We all have that dream to travel the world, don’t we? The notion of visiting distant cities and sampling street food in foreign countries, says John. But then reality hits — flights aren’t cheap, hotels are overrated, and the idea of budgeting to save a pile of money is dreadful. It was no different for me either. At one time, I had also thought that there was no way I could ever afford to see the world. But there’s just one problem: It is entirely possible to travel the globe on a budget, even in 2025. It’s just a matter of being a little strategic, adaptable, and savvy about where you go.
We’re not going to pretend like this doesn’t take some planning. But if you’ve got your heart set on seeing the world without hitting up mom and dad for cash, here’s this blog post. Here are some tips and personal hacks I’ve employed to live the travel dream without breaking my bank. You can travel the world now that too on budget.
1. Be Flexible with Your Travel Plans
The first and most crucial lesson I learned while traveling around the world on a shoestring? Flexibility is your best friend. The stiffer your plans, the more costly they can be. So if you were determined to go to Paris and then find that flights to Prague are half as expensive, why not mix it up? You still get the European vibe, but at a fraction of the price.
A Personal Story:
I had planned a trip to Bali, but I came across a last-minute flight sale for Vietnam at under half the cost. I was reluctant at first, but it turned out to be one of the greatest experiences. I walked the streets of Hanoi, took motorbike rides along Ha Long Bay, and lived like a local. Sometimes the greatest adventures are those you hadn’t intended on.
If you’re taking a road trip on your adventure, check out my post: Road Trip Budgeting 101: How to Travel Smart and Save More.
2. Use Low-Cost Carriers and Shop Around
Budget airlines may have a long way to go, and they can make a difference when you are trying to keep costs from soaring. Ditto for the wide array of online tools that make it easy to shop around and find the best deals. Websites like Skyscanner, Google Flights, or Momondo enable you to see a variety of options and prices for your chosen destination.
A Tip:
Book flights 6–8 weeks in advance for the best flight deals.
Create fare alerts so you can seize the lowest prices.
Fly mid-week if you can. Lowest fares are typically available on Tuesdays and Wednesdays.
If you’re planning a road trip as part of your adventure, be sure to check out my post on Top 5 Free Travel Apps for Road Trips In 2025. These apps will help you save time, money, and energy when planning your next trip!
3. Pick Budget-Friendly Destinations
One of the simplest ways not to break the bank while traveling is by visiting places that are already budget-friendly. So many beautiful countries in the world where living is cheap, but life is full.
Top Budget-Friendly Destinations:
Vietnam: Vietnam is value personified, thanks to its beautiful beaches and history, particularly when it comes to food and transportation.
Mexico: From the sandy white beaches of Tulum to the colonial beauty of Oaxaca, Mexico is home to plenty of affordable destinations that aren’t a complete eyesore.
Bulgaria: Don’t overlook Eastern Europe! Bulgaria is one of Europe’s cheapest countries, with everything from hiking trails to ancient ruins at budget prices.
Here are spots that will let you do just that — and they won’t break the bank.
Now you can travel the world on these budget spots and you’ll get to experience new cultures without worrying about overspending. For more on affordable destinations, check out Road Trip Essentials 2025: Your Ultimate Packing List To Know, where I share must-have gear for budget-conscious travelers.
4. Get Creative with Accommodation
You don’t need to bust the budget on accommodation when you travel the world. Sleeping in hostels and Airbnbs or even house-sitting can save you hundreds of dollars, while providing comfortable and offbeat places for a change.
Ways to Save on Accommodation:
Hostels: No longer just for college kids. Many hostels have private rooms and even hotel amenities, but at a fraction of the price.
House-Sitting: Websites such as TrustedHousesitters allow you to stay in someone’s house (and care for their pet) without charge in exchange for the use of the home.
Airbnb & Couchsurfing: Rent a private room on Airbnb or consider giving Couchsurfing a go to crash with locals for free!
A Personal Tip:
One of my treehouses I saw on Airbnb in Bali for only $30 a night. It was inexpensive, comforting, and surrounded by nature — an experience I never would have had if I’d stayed in a normal hotel.
5. Eat Like a Local
One of the greatest things about travel the world is the food. But eating out at establishments catering to tourists can get expensive. Rather, head to the local markets, food stalls, and tiny family-run restaurants for delicious meals at a fraction of the cost.
How to Eat Like a Local:
Street Food: This entry isn’t just the best, but also the cheapest way to experience a country’s culture and flavours. Think of tacos in Mexico or pho in Vietnam.
Make Your Own Meals: Airbnbs are often equipped with kitchens — and it doesn’t get any cheaper than dining on locally purchased, homemade food.
Eat Where the Locals Eat: Avoid flashy, picture-menu restaurants. Seek out places where the locals eat, and you will always get better food for less.
6. Travel Slow and Stay Longer
We’ve all been told that moving at a breakneck pace and visiting as many cities as possible is your ticket to seeing more, but it actually costs you in the end. The slower you travel and the longer you stay in one spot, the less you will spend on transportation, accommodations, or even food. Plus, you will get to see a city like a local (or not like one) instead of simply passing through.
A Personal Story:
I didn’t mean to stay that long when I stayed in Lisbon for two weeks, but it won my heart. Rather than hop over to the next city, I just stayed longer and did more inexpensive things (such as taking free walking tours or uncovering off-the-beaten-path parks).
7. Use Public Transportation
Taxis and ride-hailing apps can really add up. Use the public transportation in most towns instead. It’s cheap, it’s simple — and gives you a taste of city life like a local.
Pro Tip:
Purchase city passes for unrestricted bus and train rides.
Rent a bike: Most cities have low-cost bike rental programs, and it is an excellent way to see the city without having to pay for transportation.
8. Work or Volunteer Abroad
If you’re willing to commit to one locale temporarily, try working or volunteering overseas. A number of programs provide free room and board in exchange for a few hours of work each day.
Programs to Check Out:
Workaway: A website with work exchanges at farms, hostels, or ngo’s.
WWOOF: Organic farm projects offer food and board in exchange for help.
9. Monitor What You Are Paying On and Set Achievable Goals
In order to keep the budget on track, you have to track it. Apps like Trail Wallet and TravelMapper can help you track your expenses on the go. You will have more control of your money if you set a daily budget as I did, then stick to it.
My Budget Tip:
Establish a daily budget, and then track everything. For instance, while I backpacked in Thailand, I did everything at $50/day (that was including room and board and activities), and I never went over budget. By monitoring your expenses you can easily travel the world on budget.
10. Travel Off-Season
One of the best ways to save on a trip is to travel the world during the off-season. Flights, lodging, and attractions are cheaper when there are fewer tourists around. And you get to see the destination without hordes of people.
Best Times to Travel the world :
Southeast Asia: November to February
Europe: April-June or September-October.
South America: March to May
Final Thoughts: You Can Travel the World on a Budget in 2025
And it’s true — you can travel the world on a budget and get so much more out of your experience. By being a little prepared, flexible, and open-minded, you can immerse yourself in new cultures, have some incredible adventures, and make memories that will last a lifetime- all on the cheap.
The world is waiting for you out there. Do not wait for the “perfect time” or a big paycheck. The perfect time is now.
Enjoyed reading this article?
What is your budget-friendly destination for 2025? (By the way, if you are organising tours, hit me up!)Email me or comment below – and go on, share this with a buddy who is looking to travel the world for less!!
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