Traveling solo can be one of the most liberating, rewarding experiences of your life. It allows you to explore the world on your terms, meet new people, and grow in ways you never thought possible. But let’s face it—travel can also be expensive, and going solo often means shouldering all the costs yourself. That’s why, after over a decade of traveling, I’ve become something of a master at budget travel. I’ve learned how to stretch the budget until it squeals, all while enjoying enriching experiences. In this guide, I’ll walk you through my best strategies for budget solo travel, including free excursions, cheap transport, and low-cost (or even free) accommodation.
Planning: The Foundation of Budget Travel
The first step to traveling on a budget begins long before you step on a plane. Planning is crucial, and being flexible with your dates and destinations can save you a ton of money. I often use tools like Google Flights, Skyscanner, and Hopper to track cheap flights. Setting alerts for deals and flying midweek instead of weekends has saved me hundreds. Also see our Travel Resources page where we have grouped our preferred suppliers making your search for flights, accommodation and car hire a little easier.
I also recommend using travel forums like Reddit’s r/solotravel or Lonely Planet’s Thorn Tree to get tips on the cheapest times to visit a location. Off-season travel can mean lower prices for everything—from flights to accommodation—and fewer crowds to deal with.
Free Excursions and Activities
You don’t need to spend a fortune to experience the heart of a place. Some of my most memorable travel moments have come from free activities. Free walking tours, often run by local students or guides working on tips, are a fantastic way to get oriented in a new city.
Many museums and cultural sites have free days or discounted entry during certain hours. In Paris, for example, the Louvre is free on the first Saturday of each month. Always check the official tourism websites of your destination to find out about these opportunities. It’s also a good idea to visit the local tourism office and ask their advice on things you can see/do for free.
I also use apps like Meetup or Couchsurfing Hangouts to find free events—whether it’s a local language exchange, a yoga class in the park, or a group hike. Nature is often the best entertainment: hiking, beachcombing, and simply wandering through new neighborhoods cost nothing and can offer incredible experiences.
Low-Cost Transportation Tips
Getting around on a budget takes a little creativity. One of my go-to tricks is using local transportation instead of taxis or rideshares. In cities like Istanbul or Lima, metro and bus systems are not only cheap but a great way to immerse yourself in local life.
If I’m traveling between cities or countries, I compare buses, trains, and budget airlines. In Europe, Busbud , Flixbus and BlaBlaCar (a carpooling service) have been lifesavers. In Southeast Asia, sleeper buses are a cheap way to combine transportation and a night’s accommodation.
For longer trips, consider travel passes. RailEurope, Japan Rail Pass, and similar regional passes can save you a lot if you’re covering multiple destinations. Don’t forget to check local discounts—some countries offer youth or student passes even if you’re just under 30.
Finding Affordable Accommodation
Accommodation is one of the biggest expenses when traveling solo, but there are plenty of ways to cut this cost. Hostels are the obvious go-to. While they may conjure images of noisy dorms, many offer private rooms for a fraction of the cost of hotels. Try choosing hostels with kitchens so that you can cook your own meals to save even more.
Another great option is budget hotels or guesthouses. Websites like Agoda, Hostelworld, and Booking.com let you filter for the cheapest stays, and I always check reviews for cleanliness and safety—especially if you are a solo female traveler.
I’ve also had amazing experiences with home swaps. Through platforms like HomeExchange, I’ve stayed in beautiful apartments in Spain, and South Africa without paying a cent. It requires a bit of trust and planning, but it’s a fantastic way to live like a local.
Pet sitting is another brilliant way to score free accommodation. Websites like TrustedHousesitters and Nomador connect travelers with pet owners looking for sitters while they’re away.
Eating Well on a Budget
Food is one of the joys of travel, but dining out for every meal adds up quickly. I usually aim for one sit-down meal a day and make the rest myself. You will find that many restaurants have a lunch special. Make this your main meal of the day and have something smaller to snack on for dinner. Also never eat in touristy hot spots, restaurant prices are much higher in these areas. Instead, find something a few blocks back from the main attractions. You will notice the price drop. Local markets are goldmines for fresh, cheap ingredients and often provide an authentic cultural experience in themselves.
Street food is another affordable option and often more delicious than anything you’ll find in a restaurant. In places like Thailand or Vietnam, I’ve eaten like royalty for under $5 a day. Just follow the locals to spots with high turnover, which usually means the food is fresh and safe.
Many hostels and budget hotels offer free breakfasts—take advantage of that. I also travel with a small stash of non-perishables like instant oatmeal or trail mix, which comes in handy during long travel days.
Staying Safe as a Solo Female Traveler
Safety is always a top priority, especially when you’re on your own. First and foremost, trust your instincts. If something feels off, it probably is. I always let someone know my plans, whether it’s a friend, family member, or even the hostel staff.
Keep digital and paper copies of important documents and use money belts or hidden pouches when you need to carry cash. I’ve also learned to avoid arriving in unfamiliar cities late at night, and I pre-book the first night’s accommodation whenever I can.
Female travelers should dress modestly and research cultural norms to avoid unwanted attention. If you feel unsafe, pretend to talk on the phone or wear a wedding ring (even if you’re not married), it can deter overly persistent strangers.
Apps like Maps.me or Google Maps offline are lifesavers for navigating unfamiliar cities, and rideshare apps like Uber or Bolt are usually safer than hailing a cab on the street. Just make sure you have these apps loaded on your phone in your home country. I’ve had issues before where I was not able to receive OTP’s.
Also make sure you are connected to data 24/7 in case you find yourself nowhere near any wifi signal, an eSIM can be a life saver. I never travel without one.
Making Connections on the Road
Just because you’re traveling solo doesn’t mean you have to be alone. I’ve made lifelong friends in hostel kitchens, on group tours, and even in line at museums. Be open to conversation—you never know where it might lead.
Apps like Bumble BFF, Backpackr, or even travel-specific Facebook groups can connect you with other travelers. Joining day tours or classes—like a cooking workshop or language lesson—is another way to meet people while learning something new.
Volunteering is another excellent way to give back and connect. Websites like Workaway and Worldpackers offer opportunities to exchange a few hours of work each day for room and board.
Packing Smart to Travel Solo on a Budget
Packing light saves you money on baggage fees and makes moving around easier. I stick to a carry-on backpack and prioritize versatile, quick-drying clothing. A good pair of walking shoes, a travel towel, and a power bank are non-negotiables.
I also carry a reusable water bottle, utensils, and a tote bag, which helps reduce waste and saves on food and shopping. A small first aid kit and a few essential medications can save you from pricey trips to the pharmacy.
Final Thoughts on Solo Budget Travel
Traveling solo on a budget isn’t just possible—it’s empowering. With a bit of planning, flexibility, and creativity, you can explore the world on your own terms without breaking the bank. You’ll not only discover new places, but also learn to trust yourself, adapt, and find joy in the unexpected.
Whether it’s watching the sunrise over Angkor Wat or sharing a home-cooked meal with your host family in Morocco, the richness of your experience won’t depend on how much money you spend. It will come from the people you meet, the challenges you overcome, and the memories you make.
So pack your bag, book that flight, and don’t let your budget hold you back. The world is waiting—and you’re more ready than you think.
If you enjoyed reading How to Travel Solo on a Budget, then ALSO READ – “Cheap Travel Destinations 2025” and “Savvy Travel Hacks to Save Money“
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