in!
• Limit yourself to only buying small gifts for others.
• The act of a small gift for your loved ones at home, means just as much as a large gift.
• Buy the same thing for all of your friends at home and save by getting a discount for buying multiple!
• Spices, shells, local candies, bracelets are always fun and affordable gifts.

 4. CHOOSE LOCAL TRANSPORTATION

• Local transport will save you a lot of money - budget a daily amount and don't go over.
• Try to only take taxi’s or private shuttles when you feel it is necessary for your safety.
• If you have the time, local transport is such a great way to spend less and experience the life of the locals.
• If a taxi seems cheap, then chances are buses are pretty much free!

5. WALK

• Allow yourself the time to wander and take in your surroundings.
• You’ll get some great exercise in!
• You will leave the cities feeling like you have a true understanding of everyday life. Explore the small streets, get lost, and discover hidden gems!

6. EAT THE LOCAL FOOD

• Choose where you eat out wisely! Try to eat where you see locals eating.
• If you see more travelers than locals at the restaurant - keep walking.
• Simpler the menu - chances are the food will be more authentic and cost efficient.

7. DON’T TRAVEL DURING BUSY SEASON

• “Rainy season” in tropical destinations doesn’t always mean it’s much different than other times of year. 
• Traveling during off season can save you more than half the cost on hotels and flights
• If you are looking to save money and still travel - it might be worth it to exchange some tropical morning rain fall for cheap prices!

8. ALCOHOL

• Drink the local liquor and beer - don’t buy imports.
• You can buy the same beer in the grocery stores for half the price as in the bars.
• Keep a stock in your fridge and save when you go out.
• A lot of times beer is cheaper than water and soda.
• Try not drinking for a a few days! You’ll wake up feeling more energized and will quickly save a good amount of money.

9. SAVE MONEY WITH MEAL CHOICES

• Check out the local markets for groceries.
• Cook for yourself instead of eating out.
• Choose a place to stay that has a kitchen.
• Always pack snacks so you don’t get Haaangry!

10. EVERYTHING IS NEGOTIABLE

• In local markets it is normal for the sellers to offer you a price that is double or triple what they would charge a local. Haggle with the sellers in a fun way - try walking away and see if they call you back!
• Ask someone at your hotel or server at a restaurant what the normal negotiation is for certain places.
• There is no harm in asking for a discount - you can only stay even or save some money.
• Hotels/Hostels will often offer you a discount if you:
  • book for multiple nights
  • they have open rooms and you are booking last minute
  • ask for a discount