Traveling on a budget really boils down to a willingness to put up with a certain level of discomfort. The more discomfort you’re willing to put up with, the less money you can spend.

You can, however, maximize your comfort level while minimizing your expenses while traveling. One way is to select a low-cost destination as highlighted in a low budget travel tips article.

But destination isn’t the only consideration for the thrifty traveler. Other things to think about are how to get the cheapest airfare or how to get the best prices on lodging, local transportation, food, or even attractions.

Negotiate the best price

A budget savvy traveler should also practice becoming a master negotiator. Many prices, especially for lodging and street food are negotiable. When buying souvenirs, negotiating or haggling with vendors at the local market can get you the lowest prices on many items. A good time to practice your skills in haggling a price is at these markets. Items are often discounted very deeply to begin with and vendors are desperate to sell them. If you see something that may be handy for yourself, or a thoughtful gift for a loved one back home, make an offer for it - really lowball it. Once a basis for negotiation is established, continue to work for the best price available.

motel rooms for less money

Once you feel comfortable with negotiating prices, apply this technique to other things as well. If you don’t have reservations for a motel - use that to your advantage. Stop at a motel, hostel, or guesthouse that appeals to you and ask for the rate. Offer a low ball amount and see if they are open to negotiations. If not, find another place and try again. Soon, you will have a gage for whether or not prices are negotiable in the place you are traveling. Use this knowledge to your advantage to get the best price available.

save money on food too

Prices for restaurant meals are usually fixed and not open to negotiation, food carts and street vendors are often owner-operated. A frugal traveler will exploit this fact and ask for a lower price. Oftentimes you can save much money on food by simply avoiding restaurants and eating at food carts or by preparing your own meals. If you can save even more by haggling, all the better.

Joint the budget travel discussion over at The Life Nomadic Travel Forum