We strongly believe that travel doesn’t need to be expensive. We are pros at sticking to a budget, and we’re here to help you make your travel dreams come true, no matter how much money is in your travel fund. It doesn’t matter whether you consider yourself a backpacker or a mid-range traveler – we’re going to let you in on how we save money for travel and how we afford to travel long term while still paying student loans!
FREE e-Book
We Traveled the World for 4 years on a Budget with these 21 Brilliant Travel Hacks!
[30 pages, money-saving trips, and 100% FREE]
Get your copy NOW!
Already know what you’re looking for?
Click on the link to jump down to that section or just keep scrolling…
- Budget Travel Tips
- Backpacking Destinations
- Champagne Taste on a Beer Budget (aka budget tips for notoriously expensive destinations)
- Travel Budgets (to help you plan your trip)
- All Budget Travel Articles
Budget Travel Tips
How We Afford to Travel & You Can Too!
One of the most common questions people ask is how we afford to travel so often. It is a complex question with many answers, but we’re delving in and sharing all the things that have allowed us to travel and live abroad for 5 years (even while paying student loans!)....
Sep
How to Find Cheap Flights: 17 Expert Tips
Finding a super cheap flight is one of the most exciting feelings. Not only have you saved money, but you’re about to plan an adventure! We’re sharing all our tips and secrets for how to find cheap flights all over the world. After reading this, you’ll have the tools you...
Sep
22 Cheap Travel Hacks You Can Use Right Now
If you dream of traveling but don’t know how you can afford it, you’ve come to the right place! We’re sharing all our cheap travel tips that have allowed us to explore the world, even while paying off student loans! This guide will explain exactly how you can afford travel,...
Mar
How to Save Money for Travel: 20 Simple Money-Saving Tips
If saving money for travel – or buying a house, starting your own company, or I dunno, getting wine delivered to your doorstep each day – is a priority to you, these simple tips, mindsets and lifestyle adjustments will help you reach your financial goals....
Mar
Backpacking Destinations
25 Epic Places to Visit In Turkey: Must-Sees & Hidden Gems + Itinerary
As the gateway between Europe and Asia, Turkey is a country where East meets West and history meets adventure. We’ve put together a list of epic places to visit in Turkey (including fun things to do!) for the ultimate Turkey bucket list itinerary....
Jun
17 Exciting Things to Do in Cusco, Peru
Cusco is a city bursting with life. There's both a large presence of foreigners (mostly on their way to Machu Picchu) and locals going about their daily life. It's a city with such a rich history that is worth more time than just a stop before the Inca Trail; there...
Oct
Inca Trail to Machu Picchu Hike: Ultimate Guide
Hiking the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is one of the most incredible experiences of my life. Follow along as we describe how to book your Inca Trail tour, what to expect on the trail, and what you should pack for your trek. ...
Oct
How to Get to Machu Picchu: Guide to Visiting the Lost City of the Incas
In this guide we’re breaking down how to get to Machu Picchu in detail from the most convenient to the most adventurous ways. This guide includes where to buy tickets, the time slot system, what to pack and what prohibited items you should leave at home. ...
Oct
13 Fun Things to Do in Arequipa, Peru
Arequipa, known as the White City, is the largest—and arguably the most beautiful—colonial city in Peru. With unique, Euro-influenced architecture and historic street corners, you’re bound to be drawn to explore all the best things to do in Arequipa’s corners. ...
Oct
15 Adventurous Things to Do in Huacachina, Peru
This tiny oasis in the Ica desert is a stop on most backpackers’ itineraries. In this guide to Huacachina, Peru, we cover the best things to do, where to stay, and how to make the most out of your visit....
Oct
20 Fun & Unique Things to Do in Amman, Jordan
In the buzzing capital of Jordan, you’ll find ancient ruins, delicious food, and a modern urban vibe. There are so many awesome things to do in Amman—this vibrant city is worth at least a few days of exploration. In this guide, we’ll go over the details of our favorite Amman...
Sep
35 Incredible Things to Do in Mexico (that aren’t beaches!)
There are so many things to do in Mexico that are not beaches or all-inclusive resorts. Spend a couple weeks in Mexico, get off the beaten path and dig deeper than Señor Frogs, we’re here to introduce you to some amazing things to do. Hint: Not even one of them...
Jul
Cheapest Countries to Visit Right Now
We are always looking for ways to stretch our travel budget to the fullest. We put together this list of the cheapest countries to visit in every region of the world, including money-saving tips from our personal experience. ...
May
Perfect 2 Week Itinerary for Thailand
Dreaming of turquoise waters and white sand? Only have 10 days? We put together a complete itinerary for Thailand that hits all the highlights, and in only 10 days! We included all the information you'll need to plan your very own Thai getaway!...
Apr
Colca Canyon Peru Trekking Guide
The Colca Canyon is located in southern Peru and is the second deepest canyon in the world. Here's everything you need to know to do the Colca Canyon trek, either on your own or with a guided tour....
Apr
7 Adventurous Things to Do in Chiapas, Mexico
With endless outdoor adventures and a rich cultural heritage, Chiapas is a place in Mexico that we consider a hidden gem among tourists. After visiting this unique corner of Mexico, we put together a list of the best things to do in Chiapas. In this article, you’ll find all sorts...
Nov
13 Fun Things to Do in San Cristóbal de las Casas, Mexico
This laid back mountain town in southern Mexico has a unique draw that often keeps travelers longer than expected. Stroll the colorful streets and peak into a few popular shops and cafes and it’s easy to see why. We have a list of the top things to do in San...
Nov
18 Unforgettable Things To Do in Guatemala
With active volcanoes, a vibrant indigenous culture, and colorful markets, there are so many incredible things to do in Guatemala. You’ll find adventure, culture, history, and warm locals all in one place. Traveling in Guatemala is not always easy, but if you come with an open mind, this country is...
Jul
10 Best Things to Do in Nepal
With the iconic Himalayas Nepal is known for trekking and adventures, but there are far more things to do in this country than hiking and mountain sports. We’re walking you through the very best things to do in Nepal for all types of travelers. Whether it is your first trip...
Jun
Ultimate Nepal Travel Guide: Everything to Know for your Himalayan Adventure
With iconic Himalayan peaks (like Everest!), a vibrant culture, friendly people, and endless adventure activities, Nepal is a dream travel destination for many. We’ve visited this beautiful country 2 times and have put together some important information, personal stories, and handy travel advice in this Nepal travel guide to help...
Jun
Rosario Islands: Read This Before You Go to Playa Blanca
Visiting the famous white sand beach of Playa Blanca on Isla Grande is a popular day trip from Cartagena. We ventured here during our first trip to Colombia, and it was quite different than we expected. Read our story about visiting this famous Rosario Island so you are prepared!...
Oct
26 Best Things to Do in Cartagena (and What to Eat!)
Cartagena is a colorful and bustling city on Colombia’s Caribbean Coast that makes it easy to fall in love. With a vibrant nightlife scene, stunning colonial architecture (hello Instagram!) and some of the best food in the country, this city is well worth a spot on your Colombia itinerary. We’ve...
Oct
27 Adventurous Things to Do in Costa Rica
With postcard worthy beaches, lush jungles, ample wildlife and dreamy waterfalls, it’s no surprise that Costa Rica is the most popular vacation spot in Central America. We’ve put together an ultimate bucket list of the top things to do in Costa Rica — from the must-see places to off the...
Oct
10 Fun Things to do in Puerto Viejo, Costa Rica
Puerto Viejo de Talamanca is one of Costa Rica’s most famous Caribbean cities. There are so many things to do in Puerto Viejo, from touring the BriBri indigenous village to seeing sloths to exploring Costa Rica’s best beaches. And of course you can’t miss the delicious Caribbean food! You’ll quickly...
Sep
7 Reasons to Visit Cali, Colombia
Cali, Colombia is known as the salsa capital of the world. People from all over the world flock to Cali and many stay longer than they expected. This is what happened to our friend, Courtney, and she shares why Cali draws in people and makes them fall in love with...
Aug
10 Fun Things To Do in La Fortuna & Arenal, Costa Rica
Arenal is the adventure capital of Costa Rica and has many things to do to keep your heart pumping. Whether it’s whitewater rafting, canyoning, ziplining or hiking around the Arenal Volcano, we have you covered with this detailed travel guide. We are also sharing our top places to stay in...
Aug
12 Best Things to Do in Santa Teresa & Montezuma, Costa Rica
If you’re looking for great surf, gorgeous sunsets, good food and laid back vibes, look no further than Santa Teresa. With Montezuma a short drive away, these two towns are a backpacker’s dream. There are plenty of things to do in Santa Teresa and Montezuma and we have a list...
Jul
Roatan or Utila: Which Honduras Bay Island is Better?
Having a tough time choosing between which Honduran Bay Island to visit? Roatan and Utila are both stunning in there own way with plenty of things to do, but we’ll tell you which one is right for you. In this guide we’ll answer which island has the better diving, things...
Jul
6 Incredible Things to Do in El Salvador
El Salvador is a country in Central America that many people skip over; but they are missing out! This country is full of friendly faces, culture, and landscapes that are just as beautiful as neighboring countries like Costa Rica and Nicaragua. Guest authors Emily and Aaron of Two Dusty Travelers...
Jul
24 Best Tips for Visiting the Taj Mahal
If you're traveling to India and have a stop at the Taj Mahal on your itinerary, there are a few things you should know before your visit. We've rounded up 24 top tips we wish we would have known, including what time of day is best to visit and creative...
Feb
Salento, Colombia Travel Guide: A Town with Culture, Coffee and Charm
Salento, Colombia is in the heart of coffee region and is known for colorful doorways, charming locals, world-class hiking and an explosive game you'll never forget!...
Oct
How to Travel the Galápagos Islands on a Budget
Everyone wants to know: "Is it expensive to travel to the Galapagos?" YES. No question about it. But lucky for you, we're going to share our best tips for traveling there on a budget because we believe it's a place that not only the rich should experience....
May
7 Amazing Budget Hostels in South America
During our three months traveling through South America, we stayed in many beds… thirty four, to be exact. We stayed in hostels, hotels, tents, bungalows, and even on a farm. We put together a list of seven of our favorite places (and one terrible hotel that should be avoided at...
Nov
Gettin’ Down & Dirty on the Farm: WOOFFing in Ecuador
The next leg of our journey included hiking into the Andes Mountains to a remote organic farm where we would be spending the next week working. This was both of our first times WWOOFing, and I can tell you it was quite an experience....
Apr
Cuenca Ecuador
Set in the Andes mountains, Cuenca, Ecuador’s buildings have an old world charm, yet progressive restaurants and contemporary museums give the city a modern aura....
Apr
Montañita Ecuador
Montañita is town on Ecuador’s coast known primarily for two things: 1) Decent surf & 2) Insane nightlife....
Apr
Galapagos Islands Ecuador
Budget travel is hard in the Galapagos, but you can do it. Just don't run out of cash like we did! During our travels we met several people who raved about the Galapagos and assured us we could stay on a budget while visiting one of the most unique ecosystems...
Apr
One Action-Packed Week in Baños
Set in a picture-perfect landscape of lush mountains streaked with waterfalls just three and a half hours from Quito, lies the small yet bustling town of Baños. Known for hot springs and adventure activities, Baños is on most travelers’ itineraries. You'll never be bored with all the things to do...
Mar
7 Fun Things to do in Quito, Ecuador
Ecuador's exciting capital city is full of stunning architecture and culture. We've rounded up the best things to do in Quito to help plan your time there....
Mar
Medellin Colombia
When we told friends and family that Colombia was among the countries we were planning to visit in South America, we were met by many concerned looks and questions....
Mar
Tayrona National Park: Beach Camping in Colombia
I don't think there are many better combinations in life than a beach and a tent. Tayrona National Park is a magical place where you can hike in and camp on the beach in a hammock or tent. We’ll tell you all about our experience traveling to this off the...
Feb
Taganga: A Dirt Road Paradise
A day after landing in Colombia, we made a journey along the coast to the town of Taganga. At one time a small fishing village, Taganga has recently become popular with backpackers and vacationing Colombians. It is unlike any place we have ever seen, which adds to its charm....
Feb
Champagne Taste on a Beer Budget
If you’re like us, you’ll want to see all of the world’s most exciting destinations and not just the cheapest places to travel. We’ve traveled to some of the most expensive places in the world and have seen them on a budget.
Lucky for you we’ve created articles full of advice and tips for traveling on a budget in some of the world’s most popular destinations that aren’t exactly known for being cheap.
New Zealand Travel on a Budget: 19 Money-Saving Tips
Let’s be real: traveling in New Zealand is not cheap. But even though it’s notorious expensive, you can still travel to NZ on a budget. We’re breaking down common expenses like food, transportation, and accommodation, so you know exactly how much it costs to go to New Zealand. Plus we’re...
Sep
Las Vegas on a Budget: 27 Money-Saving Tips + Cheap Things to Do
You can easily blow your entire bank account in Las Vegas… Or you can use these tricks to save lots of money during your visit to Sin City! We've put together tons of money-saving tips and free activities so you can enjoy your time in Vegas without flattening your wallet....
Apr
Trip to Japan Cost: Tips for Budget Travel in Japan
Japan is a notoriously expensive destination. However, there are ways to travel to Japan cheaply if you know a few tips! In this article, we break down exactly how much travel in Japan costs -- from food, hotels to trains to entertainment. Plus, we’re sharing some of our best money-saving...
Oct
New York City on a Budget: 17 Money-Saving Tips
It’s true: New York City ain’t cheap! Accommodation is notoriously expensive, and food can add up if you don’t know where to find cheap eats! But there’s good news: We’ve rounded up our top tips for traveling to NYC on a budget so you don’t come home from the Big...
Oct
16 Cheap Things to Do in Dubai in 3 Days
While Dubai is certainly not a cheap city, we’ve called on a local guest author who is sharing her top money-saving tips for visiting Dubai on a budget. She has created a 3-day itinerary including costs and local advice that most tourists don’t know. This article has everything you need...
Oct
How to Travel the Galápagos Islands on a Budget
Everyone wants to know: "Is it expensive to travel to the Galapagos?" YES. No question about it. But lucky for you, we're going to share our best tips for traveling there on a budget because we believe it's a place that not only the rich should experience....
May
Travel Budgets
Iceland Trip Cost + 39 Sneaky Budget Tips
How expensive is Iceland? We're breaking down exactly how much a trip to Iceland costs. Plus, we're sharing our top (super practical!) money-saving tips for traveling Iceland on a budget to help you travel the land of fire and ice without blowing the bank!...
How Much Does a Trip to Hawaii Cost in 2023? (+Tips to Save)
There's no getting around it, Hawaii is an expensive destination. In this article, we share the exact breakdown of a Hawaii trip cost — from food and hotels to transportation and entertainment. Plus, we’re sharing some of our best money-saving tips so you can travel to Hawaii on a budget!...
Trip to Japan Cost: Tips for Budget Travel in Japan
Japan is a notoriously expensive destination. However, there are ways to travel to Japan cheaply if you know a few tips! In this article, we break down exactly how much travel in Japan costs -- from food, hotels to trains to entertainment. Plus, we’re sharing some of our best money-saving...
Road Trip Budget & Daily Costs of Vanlife
Traveling across the USA in a campervan can be a great way to see the country on a tight budget. Living in a van means you don’t need to spend money at hotels or expensive restaurants, plus, you can easily get off the beaten path. We kept track of everything...
How Much Does Everest Base Camp Trek Cost?
How much does it actually cost to hike to Everest Base Camp? The highest trek in the world doesn’t have to come at a high price. We’ll breakdown all our expenses throughout our 16-day trek to Everest Base Camp and Gokyo Lakes and show you how inexpensive it really is...
How Much to Budget for One Week in Bali?
Our time in Bali and Gili T island was an incredible 11 days. We were able to experience the culture, taste the cuisine, and tour the beautiful landscape. Find out how we did it all under $45 a day....
All Budget Travel Articles
New Zealand Travel on a Budget: 19 Money-Saving Tips
Let’s be real: traveling in New Zealand is not cheap. But even though it’s notorious expensive, you can still travel to NZ on a budget. We’re breaking down common expenses like food, transportation, and accommodation, so you know exactly how much it costs to go to New Zealand. Plus we’re...
Iceland Trip Cost + 39 Sneaky Budget Tips
How expensive is Iceland? We're breaking down exactly how much a trip to Iceland costs. Plus, we're sharing our top (super practical!) money-saving tips for traveling Iceland on a budget to help you travel the land of fire and ice without blowing the bank!...
How Much Does a Trip to Hawaii Cost in 2023? (+Tips to Save)
There's no getting around it, Hawaii is an expensive destination. In this article, we share the exact breakdown of a Hawaii trip cost — from food and hotels to transportation and entertainment. Plus, we’re sharing some of our best money-saving tips so you can travel to Hawaii on a budget!...
DIY Campervan Conversion on a Tiny Budget in Less Than 1 Week
If you want to make your own DIY campervan conversion but don’t have a lot of time or money, we’ve got you covered! This article is chock-full of practical tips and all the steps needed to make your own DIY campervan conversion on a small budget in just one week....
Cheapest Countries to Visit Right Now
We are always looking for ways to stretch our travel budget to the fullest. We put together this list of the cheapest countries to visit in every region of the world, including money-saving tips from our personal experience. ...
Las Vegas on a Budget: 27 Money-Saving Tips + Cheap Things to Do
You can easily blow your entire bank account in Las Vegas… Or you can use these tricks to save lots of money during your visit to Sin City! We've put together tons of money-saving tips and free activities so you can enjoy your time in Vegas without flattening your wallet....
Trip to Japan Cost: Tips for Budget Travel in Japan
Japan is a notoriously expensive destination. However, there are ways to travel to Japan cheaply if you know a few tips! In this article, we break down exactly how much travel in Japan costs -- from food, hotels to trains to entertainment. Plus, we’re sharing some of our best money-saving...
9 Epic Things to Do in Namibia on a Budget
We have put together the epic list of things to do in Namibia that can comfortably fit into an 8-day road trip on a budget, and while traveling as responsibly as possible....
20 Cheap & Fun Things To Do in Istanbul
With incredible food, a merging of cultures and a charming mix of old and new, Istanbul has no shortage of cheap and fun things to do. We’ve put together a list of some of our favorites including free things to do in Istanbul, from the must-do activities that headline all...
32 Cheap (and Free!) Things to Do in Prague
Visiting Prague is high on most travelers’ Europe itineraries. This captivating city is not only beautiful, but packed with fun things to do. Though this Czech Republic gem is not the most budget-friendly city in Eastern Europe, there are still plenty of cheap (and free!) things to do in Prague....
New York City on a Budget: 17 Money-Saving Tips
It’s true: New York City ain’t cheap! Accommodation is notoriously expensive, and food can add up if you don’t know where to find cheap eats! But there’s good news: We’ve rounded up our top tips for traveling to NYC on a budget so you don’t come home from the Big...
16 Cheap Things to Do in Dubai in 3 Days
While Dubai is certainly not a cheap city, we’ve called on a local guest author who is sharing her top money-saving tips for visiting Dubai on a budget. She has created a 3-day itinerary including costs and local advice that most tourists don’t know. This article has everything you need...
How We Afford to Travel & You Can Too!
One of the most common questions people ask is how we afford to travel so often. It is a complex question with many answers, but we’re delving in and sharing all the things that have allowed us to travel and live abroad for 5 years (even while paying student loans!)....
How to Find Cheap Flights: 17 Expert Tips
Finding a super cheap flight is one of the most exciting feelings. Not only have you saved money, but you’re about to plan an adventure! We’re sharing all our tips and secrets for how to find cheap flights all over the world. After reading this, you’ll have the tools you...
11 Reasons Why You Should Teach English Abroad
Teaching English abroad was one of the best decisions we’ve ever made. It helped us save a ton of money, introduced us to lifelong friends, and allowed us to travel the world. Find out why you should consider teaching English in another country. It might just be your best decision...
8 Reasons to House Sit & How to Get Started
House sitting holidays can allow you to travel cheaply through an expensive country and show you how locals live in their daily. Not only do you get free accommodation, but most of the time you get to care for the owner's pets. Taking a house sitting vacation is one of...
19 Free (& Cheap) Things to Do in Budapest
With its vibrant nightlife, rich history, tasty food and friendly locals, there is so much to love about Budapest! We're sharing our favorite cheap activities, best things to eat, and hidden gems in Hungary's capital. There are so many things to do in Budapest —from the ultra popular to the...
Road Trip Budget & Daily Costs of Vanlife
Traveling across the USA in a campervan can be a great way to see the country on a tight budget. Living in a van means you don’t need to spend money at hotels or expensive restaurants, plus, you can easily get off the beaten path. We kept track of everything...
Why You Should Visit Eastern Europe Now
Often overshadowed by its Western neighbors, Eastern Europe deserves to be on your travel bucket list. From natural beauty to adorable towns to rich culture, we'll share exactly why Eastern Europe should be on your radar....
22 Cheap Travel Hacks You Can Use Right Now
If you dream of traveling but don’t know how you can afford it, you’ve come to the right place! We’re sharing all our cheap travel tips that have allowed us to explore the world, even while paying off student loans! This guide will explain exactly how you can afford travel,...
How to Save Money for Travel: 20 Simple Money-Saving Tips
If saving money for travel – or buying a house, starting your own company, or I dunno, getting wine delivered to your doorstep each day – is a priority to you, these simple tips, mindsets and lifestyle adjustments will help you reach your financial goals....
14 Free & Cheap Things To Do in Hanoi
We stopped in Hanoi many times during our travels in Vietnam and this guide has you covered with free and cheap things to do in Hanoi, plus where to stay and what to eat....
Our Favorite Money-Saving Travel Resources
This list of resources and gear will save you money and time on your next trip. They have saved us hundreds, if not thousands, of dollars during our travels. Start saving money today!...
When Budget Travel is Bad
Many of us in our daily lives struggle between wanting to give more and also be frugal. This is also true when traveling. But do you take it to the extreme when traveling overseas? Is it actually possible to travel responsibly AND on a budget? I think so and here’s...
How Much Does Everest Base Camp Trek Cost?
How much does it actually cost to hike to Everest Base Camp? The highest trek in the world doesn’t have to come at a high price. We’ll breakdown all our expenses throughout our 16-day trek to Everest Base Camp and Gokyo Lakes and show you how inexpensive it really is...
How to Travel the Galápagos Islands on a Budget
Everyone wants to know: "Is it expensive to travel to the Galapagos?" YES. No question about it. But lucky for you, we're going to share our best tips for traveling there on a budget because we believe it's a place that not only the rich should experience....
9 Easy Money Saving Tips in South Korea
We managed to save even more money than we expected while teaching English for a year in South Korea. And guess what? You can too if you follow these tips......
How Much to Budget for One Week in Bali?
Our time in Bali and Gili T island was an incredible 11 days. We were able to experience the culture, taste the cuisine, and tour the beautiful landscape. Find out how we did it all under $45 a day....
7 Amazing Budget Hostels in South America
During our three months traveling through South America, we stayed in many beds… thirty four, to be exact. We stayed in hostels, hotels, tents, bungalows, and even on a farm. We put together a list of seven of our favorite places (and one terrible hotel that should be avoided at...