Travel smarter, not cheaper.
Build a realistic budget, choose the right destinations, and make every dollar work harder—without sacrificing comfort or safety.
Quick budget planner
Ideal for exploring one city properly or two nearby destinations.
This assumes mid‑range stays, local food, and public transport. Adjust up or down for your comfort level.
High‑impact savings tips
Travel off‑season (shoulder months) for cheaper flights and hotels.
Set a daily budget and track spending in your phone notes or an app.
Use price alerts for flights and book when fares drop.
Choose free walking tours and city passes for attractions.
Stay near public transport rather than right in the city centre.
Travel with hand luggage only to avoid baggage fees.
How to split your travel budget
Book 6–8 weeks in advance and use flexible date search for the best fares.
Mix budget hotels with highly-rated guesthouses or apartments.
Plan for at least one restaurant meal per day and use local markets for the rest.
Use public transport or shared rides instead of taxis wherever possible.
Prioritise a few must‑do experiences instead of trying to do everything.
Budget‑friendly regions to start with
Southeast Asia
Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia
Street food, hostels, and night buses keep costs low.
Eastern Europe
Poland, Hungary, Romania
Historic cities with affordable food, transport, and accommodation.
North Africa
Morocco, Egypt, Tunisia
Warm weather escapes with great value for money.
Tip: start with one region that matches your budget and interests, then explore nearby countries by bus or train instead of extra flights.
Saving on stays
- Compare private rooms in hostels with budget hotels and apartments.
- Book cancellable rates early, then re‑check prices a week before you travel.
- Staying slightly outside the centre is fine if there's fast transport.
- Avoid paid hotel breakfast—local cafés are usually cheaper and better.
Eating well on a budget
- Follow where office workers eat—good quality, fair prices, real portions.
- Use supermarkets for breakfast, snacks, and refillable water.
- Choose one special "wow" meal and keep the rest simple.
- Avoid restaurants directly on main squares—walk 2–3 streets away.
Getting around cheaply
- Use transit passes or city cards instead of single tickets.
- On longer trips, night trains or buses can replace a hotel night.
- Rideshares are great in areas with weak public transport.
- Always check the price of airport transfers before you land.
Ready to build your next budget‑friendly trip?
Use FBN Travel to compare flights, hotels, and insurance in one place—then apply these tips to keep your total budget under control.