How to Travel on a Budget In Your 20s – 20 Strategies and Tips

How to travel on a budget in your 20s– Travelling is something that everyone should get to experience. But sometimes, when we hear about people travelling the world, especially when they’re young, we want to think it’s travelling are for rich people only.

However, travelling the world is not just for rich kids. Anyone can do it if they know how to budget properly. You don’t need a lot of money to travel. With the right tips on how to save and spend wisely, anyone can explore new places and have amazing adventures. So, don’t let the idea of being a “rich kid” stop you from dreaming big and seeing the world. It’s possible for everyone!

Is it worth travelling in your 20s?

If you’re in your 20s and wondering whether it’s worth travelling when you have many other responsibilities and money matters, the answer is yes, it’s definitely worth it. Here’s why.

Travelling in your 20s lets you explore the world in a unique and exciting way. When you’re young, you’re more open to new experiences and willing to take risks. It can be a truly life-changing experience that expands your horizons and helps you grow as a person.

Travelling in your 20s can be more affordable than you might expect. By managing your money wisely, being mindful of your spending, and using available resources smartly, you can make travel a reality.

Moreover, travelling in your 20s has long-term benefits for both your personal and professional life. By immersing yourself in different cultures and meeting new people, you gain a broader perspective and develop valuable skills that can help you in various aspects of life. See things to cut from your budget.

In short, travelling in your 20s is absolutely worth it. It’s a chance to explore the world, gain new experiences and viewpoints, and build skills and friendships that can last a lifetime. With the right mindset and strategies, you can make travel a reality and create memories that will stay with you forever.

What is a reasonable travel budget?

Before you start planning your trip, it’s important to have an idea of how much money you’ll need and want to spend.

Your travel budget will depend on a few things, like where you’re going, how you like to travel, and what you prefer. In your 20s, aiming for $100 to $200 a day is reasonable, depending on your financial situation and where you’re going. This should cover your food, transportation, and activities. It would be awesome if you can find accommodations within this budget too.

Remember, it’s always smart to have some extra money for unexpected expenses or emergencies.

If you can afford a higher budget, that’s great! But if $100 seems like a lot, that’s okay too. You’re the one who knows what feels comfortable when deciding on a reasonable budget for your 20s travel. The tips below should also help you make a decision.

How to Travel on a Budget In Your 20s

1. Create a travel budget

When planning your trip in your 20s, it’s important to figure out how much money you can afford to spend. This way, you can allocate your funds wisely and make smarter financial choices while travelling. By setting a budget, you can prioritize your expenses and ensure you’re not overspending. It’s a great way to keep track of your money and make the most out of your travel experience. Remember, a well-planned budget will help you stick to your financial limits and still have an amazing time exploring the world! see simple ways to create a budget that works for you.

2. Research and book in advance

When you’re travelling in your 20s on a budget, it’s a great idea to research and book your flights, accommodation, and activities ahead of time. By doing this, you can secure better deals and save money. Last-minute bookings can be expensive, so planning ahead is key. Take some time to compare prices, look for discounts, and book early. This way, you’ll have more options and can take advantage of special offers. Planning in advance not only helps you stick to your budget but also ensures a smoother and more enjoyable trip.

3. Travel off-season

Prices for flights, hotels, and tourist activities are often lower during off-peak seasons. You can consider travelling during shoulder seasons or off-season to take advantage of these reduced prices.

During the high season, hotels and flights tend to be more expensive, and popular attractions can be crowded. You can search on Google to find out when your destination has its off-season or “shoulder” season. Personally, I enjoy travelling during shoulder season because you can find great deals, and it’s usually not as quiet as the off-season.

Keep in mind that if you plan a trip during the off-season, some attractions and activities may have limited hours or even be closed. So, make sure to do your research! Depending on what you want to do, it can still be worthwhile.

For example, if you’re considering going to Paris in February or March, be ready for chilly weather and the possibility of some attractions closing early. However, the advantage is that there will be fewer tourists, and you’ll likely find cheaper flights and hotels. So, with a little extra planning and dressing warmly, you can still have an awesome trip and save some money!

4. Be flexible with your travel dates

Being flexible with your travel dates is a great way to find better deals. Flights during the middle of the week and early morning or late-night departures are often cheaper compared to busy travel times.

Having flexibility with your travel dates is probably the most effective way to save money. Prices for flights and hotels can vary a lot depending on the time of year, day of the week, and even the specific time of day. So, if you’re open to adjusting your travel schedule, you can discover significant savings.

Before you book your flights, make sure to read my post on avoiding common mistakes. Always remember that with a little planning and flexibility, you can make your dream trip a reality without breaking your budget.

5. Choose budget-friendly destinations

When you’re travelling on a budget in your 20s, it’s smart to select destinations that are naturally more affordable. Some countries have a lower cost of living or offer affordable travel options, making them perfect for budget travellers. Popular choices include Southeast Asia, parts of Central and South America, and Eastern Europe. These places often have cheaper accommodations, food, and transportation options, allowing you to stretch your money further. By choosing budget-friendly destinations, you can have incredible experiences while keeping your expenses under control. It’s a great way to make the most of your travel adventures without breaking the bank.

6. Use budget airlines or alternative transportation

Search for budget airlines that have cheaper ticket prices. Remember to be aware of any extra charges for luggage or specific services. Another option is to think about travelling by bus, train, or carpooling, especially if you’re going shorter distances. These options might be more affordable and can save you money. Just keep in mind that some airlines may have hidden fees, so make sure to read the fine print before booking your tickets. By being smart about your transportation choices, you can enjoy your trip without breaking the bank.

7. Opt for budget accommodation

Look for inexpensive places to stay like hostels, guesthouses, or budget hotels. You can also consider Couchsurfing, house-sitting, or renting rooms or apartments through websites like Airbnb.

To find affordable accommodations, check out websites such as Hostelworld, Booking.com, or Airbnb. They can help you discover budget-friendly options that fit your needs and save you money.

Remember to read reviews from other travellers to make sure the place is safe and comfortable. By being smart about where you stay, you can enjoy your trip without spending too much on accommodations.

8. Cook your meals

Going out to eat can make your expenses grow fast. Instead, think about cooking your own meals or getting groceries from nearby markets. This will let you try the local food and save money at the same time. Another good idea is to try street food, which can be both tasty and affordable. By making these choices, you can enjoy different flavours without spending too much. It’s a smart way to manage your budget while still enjoying delicious meals. So, next time you’re hungry, consider cooking or exploring the local street food scene for a yummy and wallet-friendly experience.

9. Use flight comparison websites

Use flight comparison websites or apps to find the best flight deals. These tools help you compare prices from different airlines and can save you money. You can also think about flying from alternative airports or nearby cities to find even more savings. These options might have cheaper flights available. By using these websites or apps, you can find the best deals and save money on your flights. It’s an easy way to make sure you’re getting the most affordable option. So, the next time you’re planning a trip, remember to check these websites or apps for great flight deals.

10. Take advantage of student discounts

If you’re a student, make sure to bring your student ID card and ask about discounts for transportation, attractions, and activities. Lots of countries and organizations provide special prices for students, so it’s worth checking. Having your student ID can help you save money on things like buses, trains, museums, and fun things to do. Just show your card and see if there are any discounts available. It’s a great way to make your trips more affordable and have extra cash for other things. So, always remember to bring your student ID and ask about student discounts wherever you go.

11. Travel light

To prevent extra charges or fees, pack lightly. Only bring the essentials and think about doing laundry while you’re away to reduce the amount of clothes you have to carry. By packing smart, you can save money and avoid any surprises at the airport. It’s important to only bring what you truly need for your trip. If you can wash your clothes during your adventure, you won’t have to pack as much. This way, you can travel comfortably and efficiently without lugging around heavy bags. Remember, less is more when it comes to packing for your journey!

12. Take advantage of travel rewards and loyalty programs

Join travel rewards programs provided by airlines, hotels, and credit cards. By being a member, you can earn points and miles that you can later use to get cheaper or even free trips. It’s like collecting rewards for your future travels. Every time you fly, stay at a hotel, or use your credit card, you can earn these points. Once you’ve collected enough, you can redeem them for discounted flights or hotel stays. It’s a great way to save money on your adventures and make your travels more affordable. So, start signing up for these programs and watch your rewards grow!

13. Connect with locals

Talk to the people who live there and other travellers to learn about fun and cheap things to do. They can tell you about affordable restaurants, cool places to visit that not many people know about, and local events happening nearby. By chatting with them, you can discover awesome and genuine experiences without spending too much money. Locals and fellow travellers have great advice and insider tips that can make your trip even better. So don’t be shy, strike up a conversation, and get ready for some amazing adventures on a budget!

14. Travel with a group

Think about going on trips with your friends or joining group tours. When you share expenses like where to stay, how to get around, and group discounts, it can really lower the cost for each person. Another idea is to use services like Uber or Lyft to share rides with other travellers. You can also rent equipment or get discounted tickets from fellow travellers on platforms like Klook or Viator.

There are different ways to find a group to travel with, depending on what you like and how you travel. Here are some tips to help you start:

1. Join a travel club or organization.
2. Use social media to connect with other travellers.
3. Book a group tour with companies like Contiki. These tours are for people aged 18 to 35 who want to have a social experience.
4. Plan a trip with your friends.

These ideas can make your adventures more fun and affordable. So, gather your buddies or meet new travel buddies, and explore the world together!

15. Use local SIM cards or Wi-Fi hotspots

Instead of paying extra fees for using your phone abroad, you can buy local SIM cards or use Wi-Fi hotspots to stay connected without spending more money. When you travel, instead of using your regular SIM card, you can get a new SIM card from a local provider. This way, you’ll have a local phone number and can make calls and use data at a lower cost. Another option is to connect to Wi-Fi hotspots, which are available in many places like cafes, hotels, or public areas. By using these methods, you can stay connected without worrying about expensive roaming charges.

16. Work while you travel

When figuring out how to travel on a budget in your 20s, you may want to think about working while you travel. This can be a great way to offset your travel expenses.

One of the easiest ways to work while you travel is to find a remote job. Many companies now offer remote work options, which means you can work from anywhere with an internet connection.

1. Freelancing
2. Remote job boards
3. Digital nomad programs
4. Teaching English online
5. Starting your own business

When considering remote work, be sure to research your options and find a job or program that suits your skills and interests.

17. Start a travel blog or vlog

A travel blog is a way to share your travel experiences and make some money through affiliate marketing, sponsorships, or ads. Blogging requires hard work, so don’t worry if your blog doesn’t have many visitors at first. It takes time to grow, but don’t give up. Even though it may take a while to get followers, a successful travel blog or vlog can be a fun way to earn extra money while you’re travelling. Just keep at it and enjoy sharing your adventures with others.

18. Sell your skills

You can make money while travelling by using your skills and knowledge. For instance, if you’re good at taking pictures, you can offer photography tours or sell your photos online. If you’re a yoga instructor, you can teach classes at local studios or organize retreats. By sharing your talents with others, you can earn some extra cash and have fun at the same time. Just think about what you’re good at and find creative ways to offer your services while you’re on the go. It’s a great opportunity to showcase your skills and make some money while exploring new places.

19. Use travel search engines

When you want to find cheap flights, hotels, and rental cars, travel search engines are really helpful. My favourite one is Google Flights, and it’s super easy to use. The best part? It’s free!

Google Flights compares prices from different airlines and dates. Just enter where you’re leaving from and where you’re going, along with your travel dates. Then, Google Flights shows you a list of available flights and prices. You can even use filters to choose your favourite airline, flight duration, or price range.

I love that I can track flight prices with Google Flights. They’ll send you an email if the price changes, so you can book at the perfect time. I set up lots of alerts to catch the best deals!

You can also use the “Explore” option to see flight prices on a map. It’s awesome for finding affordable destinations. Pick your starting airport, set your budget, and explore the map for places that fit your price range.

And guess what? Google Flights can also help you find hotels and rental cars. It’s an all-in-one tool for your travel needs!

20. Sign up for email alerts and loyalty programs

To save money on travel, many airlines, hotels, and travel companies have email alerts and loyalty programs that can help. When you sign up for these programs, you’ll get emails about special deals and offers. Some programs even give you perks like free upgrades and early check-ins, making your trip better. Some loyalty programs I recommend are Hilton, Marriott, JetBlue, and Southwest. The best part is, signing up is free, and you might even get a bonus when you join. There are many programs out there, so take time to explore and find the ones that suit your travel needs. Start signing up whenever you find them, and you’re good to go!

Conclusion

You can travel on a budget in your 20s if you have the right strategies and mindset. Take control of your money, work while you travel, go with a group, and learn how to find travel deals. These things will help you make your travel budget last longer and see more of the world. Remember, you’re in your 20s, a great time to explore and have amazing experiences. Don’t wait! Whether it’s backpacking in Europe, road-tripping in the US, or volunteering abroad, you can travel on a budget. Trust me, it will be worth it! So grab your passport and get ready for an incredible journey. Enjoy your travels!