These five important travel hacks for exploring expensive cities will help you stretch your money further while making the most of your trip. Exploring the world can be challenging for budget travelers, but with the right strategies, you can experience it all without overspending.
Hannah and I travel full-time and as wonderful as it is, it can be difficult at times. We are regularly moving to new cities and countries, learning new cultures, and having to adapt to new surroundings constantly. But, after years on the road, these 5 travel hacks have always served us well.
Use Public Transportation Like a Local
One of the best ways to save money in expensive cities is by using public transport. Many offer affordable transport and readily-available travel cards that provide unlimited rides at a fraction of the cost. Apps like Citymapper or Google Maps are routinely accurate and will help you navigate most big cities.
Key tip: Look for accommodation options that offer free shuttles or have bicycles included. Often, even if these hotels are a slightly more expensive option, having much of your transport covered makes for a cheaper and more convenient stay.
Find Free or Discounted Attractions
Expensive cities often have a wealth of free activities that tourists overlook. Museums, galleries, and landmarks frequently offer free admission on specific days or during certain hours. Many cities also host free walking tours led by knowledgeable guides. Ask your hotel for local tips on free attractions.
Key tip: Check websites like Free Tours by Foot for free or pay-what-you-can tour options. Before booking anything with a tour guide, check the tour or attraction directly and see if it’s cheaper or free. Many tours charge a premium for facilitating a ‘skip the queue’ service which often isn’t needed.
Eat Like a Local to Save on Food
Dining in tourist-heavy areas or high-end restaurants can quickly drain your wallet. Instead, head to local markets, food trucks, or casual eateries where locals dine. Not only will you save money, but you’ll also enjoy an enhanced experience and authentic meals.
Key tip: Consider booking accommodation options that either include breakfast or have cooking facilities. Often, even paying a little extra for a room with a stove or a hearty breakfast included can save you a small fortune.
Stay in Budget-Friendly Accommodations
Accommodation is often the biggest expense in pricey cities. Instead of hotels, consider alternatives like hostels, house sitting, or renting a room through platforms like Airbnb.
House sitting in particular is a fantastic way to save a heap of money on your accommodation expenses. Hannah and I use it for 95% of our accommodation, read Everything You Need to Know About House Sitting to learn more.
Key tip: Capitalize on Airbnb discounts by hitting discount markers for 7-day or 28-day stays. Some listings will offer as much as a 50% discount for a month-long stay. Occasionally, if you’re planning to stay 15 days it may actually be cheaper to book 28 days.
Travel During Off-Peak Times
Timing your visit during the off-season can significantly reduce costs across the board. Flights, accommodation, and even attractions are often cheaper when demand is lower. Plus, you’ll enjoy a less crowded experience.
Key tip: Use tools like Skyscanner or Hopper to find the cheapest travel dates for your destination. Although booking directly with an airline is rarely the cheapest option, always book direct. Third-party agents make their money by adding a significant mark-up to travel extras like bags, seats, and meals.
Final Thoughts
These five important travel hacks for exploring expensive cities on a budget have always served us well and I hope they will help you maximize your experiences while minimizing costs.
By prioritizing affordable options and taking advantage of local resources, you can enjoy even the priciest destinations without breaking the bank
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