Solo travel… on a budget
We love travel! Sometimes we travel with other people and sometimes we travel alone. Whether you are a seasoned solo traveller or a beginner, this new series is just for you. As we all dream of and plan our next trip, here are some solo travel tips from members of the WTTC team. This week’s tips are all about travel on a budget.
About the traveller
Andrew is an avid adventure traveller and an active marathon runner from New Zealand. He makes the most of active events, like races, in different cities to explore new destinations. To date, Andrew has visited 60 countries…and counting! He aims to complete 6 of the World Marathon Majors. His first time backpacking on a shoestring was through Southeast Asia for 6 weeks as a 21-year-old. Andrew loves exploring off the beaten path and he is a great person to offer some useful tips for travelling on a budget.
Andrew is WTTC’s Regional Director for Europe, Middle East, and Oceania.
Andrew at Mt Everest Base Camp. Photo courtesy of Andrew Brown
Andrew’s top travel tips
Booking, packing, and luggage
When booking accommodation, check whether breakfast is included in the rate as that can help you save on additional costs.
Don’t over pack. Pack comfortable footwear and lightweight clothing that dries quickly. If you can, pack everything into a backpack.
Carry a portable charger or power bank to boost battery power when you need it.
Take your own pillowcase and, preferably, a microfibre towel. While some hostels include towels, first-timers may feel more comfortable carrying their own. If you do pack your own towel, a microfibre towel is lightweight and dries quickly.
Protect your luggage with a padlock using a numbered combination. If you can, use a TSA-approved lock for travel in the USA.
Overnight trains are a great way to save on accommodation and travel. However, understand safety and security in the region before you book anything. Sometimes, it may be best to spend extra on a first-class ticket to ensure you can be as safe as possible. If you’re unsure or do not feel comfortable doing this, it might be best to travel during the day and take advantage of other ways to save.
Eye masks and earplugs can be really helpful when staying in hostels. Headphones are also great for longer journeys between destinations.
Keep high-res copies of your travel documents, including your passport and resident cards, in a secure place so you can access them if you need them while travelling. Keep both hard copied and digital copies…just in case.
Andrew at the Dolomites in Italy. Photo courtesy of Andrew Brown
Exploring the destination
It helps to carry a credit card and a pre-paid travel card. A pre-paid travel card is a great way to track your spending while travelling.
Public transport is often more affordable. When using public transport, remember to be respectful of the people around you and follow local customs and any COVID-19 protocols. Also, remain vigilant to keep yourself and your belongings safe.
Check whether your destination offers any travel cards which allow you to visit multiple attractions for one price. For example, the Paris Pass gives you unlimited travel on public transport in central Paris and access to major attractions.
Book a walking tour for when you first arrive in a destination. Walking tours are a fantastic way to get your bearings in a new city and learn useful tips. Companies like Sandemans offer free walking tours in various European cities.
Get substantial travel insurance. You can find insurance solutions that suit your travel needs and include important cover such as medical and repatriation. Check out Global Rescue, Ingle International, AIG, AON, and nib.
Learn the emergency contact number for your destination ahead of time. For example: 999 in the UK, 111 in New Zealand, and 911 in the USA.
Be mindful of your social impact. Don’t support Illegal Wildlife Trade or irresponsible practices and be respectful of sacred locations (temples, war museums etc.).
What solo travel tips have you learnt along the way? What other tips would you like us to share?
Tips provided by Andrew Brown, Regional Director for Europe, Middle East, and Oceania at World Travel & Tourism Council. Written by Lethabo-Thabo Royds
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