Have you ever wondered how to budget solo travel and stick to that budget? Do you dream of solo international trips? These budget friendly solo travel tips will break down everything you need to know about budget solo travel and help you prepare to travel solo while sticking to your budget.
Planning a solo trip can be scary but also very exciting! The biggest question is how to budget your money when you are not splitting the cost with others. If you plan out your trip and find the right places, budget solo travel is not only possible but fun! You are going to learn some beginners tips to help budget for that solo trip you have been talking about for ages.
After reading through this beginners guide, you will feel ready and excited to start planning your solo trip on a budget.
This post is all about travel tips for that budget solo traveler.
Best Budget Solo Travel Tips
1. Research early
The earlier you get an idea of what is out there, the easier it will be for you in the long run. Many times you can book an accommodation and not have to pay until later. Also, some accommodation options do allow for you to book in installments and for the same price. Look for these options as many times they are budget friendly and allow you flexibility to save. Ensure you are looking for deals that are for a solo traveler. Read the fine print as some companies advertise prices for two or more people. Research truly is the key when it comes to finding the best deals. You have time to be picky the earlier you book too!
Make sure you do research ahead of time to know if something could be less expensive or the same price booking in person. For example, some public transportation is the same price booking in advance or booking the day of. Budget your money accordingly and figure out what would work best for you and your destination.
2. Compare, Compare, Compare
Secondly, you want to compare your options! Do not put all your eggs in one basket. For example, it might be more cost effective to book accommodation and airfare separately as opposed to a vacation package. Many of those vacation sites trick you into thinking that is definitely the cheapest option. That is not always true!! Meanwhile, if you look into say an Airbnb and a budget airline you could save hundreds! A travel credit card typically comes with perks and eventually free flights if you are utilizing the card enough. While ever case is different, comparing and weighing the pros and cons of all your options is so important.
3. Planning/Organization is your friend
So you have finally planned your perfect solo vacation but all these thoughts in your head are overwhelming. Did you book the transportation to and from the airport? Do you know what sites you want to see? Are you doing any tours? A LOT goes into planning a vacation, especially when it is falling solely on you. But no need to panic, a checklist or planner is your friend 😉 It does not have to be anything crazy if you are not into planners. But something to gather your thoughts such as a virtual or paper planner, checklist, or travel app could go a long way. Also, it will give you peace of mind when planning your trip, especially when you arrive at your destination. A checklist will ensure you are not forgetting important documents. We all know someone that was on their way to the airport and forgot their passport. Do not let that be you (or be you again 😀 ).
If you want to stay organized for your next trip and need the ultimate travel packing checklist, subscribe your email below for a FREE PDF travel packing checklist template. It is customizable to fit your travel needs and you could reuse it for every trip.
4. Join social media solo travel groups
The amount of support you will see in solo travel groups is astounding. Members in these groups will be encouraging you to travel solo and also give you tips! If you have any questions likely someone has experienced it. Become friends and network with people in these groups as you could meet up with them while traveling. Many people in these groups will have gatherings all over the country. You could have new friends from all over the world and learn from each other. In addition, many times they will participate in group activities such as wine tasting, a cooking class, a tour. It is a great idea to have friends everywhere so you can find that best local restaurant or that perfect hidden gem for watching the sunset. Also, you will get some great ideas for your next trip as many of them post pictures during their travels. Most major social media platforms allow you to join these groups for FREE as long as the admin grants access. People are very friendly in these groups as inappropriate behavior is absolutely not tolerate. Sometimes you need to be invited by a member, but larger ones you can join simply by asking for an invitation.
5. Travel off season
Next, is to travel off season. Peak times are summertime and breaks. If the kids are out of school, likely the prices spike up. Parents are trying to squeeze in that vacation and college kids are trying to travel home or enjoy a quick getaway. Many people are not even thinking about traveling in the winter due to the weather and holidays. Keep in mind the winter months can be tough due to weather in various locations. Do research ahead of time and ensure it is not hurricane or blizzard season wherever you plan to go. It would stink to have a canceled flight or not be able to get back home. If your job allows it, you could save a ton of money traveling off season. In addition, how perfect is it to be traveling without giant crowds. You are more likely to book that famous restaurant or get tickets to a tour last minute. September, October, April, and early May tend to be less crowded and more affordable. Remember to compare different accommodations and flights to find the best deal!
6. Transportation
In many countries, public transportation is utilized more than in America. For example in many parts of Italy the locals do not even own a car. They walk or take public transportation. What this means for you is that you could get around doing the same and not having to book a private car service or rent a car. A bus pass could cost as little as $2-5 a day in some countries! On the other hand, if you are by the coast, a ferry ride could cost 3x that. Do your research and understand that each form of transportation differs in price. A bus could be a better option for a solo traveler as you are surrounded by people. The locals can be very friendly in other countries and you might hear some recommendations on a great local restaurant from them directly. A bus ride could save money as opposed to a taxi ride since you are not splitting the cost with others. Conduct research early so you know the most cost effective option for your destination and the safest for a solo traveler.
7. Splurge on what is important to you
If you are one that enjoys an accommodation with a view or hot tub, budget your money on that and go cheaper on flights. On the other hand, if you enjoy spending money on food and sightseeing, then ensure most of your budget goes towards that. Ensure you are finding the best deals for a solo traveler. Friendly reminder: Check the filters on your searches to ensure it says one traveler instead of two. Understanding where you want to spend your money and what is important to you will help in your budget. If you are one that does not mind a hostel because you are out and about all day, by all means book it! Everyone is different and the best part of solo travel is YOU decide and only YOU. Balance is key when it comes to sticking with your budget. If you are spending more in one area then something needs to give in another. The best part is no need to compromise and you can book your dream vacation. <3
8. Find FREE attractions
Every country has at least one free attraction. That is why it is vital to join and network with other solo travelers or travelers in general. A frequent traveler will tend to know how to find those free attractions. There are museums that have no admission fee or a landmark that you can view outside for free. Make the most of viewing that landmark or the beautiful coast by having a nice picnic and glass of champagne overlooking it.
9. Avoid Touristy areas
Finally, we have all heard it before, avoiding those touristy areas when it comes to almost everything (outside of those gorgeous landmarks of course 😉 ). Not only will you save money by finding those local spots to eat, grab an espresso, and shop, but you will get that local experience. When you travel somewhere and experience it like the locals do, it changes your perspective of the entire vacation. In addition, many times the locals are more than happy to help you out and point out other hidden gems. The food tends to be better in local restaurants than the tourist spots.
The same goes for booking accommodations. You could get way more for your money by booking right outside that big city you are staying in. You could literally save hundreds by being picky and smart about where you choose to stay. For example, look into Airbnb/VRBO instead of a hotel. Typically they are cheaper and the hosts are usually very nice and helpful. They will give you all the local tips on everything. Sometimes they will even send you or hand you a list of their favorite restaurants and how to get around. If you are staying on a resort, choose something a little further from where all the resorts are located. For example, if say you are staying in Aruba, there is a strip of resorts but if you stay at the end of the strip as opposed to the middle, it is usually cheaper.
This post was all about the best budget solo travel tips to help you be prepared as possible to budget for your solo trip.
Subscribe below and click that follow button on Pinterest for up to date travel guides, travel organization tips, travel budget tips, and more!
Other posts you may like:
Travel Organization | 7 Genius Travel Tips for Long Flights
7 Smart Strategies on how to pack toiletries for air travel
Chasing Sunraiz is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program which is an affiliate advertising program that is designed to provide means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking directly to Amazon.com.