Priyanka, a traveler based in Ranchi, travels constantly for leisure and work, stepping out of her home every three months. Drawing from her extensive travel routine, she shares that keeping a few specific things in mind can cut your travel budget right in half while making you feel completely at home, ensuring you never miss your house even when you are miles away.
Do Thorough Digital Research Before You Go
Before finalizing any travel plans, it is vital to gather complete information about the destination. Since we live in the age of the internet, you should watch at least ten to fifteen reels or videos about the city you intend to visit. This gives you a clear understanding of what the city is truly like, what is worth seeing, and where the hidden spots are located, ensuring you are well-prepared before arrival.
Opt for Homestays Over Traditional Hotels
When looking for a place to stay, try to collect contact numbers for ten to fifteen homestays at your destination. Always choose a homestay over large hotels because they provide facilities ranging from a kitchen to a dining area, which you will not get even in expensive hotels. They feel just like a home or an apartment, offering a refrigerator, RO drinking water, a balcony, a spacious hall, and plenty of room to move around, giving you an authentic living experience.
Immerse in Local Culture and Street Food
Staying in a homestay completely removes the feeling of being away from home while giving you a unique opportunity to understand the local culture. Furthermore, there is little point in visiting expensive restaurants and branded food chains while traveling. If you genuinely want to explore a place, try the local street food instead, as branded items are available in every city anyway, and local food is much lighter on the wallet.
Rely on Maps and Local Guidance
Always keep Google Maps handy on your phone and prepare a checklist of all the attractions and spots you want to explore. Gather information from trustworthy local residents about how to reach those specific locations, how much it will cost, and what the cheapest mode of transport is. For instance, many cities offer excellent public bus services, but due to a lack of awareness, people end up spending heavily on expensive cabs and auto-rickshaws.
Pack Homemade Snacks and a Portable Kettle
Whenever you head out on a journey, try to carry homemade dry snacks that can easily last for a week, such as namkeen or dates. These items often save the day during breakfast hours or unexpected hunger pangs on the road. Additionally, whenever you travel, always carry a small electric kettle with you, which allows you to easily boil water, make tea, and manage multiple hot-water needs on the go.
