We have been all freaking out after the crazy increase of exchange rates, thinking that we will never afford to travel again, oh well for some people it could be the case, but for travellers like you and me, heck no, we will find our way to alternatives.

Keep An Open Eye On Deals & Discounts

If you are serious about it then keep an eye on deals offered by travel services providers, and the best way to do it is by following their social media accounts, even better if you subscribe to their newsletter.

Book Everything In Advance

Though last minute can get your hands on great deals, but who wants to risk his travel plans? I personally DON’T. Your best bet is to book at least a couple of month in advance to guarantee better prices more flexibility, and options.

Make use of Travel Now & Pay Later In Installments Payment Option

Let’s say your trip will cost you EGP 15000 how about paying EGP 2500 a month over the course of 6 months without any interest fee instead of a bulk of 18k? With Travco Holidays using your National Bank Of Egypt (NBE) credit card, or your premium card you can do that.

Always Carry A Refillable Bottle

You’d think it’s cheap but think about it, most 1st world country’s water is drinkable so instead of spending EGP 20-30 to get a bottle of water get yourself a refillable bottle at about the same price or even cheaper and fill it whenever possible. (Photo via flickr courtesy of job art)

Picnics Save Money

It’s always fun to go grocery shopping in a foreign country, to go picnic at a pretty place, it’s also a money-saver.

Eat Street-Food

If not for the cultural experience then to save lots of money, and when you decide to splurge avoid touristy restaurants as they charge high, and offer low.

Travel Off-Season

Besides cheaper prices, it’s much more fun as places will be less busy, and if not it will be crowded by locals not tourists, you will find more availability and better options.

Buy A Local Sim Card & Use Your Phone Less

Because having mobile data is so useful while abroad, and the last thing you wish for is a scary phone bill waiting for you back home, get yourself a local sim card with mobile data, and try to contact your family and loved ones on WhatsApp instead of calling them every single day -sounds Egyptian, no?

Pay With Cash Not Credit Card

Unless getting cash was hectic, try to use as much cash as possible specially that now tbanks have increased interest fees on purchases in a foreign currency. (Photo via flickr courtesy of: Sean MacEntee)

Buses Are Cheaper Than Trains

They are slower and cheaper, but if you look closely you might get your hands on a good train deal, and the best place to find information is seat61.com.

Night Trains Are Cheaper Than Regular Trains

Not only but also it will save you one night accommodation at your destination.

The Cheapest Days To Fly Are Usually Sunday, Tuesday & Wednesday

Well in the western world Sunday is the last day of the weekend, Tuesday & Wednesday are mid-week, so flights and accommodation are on low demand making them cheaper at most of the times.

Use Public Transports

Be it an underground, a ferry-boat, or a rickshaw it’s the cheapest and most fun way to get around and get a taste of the local culture. Make sure to ask if there is a day/weekly/weekend or monthly pass to save some more.

Book Museum Tickets Online Or Via Mobile

Queuing to buy tickets is such a nightmare any sane person would do anything to skip, how about also saving some money? Now most attractions offer discounts on tickets purchased online or booked through their mobile app.

Don’t Be Shy To Ask For Discounts

No no you won’t go and ask “howa fi discoun?”, LOL. Students, children, seniors, families, large groups, and adults under 25 usually get discounts on museum tickets and transports passes so while doing your purchase make sure that you have got your discount.

If You Are Travelling In A BIG Group Consider Renting A Car

Sometimes renting a car can be cheaper than using public transports, so consider this option whenever travelling in a big group, where you can split the cost.

Travel Isn’t Exclusive To Europe & the U.S.

We pick expensive destinations believing that nowhere in the world would be as interesting, or as beautiful, ignoring all those amazing yet affordable destinations around Asia, Africa, and other parts of the world.

Your next trip starts right here

About the Author

Passainte Assem

A former lawyer, travel junkie and adventurer from head to toe. Whether broke or out of vacation time, always on the lookout for the next destination. Keen to share her travel stories, planning tips and photographs to give you a real sense of place.