Exploring the World on a Budget: Our 2018 Travel Adventures
As avid travelers, my partner and I have always sought to strike a balance between exploring new destinations and being mindful of our expenses. This year, we’ve been fortunate enough to embark on several exciting trips, each with its unique set of challenges and opportunities for savings.
Cozy Winter Getaway
In February, we opted for a quick escape to a nearby state park, just two hours from our home. By traveling during the off-season, we scored a cozy cabin for a mere $100 per night. We spent our days hiking and marveling at the winter scenery, and our evenings playing cards and watching the Olympics on TV. To keep costs down, we brought our own groceries and ate out only once, totaling $30. Our grand total for the weekend? A very reasonable $300.
Smart Travel Tip: Consider traveling during the off-season to popular destinations. Not only will you avoid the crowds, but you’ll also enjoy lower prices on accommodations and activities.
Reuniting with Friends
When planning a trip to visit a close friend living seven hours away, we decided to meet halfway in a charming college town. We split the cost of a quaint apartment rental above a brewery, totaling $150 for two nights. By exploring the town’s free attractions, such as art museums and bookstores, and eating at affordable food trucks and college bars, we kept our expenses in check. Our total food bill came out to around $100, including multiple cups of coffee.
Smart Travel Tip: When traveling with friends, consider splitting the cost of accommodations and exploring free or low-cost activities together.
Family Visits on a Shoestring
For our whirlwind family visits, we relied on the kindness of our loved ones, who provided us with free lodging and meals. Our only expenses were gas ($80) and treating our family to a few meals ($70). While this trip was the cheapest, we learned that it’s essential to prioritize quality time with loved ones, even if it means splurging a bit.
Smart Travel Tip: Don’t be afraid to ask family members if they can host you for a night or two. Not only will you save on accommodations, but you’ll also get to spend quality time with your loved ones.
Luxury Beach Vacation
After months of budget-friendly travel, we decided to splurge on an all-inclusive resort in Mexico. While it was the most expensive trip of the year, we justified the cost by considering the value of having all our expenses taken care of upfront. With unlimited access to on-site restaurants, bars, and activities, we were able to truly relax and enjoy our beach vacation.
Smart Travel Tip: If you’re planning a luxury vacation, consider opting for an all-inclusive resort. While it may seem expensive upfront, it can provide a stress-free and indulgent experience.
Bonus Trip: Work Conference
As a bonus, I was able to attend a work conference in Minneapolis, which covered my lodging, airfare, and food expenses. By making time to explore the city in the evenings, I was able to turn a work trip into a mini-vacation.
Smart Travel Tip: If you have the opportunity to attend a work conference or event, be sure to make the most of your free time to explore the surrounding area.
As we reflect on our travel adventures so far this year, we’re grateful for the opportunities we’ve had to explore new destinations while being mindful of our expenses. We’re always looking for ways to “level up” our travel game, and we’d love to hear from you – what are your favorite travel hacks, and how do you prioritize your travel spending?
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