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Social media and travel influencers make exploring the world look luxurious — and expensive. Those who don’t feel comfortable with their current budgets can easily feel, from the flashy posts and pricey-looking resorts, that traveling beyond their hometown isn’t feasible.
But one doesn’t have to be rich to travel, stated Evita Robinson, the founder of the Nomadness Travel Tribe and Nomadness TV.
“It’s the psychology,” Robinson told Money Glow Up host Tiffany Aliche (video above; listen below). “People were fed this story that [travel] was only for the elite, that it was only in a luxury basis that people were able to go out into the world. … You can do anything, you just have to be realistic with what your boundaries are.”
Even Aliche admitted that she didn’t feel like she could travel until she was in her 30s.
“In my 20s, I just felt like I really couldn’t afford it,” Aliche recalled. “I was a preschool teacher, and I was like where am I going to get the money? Once I started to plan for it in my 30s I realized it wasn’t as expensive as I thought.”
It’s easy to dismiss something like travel as though it’s not a necessity, and though it may not be as vital in a budget as one’s rent or grocery bill, Robinson said. However, “the character development is something you take with you your whole life.”
Robinson’s tips for traveling on a budget
Robinson noted that group travel options can help take away some of the planning hassle while providing a dedicated community. But this route may not be for everyone — whether that be due to personality differences or budget constraints.
“Every time you incorporate someone else who’s helping you with [planning], you have to pay that person,” Robinson explained. “Everything [gets] more expensive.”
Conversely, travelers can reduce costs by planning their own travel. According to Robinson, there are plenty of resources readily available for those looking for more budget-friendly options.
Certain websites, like Skyscanner.com, can make international travel more affordable by allowing users to leave their final destination open and sort possible flights by price, highlighting some of the cheapest options available.
Setting up a separate bank account that’s not easily accessible is another option for those who find themselves going over budget often, as adding extra steps to withdraw your money can make it easier to leave savings alone.
Read more: Best travel credit cards for October 2024
“You can do it in a way that doesn’t break your bank,” Robinson explained. “Just bridge your travel budget with your travel style where you are in this phase of life.”
Paying in installments is another hack that can make it easier to financially plan for a trip, Robinson noted.
“It’s like, don’t look at the big ticket item — the big price — all at once,” Robinson said. “Work with people, organizations, travel agents, or on your own, and get an installment plan done.”
And if all of the above options don’t seem to work, think smaller, Robinson said. For instance, she noted that the US has plenty of national parks and hidden gems that are likely much closer than one would think — it just takes some creativity and research.
“Bring it down to life,” Robinson said. “Don’t make it a big daunting or super intimidating project. … Travel can look like whatever you need it to look like within your provisions”
Every Thursday, Tiffany Aliche — aka The Budgetnista — shares inspiring money stories to help people achieve financial independence and live richer lives on Money Glow Up. You can find more episodes on our video hub or watch on your preferred streaming service.
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Traveling the world is often seen as a luxury that only the wealthy can afford. This perception forms from the belief that traveling is expensive – from flight tickets to accommodations, meals, transportation, and activities, the costs quickly add up. However, with the rise of budget airlines, affordable accommodations, and cost-saving travel tips, the adage, “You have to be rich to travel the world,” is no longer valid. Today, an increase in travel-friendly options and savvy planning allows more people, regardless of wealth, to explore the globe.
First, let’s talk about flights. It’s true that airline tickets can be costly, but remember that many budget airlines offer affordable rates to various destinations worldwide. Airlines such as Ryanair, Southwest, and AirAsia have managed to slash their prices, making air travel accessible to budget-conscious travelers. You just have to be willing to forego some of the luxuries associated with premium airlines. Utilize flight comparison websites to find the cheapest flights, be flexible with dates, and book well in advance to secure the best deals.
Accommodations can also be a major expense while traveling. Yet, thanks to platforms like Airbnb, Couchsurfing, and Hostelworld, travelers can find a range of affordable lodgings. You can stay with locals through Couchsurfing for free, sharing experiences and cultural exchanges. Hostels are another great option, offering budget-friendly rooms and a social atmosphere ideal for solo travelers. Even Airbnb has budget options if you are flexible with your accommodation style.
Food and daily expenses can also be managed on a budget. Choose to eat where the locals eat. Not only will you immerse yourself in the local culture, but these eateries are often more affordable than tourist-targeted restaurants. Learn to cook a few meals if your accommodation provides a kitchen. Visit local markets for fresh ingredients and cut down on your daily food budget.
Traveling slowly and spending more time in fewer places will decrease daily transportation costs and give you a chance to immerse yourself in local culture. Instead of hopping from city to city each day, consider spending a week or two in a single location.
Also, forget the notion that to travel, you must go abroad. Start by exploring your own backyard. Domestic travel can be just as exhilarating as experiences abroad. You might be surprised to discover the beauty and cultures that exist within your own country.
Work exchanges like Workaway and WWOOF offer opportunities to live and eat for free in exchange for a few hours of work each day. There are also opportunities to earn while traveling. Digital nomads work online while they travel, utilizing their skills to fund their adventures.
Paying for experiences and activities can add up too, but there’s a wealth of things to see and do for free anywhere you go. From exploring local parks, hiking, swimming, visiting free museums, or merely wandering through town, you can experience the essence of a destination without spending money.
Finally, research and planning before your trip can significantly cut costs. Planning helps you find the best deals, compare prices, set a realistic budget, and avoid unexpected costs.
In conclusion, while money surely makes traveling easier, it is not a strict requirement. The will to experience new cultures, meet new people, and see the world is far more essential. With a good deal of flexibility, careful planning, and an open mind, traveling the world does not have to be a luxury only afforded by the rich.
So, pack your bags, plan your budget, and get ready to embark on an adventure of a lifetime. Because yes, you don’t have to be rich to travel the world.
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Why you don’t have to be rich to travel the world
