What’s your best tip for budget travel?
First, the answer to this question depends on what is meant by ‘travel’. It would be easy to assume that we are speaking about going to distant lands for whatever reason, but let’s not jump to that conclusion, especially if our purpose is to discuss vacation travel.
Travelling light
One interesting suggestion that I read about in regard to travel to a vacation destination was to select a light bag that you can keep with you, cabin luggage. In the bag, carry only bare essentials for the journey. Then, at your destination, buy the things you need in a discount store. That’s everything; toothbrush, toothpaste, soap if necessary, and simple clothing such as t-shirts and shorts, as well as underwear. At the end of your vacation, discard what cannot be recycled and donate the rest to a local charity shop.
Light travelling
However, there is a better way that saves even more money. Have a holiday at home.
It is surprising how little we know about our home area. So, why not stay at home, but with the promise that you will treat your house as a holiday home. You will not do the maintenance because that’s something for the home owner, and you’re not it for this period.
Now take your camera and walk around your local town taking pictures of points of interest. Look out for details that you don’t normally see. Even the most clinical new town build has individual features. Maybe an attempt has been made to include a Gothic arch entrance to a park, or there’s a stained glass window in the local mall. Look for anything that you would put into a travel brochure about your town. How would you sell your town to someone seeking a vacation there? Buy souvenirs.
Eat in town, preferably in a place that you’ve never, or rarely, been to. Is there a special restaurant that you don’t frequent because it’s expensive? But you’d go there if it was near your holiday destination. So, try it. You’ve saved the air fair, so you can afford it.
If you were abroad, you’d probably sample the local cuisine. Substitute your weekend foreign food takeaway with a local food takeaway.
Does your town have a street market with street food vendors? Sample the local foods while sitting on a bench talking to the locals.
Take day trips to nearby towns, even though you often visit them. Take your camera and do the same activities that you did in your home town visit.
Make it a real holiday
Coming back from some exotic destination you are likely to have photos to show, maybe in a video presentation. Make one about your home town. Print your own postcards and mail them to your friends. Make key rings with the photos and give them as gifts to friends and family, or even work colleagues.
Budget holidays
When we talk about budget holidays, there’s nothing cheaper than staying at home. Or consider a house swap with a friend or family member even if they live nearby! It’s a different house and will feel like a holiday.
So, enjoy your travel, and make it as light and cheerful as possible.
Greenacre 9 