Easy on your pocket

International travel comes with its share of dos and dont’s and budget becomes one of the first factors that needs to be taken into consideration. Apart from keeping a track on booking affordable flights to securing a comfortable stay — there are many points to keep in mind. So, Metrolife spoke to experts who shared how one can plan a hassle-free international vacation. 

Sanchit Garg, co-founder and director, TravelTriangle, an online holiday marketplace, says that though budget differs from person to person, there are many ways that help people save more. “Some would only opt for free galleries and museums, whereas some would prefer hitch-hiking. Travelling on a budget can still enrich you in many ways by making you more open and experimental,” he says.

From preferring to stay on the outskirts of popular destinations like Paris and Monte Carlo to opting for self-driven, people are looking at alternative options. “The millennial generation is more open for budget trips. They believe in having unique experiences while travelling instead of spending on luxuries. So accommodation in the outskirts can save up to 10-20 per cent,” says Sudarshan Motwani, CEO and founder, BookMyForex.

Adding, Garg says that people are finding the best of all worlds by “using technology”.

Ranjeet Oak, chief business officer- holidays, MakeMyTrip, says one should also keep an eye on discounts to ensure pocket-friendly travel. “Low-budget travelling is one of the most followed travel trend by travellers across the world. It requires planning the trip at the right time to the right place, without compromising on facilities and comfort,” says Oak. “Before deciding on a place, make an estimate, track your travel expenses according to the set budget, and make use of mobile apps that do it for you,” he adds.

So, which are the preferred pocket-friendly destinations? “There are about six most popular and travelled destinations preferred by Indians which includes Bhutan, Sri Lanka, Thailand and Vietnam. These countries offer deals with low flight fares, budget hotels and low-cost hygienic food options,” points out Oak.

How can one save money? “Travelling costs more. So, always buy multi-use tickets. These can be used several times in a day on multiple transport means. This way you will save money and also time,” says Garg.

“Maintain a daily diary of expenditure while travelling so that you can note your expenditures,” says Reshmi Roy, growth manager, Skyscanner India.

Adding, she says, “In countries that permit driving on an Indian driving license, hiring a self-drive car almost always works out far cheaper than hailing taxis. Also, a beautiful drive adds a unique flavour to any trip.”