How to save money on backpacking

If you’re still in full-time education or have auniversity acceptance letter, then get an International StudentIdentity Card (ISIC). These are valid in 120 countries are entitle youto over 40,000 discounts globally. If you have left the world of studybut are still the youthful side of 26, then get an International YouthTravel card. Much the same as the ISIC card, they’re valid in hostels,buses, trains and Internet cafes.

Before you run off and leave the country get yourselfadequate insurance for your entire journey. This may seem like addedexpense, but it will cost you a lot more if you have an accidentwithout insurance, so hope for the best but prepare for the worst.

Buying toiletries at your destination will save youmoney and valuable luggage space at the airport. Shampoo andconditioner etc are heavy and we could all do with a little extraweight allowance at check-in.

By arranging your tours and accommodation locallyyou’re likely to get better rates because you cut out the middle-man.Remember you can negotiate better deals face-to-face.

Organised tours are a great option when you aretravelling alone and you don’t speak the language. However, don’t relyon them too much. You’ll fly through many places that you might want tospend more time and there will be certain people you will misscompletely. Going at your own pace is a much better option that willsave you cash and will ultimately be more rewarding if a little morechallenging.

Use public transport whenever you can. Local bussesmay seem scary and rather unruly in some places but are usually by farthe cheapest option and give you a real insight into the country you’retravelling in and its people.

However, certain transportation should be booked in advance such astrain fares in Europe. If you know your dates around a month in advance(unlikely but possible) you can benefit from much bigger discounts thana few days prior to travel and definitely on buying tickets on the dayof travel.

Don’t bother buying reading material once you’re onthe road. Look out for hostels that have book exchanges where you canswap your well-read copy of the latest Paulo Cohelo with an equallywell-worn Nick Hornby.