Photo by: It’s safe to say that almost every backpacker is on some kind of a budget when they travel. It of course varies depending on a variety of factors but most of us can’t afford to spend like the drunken German tourist we meet at the bar who’s buying shots for everyone in between embarrassing rounds on the dance floor.
Learning to sponge off of free spenders didn’t actually make the list, but here are ten ways to not only make a budget, but actually stick to it while still making an allowance for nights to set free your inner Üter.
1. Set a Budget
Yes, this sounds obvious, but how you manage your budget is what’s important. First, set a spending goal for the week and figure out how much you can spend per day. Write down everything you spend money on by categories (such as ‘food’, ‘entry fees’, etc) so you can more easily see where your money’s going. If you find yourself going over track your expenses and eliminate the culprits.
The key to sticking to a budget is having a realistic one. It’s easy to swear to spending $5 a day by living as a total ascetic but let’s face it: you don’t have the willpower of a monk. Knowing that you’re going to want to splurge once in a while is vital to staying on target. Spend leanly when you can so that if you end up wanting to have a night on the town or coffee at a nice café you can do so within your budget. This can be worked directly into your spending goal or, what I often do is each time I go under budget for a day I put the amount into “splurge fund” which can be used to pay for more expensive things other days.
Photo by: 2. Buy Your Own Food
Food is always going to be one of your biggest expenses. However, buying the bulk of your grub at a grocery store is guaranteed to save money in the long term. Almost every hostel has a communal kitchen. Also, it is easier to make healthy choices at the grocery store. Buy foods such as fruit and nuts that you can snack on throughout the day.This will keep you satisfied between meals and less apt to make an expensive culinary mistake.
3. Don’t Be Such a Tourist
Eat at local restaurants. Ride public transportation. Shop at outdoor markets.In short, live as much like a local person as you can. Stick to the tourist spots and you’re going to pay tourist prices. Not only will this strategy pinch pennies but it will provide chances to rub elbows with the locals, making the experience much more genuine
4. Go With a Group
Generally, the more people you travel with the more money you’ll save, especially when driving. Even if you’re not traveling by car many tours or package deals have cheaper rates for large parties. Also, buying larger quantities of food and supplies lowers the unit cost.
Photo by: 5. Camp
Pitching a tent is one of the best and most reliable ways to save money. The downside is carrying the equipment, but the extra weight will lighten your spending. In keeping with the ‘reasonable budget’ theme allow yourself a bed once in a while.
6. Plan Smart
This can include many things, but in general, think ahead at all times. For example, don’t run to the bus station at the last minute and get on a bus that arrives at it’s destination at 2 a.m. where you haven’t made sleeping arrangements and are so tired you’ll spend three day’s budget on a taxi ride and a hotel bed. Instead, get the bus schedule ahead of time so you arrive at a reasonable hour and can take a local bus to a youth hostel or campsite you’ve made a reservation at. Basically, the more you plan ahead the less chance you’ll get into a tight spot and have to spend your way out of it.
7. Book Ahead
Flights are almost always much cheaper when booked in advance; usually the earlier the better. Also, check the peak tourist times at your destination and book for the off-season when rooms will be cheaper.
8. Find Free Things to Do
While money may not be able to buy happiness it certainly can provide a helluva night on the town. Luckily there are other ways to have a good time, many of them free. Taking a walk through a new city will cost you nothing and is the best way to get a feel for it. Go hiking. Have a picnic in the park. Arrive early to the subway and get a seat on a bench to watch the madness of a local rush hour. Throw stones at old people. Whatever your tastes, there are always small pleasures to be had for free.
9. Adjust Your Expectations
This is especially useful advice for first time travelers but is also important for veterans to keep in mind. Realize before departing that you’re not going to be living like you do at home and trying to do so will destroy your budget. Rough it a little. You’re going to miss meals. You’re going to sleep in communal beds that have suspicious stains. You’re going to be dirty and tired. Splurge once in a while on the finer things, but remember one of the best things about travel is breaking out of a routine. Instead of complaining about a lack of luxuries bask in the glory of being a dirty hippy. Plus, it will make having those small comforts even sweeter back at home.
10. Get Funded
This one is a bit of a stretch, but be creative. Are you a writer with a great idea for a travel memoir? Pitch the idea to an agent before setting off. Those aspiring to do charitable work may be able to get a small allowance from a sponsor. Lay a guilt trip on Mom about why you’re training to shrink your stomach before the trip. Remember those old Sally Struthers ads where for just $20 a month you can sponsor a child? Why not: Sponsor a Backpacker: “For just $20 a month you can see to it that little Brian has beer money on his trip through Laos.” Give it a shot. Friends and family have the tendency to say they’re living vicariously through your adventures. With a little work maybe they can be convinced to spend vicariously as well.
