Backpacker's Guide to Unearthing Cheap Travel Deals Globally

13 April 2025

Traveling the world on a budget sounds like a dream, but for backpackers, it’s a necessity. The good news? Cheap travel deals are everywhere—you just need to know where to look. Whether you’re itching to explore Southeast Asia, trek through Europe, or soak up the sun in South America, there are ways to score unbeatable deals without emptying your wallet.

In this guide, we’ll break down the best tricks, insider tips, and proven tactics to help you stretch your travel budget to the max. Let’s dive in!

1. Be Flexible With Your Travel Dates

If you’re set on traveling only during peak seasons, you’re automatically setting yourself up for higher costs. Instead, let flexibility be your best friend.

- Off-Peak Travel: Flights and accommodation prices plummet when demand is low. Avoid holidays, school breaks, and festive seasons.
- Midweek Flights: Tuesdays and Wednesdays often offer cheaper flights compared to weekends.
- Red-Eye and Early Morning Flights: These are usually cheaper because fewer people want to travel at inconvenient hours.
- Last-Minute vs. Booking in Advance: Depending on where you’re going, booking early can save you big. However, last-minute deals can also be goldmines if you're spontaneous.

Pro Tip: Use Google Flights, Skyscanner, and Momondo to compare prices across different days before booking.

2. Hunt for Budget Airlines and Error Fares

Major airlines charge premium prices, but budget airlines can take you places for a fraction of the cost.

- Budget Airlines to Watch Out For:
- Europe: Ryanair, EasyJet, Wizz Air
- Asia: AirAsia, Scoot, VietJet
- North America: Southwest Airlines, Frontier, Spirit
- South America: Gol, Viva Air, JetSmart

- Look for Error Fares: Airlines sometimes post the wrong prices, and if you're quick enough, you can snag ridiculously cheap flights. Websites like Secret Flying and The Flight Deal specialize in finding these hidden gems.

Pro Tip: Always book error fares directly through the airline to avoid cancellations.

3. Cut Accommodation Costs Without Sacrificing Comfort

Hotels can burn a hole in your pocket, but plenty of alternative options exist.

- Hostels: A backpacker’s best friend—cheap, social, and often in excellent locations. Check Hostelworld and Booking.com for great deals.
- Couchsurfing: Stay for free with locals who open their homes to travelers. It’s an amazing way to experience a city through the eyes of a resident.
- House Sitting: Score free stays by watching someone’s home (or pets) while they’re away. Trusted Housesitters is a great starting point.
- Work Stays: Platforms like Workaway, WWOOF, and HelpX let you work in exchange for free lodging and meals.

Pro Tip: Compare Airbnb vs. hostels—sometimes, private Airbnb rooms are cheaper than hostel dorms.

4. Use Public Transportation Like a Local

Taxis, Ubers, and rental cars can drain your funds unnecessarily. Instead, travel like a local to save money.

- Use Public Transit: Buses, metro systems, and trams are often ridiculously cheap.
- Travel Overnight: Overnight buses and trains save one night’s accommodation cost while keeping you moving.
- Ridesharing Apps: BlaBlaCar connects travelers with drivers going the same way, often at a fraction of the cost of a train or bus.
- Biking & Walking: Many cities offer bike rentals or are pedestrian-friendly—two free ways to explore!

Pro Tip: Always check for city transport passes or tourist travel cards—they can save you a lot of money on bulk rides.

5. Eat Like a Local (and Save a Fortune)

Food is one of the biggest budget drainers if you're not careful, but it’s also an easy way to save without sacrificing quality.

- Street Food is King: Regions like Southeast Asia, Mexico, and the Middle East have amazing, cheap street food that's often safer and fresher than overpriced tourist restaurants.
- Self-Cater: Buy groceries and cook your own meals occasionally—this saves a ton over time.
- Eat Where Locals Eat: If a restaurant is packed with locals and not tourists, it’s probably better value and more authentic.
- Lunch Specials: Many restaurants offer cheaper lunch menus compared to their dinner prices.

Pro Tip: Avoid restaurants near tourist attractions—they tend to be overpriced and mediocre.

6. Find Free Things to Do

You don’t have to spend big to have amazing experiences while traveling. Many destinations offer free or donation-based attractions.

- Free Walking Tours: Many cities have free walking tours run by locals (though a tip is appreciated).
- Museums & Attractions with Free Entry Days: Some museums waive entry fees on certain days of the month—check in advance.
- Hiking & Nature Trails: Exploring the great outdoors costs nothing and offers some of the best experiences.
- Public Markets & Festivals: Local markets and street events often provide free entertainment and cultural experiences.

Pro Tip: Download apps like Meetup to find free events happening in the city you’re visiting.

7. Use Travel Reward Programs and Credit Card Points

If you're not using travel rewards, you’re leaving free money on the table.

- Sign Up for Airline Miles and Hotel Points: Even if you don’t travel often, these programs accumulate over time.
- Use Travel Credit Cards: Cards like Chase Sapphire Preferred, American Express Platinum, and Capital One Venture offer points that can be redeemed for flights, hotels, and more.
- Referral Bonuses: Many credit card companies offer referral bonuses when you get friends to sign up—easy way to earn extra travel points.

Pro Tip: Always pay your balance in full each month to avoid interest charges—otherwise, that “free” flight isn’t really free.

8. Travel Slowly & Overland When Possible

Fast travel costs more. The longer you stay in one place, the less you’ll spend per day.

- Stay Longer: Many accommodations offer discounts for weekly or monthly stays.
- Use Overland Travel: Buses and trains often cost less than flying, plus they let you see more along the way.
- Volunteer or Work Remotely: If you can work while traveling, it helps fund your adventures without draining your savings.

Pro Tip: If a country has an expensive visa fee, make your visit count by staying longer instead of rushing through.

9. Travel Insurance: Where to Save and Where to Spend

Skipping travel insurance is a risk, but you don’t have to overpay for it.

- Essentials to Cover: Emergency medical care, trip cancellation, lost baggage.
- Where to Save: Skip overpriced insurance upsells from airlines and booking sites.
- Best Budget Travel Insurance Providers: World Nomads, SafetyWing, and Allianz offer solid coverage at reasonable rates.

Pro Tip: Read the fine print—some policies don’t cover extreme sports or pre-existing conditions.

Final Thoughts: Cheap Travel is Possible!

Traveling on a budget isn’t about depriving yourself—it’s about being smart with your money. By being flexible, using the right tools, and embracing a budget-friendly mindset, you can see the world without going broke.

Where’s your next adventure? Get out there and make it happen!