TRAVELING ON A BUDGET

Recently, a friend traveled to Niger State for the NYSC program and shared their experience, particularly the financial challenges, which meant she had to travel on a budget. When you have a budget, the reality is that you have only a tiny amount of money to spend and cannot afford to exceed that budget. 

Traveling on a budget involves visiting exciting places and enjoying valuable experiences without spending more than necessary. It means making intelligent decisions to reduce costs while experiencing the spirit of travel. Traveling on a budget does not imply losing comfort or quality; it simply means being more inventive with your money.

This brings us to this topic: How do you travel on a tight budget in these trying times of the “Emilokan” presidency? Here are some practical tips to help you manage your travel expenses effectively:

1. PLAN AHEAD

Being spontaneous is fine if you have the funds and time to enjoy it, but effective planning is crucial when traveling on a budget. Planning your logistics might help you save money and reduce stress because a plan covers the length of the trip and the amount of money spent on lodging, food, and recreational activities. Arrange for a friend with a car to pick you up at your destination, or seek out a reasonable cab driver willing to negotiate the fare. Ensure you have covered everything when planning, as it gives you less chance for unexpected spending.

2. PACK EFFICIENTLY

Limit your luggage to one box. This is not the time to showcase your collection of suitcases, and in case you don’t know, the more boxes you bring, the higher your luggage fees. Pack everything into one box and, if necessary, use a carry-on handbag for any additional items. In addition to saving money, traveling light makes it easier for you to get around and navigate situations, such as crowded train stations, faster.

3. FEEDING

The first thing you should forget is eating fancy foods. While grabbing Domino’s pizza or shawarma for your trip might be tempting, now is the time to be frugal and opt for more affordable choices. Visit local eateries, street food stalls, or fast-food chains to get a satisfying meal without breaking the bank. You can also wander around before deciding where to have dinner; if you go to the first restaurant you see, you’ll have no idea if you’re overpaying. 

4. PUBLIC TRANSPORT

Using public transit throughout your trip can help you save a lot of money, as it is always less expensive than taking a cab or personal car to get around the city or location. For those traveling long distances, checking budget airlines can sometimes be more economical than driving, especially considering fuel and potential accommodation costs. Balancing planes, buses, and carpooling can optimize your travel budget while providing a great travel experience.

5. ACCOMMODATION

Accommodation will likely be your most significant expense if you locate a reasonably priced ticket. Overpaying for housing can be irritating, especially if you spend most of your time touring, so you should prioritize safety, cleanliness, and convenience but avoid overspending. You could also stay with family or friends. Reach out to people you know or plan a trip to visit an old cousin or school friend who lives in a new location. This could lead you to discover places you might not have considered otherwise.

So pack up your baggage, plan well, and prepare to embark on a memorable journey around the world without breaking the bank.