Many have often associated budget traveling with low-profile adventures. Unknown to them, a fulfilling trip doesn’t have to entail flying first class or popping champagne in some swanky hotel.
It’s possible to have an enriching travel experience without spending down to your bottom dollar, and this article shall explain how
Read on as we walk you through creative ways to plan a budget-friendly backpacking adventure.
1. Purchase a subscription box
Subscription boxes have greatly benefited the travel industry. These services take the hassle out of planning a trip by supplying the essential items needed to make every journey exciting and memorable.
Purchasing an outdoors subscription box from providers like BattlBox is instrumental if you go backpacking rather frequently.
BattlBox ships items tailored for each outdoor experience to its clients’ doorsteps.
2. Pick destinations carefully
One interesting fact about backpacking is that many destinations are at your disposal. That said, it’s prudent to tread cautiously when selecting the best places to plan your next adventure.
Research accommodation rates and the average cost of living in your preferred travel destinations. Then, check if those locations align with your budget.
You might also consider factors like foreign exchange rates and the availability of basic amenities, especially if you’re planning an off-grid backpacking trip.
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3. Buy travel insurance
Travel insurance is possibly the last thing you’d consider when planning a budget-friendly trip. But it’s worthwhile.
Having traveling insurance guards against unforeseen travel risks, such as emergency medical treatments and security evacuations. Note that footing ambulance transfers out of the pocket is anything but cheap.
4. Fly economy
If you’re planning a backpacking adventure out of state or to an overseas destination, you’ll most likely travel by air.
You have an excellent opportunity to cut travel expenses by using the flying economy.
The economy class can be up to 50% cheaper than business class. And despite the negative stereotypes associated with it, an economy flight can be pretty enjoyable.
5. Use public transportation
One of the first sights at significant airports is neatly dressed cab drivers trying to woo arriving tourists into joining their rides.
But despite their refined language and admirable mannerisms, these taxi drivers typically charge premium rates for their services. Why not shun them and opt for public transportation?
Only ride in a cab if necessary, such as where public transportation isn’t allowed. Even so, insist on taxis that are part of affordable ridesharing companies, such as Uber and Bolt.
6. Try hitchhiking
Filmmakers have done a perfect job of giving hitchhiking a bad name.
Nearly all hitchhiking movie scenes lead to homicides or some other misfortunes. But despite the terrible image, hitching a hike remains a creative way to save money when backpacking.
Just ensure you’re traveling with a trustworthy friend. If not, stay vigilant and trust your gut instincts.
7. Don’t be too obvious
It’s difficult to conceal your tourist status when backpacking, as your backpack will give you away. However, you can still implement certain strategies to stay safe.
Start by learning local languages. Any mugger would think twice before stealing from someone who speaks their native language.
It’s also prudent to avoid expensive jewelry. Unless you’re a pop star (in which case you’d be tagging your security team), strolling around with flashy pendants will likely attract the wrong attention.
Other safety tips include traveling with a small amount of hard cash and avoiding insecurity hotspots.
8. Eat like a local
Food usually takes up a significant portion of a traveler’s budget. So, any opportunity to cut this expenditure is highly welcome.
The first thing to do is avoid dining at touristy restaurants. Instead, consider local eateries or food markets.
9. Balance your expenses
Does the idea of staying in a high-end hotel seem too costly? Well, not if the facility allows you to prepare your meals for the duration of the trip.
Similarly, public transportation may sound like a cost-effective way to get around.
But not if the nearest bus stop is several miles from your off-grid camping site. In that case, requesting a taxi ride would be cheaper and more convenient.
10. Go slow on tips and souvenirs
A tip here…a tip there…and before you know it, you’re out of cash.
Now, common decency dictates that you appreciate local tour guides. However, it’s prudent to practice measured generosity.
Apply the same principle to souvenirs. Not every relic you come across is worth adding to your memento list.
The Bottom Line
While you can plan a successful backpacking adventure on a budget, be careful not to compromise the quality of your experiences.
Remember that budget-friendly backpacking is all about making the most of your travel expenses, not settling for cheap at the expense of an enjoyable trip.
