Traveling abroad without breaking the bank? Travel experts share "10 money-saving tips"

▲ Some splash cash abroad, while others love budgeting and still enjoy their trips. (Photo / Darweish / Illustration)

Reported by Peng Huaiyu / Compiled and Reported

Some enjoy splurging on trips abroad, but many prefer budgeting and still have a blast.Foreign media travel expertsrecommend travel money-saving hacks—be sure to check them all before your next journey.

1. Look for free local activities
More and more big cities promote local tourism with free, unscheduled city walking tours, inviting people to explore historical buildings and cultural customs on foot. Also, many museums offer free entry on certain days or after specific times—be sure to check in advance.

2. Shop at farmers' markets and local stores
"Food" is a highlight and a major expense of any trip, but you don’t have to eat out for every meal. When on a tight budget, visit local markets or supermarkets to sample regional snacks and balance your spending.

3. Check transportation options near your accommodation
Many choose to stay farther from the city center to save money, but you should also calculate whether transport costs to attractions are cost-effective.

4. Bring water and light snacks when out
Especially in hot weather, staying hydrated is a must. But not all places have cheap, clean water. In European countries, for example, bottled water prices vary widely—even reaching up to €3—and if you’re traveling in high-cost countries, bringing your own water and snacks like oat bars is essential.

5. Make use of hotel and airline reward programs
If you often stay at chain hotels, learn about their membership reward systems, such as Hilton or Marriott’s loyalty benefits. Also, consider flying the same airline to accumulate miles for free flights.

6. Buy a city tourism card
Many cities offer single-day or multi-day tourist cards that can save you a lot on public transport and entry to popular attractions. They often include discounts at partner restaurants and shops too—compare and make the most of them.

▲ Keeping flexible travel times and not requiring a seat can help you save a bit on airfare. (Photo / Darweish / Illustration)

7. Keep your flight times flexible
Solo or small-group travel is easier to arrange. Keeping flexible travel times and not requiring assigned seats can help you save some cash on flights.

8. Take advantage of business lunch deals
Frequent travelers know that to save money, have the hotel breakfast, opt for affordable business lunches near attractions, and don’t stress too much about dinner—the most expensive meal. Just eat casually.

9. Don’t eat near popular tourist spots
Unless you’ve checked that it’s not a tourist trap, restaurants near major attractions are usually either overpriced or disappointing. Walk a few blocks to find a "normally priced" place instead.

▲ Even when saving money, remember the principle: "Spend when you should, save when you can." (Photo / Darweish / Illustration)

10. Set a budget and stick to it
Even when trying to save, keep flexibility in mind—"spend wisely, save wisely." Set a budget in advance, divide daily allowances into separate wallets, and try not to exceed it, ensuring you won’t drain your funds by the end of the trip.