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Tag: budget tips

  • Eating Out on a Buget – Tips for Vacation Dining

    Food typically takes a major chunk of any vacation budget. Cooking in your room can save some serious dollars, but many accommodation options don’t have kitchen facilities. Without the comforts of home, travelers often need to eat out, and these restaurant meals can add up quickly. This article offers budget tips for restaurants and other eateries.

    Wherever possible, avoid paying full price. Before you set off, consider signing up for group deals websites in your intended destination, or investing in an Entertainment Book. Both services allow you to dine out at local restaurants for a fraction of the price. Local newspapers also often have discount vouchers for restaurants in the area.

    It can be tempting to go crazy when you’re dining out, but resist the urge to indulge in all three courses. Eating an appetizer, an entrée, and dessert can become a habit that’s difficult to break. Consider how hungry you really are, and order accordingly.

    If you are feeling especially peckish, it’s typically cheaper to choose a buffet restaurant over one offering an a la carte menu. Many smorgasbords charge less than $10, and allow patrons to enjoy as many appetizers, mains, and desserts as they like. The dishes offered are also typically diverse, so they can be a great way to sample plenty of local specialties and food from around the globe. They’re especially affordable for families too, as many buffets allow children to dine free.

    If you’re desperate to try your destination’s high-end restaurants, visit at lunch rather than dinnertime. Lunches are never as busy, so restaurants do their best to lure diners in. It’s common to find more affordable menus and delicious lunchtime specials.

    Specials aren’t only offered at lunchtime though. Most restaurants offer a selection of daily specials at a reduced rate, no matter what the time of day. Choosing one is a great way to save some money, and try a dish recommended by the chef himself!

    With the concept of Meatless Mondays gaining popularity, more diners are considering vegetarian options. Meals made with vegetables, whole grains, and other plant products are generally lower in calories than meat-heavy dishes, but forgoing meat doesn’t just make sense for health nuts. Meat-free dishes are often more affordable. At a good restaurant they’re typically just as delicious as the meaty alternatives too. Who could resist a mixed mushroom risotto, a spinach and ricotta cannelloni, or a hearty vegetable curry?

    Alcohol is another temptation that can add a significant amount to any restaurant bill. Bottomless sodas or water will keep you satiated without breaking the bank. If you must enjoy wine with your meal, consider ordering a single glass or sharing a carafe rather than a bottle.

    cutleryIt might seem a bit stingy, but if your budget’s tight, don’t be afraid to ask for half portions. Some restaurants will happily serve you a smaller meal for less. Alternatively consider ordering an appetizer rather than a main course. Often these smaller, less expensive meals are large enough to satisfy.

    If you find yourself becoming full, don’t let your extra food go to waste. The large portions at generous restaurants can actually make two meals. Take a doggy bag home, and you can enjoy an easy lunch the following day!

  • Tips for Avoiding Vacation Budget Blow-Outs

    We all travel with the very best of intentions. We’ll stick to our budget and avoid a nasty credit card bill at the end of our adventures. But like the best laid plans, it’s very easy to blow your finances when you’re having a good time. In this article we offer a few tips for avoiding a financial hangover after your next vacation.

    Saving money on your vacation starts before you even pack your bags. Research is the best way to avoid overspending. Discover the cheapest areas to stay, the most affordable ways to get around, and the budget eateries that locals rave about. Also make sure you familiarize yourself with the local currency and sales taxes. The only thing worse than your destination’s currency soaring while the one back home sinks is finding out about it after you’ve spent too much. Investing in a credit card which avoids international transaction fees is another great way to keep a little extra coin in your pocket.

    Of course you could always go the old fashioned route and rely on cash or travelers checks. While these options will incur conversion fees, using these money methods is a great way to stay conscious of your spending. And you’ll avoid those sneaky ATM charges!

    While on vacation you’ve got hours to fill, but don’t rely on your wallet to keep you amused. All destinations around the world have a host of free entertainment options, from enjoying the great outdoors to taking in a museum or festival. Grab a city guide when you arrive and let the locals and your surrounds take care of the fun!

    Avoid the old trap of taking your fully stocked wallet into a bar. As a big night wears on it’s very easy to start splashing around cash, on yourself and the good looking locals. Decide how much you’ll spend before setting off, leave the rest behind, and you’ll be able to do it all again tomorrow!

    piggy bank worldVacations have a way of encouraging us to reach for our wallet and indulge in silly souvenirs we’d never dream of buying at home. Forget the T-shirts, commemorative spoons, or tacky stationery. Instead look for local arts and crafts and other meaningful mementos you’ll enjoy long after the vacation buzz has faded.

    By following these simple tips you can avoid bill shock after your next vacation, which should make your memories of the time spent away a little fonder!

  • Save Money in Expensive Cities – Vacation on the Cheap in Holiday Hot Spots

    Many frugal travelers reject international hot spots like London, Paris, and Sydney in favor of more budget friendly alternatives like Thailand and Mexico. But it’d be a shame to let life pass you by without ever visiting your dream location. The good news is, you don’t have to. So long as you can save the airfare, our handy tips can ensure you save money once you arrive.

    Firstly consider the time you’ll travel carefully. Vacationing in the peak season may offer the best weather conditions, but if you don’t mind a chill you could save some serious cash.

    It’s a bit boring, but creating a budget is the secret to avoiding a vacation blowout. Consider a reasonable amount to spend each day, and then stick to it. Write down your expenses each day to ensure you’re staying on track. You could even find you’ve got some extra spending money at the end of your trip!

    Once you’ve arrived, you’ll need somewhere to lay your head. It can be tempting to stay in the thick of the action, but the most expensive accommodation is generally in the heart of any city. Research the local area before you leave and consider staying on the outskirts to save some extra cash.

    You might be on vacation, but you’ll save money if you spend your time living like a local rather than a tourist. Cook some meals in your hotel room and spend time absorbing the culture rather than frequenting high priced tourist attractions. While you’re soaking up the atmosphere, why not strike up a conversation with a local resident? This is a great way to discover the best value restaurants, affordable accommodation options, and the local gems not listed in the tourist brochures.

    Make sure you travel off the tourist path too when your tummy rumbles. You’ll satisfy your hunger for less by avoiding the city’s usual dining options. When traveling to a foreign country, steer clear of eateries with English menus. Some of Europe’s best value restaurants are in its back streets, and Asian street food is always cheap and delicious.

    piggy bank worldAnd finally, don’t reach for your wallet to keep yourself amused. Big cities always have an abundance of free entertainment, from national parklands and hiking trails to museums, art galleries, and historic sites. If you’re lucky you might also stumble across a free festival or concert. And remember, it’s always free to window shop. Perhaps thanks to our money-saving tips you can even indulge in a few souvenirs!

  • Theme Park Budget Tips – Save Money at Fun Parks

    If you’re a thrill seeker or a parent, major theme parks are a must for your vacation itinerary. Whether you’re visiting one of the world’s iconic Disneylands or the famous theme parks on Australia’s Gold Coast, these places guarantee days of fun for the whole family. However these tourist attractions can drain your finances faster than you can say Mickey Mouse. The exorbitant entry prices will mean a day of rides will never come cheaply, but by following our advice you can keep your costs down.

    It’s probably tempting to indulge in the atmosphere of the on-site accommodation, but most of these hotels and resorts are expensive. If you’re traveling in a motor home you can enjoy the same buzz, albeit with less luxuries, by staying in the parking lot. You’ll avoid peak hour traffic and be in prime position when the gates open each day! Alternatively consider budget hotels or campsites nearby. You’ll spend a little time in transit, but the savings are worthwhile.

    Theme parks are always popular, but some days are quieter than others. Most visitors spend time there during school vacations, on weekends, and on public holidays like Christmas Day and Thanksgiving. Things tend to slow down on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. That’s when the queues will be shorter so you’ll see the most value for your dollar.

    The price of admission is a necessary evil, but there are still ways to save. Look for bundled deals which allow you to visit several nearby theme parks for a low price. Some hotels also offer packages which bundle day passes with your room. The popular Entertainment Books and leading auto clubs also offer discounted or two-for-one passes for many local theme parks. You could also save simply by booking your tickets online from the theme park’s website before you arrive. And if you’re visiting for four days or more, you may find an annual pass is the most affordable option.

    The mark-ups on food and beverages in the world’s theme parks are enormous. It’s much smarter to stash a few snacks and sandwiches in your knapsack before you set off. Low GI-snacks like dried fruit and packets of nuts and popcorn will keep everyone satisfied for longer. A water bottle is another great idea, as you can refill it at drinking fountains during the day. You’ll also feel full for much of the day if you indulge in a fry-up breakfast before you arrive.

    The Batwing Spaceshot at Movie World, Australia
    The Batwing Spaceshot at Movie World, Australia

    Souvenirs can also drain the budget, particularly if you’re traveling with kids. It’d be mean to suggest they can’t take home something emblazoned with their favorite character. They key here is to restrict the purchases, perhaps by setting a budget or allowing them to buy just one item. They’ll think more carefully about what they really want, and you won’t leave the gift shop, or the park itself, with a massive bill.

  • Vacation on a Shoestring – Save Money & Travel on a Budget

    With a big wide world full of glamorous destinations, it’s very easy for our travel ambitions to become much bigger than our bank balance. But you don’t need to spend a fortune to see what the globe has to offer. By following our simple advice, you can take a vacation for next to nothing.

    The cost of accommodation can be one of the biggest holiday drains. We’d all love to stay in five-star luxury, but if you’re planning a holiday on the cheap you’ll have to quash that dream. Instead consider spending a night under the stars in a local campsite, or living simply in a hostel. Depending on your destination though, even these down-market digs can be a bit expensive. Do your research and plan ahead well before you set off. If your budget is looking stretched you’ll have time to organize free accommodation. Sleeping on the couch of a friendly European or house sitting in the United States is a great way to save cash and experience life as the locals do. Just remember to be a good house guest while you’re staying in someone else’s castle, especially if you hope to receive an invitation to return!

    Once your accommodation’s sorted you’ll need to eat. Here you’ve got two basic choices: eat out or raid a local supermarket and stay in. The latter seems an obvious option for cheapskates, but it’s always nice to spend some time away from the stove. If you’re only eating out once a day, make sure that it’s lunch. The midday meal is often much cheaper than the evening one, and it’ll give you enough energy for sightseeing. Look for eateries with daily set menus which offer a starter, main, and dessert for a reduced price. After three hearty courses, you might still feel full at dinner time!

    No one wants to spend their vacation staring at their accommodation’s walls, so you’ll need to organize a way to get around. Public transport is the obvious solution for frugal travelers, but it’s not the only one. If you make friends with the locals, you can often bum a ride to somewhere interesting. If you haven’t made any connections, the notice boards of hostels are a great place to start. You’ll often find available spaces in cars that will only cost you a portion of the petrol money.

    New Zealand money and calculatorSo once you’ve arrived at your dream destination, what are you going to see? Whatever it is, if you’re traveling on a tight budget it’ll probably be free. Thankfully most cities offer a wealth of free attractions, from national parks and gardens to museums and art galleries. Some sights are free only on particular days though, so do your research and plan a money-saving itinerary before you set off.

    So why are you still daydreaming about that vacation? By following our advice you can see any destination your heart desires without maxing out your credit card.

  • Money Saving Tips for Europe – Make Your Euro Go Further

    No continent screams luxury travel like Europe does. While it’s certainly possible to spend a small fortune on a lavish European getaway, frugal travelers needn’t abandon their dreams of a historical tour of Athens or a lazy beach holiday on the French Riviera. With a few clever choices and our insider advice you can have a great time in Europe and return home with a few Euros in your pocket.

    Most travelers naturally assume Europe’s efficient public transport system is the best way to get around. But if you’re staying for a month or more, leasing a car can be a surprisingly affordable option. Many of the big European car companies, including Peugot, Citroen, and Renault, offer long-term leases. It can cost around $50 a day, but if you’re traveling with a large group of mates or the family that can be less than you’d spend on public transport. Hiring a car also gives you the freedom to venture off the beaten track, which is excellent way to avoid the crowd and discover some of Europe’s often overlooked villages. These smaller townships also tend to offer cheaper accommodation and dining, so the savings can really add up! The websites Drive Travel and Holiday Autos are great starting points for organizing a long-term rental car.

    Whether you’re hiring a car or relying on the continent’s own transport it’s worth seeking out those underrated countries. Italy, Greece, Germany, and France are so popular that hoteliers, restaurateurs, and tour operators can charge the big bucks. So why not take the path less traveled and see Turkey, Latvia, or Moldova. And if you needed further convincing, they sell beer for less than water in Slovakia!

    Camping might seem like slumming it to the travel snobs, but it’s worth being open minded. You may want to avoid the practice during winter, but in summer the weather is perfect for appreciating the great outdoors. Many campsites are also cleaner than the European hostels, and unlike many countries they’re often conveniently located in the city. European camping grounds charge for your tent, the number of people staying there, and your car park. As a guide those charges tend to run between $12 and $20 a night, depending on your campground’s country and location.

    Once accommodation and travel are taken care of, you’ll need to consider what you’re going to do in your chosen destinations. Entry fees to tourist attractions can get pricy, so it’s smart to plan ahead. Bulk sightseeing passes including the London Pass and Paris Museum Pass give travelers entry to a large number of attractions at a big discount. There are also plenty of free things to see in most major European cities, including the Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris, St Peter’s Basilica in Rome, and the Brandenburg Gate in Berlin. Make sure these are on your itinerary, and research the other freebies in your local guidebook. Seeing them is a great way to spend time without spending a cent.Keyboard with three money keys

    Then you’ll need to think about what you’re eating. It’s all too easy to spend a fortune at those Michelin Star restaurants. If you’re camping or staying in a hotel or apartment with a kitchenette you can save a lot of money by cooking your own food. If you are venturing out, try and eat as the locals do. By venturing off the tourist path you can discover some wonderful hole-in-the-wall restaurants that serve amazing food, without the high overheads.

    And finally, please brush up on the language. If you make an effort to speak with the locals in their own dialect you’re much more likely to enjoy a bargain on your European vacation!

  • Venice for Less – Save Money in Italy’s Floating City

    Venice has a reputation as one of Italy’s most expensive cities, but frugal travelers needn’t steer clear of The Floating City. With a little research you needn’t bust your budget in this European hotspot.

    Firstly you’ll need to find a place to rest your head. You’ll discover some great travel deals if you visit Venice during the off season, from November to the start of Carnevale in around February or March. The weather is a chillier at this time of year, but it shouldn’t put a dampener on your stay. Groups may find renting an apartment is a cheaper option than staying in a hotel room, particularly as you’ll have a kitchen and laundry facilities. If you’re willing to step away from the main drag you can also find reasonable rooms at suburban bed and breakfasts including Ca Del Pozzo B&B at Campo San Maurizio, the B&B Villa Elisabetta at Lido di Venezia Island, and B&B Biennale Venezia on the island of Sant’Elena.

    Like most Italian cities, Venice has a reputation for fine food. But to see value for your dollar you’ll need to avoid the tourist traps and dine like a local. It’s easy to spot the restaurants hoping to lure the tourist dollars. They’ll have menus printed in a variety of languages or with pictures accompanying the dishes. Instead keep your eyes peeled for places that forgo the fancy linen and have local dogs curled up underneath the tables. The friendly waiters will help you if your Italian is rusty, or you could always trust your gut and pick a dish at random! Antica Birreria La Corte has excellent and affordable pizza and pasta, Rosticceria San Bartolomeo specializes in comfort food, and the all-you-can-eat buffet at Taverna del Campiello Remer is ideal when you’re hungry.

    Most local bars also serve up cicheti, the Venetian equivalent of Spanish tapas or Greek mezze. It’s a great way to indulge in a variety of dishes, and you can eat as much or as little as you like.

    And finally make sure you avoid those hotel breakfasts. They’re never as good as the pastries and coffee at the local cafes and you’ll pay much more for them!

    Some say you haven’t seen Venice unless you’ve been on a gondola, but with rides costing more than $100 a piece the cash-strapped traveler should consider other options. A one-hour ride across the Grand Canal on the vaporetto, or water taxi, will cost you less than $10. There are also gondola ferries called traghetto which take visitors across the canal for just a couple of dollars. You’ll have to stand up so the experience isn’t quite as luxurious as those tourist trips, but you can at least say you’ve been on a gondola!

    St Marks Square is another must for tourists, but many are surprised by the surcharges that come from watching the bands from the tables. Clued in locals know you can simply loiter at the back and enjoy the live entertainment without paying a cent.

    A view of Venice from Ponte Vecchio
    A view of Venice from Ponte Vecchio

    And never underestimate the appeal of setting off without a plan and discovering the city around you. Veer off the well worn tourist path and explore the neighborhoods of Cannaregio, Dorsoduro, and Castello. After all, soaking up the atmosphere of Venice is completely free!

  • China on the Cheap – Affordable Travel in Asia

    China can be one of the world’s most expensive countries to visit, or one of the cheapest. Your experience all depends on the areas you visit, and what you do with your yuan when you get there.

    Chinese money is called renminbi, of which the most popular unit is the yuan. Western travelers might equate this with a dollar, pound, or euro.


    In some parts of China, the yuan goes by the name of kuai, jiao, or mao. You'll need a lot of yuan if you hope to visit China's most popular tourist centers, including Beijing, Hong Kong, and Shanghai. There are ways to cut costs in these locations, such as staying in hostels and eating from the street stalls, but you'll pay for any luxuries. They key to traveling frugally in these places is to live as the locals do. Vendors in the markets are open to haggling, while prices are fixed when shopping in the large malls. Traveling by bus or bicycle can require careful planning, but it's much cheaper than getting around by taxi. Experiencing these cities in this way, you might expect to pay Y140 for you accommodation, and another Y140 for other daily expenses. If you prefer to live it up, look to regional areas like Yunnan, Guangxi, Sichuan, Gansu, and even Tibet. Family run homestays and guesthouses offer rural hospitality for affordable prices. If you don't have far to go, it’s worth traveling "hard seat." It will make your bus or train ticket much cheaper, although it does get uncomfortable on very long journeys. Meals in these areas are generally reasonably priced, and you'll find some unexpectedly delicious dishes in the hole in the wall eateries. It's easy toinexpensive china trip photo spend less than Y25 on food in some of China's most remote locations, while your food bills may rise to between Y40 and Y70 a day in the more populated areas. You can save cash anywhere by remembering that tipping is not expected anywhere in China. Many mid to top end eateries will sneakily get around this by adding a hefty service charge to your bill, but you shouldn’t have such a problem at more modest eateries. Most travelers would not want to miss the excitement of China's big cities, and nor should they. But with many key attractions like The Great Wall of China and the historic Leshan Dafo Buddha lying further afield, it's certainly worth saving cash and spending some time out of China's big smoke.