How To Travel For Cheap
Traveling can get extremely expensive. A lot of people think traveling is expensive, and as a result, do not travel. Unfortunately, these people have been misinformed. Traveling is not "always" expensive and can be done on a budget.
For one, US residents can utilize the benefits received from credit cards to travel very cheap, if not free. When you apply for a credit card, you will likely receive some sort of bonus. This bonus is used as an incentive to get you to sign up for certain cards. An example of a bonus is 40,000 points. These 40,000 points can be used for a variety of things. But usually, the best way to use the points is through travel. For example, 40,000 chase points may earn you up to $400 off airline tickets.
The only requirement to use this credit card strategy is that you are a US resident and that you have "good enough" credit. If you are not planning on utilizing credit anytime soon, this may be a very good way to lessen the financial burden of travel expenses.
Another way to reduce the cost of travel is to "couch surf." Couch surfing is a service that allows its users to sleep on others couches, for free. The idea is that if you allow someone to sleep on your couch, eventually, you will be allowed the same. People use this type of site to meet new people, experience new things, and travel on a budget. Because you are getting lodging for free, you are saving a substantial amount of money to be used on other fun travel activities.
Another way you may be able to reduce the cost of traveling is to work for housing. This type of strategy will give you the ability to live in a foreign country and work. Instead of receiving monetary compensation for your work contributions, you will be given free housing and sometimes, food. This is a good strategy to employ if you are looking to experience a new culture, learn a language, or just have a fun experience. This literally limits your traveling expenses to a minimum because you will not pay for living or eating. Two of the biggest expenses when traveling.
Finally, if flexible, you should prepare to travel during off-peak times. This means, find out when the least amount of peoples are traveling to your intended destination, and book your travel period for that time. Usually the airline tickets are less costly during these times. Lodging will be substantially less because they are looking to fill up their empty rooms during these periods. Many hotels prepare for financial losses during these times, therefore, they often lower their prices by a lot.
In the end, if you utilize the strategies set forth, you will be able to meet more people, experience new cultures and live your life to the fullest without having to worry about the financial burden it will cause. You will be able to travel on a budget. You do not have to be "rich" or "well off" to travel.
