Are you ready for the trip of a lifetime? The magnificent continent of Australia has exactly what you’re looking for. “But wait!” you cry, “There’s no way I have the money to go travel half way across the world!” I would like to take a moment to disagree. If you lose the picture in your head of what you think Australia is and replace it with a new, budget-friendly picture, you absolutely can afford to fly half way across the world. Here’s how:
Avoid Tourist Traps
While the Sydney Opera House is iconic and beautiful, unless you are planning on seeing a show, walk around the outside for free. If you think about it, the outside is what screams “Australia” to you. Do you really care what type of fabric the seats inside are upholstered with?
Rather than paying good money to traverse the Harbour Bridge, head over to Cumberland Street and climb the south-east pillar for pennies on the dollar. Do you want to see the harbour by boat? Skip the cruise and catch a ferry! Do you want to see a kangaroo? Go to the local zoo at home the next time you have a free weekend. A kangaroo is a kangaroo!
Accommodations
Rather than spending a week or two in an expensive hotel or resort, consider staying in a hostel. Hostels aren’t the things of horror movies nor are they just for backpacking college kids. There are hostels that offer private rooms, those that cater to families and even those that are set up like dormitories. Remember: you aren’t visiting Australia to sit in a hotel room! You simply need a comfortable place to rest and shower. A hostel can provide both for often close to half the cost of a hotel.
Eating
There’s nothing wrong with treating yourself to a fancy meal or two, but don’t waste your entire budget in restaurants. Spend some time walking around town and look for smaller diners or cafes. Make friends with some locals and find out where they eat; you can even ask where they go to avoid tourists! Most people are happy to talk with others if they are approached and will gladly share what they know.
Apps
There are dozens of travel apps available for download on your iPhone or Android device. Take advantage of them. Apps like Travelocity and Priceline can help you find great deals on airfare, and Kayak can find destinations that are in your budget. If you don’t have a mobile device, no worries; you can grab the same great prices online. The key to finding the best prices is to be flexible and begin planning early.
A trip to Australia seems like a dream to most people. Don’t hesitate in making that dream a reality. With help from a payday loan, a generous relative or even a holiday work bonus, you can fit Australia in your budget. Plan early and plan smart; you’ll be constructing your itinerary before you know it.
Thomas Hathaway is a financial consultant and content contributor to a payday loans site, which offers information and advances should you need money before your paycheck arrives.