Broke? Budget Travel Tips and Cheap Holiday Ideas

Feeling the squeeze but still want to see the world? You don’t need a massive budget to enjoy a proper break. Below are no‑nonsense ways to travel cheap, still have fun, and return home with money left over.

Pick the Right Destination

Some places simply cost less. Eastern Europe, parts of the Balkans, and certain Asian hubs offer cheap accommodation, food, and transport. Look for cities that rank high on our "Cheapest City Breaks" list – think Prague, Budapest, or Kraków. These spots give you culture, nightlife, and good food without blowing your wallet.

Timing Is Everything

The cheapest days to fly are usually Tuesdays and Wednesdays. Airlines lower prices mid‑week to fill seats, so book your flight on those days and aim to travel in the shoulder season. You’ll avoid the peak‑price surge and still enjoy decent weather.

When you’re planning a staycation, book last‑minute deals on platforms like Airbnb. Our "Airbnb Hotspots" guide shows where you can snag a place for a fraction of the usual price. Often, properties that are empty a week before your travel dates drop their rates dramatically.

Accommodation can eat up half your budget, but there are ways around it. Hostels aren’t just for backpackers – many now offer private rooms with en‑suite bathrooms at hostel‑level prices. If you’re traveling with a partner, consider splitting a one‑bedroom Airbnb; the cost per person drops dramatically compared to two separate hotel rooms.

Food doesn’t have to be a gourmet experience every night. Street food, local markets, and grocery stores let you stretch meals further. In places like Mexico or the Philippines, a good meal can cost under £5. Pack a simple breakfast (cereal, fruit, coffee) and save the big splurge for one or two special dinners.

Public transport beats taxis hands down. In the UK, trains can be pricey, but buying a railcard or using off‑peak tickets saves you up to 30%. For city breaks, buy a day pass for buses, trams, or metro – it’s usually cheaper than individual tickets.

Don’t forget free attractions. Museums, parks, and walking tours often have no entry fee. A simple self‑guided stroll through historic districts gives you a feel for the city without paying a guide.

If you’re really tight on cash, consider volunteer programs or work‑exchange stays. You swap a few hours of work for free accommodation and meals, turning a holiday into a cultural immersion.

Finally, track every expense. Use a budgeting app or a spreadsheet to see where your money goes. Small leaks – a coffee here, a snack there – add up fast. Adjust on the fly and you’ll stay within your limit.

Traveling broke isn’t a curse; it’s a challenge that forces you to get creative. Follow these tips, pick cheap yet vibrant destinations, travel smart, and you’ll prove that a great holiday doesn’t have to cost a fortune.