For anyone, this is an opportunity for true independence, but it can also raise budget concerns, especially for flights and accommodation. This is particularly true for students on a gap year or anyone on a limited budget.
The good news is that with a bit of patience and savvy searching, you can make your travel budget go a lot further. (Read our recent article on online booking tips and apply these guidelines).
Here are some updated strategies to help you find the best deals, ensuring your hard-earned money takes you as far as you want to go.
Unlocking the Secrets to Cheap Flights.
Securing a great flight deal is often about being smart and flexible with your search.
- Cast a Wide Net: Don't just rely on one search engine. Start by comparing prices on major platforms like Google Flights, Kayak, and Skyscanner. Once you have a sense of the best prices, check the airline’s own website. Sometimes, booking directly with the airline can be slightly cheaper, and it can simplify things if you need to make changes later.
- Focus on the Total Cost: Always look at the final price, which includes all taxes and fees. A seemingly low fare on a budget carrier can quickly become more expensive than a major airline once you add on fees for luggage, seat selection, and other extras.
- Embrace Flexibility: When possible, be flexible with your travel dates. Using a search engine's "flexible dates" feature can reveal much cheaper fares just by shifting your departure or return by a day or two. Flying midweek (Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Saturdays are often the cheapest) can lead to significant savings compared to flying on weekends.
- Sign Up for Alerts: Airlines and search engines have free fare alerts for specific routes. This is a great way to monitor prices for a trip you’re planning in the future. You can also subscribe to email newsletters that track deals, helping you stay ahead of major sales.
While flights are a big expense, your choice of accommodation offers the most opportunity for major savings.
- Hostels: For budget-conscious solo travellers, hostels are the gold standard. A dorm bed is almost always the cheapest option, and hostels are an excellent way to meet other travellers, join group activities, and find travel buddies. Use sites like Hostelworld.com to find and book hostels with great reviews.
- Homestays and Apartments: Platforms like Airbnb and VRBO offer a way to book a room in a local's home, which can be more affordable and provide a more authentic experience than a hotel.
- Budget-Friendly Hotels and Guest Houses: Don't write off hotels for your accommodations either. Many cities have small, independent hotels and guest houses that offer private rooms at a reasonable price. Use major booking sites like Booking.com or Agoda.com to compare prices and read recent guest reviews to find a great option.
- Consider House-Sitting: For the truly adventurous, sites like TrustedHousesitters.com can connect you with homeowners who need a house-sitter. In exchange for watching their home or pets, you get free accommodation.
Remember these key points to save even more:
- Time Your Trip: Travelling during the shoulder season: this is the period between peak and off-peak seasons, can get you great deals on flights and accommodation while still enjoying good weather and fewer crowds.
- Check Weekday Rates: Hotels and guest houses that cater to weekend travellers often have lower rates on weekdays. Always check a range of dates during your search to compare prices.