Budget-Friendly Travel: How to Save and Still Have an Amazing Trip working in skilled trades.
Traveling can be a daunting task, especially when you are working in skilled trades. The long hours and physical work can be tiring and leave little room for leisure activities like travel. However, with the right planning and budgeting, travel can become a reality that is both achievable and amazing. In this post, we will explore how you can save money and still have a fantastic trip as a skilled trades worker.
Plan Ahead
The first step towards budget-friendly travel is planning ahead. You need to determine the best time of year to travel and purchase your tickets in advance. According to a report by Expedia and ARC, the best time to buy a ticket is between 3 to 4 months prior to departure. This can save you up to $200 on air travel. It is also worth considering alternate airports and nearby cities, which could yield significant savings both on airfare and accommodation.
Accommodations
When it comes to accommodations, there are many options to choose from that can save you a considerable amount of money. Airbnb is one of the most popular options for budget-friendly travel, with pricing much lower than traditional hotels. Additionally, hostels are another affordable option, with prices starting at just $10 per night.
Food
One of the most significant expenses while traveling is food. Restaurants and cafes may seem attractive but can quickly add up. One way to save is to cook your meals or buy from local street vendors. It is also worth researching food deals and promotions that may be offered by local businesses.
Transportation
Transportation can also be a significant expense, especially if you are traveling to multiple destinations. Tourist passes, like the Eurail Pass in Europe, can save you a considerable amount of money on transportation. Alternatively, it may be worth renting a car, especially if it is more affordable than public transportation.
Sightseeing
Sightseeing is an integral part of the travel experience, but it can also be expensive. Many popular tourist attractions offer discount tickets for students and seniors. It is also worth researching free events or days that offer entry to museums and cultural attractions. Finally, taking a walking tour or renting bicycles and perusing streets on your own, can offer an immersive and budget-friendly experience.
The Bottom Line
Traveling as a skilled trades worker can seem like a daunting and expensive prospect, but with the right planning and budgeting, it can be an amazing experience. To recap, remember to plan ahead, consider alternative accommodations like Airbnb and Hostels, research food deals and promotions, use tourist passes, and take advantage of free or discounted sightseeing options.
In conclusion, your travel experience is only limited by your imagination and the amount of money you are willing to spend. With some effort, research, and planning, travel can be a reality that is affordable, enjoyable, and long-lasting. If you are planning a trip soon, consider implementing the tips above and watch as your travels become a memorable experience. Bon voyage!
> For one on one or group assistance with personal finance, STR recommends that you check out the following resources:
> Inaccuracies with Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) data: Many of our blog posts will quote BLS data. SkilledTradeRescue.com has been able to identify that data quoted specifically for Skilled Trades can be as much as 50% LOW in many USA labor markets. For more information on these inaccuracies please visit the STR national labor survey page at the link below. On this page there is a video containing the latest information at the top of the page as well as other information. If you currently work in skilled trades, PLEASE consider participating in our national labor survey.
