Think travel is expensive? Think again! You can travel the world without breaking the bank if you use the necessary tactics. Here’s a savvy, detailed guide on having a nice time traveling on a budget.
1. Travel Off-Season
Advantages include lower prices and fewer crowds. Sign up for flight alerts, avoid peak holidays, and maintain flexible travel dates.
Pro Tip: Mid-week flights are often cheaper than weekend ones.
2. Choose Budget Accommodations
Why? Save money while experiencing local culture. How? Opt for hostels, guesthouses, or homestays instead of luxury hotels. Look for ones offering free breakfast or kitchen access .
Pro Tip: Use apps like Airbnb, Hostelworld, or Couchsurfing for great deals.
3. Use Public Transport
Why? Taxis and rental cars can drain your budget. How? Take buses, metros, or rent a bike. Many cities offer unlimited travel passes.
Pro Tip: Walk whenever possible—it’s free and lets you explore hidden gems.
4. Plan Smart, Stay Flexible
Why? Pre-booking saves money, but flexibility allows for better deals. How? Book major expenses (flights, accommodations) in advance but keep an open schedule for activities.
Pro Tip: Check travel blogs and forums for real-time money-saving tips.
5. Eat Smart: Go Local
Why? Tourist restaurants overcharge. How? Eat at street food stalls and small local eateries.
Pro Tip: Follow locals—they know the best (and cheapest) spots.
6. Pack Light & Right
Why? Avoid baggage fees and travel hassle-free. How? Pack essentials only. Use packing cubes and roll your clothes.
Pro Tip: Most destinations sell toiletries, so don’t overpack.
7. Use Credit Cards for Extra Perks
Why? Rewards, cashback, discounts, and security benefits. How? Choose a travel-friendly credit card with no forex charges.
Some cards provide free airport lounge access.
Travel-Friendly Cards For You!
IndusInd Bank Platinum Aura Edge Credit Card
- Best For: Reward Points
- Credit Limit: ₹75,000
- Vintage Requirement: 12 months
- Age Eligibility: 18-60 years
- Annual Fee: ₹500 + GST (Nil renewal fee)
Reward Points:
- Departmental stores: 4 points per ₹100
- Airlines, electronics, books, music: 2.5 points per ₹100
- Dining: 1.5 points per ₹100
- All other spends: 0.5 points per ₹100
- Welcome Bonus: None
- CIBIL Score Requirement: 700+
- Foreign Currency Markup: 1.8% + GST
- Interest-Free Period: 20-50 days
ICICI Bank Accelero Credit Card
- Best For: Car-related benefits
- Credit Limit: ₹50,000
- Vintage Requirement: 9 months
- Age Eligibility: 21-65 years
- Annual Fee: ₹499 + GST
Features:
- Complimentary Roadside Assistance
- Car Wash & General Checkup (First year only)
- Welcome Bonus: None
- CIBIL Score Requirement: 750+
- Foreign Currency Markup: 3.5% + GST
- Interest-Free Period: 18-48 days
Which One Should You Choose?
IndusInd Platinum Aura Edge: Ideal if you want reward points on shopping, travel, and dining. Lower foreign currency markup (1.8%) makes it better for international transactions.
ICICI Accelero Credit Card: Suitable for car owners who can benefit from free roadside assistance, car washes, and checkups. Higher foreign currency markup (3.5%) makes it less attractive for international use.
8. Track Expenses Like a Pro
Why? Prevent overspending and unexpected budget shortages. How? Use budgeting apps to monitor daily spending. Set a daily limit.
Pro Tip: Withdraw small amounts of cash to avoid impulse buys.
9. Choose Meaningful Souvenirs
Why? Avoid clutter and save money. How? Buy local crafts, fridge magnets, or postcards instead of overpriced trinkets.
Pro Tip: Invest in experiences rather than material items.
10. Travel Cheap, Travel Smart
Why? Alternative travel options save money. How? Consider overnight buses, trains, or road trips instead of flights.
Pro Tip: Long-distance trains often have sleeper coaches—save on accommodation!
11. Personal Loans for Big Trips
Why? A travel loan can help you afford dream destinations without financial strain. How? Compare interest rates and choose flexible repayment options.
Pro Tip: Use a loan only when necessary and plan repayments wisely.
Best Loan Personal Offers in 2025
| Feature | Hero Fincorp | RK Bansal |
| Minimum Salary | ₹15,000 | ₹25,000 |
| Loan Amount | ₹50,000 – ₹10,00,000 | ₹10,000 – ₹50,000 |
| Loan Tenure | 12 – 60 months | 7 days – 1 month |
| Rate of Interest | 9.5% – 16% (Flat per annum) | 1% per day (Fixed) |
| CIBIL Score Required | 700+ | 650+ |
| Processing Fees | 1% – 5% | 5% – 6% |
| Best For | Long-term loans with lower interest rates | Short-term emergency loans |
12. Enjoy the Journey
Why? Pro Tip: Use loans only when necessary; plan repayments smartly.
Travel, experience and be flexible with budgetary contingencies. Plan smart and spend consciously to travel more for less. Use travel hacks and credit card perks for memorable experiences.