Thrifty Traveler

As I am beginning to delve into the detailed planning for my next trip, I was thinking about how fortunate I am to be traveling to Australia and for such a low cost.  It got me to thinking about the many tips and hacks I have discovered along the way and I wanted to share some of the newest tips I have discovered that have made a HUGE difference in my overall travel budget. 

The 12 Apostles, Melbourne AU. 

I will begin this by saying, I am an extremely thrifty traveler. I don't book hotels, fly first class or travel during peak seasons. IF you are particular about those things, this blog post may not be for you. BUT if you are like me, and want to experience new places, cultures and people, then keep reading!!!!  

My Airbnb in Brussels

As I stated earlier, I do not book hotels. Instead I use Airbnb and I have for quite sometime and LOVE it!!  I haven't had a negative experience in the 5 years I have been using the service and I have met some of the most incredible people along the way with such remarkable stories!!  If you are brand new to Airbnb and want to set up an account and book with them, click here for a savings. http://abnb.me/e/hvdfeRQ8AY  Airbnb is an excellent way to save money and immerse yourself into the culture or area in which you are traveling.  With Airbnb, you can connect with your host as much or as little as you choose.  Many of my hosts have been amazing and so helpful in giving tips and directions. I have found lovely rooms for as little as $30/night, so trust me when I say, you can and WILL save money!

Settings in Skyscanner app

Skyscanner app

A second huge trick I have discovered recently is to clear my search history when looking for flights. I typically scan three major search engines or apps for my flights; Expedia, Google flights and Skyscanner. In all three, and with many others, when you search a particular destination more than 2 times in a row, the algorithm notices that and the prices begin to go up. So, after searching 2 times, clear your history and you will be able to see the most accurate, least expensive flights. No need to pay more if you can avoid it!  Another nice perk about many of the apps and sites is you can set it alert you if the price drops. You can receive the alert via text or email.  This is especially handy if I don't have the time to spend searching the various apps.

Usually I'm not a huge credit card advocate. The one exception is when I travel. Most major credit cards have zero currency exchange fees, which is super handy when traveling. In many cases, traveling with a large amount of cash isn't safe, so having a designated travel credit card is advisable. I have a Capital One card that I can also earn travel miles on as well. I personally enjoy having some of the local currency on hand for small purchases or tips, but usually use my card for the larger purchases. Another tip, when you are purchasing something abroad with your credit card, many times the kiosk will ask you if you want to convert to your currency. If you card does NOT have exchange fees, then you do NOT want to convert. You will end up paying MORE. Just keep it in the local currency and the conversion will happen through your card but with ZERO fees added. Many places have their system set up to convert for you BUT with a hidden fee attached. So, be aware and if you are interested in a travel credit card, be sure to look for currency exchange fees in the fine print.

Finally, probably the biggest tip and trick I have is to pay attention when you are traveling. In Europe, off season is November - March. Usually the weather is cooler and rainy. If you don't mind this weather, THIS is the prime time to travel to Europe!! I have saved hundreds by traveling in November and February. Summer months are peak season in MOST travel locations so flights, accommodations and tours will be higher.

A lovely London day in February

When booking in the off season, you will run the risk of restaurants, museums, and other sight seeing attractions closing early or opening later in the day. The major plus side for me is that the attractions don't have the lines or people so I can easily see more and have less crowds to deal with. Planning and some fore sight can usually overcome this potential snag in your itinerary. The savings most definitely out weigh the more time spent planning!!

I do hope these tips have been helpful and you will utilize them when planning your next adventure!! By taking a little extra time to plan, you can save thousands of dollars and extend your travel budget exponentially! 

Safe travels and keep traveling!!

Much Love

H