Budget travel tips from someone who travels to 19 countries a year

Sam O'Connor, from New Zealand, quit his job in March to travel the world. His goal was to visit 197 countries. To fund his travels, Sam has an online business and a property investment. He also saves money while traveling to avoid overspending. Here are some tips Sam learned while traveling to 19 countries this year.

During 7 months (from March to October), Sam went on many cruise tours in Europe, went mountain biking in Vietnam, and viewed Türkiye from a hot air balloon. Photo: Sun

Travel in the off-season

This is the period between the high and low seasons. The benefits of traveling during this season are that hotel rooms and airfares are cheaper than in the high season, avoiding the crowds. In addition, the weather is still nice, without the rainy season or other natural factors like the low season.

Make the worst of it the best

One trick Sam uses when flying is to choose a seat in the last row. It's the least popular because you can't recline the seat because of the wall. It's also near the bathroom. Unless the plane is full, Sam usually gets to use all three seats in the last row because they're empty.

Carry-on only

Sam said that traveling with carry-on luggage will make the trip simpler and more compact. You don't have to wait in long lines at the airport to check in your luggage. This also helps to minimize the risk of losing your belongings. Besides, not having to check in luggage helps Sam save time, not having to go to the airport too early.

Use public transport

Instead of taking expensive taxis, Sam mostly walks, takes buses or trains in the countries he visits.

Use cash

Swiping your card and withdrawing money from an ATM abroad can result in hefty fees. Some places Sam has visited have charged transaction fees of up to $15 per withdrawal. He advises people to exchange their money before they go. If they must withdraw money, do so in the local currency rather than U.S. dollars to avoid having to convert multiple times.

Eat and drink economically

Sam always chooses restaurants where locals eat instead of restaurants that cater to tourists. These restaurants may not be fancy, but the food is good and the prices are reasonable.

Bring a water bottle

Bottled water is expensive in many places, such as Europe. Sam suggests packing a plastic bottle and filling it up before you head out. "I always carry a water bottle with me and fill it up at free water fountains," Sam says. This is a tip that many frequent travelers share.

Invest money to get into the waiting room

This is a one-time investment, but it’s worth it for someone who travels a lot. No one likes to sit around at the airport waiting for their flight, especially if it’s delayed or missed. So Sam invests in the airport lounges of the airlines he flies with. There, he gets comfortable seats, free wifi, and free food and drinks.

According to VnExpress