Embarking on a Round-the-World (RTW) adventure can be a dream come true, but it often comes with a hefty price tag. However, there are plenty of budget-friendly strategies to make this dream more affordable. From choosing cheaper destinations to utilizing travel hacks, here are some budget travel ideas for a Round-the-World adventure.
1. Travel During Off-Peak Seasons
- Why It Works: Traveling during off-peak seasons can save you a significant amount on flights, accommodation, and activities. During peak seasons (holidays, summer, or popular festival periods), prices for flights and hotels soar.
- When to Go: For example, avoid traveling during the summer in Europe or the holiday season in Asia. Opt for shoulder seasons like late spring or early fall when the weather is still great but the crowds and prices are lower.
- Benefits: You’ll find lower airfares, cheaper accommodation rates, and less crowded tourist spots, making it easier to enjoy your journey.
2. Use Budget Airlines for Short-Haul Flights
- Why It Works: Budget airlines are an excellent way to get between cities cheaply. These carriers often offer deeply discounted flights, especially if you book early and stay flexible.
- Popular Budget Airlines:
- Europe: Ryanair, EasyJet, Wizz Air
- Asia: AirAsia, Scoot, Jetstar
- United States: Southwest Airlines, Spirit Airlines
- Australia: Tigerair, Jetstar
- Tips: Be mindful of additional fees (baggage, seat selection, etc.) that can quickly add up. Always check the full cost before booking.
3. Consider Alternative Airports
- Why It Works: Major airports often have higher fees and taxes, making flights more expensive. By flying into smaller, alternative airports, you can save a substantial amount.
- Example: Instead of flying directly into Paris, consider flying into nearby airports like Beauvais Tille Airport, which can be cheaper. In the U.S., flying into Newark or Philadelphia might be cheaper than flying into New York City’s JFK or LaGuardia airports.
- Benefits: Lower landing fees and smaller, less crowded airports can lead to cheaper flights.
4. Stay in Budget Accommodation
- Why It Works: Accommodations can be one of the biggest expenses during your RTW trip. But there are plenty of affordable options available if you’re open to alternatives.
- Budget Accommodation Options:
- Hostels: Perfect for backpackers, with dormitory rooms that can be very cheap, especially in developing countries. Hostels are also great places to meet other travelers.
- Guesthouses and Homestays: Opting for a local guesthouse or homestay offers affordable prices and an authentic experience.
- Airbnb: Renting a room or an entire apartment can sometimes be more affordable than hotels, especially if you’re traveling with a group or for an extended period.
- Couchsurfing: For free accommodations, consider Couchsurfing, where you can stay with locals in exchange for cultural exchange and experiences.
- Benefits: Staying in budget accommodations not only saves you money but also allows you to immerse yourself in local cultures.
5. Travel Overland When Possible
- Why It Works: Buses, trains, and even ridesharing can often be cheaper than flying. For shorter distances, overland travel can provide you with scenic views and a more budget-friendly option.
- Popular Overland Routes:
- Europe: Eurail Pass allows unlimited train travel between European countries, which is a great value for those visiting multiple cities.
- Asia: Traveling by bus or train can be much cheaper than flying. The Trans-Siberian Railway in Russia or the India Railways network offer unique, budget-friendly experiences.
- South America: Long-distance buses are comfortable and inexpensive for getting around countries like Argentina, Chile, and Peru.
- Benefits: Traveling by land can also allow for more spontaneity and the chance to stop in smaller towns or off-the-beaten-path destinations.
6. Use Public Transportation
- Why It Works: Taxis and private transfers can be expensive, but using public transportation is often the most affordable way to get around a city or country.
- What to Do:
- Subways and Trains: Many cities around the world have extensive metro systems (e.g., Tokyo, London, New York, Paris) that offer affordable travel within the city.
- Local Buses: These are often the cheapest way to travel around cities and between nearby towns.
- Ride-Sharing Apps: In some areas, services like Uber or Lyft can be cheaper than traditional taxis.
- Benefits: Public transportation is usually much cheaper than taxis, and it’s often more efficient in urban areas.
7. Cook Your Own Meals
- Why It Works: Eating out in touristy areas can quickly become expensive. To keep food costs low, consider buying ingredients from local markets and cooking your own meals.
- What to Do:
- Hostels with Kitchens: Many hostels offer kitchen facilities where you can cook meals for yourself, saving you money.
- Grocery Stores and Markets: Visiting local supermarkets or fresh markets for inexpensive, healthy ingredients is a great way to stretch your budget.
- Street Food: In many countries, street food is not only cheap but also delicious and authentic. Think of Pad Thai in Thailand, Tacos in Mexico, or Souvlaki in Greece.
- Benefits: Preparing your own meals gives you control over your food budget and allows you to experience local ingredients and dishes.
8. Use Travel Rewards and Loyalty Points
- Why It Works: If you’re a frequent traveler or have credit card points, using rewards can help you get free or discounted flights and accommodation, making a RTW trip much cheaper.
- How to Use:
- Frequent Flyer Miles: Many airlines offer frequent flyer programs where you can accumulate miles by flying or using partner services (like hotel stays or car rentals).
- Credit Card Points: Travel credit cards often offer sign-up bonuses, cash back, or points that can be redeemed for flights or hotel stays.
- Hotel Loyalty Programs: Many hotel chains have loyalty programs that allow you to earn free nights with your stays.
- Benefits: By accumulating points and miles, you can save money on flights and accommodation, allowing you to travel further on a smaller budget.
9. Volunteer or Work While Traveling
- Why It Works: Volunteering or working while traveling can help you reduce your expenses, especially for accommodation and food.
- What to Do:
- Work Exchange Programs: Websites like Workaway, WWOOF, and HelpX connect travelers with hosts who offer free accommodation and meals in exchange for work.
- Teach English: Many countries, especially in Asia, require English teachers, and this can be a great way to fund your travels while exploring new cultures.
- Seasonal Jobs: Consider working in a ski resort, summer camp, or hostel for a few months to fund the rest of your travels.
- Benefits: Work exchanges or short-term jobs can cover your living expenses, allowing you to travel without depleting your savings.
10. Book RTW Flights Wisely
- Why It Works: Round-the-world tickets can often be cheaper than booking individual flights for each leg of your journey.
- What to Do:
- Use Airline Alliances: Major airline alliances (e.g., Star Alliance, Oneworld, SkyTeam) offer RTW tickets that let you visit multiple destinations on a single ticket. These passes often offer discounts for students or young travelers.
- Book in Advance: RTW tickets are usually cheaper if you book several months in advance.
- Benefits: These tickets offer great value for long-term travelers who want to visit multiple destinations.
