Saving money on a round-the-world (RTW) trip is crucial, especially if you’re planning a long journey across multiple continents. With careful planning and a few smart strategies, you can significantly reduce your expenses and stretch your travel budget. Here are some practical tips for saving money on your RTW trip:
1. Book Flights Strategically
- Use RTW Tickets: Consider booking an RTW ticket through an airline alliance like Star Alliance, Oneworld, or SkyTeam. These tickets offer discounts for multi-stop flights and allow you to travel to many destinations on a single ticket, often at a lower cost than booking individual flights. The price is generally based on the total distance you’ll travel and the number of stops.
- Flexible Dates: Flights can vary significantly in price depending on the time of year, day of the week, and time of day. Be flexible with your departure dates to take advantage of cheaper options.
- Use Fare Comparison Websites: Websites like Skyscanner, Google Flights, and Kayak allow you to compare fares across multiple airlines and booking sites. Set up price alerts to monitor fluctuations in airfare.
- Consider Budget Airlines: When flying between destinations within a region (such as Southeast Asia or Europe), budget airlines like Ryanair, EasyJet, AirAsia, or Southwest can offer very affordable fares.
2. Travel During Off-Peak Seasons
- Avoid Peak Tourist Seasons: Traveling during the off-peak season can save you a lot of money on flights, accommodations, and activities. Try to avoid school holidays, major festivals, and the high summer months, when prices are often at their highest.
- Weather Considerations: While it’s ideal to avoid traveling in peak seasons, try to plan around favorable weather conditions for the regions you’re visiting. For example, avoid monsoon seasons in Southeast Asia or winter in northern Europe, where travel can be more difficult and expensive.
3. Stay in Budget Accommodations
- Hostels and Guesthouses: Opt for hostels, guesthouses, or budget hotels to save on accommodation costs. Many hostels also offer private rooms at a fraction of the price of hotels.
- Airbnb and Vacation Rentals: Airbnb and similar platforms can offer great deals, especially if you’re traveling with a group. Renting a house or apartment can also save you money on food since you can cook your meals.
- Couchsurfing: For an even cheaper (or free) option, consider using Couchsurfing, a service where locals offer free places to stay in exchange for cultural exchange.
- Work for Accommodation: Many hostels, farms, or organic farms around the world offer free accommodation in exchange for a few hours of work each day (sites like Workaway, WWOOF, or HelpX can help you find opportunities).
4. Cook Your Own Meals
- Supermarkets and Local Markets: Eating out can quickly add up, especially in touristy areas. Instead, head to local supermarkets or markets and buy ingredients to prepare your own meals. This is a cost-effective way to eat healthy and save money.
- Hostel Kitchens: Many hostels have communal kitchens where you can cook your meals. Take advantage of this, and save your dining-out budget for special occasions.
- Street Food: In many countries, street food is both delicious and affordable. Opting for local food from street vendors can save you money compared to eating at touristy restaurants.
5. Travel Overland or Use Local Transport
- Trains and Buses: Rather than flying for short distances, consider overland travel by bus or train, which can be cheaper. In places like Europe, South America, and Southeast Asia, buses and trains offer comfortable and affordable ways to travel.
- Regional Transport Passes: Many regions offer travel passes that allow unlimited travel over a certain period, such as Eurail for Europe, or the South America travel passes, which can save you money on transportation if you plan to visit multiple destinations within the region.
- Ride-Sharing and Carpooling: Services like BlaBlaCar, especially in Europe and Asia, allow you to share rides with locals, reducing your transportation costs significantly.
6. Use Travel Rewards and Credit Cards
- Frequent Flyer Miles: If you have any frequent flyer miles or credit card points, this is a great time to redeem them. Some credit cards offer large signup bonuses, which you can use toward flights, accommodation, or other travel expenses.
- Travel Credit Cards: Consider applying for a travel rewards credit card that offers perks like no foreign transaction fees, access to airport lounges, or cashback on travel-related purchases. Many cards also provide travel insurance, which can save you on other expenses.
7. Stay Active and Avoid Excessive Spending
- Free Activities: Many cities offer free walking tours, museums, and attractions. Take advantage of free cultural or outdoor activities, such as hiking, visiting parks, or exploring local markets and neighborhoods.
- Avoid Souvenirs: Souvenirs and unnecessary purchases can quickly add up. Instead of buying things you don’t need, take photos to capture your memories.
- Limit Luxury Purchases: While it’s tempting to splurge on high-end restaurants, luxury experiences, or shopping, keep in mind that your overall budget will stretch further if you keep these expenses to a minimum.
8. Travel Insurance
- Shop Around for Insurance: While travel insurance is an essential expense, it’s also important to find affordable coverage. Compare different policies to ensure you’re getting the best value for your money.
- Annual or Multi-Trip Plans: If you’re planning multiple trips, some insurance companies offer annual policies that can cover all your travel within a year, which can be cheaper than purchasing separate policies for each leg of your journey.
9. Book Activities and Tours in Advance
- Book Tours Online: Many tours and activities are cheaper when booked in advance. Sites like GetYourGuide, Viator, and Klook often offer discounts for early bookings.
- Look for Deals and Discounts: Keep an eye on online deal platforms, especially for group activities or multi-day tours. Local tourism offices often offer discounts and coupons for travelers on various attractions.
10. Be Mindful of Currency Exchange
- Use Local ATMs: Avoid exchanging money at airports or tourist hotspots, where exchange rates are typically worse. Use local ATMs for better rates, but check if your bank charges international fees.
- Carry a Travel-Friendly Credit Card: Many travel credit cards offer better exchange rates and no foreign transaction fees, making them ideal for international travel.
11. Volunteer and Work Abroad
- Work Exchange Programs: If you’re staying in one place for an extended period, look into work-exchange programs where you can work in exchange for room and board. This is a great way to save money while immersing yourself in local culture.
- Teaching English: Many countries, particularly in Asia and Central America, offer opportunities to teach English in exchange for accommodation or a salary. Some even cover your travel expenses.
12. Use Apps and Websites to Find Deals
- Travel Apps: Download travel apps that help you find the best deals on accommodations, transportation, and food. Apps like Hostelworld, Booking.com, Rome2Rio, and Couchsurfing can help you compare prices and book last-minute deals.
- Coupon and Discount Sites: Websites like Groupon and local deal platforms often have discounts for activities, attractions, and restaurants. Check for deals before booking tours or excursions.
