You can still plan an exciting holiday without it costing an arm and a leg. Travelling on a budget can also lead you to experience a place from a less tourist-focused perspective. Think cheap street food, DIY tours, and drinking with the locals.
Despite topping many lists as one of the best holiday destinations, it’s surprisingly easy to do Bali on a budget. Abundant street food is affordable (and not to mention delicious), and bargaining is expected when shopping in markets.
While you could easily blow your budget by booking bungy dives, jet boat tours or buying a ski pass, there are plenty of ways to make your hols in Queenstown affordable. From hiking to hostels, public transport and free campgrounds, you can visit New Zealand’s “adrenaline capital” without breaking the bank.
Bangkok
Looking for a trip with good bang for your buck? Bangkok is the spot! While many big cities can drain your bank account after a few days, Bangkok is a budget travel paradise. Eat street food, stay in a hostel, and barter hard!
Nadi
Fiji ain’t cheap, and one of your biggest costs for a trip to Island paradise will be your transport. Rather than forking out for ferries to one of the tiny remote islands, why not base your trip around Nadi – the town you’ll touchdown in. Visit the Sabeto Mud Pools for pampering on a budget, and learn about local history at the Fiji Culture Village.
Byron Bay
Visit Australia’s most easterly town for a holiday that offers loads of activities, beach time and laughs, but doesn’t empty your walley. You’ll be spoilt for choice when it comes to places to relax outside, so pack a picnic, visit outside school holidays, and explore on foot!
Malaysia’s capital is a melting pot of Malay, Chinese, Indian and Western cultural influences, which together create an experience like no other. Chinatown is one of the cheaper neighbourhoods to stay in while still being close to many attractions, and you can barter your way through the markets and street food stalls to keep your costs down.
Recently voted Australia’s best town, you’ll find Launceston nestled into sweeping valleys and lush farmland, waiting for you to explore. As a UNESCO “City of Gastronomy”, Launceston is packed full of gourmet eateries to tempt travellers, but if you’re looking to save your cents, visit the farmers’ market or local deli and take your picnic on a walk along one of the many rivers and gorges.
Auckland
Lounge in the bay at Mission Beach, visit the Auckland Art Gallery, walk the Coast to Coast Walkway or catch a ferry across to Devonport and look back at the skyline – there’s lots in New Zealand’s most populous city for free (or on the cheap!).
Gold Coast
If you’re planning a budget trip, BYO tent or van and stay at a campsite or holiday park for the most affordable accommodation. With more natural beauty than you can ever experience in one trip, spend your time exploring the beaches and coves that make the Gold Coast so special.
Honolulu
Hawaii is on many traveller’s bucket lists, but it can come with a hefty price tag. Avoid visiting during school holidays, and you’re likely to find cheaper travel and accommodation. And when you’re there, avoid the tourist traps and create some DIY fun – ie. skip the boat tour and rent a SUP instead, or head out on your own little snorkelling adventure close to shore.
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