As divers, it's a given that we all LOVE to travel! Isn't that why we got certified in the first place? To jet off to far, exotic destinations. To explore the underwater world seldom seen by man. To discover new adventures around every corner.
But let's face it....the reality is that traveling is expensive. Or at least that's what most people think. Well, we have a little secret to share with you: it doesn't have to be. Sure, it would be amazing to travel first class, eat at all the finest restaurants and to always stay at 5-star resorts, but this isn't always what traveling is about. Traveling is about adventure, exploring, and learning about new places and people; and this kind of traveling CAN be done on a budget, believe it or not. Let us show you how!
Choose a "cheap" country
By "cheap" we mean affordable. Yes, some country's are more cost-friendly to stay, get around, and eat in than others. For example, how about Thailand for $15 per night, coffee in the Phillipeans for 11 cents, or live off $25 a day in Vietnam? It's all a matter of choosing a destination where your dollar will go a long way.
Don't waste money on the hotel
Sure, a fancy hotel room is awesome but really....how much time are you spending in it anyways? If you are a true adventurer, you've traveled abroad to see the sights and explore the land, not hang out in a fancy hotel room. So, if you only need a place to rest your head at night, re-think the way you spend your money on accommodations. Instead of a nice hotel, consider a room on Airbnb, staying in a youth hostel (yes, some are still just dollars a night) or a less fancy, off-brand hotel.
Do your research!
This is SO important if you want to save $$$. Booking activities in advance directly with the vendor saves you so much more than if you book closer to your travel dates through a tour or ticket company. Spend as much time as you can planning and preparing for your trip. Sometimes booking tours on the spot can cost you 2-3 times more than what it would have had you booked in advance.
Search for the good deals
This may mean spending hours online searching for the cheapest airfare but trust us, it's out there and if you put in the time, you will find it! Compare and contrast multiple tour operator's websites before booking a tour or tickets because the pricing is almost never the same. Some places will be cheaper than others for the same thing, and this goes back to doing the research!
Plan your meals
If you eat out at a fancy restaurant for each meal you WILL spend a ton of extra money. If you plan out your daily meals you can save a lot. We suggest a simple local-type breakfast to get you going, grabbing a make-your-own lunch at the local market (meat, cheese, and bread anyone?) and packing it up to eat on the go, and then saving the bulk of the meal part of your budget for a nice, relaxing dinner.
Save the rental car
Unless you are traveling somewhere super remote and it is absolutely necessary to have your own car to get around, we suggest saving the money and NOT renting your own car. You can save hundreds of dollars by taking advantage of the local transport services. Most countries outside of the USA have amazing public transportation. It's also a great way to see the area and meet the locals.
Order your money BEFORE you go
Save tons of money on foreign transaction fees by NOT using your credit card abroad. Plan out your days, decided about how much money you will need, and then order your foreign currency at your local bank BEFORE you leave on your trip. This will save you from all of those nasty foreign transaction fees you'll wrack up each time you use your credit card. OR, if you really want to use your credit card, make sure you have one that does not charge foreign transaction fees before you go.
Seek out what's free
What's cheaper than free??? Many places have beautiful beaches, parks, museums and gardens you can visit absolutely free. This comes into play when you are doing your research as stated above; seek out what's free to do in the area and you will save big AND see some amazing things.
Now that you can see how traveling really CAN be affordable get saving and get packing! Not sure where to go next? Come on into Underseas Scuba Center and we'll be happy to share with you our upcoming travel adventures.
