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Budget-friendly international travel tips and destinations for 2024
Posted on April 24, 2024 | 3 min | By HDFC ERGO Team
Have you ever dreamed of traveling the world but worried about the cost? With proper planning, a tight budget doesn’t have to stop you. With good preparation including a smart approach, you can enjoy the most memorable budget trips to popular destinations without going over budget.
Tips for traveling abroad on a budget
When traveling internationally on a budget, don’t forget to consider international travel insurance to protect yourself and your investment. Here are some tips to help you find the right cover:
1. Plan early: Choose your seat and hotel in advance to take advantage of early bird discounts and great deals.
2. Travel in the off-season: Avoid riding during peak hours to save on expensive tickets. Taking the second or third stop in the same area can be cheaper and have a better atmosphere.
3. Be flexible with your dates: If you have a tight schedule, be flexible with your travel dates to find the most affordable rates.
4. Look for budget airlines: Budget airlines offer amazingly cheap airfare. However, these flights may include additional fees for baggage, meals, and other extras.
5. Consider hostels and guesthouses: Hostels and guesthouses can be a cheaper option than a traditional hotel with such facilities, but they may not be suitable for some people.
6. Eat like a local: Explore the various options of local markets, street food vendors and casual eateries in your neighbourhood or on nearby streets and try out the cuisine of your choice at very affordable prices.
Affordable travel destinations for 2024
Now that you have a budget-friendly international trip planned, let’s take a look at some of the most affordable international destinations to consider for your next adventure.
• Bali, Indonesia – Island of the Gods on a backpacker’s budget
With beautiful beaches, lush jungles, ancient temples and a thriving yoga and wellness scene, Bali offers something for every type of traveller. Accommodation is surprisingly cheap, with decent hotels starting at $15 per night. Balinese food is tasty and cheap, with street food filling up for just $2-3. Throw on a sarong and explore ancient Hindu temples, with admission costing less than $5. Don’t forget to buy Bali travel insurance in case of an accident – it could save you thousands of dollars.
• Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam – History, culture and cheap eats
Ho Chi Minh City is a dizzying, mesmerizing swirl of sights, sounds and smells. Here you can dine like a king on a backpacker’s budget, enjoying world-class street food for under $1 a plate. Accommodation is cheap, with hostels and budget hotels starting at around $10 a night. The War Remnants Museum is a must-see for learning about Vietnam’s harrowing history, and day trips to the Mekong Delta and Cu Chi Tunnels are also not to be missed. International travel insurance can protect your health and belongings in this bustling city.
• Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia – A modern marvel in Southeast Asia
KL’s towering skyscrapers and impressive infrastructure contrast with gilded temples, historic mosques and traditional sites. The city is easy to walk around and there are free guided walking tours available. An efficient metro system makes getting around cheap and easy. There are budget food courts called hawker centres throughout the city, serving delicious Malaysian food for a few dollars a plate. Accommodation is plentiful and inexpensive, although it’s a good idea to have Malaysian travel insurance in case anything goes wrong.
• Kathmandu, Nepal – Trekking and temples
Nepal’s charming, chaotic capital is the starting point for some of the world’s best hiking trails. Stay in Kathmandu for $10-15 a night and explore ancient temples and bustling local markets. When it’s time to hit the trails, permits for famous routes like the Annapurna Circuit can cost just $20, and hiring a guide and porters for a multi-day trek will cost you around $25 per day. Make sure to buy travel insurance in case of trouble at high altitude. Experience the best budget adventures.
• Singapore – More than just a transit city
Though it’s not the cheapest destination on our list, Singapore is far more affordable than its ultra-modern exterior might suggest. Decent hostels cost from $20, and food stalls serve up tasty dishes like laksa and chilli crab for around $5. Popular attractions like Gardens by the Bay, the Marina Bay Sands light show and Universal Studios Singapore offer free or discounted admission with a Singapore Tourist Pass. With travel insurance for Singapore, you can explore this unique melting pot of Asian cultures with peace of mind.
• Montreal, Canada – Vibrant yet affordable European flavor
Canada has a reputation for being expensive to travel to, but Montreal is quite affordable compared to other major Canadian cities. Airfare is very reasonable and accommodation starts at 60-70 Canadian dollars for a decent hotel room. The food and entertainment scene is lively and varied, with tasty poutine, smoked meat sandwiches and craft beer at reasonable prices. Don’t forget to bring your Canada Travel Insurance to relax and enjoy this European-style city.
Conclusion
Budget travel is about being smart, flexible and open to new experiences. Follow these tips and choose the right travel insurance, and you can embark on your budget-friendly international trip with confidence and peace of mind. With some planning and creativity, you can create unforgettable memories without breaking the bank. So pack your bags, get adventurous and get ready to explore the world on a budget.
FAQ
1. Where is the cheapest place to travel internationally right now?
Some of the most affordable destinations based on exchange rates include Vietnam, Egypt, Serbia, India, Indonesia, Peru, Morocco, Kenya, Ecuador, etc. Do your research to find specific places that fit your budget.
2. How much should you budget per day for a cheap international trip?
It depends on the country, but you can expect to spend less than $50 per day. This includes hostels, street food, and public transport. Activities may cost extra. Prices fluctuate, so check recent blogs and forums before you go to get an idea of local costs.
3. Is it better to exchange money before I leave or use an ATM abroad?
Using an ATM when you arrive can help you take advantage of the most up-to-date exchange rates, but be sure to notify your bank before traveling abroad and have a back-up payment method, such as cash or a credit card, ready.
4. Should I purchase overseas travel insurance?
Yes, insurance can protect you in case of flight or baggage cancellation, illness, injury or other problems while abroad. Insurance starts at under $100 for two weeks of basic coverage. Extras like adventure sports cost more. Policies vary in coverage, exclusions and claims procedures.
Disclaimer The above information is for illustrative purposes only. For more information please refer to the policy terms and conditions and prospectus before concluding the sale.
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