Every now and then, a simple weekend trip can provide rejuvenation from a busy week of work or school. It gives you the ability to reset your mind without having to sacrifice too much of your valuable time. However, it is understandable for someone to think that a mini holiday takes too much of a financial toll. Here is the good news – it really doesn’t have to. Thoughtfully approaching the situation ensures that you are able to enjoy a relaxing weekend getaway at an affordable price.
In this article, we will share six amazing pointers that will allow you to enjoy a relaxing holiday without burning a hole in your pocket.
Economy Travel Off-Season
The best way to save on travel costs is to be mindful of timing. You can save a lot by travelling in the off-season.
Why It’s Important
Certain locations gain most of their popularity during summer holidays, holiday breaks, or specific occasions, and they often come with exorbitant pricing during peak periods. Accommodations, flights, and local attractions within the shoulder and off-seasons are widely more affordable.
Pro Tip
Places such as beach towns or ski resorts are significantly cheaper during their off-season months. For example:
• Summer hikes in ski towns are a lot more economical as compared to visiting in winter.
• Beach destinations are also easier to access in late spring or early autumn when the influx of visitors decreases.
Travelling off-season also provides you with a more wholesome experience devoid of the hustle of a typical holiday, enabling you to truly enjoy your destination.
Set Your Travel Goals
In terms of budget, not every place is as economical. The goal is to visit places where you can spend money and get value in return.
How to Locate Economical Sites
Identify cities or regions that tend to be more affordable. Budget towns, developing places, or those that are not overly stuffed with tourists commonly provide a taste of what more expensive places offer. For instance:
• Why spend so much on Paris when there is Budapest, another beautiful city, which is much more affordable?
• There are also local distant places which would have lovely towns which are just a short car ride away.
Employ Travel Resources
Employ Google Flights, or Skyscanner if you want to book something while on a budget. These borderless tools allow travellers to book low-cost flights and display destinations within the traveller’s budget.
Search for Bundled Offers
A bit of digging on the internet can help you save a lot of money. Travel deals are usually quite handy for bundling together flights and hotel accommodations or even fun activities for less.
The Advantages of Packages
With all of these, you save money and time. A lot of travellers are noted to use travel-focused websites like Expedia and Kayak or Groupon once in a while just to get the offers that are meant for weekend travellers.
However, some travel agencies that use credit cards offer discounts or other reward points for bundled travel packages.
Quick Tip
Always be watchful when booking packaged offers, especially with regards to their fit with your preferred travel style or interests. Don’t squander money on things you aren’t likely to use, and remember that it’s always best to check multiple websites at once.
Choose Wisely Your Accommodation
Picking where to sleep can be a great stretch or a terrible blow to your budget. Luckily, there are numerous options that are reasonably priced, yet comfortable.
Affordable Options
• Airbnb or Holiday Rentals: These are often cheaper than hotels. If you are renting, having access to a kitchen can also help you save on food.
• Hostels: Modern hostels with stylish interiors and even private amenities are now very common and cater to budget travellers.
• Budget Hotels: These include the Motel 6 and Ibis chains that are known for providing simple and economical accommodation with pleasant and clean bedding.
• Campsites: It is perhaps one of the most affordable options if you are able to part with creature comforts. It’s a great way to connect with nature.
Bonus Tip
With flexible travel plans and the right apps, you can sometimes find fabulous last-minute deals with HotelTonight for more luxurious properties at great prices.
Eat Like a Local
Out of all the categories, food is the one that can cost you the most if you’re eating at a restaurant for every meal. To save some money without compromising on food, try to eat like a local.
Food Tips for Your Trip
• Buy fresh foods or packaged snacks from local shops, as they are usually cheaper than restaurants.
• Local street vendors are best as they sell delicious dishes at very reasonable prices.
• Instead of dinner, university students normally eat lunch since the prices are cheaper than dinner.
• Look for lodgings that have a kitchenette so you can prepare your own food.
This lets you save money and also gives you an opportunity to try the incredible food culture of the place you are visiting.
Seek Out Free Activities
You don’t have to break the bank to enjoy your time fully. Many places have a variety of fun activities that are free or really inexpensive and are, in fact, more enjoyable than expensive options.
Explore Free Attractions
• Parks and Hiking Trails: Generally, these are the cheapest options, as everyone can go on a nature hike or spend the day in a park.
• Museums with Free Entry: There are plenty of cities with no-fee museums, especially on certain days of the month.
• No-Guide Required Walking Tours: Download a walking tour app, and explore new sights without spending a single penny.
• Live Shows and Street Arts: Take a relaxing walk in the cheerful streets and enjoy the festivities at no cost.
Do Your Homework
Check for local free events or landmarks before arriving at your destination. Sites such as Trip Advisor and local tourism websites usually have information regarding low-cost attractions.
Your Affordable Weekend Escapade Plan
A weekend getaway doesn’t have to be expensive. Travel during off-peak seasons, select cheaper locations, utilise package discounts, be smart on accommodation, eat locally, and participate in fun free activities to make the most out of your budget.
