If you are like on a long-term traveling plan where time is not an issue. The next important ingredient that would determine a successful travel is money. The more you save, the more amazing places you can visit. Of course, I am not telling to eat peanut butter and jam all day long (which I would glady do so – it’s delicious). Here are some tips to save those extra bucks and start traveling.
P.S. I have been robbed in La Paz, Bolivia. I will try to update the blog once I get a new computer.
1. Plan a budget
Welcome to business 101. A budget is to predict and plan your spendings within a timeline so that you can scrimp on things accordingly when needed. I divide my budget into 2, daily and monthly budget. Daily budget includes tours, food and accommodation costs. Multiply the amount by 30 days, add in transportation cost and you will get your monthly budget. Depending on the country, my daily budget is about US$20 to US$30 and my monthly budget would be around US$900.
A budget is there not to restrict your spendings but to be use as a guideline. For example, when I pay for a tour, I would try to save on food. If I spend lesser than budgeted, I could afford to treat myself to a big meal. Yay!!
2. Couchsurfing
This is a genius invention and also the reason why I can afford to travel for such a long time. Couchsurfing is a online community for travelers that wants to give back to the traveling community by offereing a couch or floor space for travelers for free. It is also what I love about travel – sharing, learning, and growing, the genuine generosity and warmth of someone willing to let a complete stranger into their homes, and more importantly, into their lives. This allows me to save money on accomodation and having the authentic local experience. The Couchsurfing experience focuses on sharing and giving. I always try to cook something or bring a small gift for my host – make them feel that it was a great decision to host you!
3. Ask the locals
I hate to pay Gringo’s price not because I cannot afford it but I am not Gringo, I’m Asian. haha. A fact to take in is that you will get ripped off sometimes because you don’t look like a local. Therefore, the best things to do is, ask. Talk to the your fellow travelers, they probably have done their reasearch and is able to give you some valuebale information that actually worth money. Nonetheless, the best person to consult on pricing is the locals hence learning the language is definitely something valuable. I remember once, taking the bus from Colombia to Ecaudor, figuring out that I paid 2 times the price for the same ticket, the person sitting beside me paid.
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