Travelling is like going on a magical adventure! You get to see new places, taste delicious food, and discover exciting surprises. But guess what? You don’t need a lot of money to explore the world. With smart tricks, you can have amazing adventures while saving cash and using the Forex Card.
Simple ways to save money
Travelling on a budget requires some planning, but it’s entirely possible. Choosing the right time to travel, utilising local transportation, and making informed spending decisions will help you save money and make the most of your trip. Here’s how you can do it:
1. Choose off-peak travel times
Find out when it is not the peak season and plan accordingly, as flights will be cheaper and hotel prices will also be lower. You’ll also find shorter queues at attractions, and locals will be more relaxed and friendly when there are fewer tourists around. Additionally, visiting during off-peak seasons allows you to enjoy a more authentic experience of the place without feeling rushed or overwhelmed by crowds.
2. Use public transport
Taxis are convenient, but they are expensive. Instead, learn about buses, trains, and metro systems before your trip. Get a multi-day pass to save money. Public transportation allows you to experience how locals live, and you might even discover cool places that most tourists overlook. Learning a few essential words in the local language can also help you navigate the area quickly. Many cities also offer free shuttle buses or discount passes for tourists.
3. Savvy accommodation choices
You don’t have to stay in fancy hotels. Try capsule hotels in Japan, family-run guesthouses in Europe, or fun hostels in big cities. Many hosts give great tips about the area and might even share a homemade meal with you. Where you stay can make your trip even more special! If you prefer more privacy, holiday rentals or house-swapping options can also be good options.
4. Embrace street food and local eateries
Skip expensive restaurants. The best way to find great food is to see where locals are eating. Street markets are also a fun way to taste different dishes without spending too much. Many cities offer food tours that allow you to sample multiple dishes at a reasonable price, and some even provide complimentary tastings in select areas. If you’re staying somewhere with a kitchen, consider buying fresh ingredients from a local market and cooking your meals to save even more money.
5. Free tourist attractions and walks
Many cities have free museums, parks, and festivals. Madrid offers free museum hours in the evenings, Melbourne’s street art makes the whole town feel like an art gallery, and Bangkok’s markets are filled with energy. Check local event calendars—you might find free concerts, festivals, or other extraordinary events. Walking tours are also a great way to explore a new place without spending much, and some cities even offer free walking tours where you can tip the guide based on your budget.
6. Avoid currency exchange at airports
Airport currency kiosks charge high fees. Instead, use a Forex Card to load different currencies at a fixed exchange rate.
The Axis Bank Forex Card stands out as a perfect travel partner for international travel. Apply online and have it delivered to your home or pick it up from the nearest branch. This card offers locked-in exchange rates, digital reload facility and multi-currency capability. If your card is lost or stolen, a single call to our 24/7 customer support will temporarily lock the card and arrangements for a replacement card will be made to keep your funds secure. It's a practical solution for managing travel expenses.
7. Shop at local markets for souvenirs
Tourist shops are expensive and sell the same stuff everywhere. Instead, visit local markets like Istanbul’s Spice Bazaar or Mexico City’s Mercado de la Merced. You’ll find unique, handmade items at better prices, supporting local artists. Talking to vendors can also help you learn more about the culture. Try bargaining—it’s often expected at markets, and you can get better deals by being friendly and respectful.
8. Pack smart to avoid extra fees
Airlines charge extra for checked bags, so pack light! Roll your clothes instead of folding, wear bulky items on the plane, and bring a foldable suitcase for souvenirs. Use travel-size toiletries or solid products, such as shampoo bars. Bring a reusable water bottle to refill at airports and save money. Packing smart also means bringing versatile clothing that can be layered for different weather conditions, so you don’t need to carry too much.
Also Read: What is Forex?
Conclusion
Travelling on a budget is all about making wise choices. Book flights early, compare prices and look for budget airlines, stay in affordable accommodations, use public transport, eat where locals eat, and carry your Forex Card to explore the world without overspending and still have a fantastic time!
Disclaimer: This article is for information purpose only. The views expressed in this article are personal and do not necessarily constitute the views of Axis Bank Ltd. and its employees. Axis Bank Ltd. and/or the author shall not be responsible for any direct / indirect loss or liability incurred by the reader for taking any financial decisions based on the contents and information. Please consult your financial advisor before making any financial decision.