I didn’t start traveling until I was about 30 years old, so I never experienced the gap year/party hostel mode of travel. But I have always been a budget traveler, so I’ve had to learn how to balance budget strategies with making decisions that felt age and comfort-appropriate. I don’t think budget and comfort are mutually exclusive concepts, but I do think you have to know the budget travel tips and tricks that will give you a happy medium while on the road.
It can be difficult for teachers to plan their vacations when so many others share the same holidays and breaks. However, there is one great advantage to this – many homeowners who need housesitters also tend to travel during these times. So, if you’re a teacher who likes immersive travel experiences and saving money, this is the perfect travel opportunity!
Continue readingIn a previous post, I talked about couchsurfing as a great way to eliminate lodging costs while traveling. When couchsurfers aren’t available or I want to do my own thing without worrying about my host’s schedule, hostels are my next best resource for reducing my travel costs considerably. Hostels are wonderful places to connect with other travelers and learn some great tips for things to see and do in the area or places to visit in the future.
Many hostels have kitchens which will help you save on food costs. (Image credit: Brian)
Most hostels have kitchen areas, so you can make your own meals and save a lot of money that way, rather than eating out several times per day. Often hostels offer other amenities as well, such as computer/internet access, free breakfasts, airport shuttle service, cheap tours, and lots of information about the area. Some have pools, hot tubs, or barbeque grills. Many offer a common area full of games, books, movies, and other things to do.