Travel,
When getting ready for your travels, it’s essential to plan ahead to save money and avoid any unexpected issues while you’re abroad. Looking back at our early months of traveling, we made some costly mistakes that we learned from. We want to share these tips with you to help you steer clear of the situations we found ourselves in. Let’s refine your travel planning together to make sure you have a smoother and more budget-friendly journey!
Traveling around the world offers unparalleled freedom and adventure. While spontaneity has its charm, we’ve gathered valuable backpacking insights from our year-long journey abroad that can enhance your travel experience.
Only Book Your First Two Night Three Day
You struck gold! This place is incredible!! Only NPR1000/night? Count me in! Oh, hold on a sec… This is a SHARED living space?! Nobody said that… But hey, you nailed it. You discovered the ideal Airbnb for the next month. The place is pristine, stylish, and they even offer free high-speed wifi! Before you lock in more than a week, just pause for a moment.
A “Good Deal”
So, here’s the scoop on scoring a “good deal”! Little did you know, the property next door is a farm, where roosters have no concept of time, and the pig pen is conveniently placed right next to your bungalow wall. Surprisingly, these quirks were absent from all the reviews. That’s why, unless it’s peak season or you’ve stumbled upon an unbeatable offer, it might be wiser to stick to booking just a couple of days.
Opting for a Two-day booking brings two key benefits:
A reliable “homebase” initially, ensuring you have a place to rest while you explore nearby accommodations or areas.
A cost-effective beginning. Secure an extremely affordable place for the first 2 nights. It’s a short commitment. Then, you can figure out where you truly want to stay, and who knows, you might end up extending your stay!
If you end up enjoying the place you’ve chosen, both Airbnb hosts and many small hotel owners are usually open to cash deals, bypassing the booking platforms. This approach can lead to significant savings.
Prioritize Value Over Deals
Prepare yourself in advance that you won’t always snag the absolute best deal on every single thing, and that’s totally fine. Instead of fixating solely on the price tag, shift your focus towards the overall value you’re receiving. It’s all about making your money count where it matters most!
Walk 300 Meters to Save 60%
That’s some serious money-saving advice! Taking a stroll by the beach in Goa today, I was reminded of how valuable it is to venture a bit further from the main tourist areas. Prices often drop significantly just a short distance away. Whether it’s drinks, sunscreen, or meals, exploring a couple of blocks beyond the crowded spots can lead to fantastic savings and even better quality. Keep walking and discovering those hidden gems of discounts!
Buying Expensive Tours? Proceed With Caution!
Many tour companies can be quite misleading, especially when dealing with one-time customers. Interestingly, the friendlier the tour seller appears, the more likely they are to be misleading. To avoid any letdowns, it’s essential to understand the ins and outs of procurement when booking a tour. So, what exactly is procurement? It’s essentially the process through which businesses purchase goods or services from other businesses. This process establishes the terms of the transaction and determines who, how, and what is being purchased. It might not be the most thrilling topic, but it’s crucial in this context. The real fun often lies in connecting with locals. For instance, after a chat with our Tuk Tuk driver on the way back from Angkor Wat, we invited him to our hotel. He then shared his expertise by teaching us how to craft local cocktails. The following day, he took us on an unforgettable “tour” – starting with a breathtaking sunrise view over the local rice paddies and ending with a visit to the nearby market to gather breakfast items for his family. It’s these authentic local experiences that truly enrich a journey!
What exactly are you purchasing?
A cabin on the cruise ship, right? Is it a shared bathroom or private? And what about the bed size – is it a cozy one or just a hammock? If it’s a hammock, how spacious is it? Also, how many meals are part of the package? Do they include drinks, especially the adult ones?
What’s Specifically Part Of The Tour?
Where exactly does the tour kick off, who’s your main contact, and what time should you arrive? When you’ve got all these details, it’s time to be bold and negotiate. Mention that you spotted another tour for a certain amount and plan to explore that option. You might just see those prices drop! For pricier packages, it’s wise to check out the tour company on TripAdvisor for reviews beforehand. It’s better to spend a little time researching than to waste both your money and time
Err On the Side of Kindness
When you venture beyond your usual surroundings, the norms for interacting with strangers, personal boundaries, and queue etiquette can vary significantly. At some point, you might encounter a few impolite individuals. Take a deep breath, be patient, and most importantly, don’t let a couple of people shape your view of the entire population or place. Globally, the vast majority of people are fantastic. However, there’s always that vocal 2% minority who can be a bit challenging. Be ready to hold your ground and protect your spot in line as if your life depends on it.
Eat Where the Locals Are Eating
When you’re traveling , exploring different cuisines is a must! Look for healthy options like fresh salads, grilled fish, or colorful smoothie bowls. And of course, don’t forget to indulge in some local treats like street food or decadent desserts.
You Can Buy Abroad
When you’re traveling, shopping abroad can be quite an adventure! Even if you’re not a fan of shopping, exploring local markets and stores can add excitement to your trip. It’s fascinating to see how people around the world go about their daily lives. When you’re planning for long-term or round-the-world travel, remember that you don’t have to pack everything. Find a balance between essential travel items and leave room for new discoveries. When you’re traveling, you can find almost anything you need in various locations. Yes, even prescriptions and medical drugs! It’s a good idea to discuss any complex prescription requirements with your doctor beforehand to ensure you have what you need for your trip or know the generic names for pharmacy visits. However, certain items are better purchased in your home country, especially expensive electronics. Laptops, cameras, GoPro, and even affordable tablets are best bought in your western home country. Why? You can easily make purchases with your credit card and benefit from credit card protection. Plus, you can communicate with sellers, whether online like Amazon or in-store like Best Buy, in your native language. This helps avoid issues like purchasing knock-off products. Knock-off Macs and iPhones can be surprisingly similar to the real ones until you use them for a while.
Preventing Theft While Traveling
When you’re traveling, it’s essential to be cautious about potential theft. Avoid drawing attention to yourself by taking pictures in busy markets. Consider investing in travel insurance to protect your belongings. Take steps to make yourself less vulnerable to pickpockets. Stay vigilant about your bags and avoid risky behaviors like excessive drinking in unfamiliar places. If theft does occur, it’s likely to be due to pickpocketing, so let’s be prepared for that possibility.
Here are some simple ways to outsmart pickpockets:
- Keep your wallet in a front pocket for added security.
- Opt for travel pants or shorts with zippered pockets to deter thieves.
- Stay extra alert in crowded areas, markets, and tourist spots.
- Prepare for the worst by knowing the numbers to cancel your cards and carrying minimal cash.
Backpacking Must-Haves: Compression Cubes & Travel Shoes
When traveling backpack style, staying organized is key. To simplify this, consider using compression cubes. They not only save space but also keep your belongings in order, preventing items from getting lost under beds or requiring constant repacking. For footwear, opt for reliable travel shoes over flip flops. In unfamiliar places like Athens, sturdy shoes can prevent injuries and discomfort. Ensure you wear practical shoes to avoid mishaps and stay prepared for unexpected situations during your travels.
By following these packing and footwear tips, you can avoid common backpacking mishaps and enjoy a smoother journey. Learn from our experiences to make your trip hassle-free and memorable.
