HOW I FIND THE MONEY TO TRAVEL
I’ve been traveling the world for more than a decade, and I’ve spent more time traveling than any other location. Though I’ve spent lots of traveling between New York and Austin, and I’m preparing to spend a significant amount of time staying in Paris, I’m an avid traveler.
I’m a frequent visitor to airports. I’m used to being lost in foreign countries where the language is still mysterious. I’m always seeking low-cost flights and accumulating the most air miles possible.
After traveling to more than 100 countries, I’m asked a standard series of questions, which usually results in this question: How can you afford to travel this often?
Am I rich? Do I work from home? Am I a male gigolo? Do I sell drugs or run guns?
Unfortunately, it’s not one of these. (Okay, I’m grateful I don’t have to market drugs or carry guns!
As I wrote in an earlier post on how I find it challenging to make money for travel, the desire drives me and keeps me going.
Many people believe that traveling is costly and that you will be spending a significant amount of money wherever it is. In certain places, like Europe, it might be the case. In some instances, it is true. However, for the majority of us, this isn’t the case. It’s possible to travel cheaply, but affordable doesn’t necessarily mean it’s terrible.
I often inform my former colleagues that I travel very cheaply, and images of terrible services and shabby hotels pop up in their heads. Traveling by backpack is not for them; they’d rather have their comfort. I, too, want comfort. I go out to eat and do nice things while I’m gone. There’s more than just 12-person dorms or instant noodles meals. Perhaps frugal might be the better term to use. I don’t travel cheap. I can afford to travel.
If I’m working from home, I do my work and save. I am not a nightclubber and am cautious about what I do with my money. Travel is my first monetary priority. This is the most crucial part of the whole puzzle. Don’t throw away your money. Traveling is never in your budget if you’re constantly paying for other things.
Travel should be your top priority as well
When it becomes necessary, start looking for ways to save money. Get rid of the Starbucks and fancy lunches. Every penny counts.
Before my departure to the United States in 2006, I had saved for an entire year. I lived like a poor person to ensure I had enough funds to travel. While traveling, when I ran low on cash, I was a teacher of English to students in Bangkok.
There are many other methods to earn money while traveling as well. Hostel work and seasonal restaurant work, remote freelance, and travel writing. The list is endless!
When you’re creative, travel is an infinite possibility. It’s not easy or elegant, but it’s feasible if you’re willing to change how you think about travel.
People, particularly Americans, tend to have this perception of hotels and travel with fancy amenities, shopping, and luxury. The only thing they see are dollar signs. However, you can enjoy a relaxing holiday without spending your entire life savings.
A sharing economy that has transformed the game by introducing platforms such as Airbnb and Couchsurfing allows travel to be cheaper while making it more a part of the culture.
It’s possible that flying is more expensive than in the past, but some great deals are available, and flights don’t need to be costly. I’m always able to find prices that won’t make me pay more than I can afford, and this is because I research hard and don’t just take the first flight that I see on Expedia! Look for alternatives for flying if you can. Trains and buses can take longer, but they’re far less expensive. Most people do not take an excursion because of the flight costs. It is a significant concern, but when you research and research, you’ll be able to find a great price.
Look at your guidebook to find small, local eateries that offer excellent food and small-cost tags. Go to the places where locals eat instead of what the Frommer’s Guide or Lonely Planet tells you. The locals don’t spend an arm and a leg living in their area, and you shouldn’t. You’re traveling to discover new destinations, not hotels. Traveling locally and differently will help you save money and provide more enjoyment when you travel.
This website is committed to inspiring you by telling stories and teaching you how to save money when you travel. It doesn’t take much cash to travel — it’s just a matter of being able to see things differently. Avoid packaged tours, costly hotels, and overpriced restaurants and souvenirs. It is possible to have luxurious vacations without paying the cost.
If you want to explore more, it starts by changing your mindset. It’s then an issue of knowing where to find the best deals and then trying to locate them. Simply booking a package deal through Orbitz won’t save you money. You must be savvy when you wish to be a wise traveler.