How to See the World on a Budget – No Trust Fund Required
Travel can look expensive. Like, “$700-a-night over water bungalow” expensive. And if you scroll through enough Instagram photos of Santorini sunsets and infinity pools in Bali, it’s easy to start thinking, “Okay, so I guess I need to win the lottery before I can take a decent vacation.”
But here’s the thing: you can travel—regularly—even if you’re not ballin’ out. I’ve been doing it for years on a very average income (shout out to my old 9–5), and I’m here to tell you it’s totally doable. It just takes a little strategy, some early planning, and a few hacks I swear by.
Some of the links in this post are affiliate links—which basically means if you click and book or buy something, I might earn a small commission (and it doesn’t cost you anything extra). I only share things I genuinely use, love, or think will make your travel life easier. So if you do use them—thank you! You’re helping me keep this little travel diary going and I seriously appreciate it. 💕🌍
Plan Ahead Like a Procrastinator’s Worst Nightmare
When I was working full-time, I would plan my trips way in advance—like, 4–6 months ahead. I’d put in my PTO requests early, before everyone else snagged the good weeks, and start building my trip piece by piece. A weekend here, a full week there… suddenly you’ve got a solid itinerary and something to look forward to.
Planning early also gives you time to pay for it slowly. Not all at once. You can space out flights, hotels, and excursions over a few paychecks and it doesn’t feel like such a financial punch to the gut.
Cheap Flights Are Out There (If You Know Where to Look)
I never book flights without checking Skiplagged first. They find hidden city ticketing deals that most search engines don’t show. It’s how I’ve flown to Europe for under $300 round-trip and snagged last-minute domestic flights for under $100.
Also:
- Be flexible with your dates
- Fly mid-week if you can
- Always compare prices across a couple sites (I use Expedia too—good for bundling flights + hotels)
Workaway = Travel Without Going Broke
If you haven’t heard of Workaway, it’s basically a platform where you can exchange your time and skills for free stays (and sometimes food too). Think volunteering at a hostel, helping with eco-farms, teaching English, or even just helping someone practice conversational language.
You get a local experience, save money, and extend your trip way longer than you’d be able to otherwise. It’s not just for long-term backpackers, either. Even if you only have a couple weeks, you can still find short-term gigs.
Bonus: you meet people from everywhere. It’s one of the best ways to make friends on the road without even trying.
Use Credit Card Rewards (and Actually Build Your Credit)
I know the whole “use points” advice gets thrown around a lot, but I’m telling you—it works. I used to put all my regular spending on a travel credit card (groceries, gas, bills, etc.), pay it off every month, and just rack up rewards. That’s how I’ve booked free flights and hotel nights without spending any extra money.
One of my faves is the Amex Platinum—yes, the annual fee is a chunk, but the perks are ridiculous. Lounge access, hotel upgrades, travel insurance, statement credits… it pays off if you travel even just a couple times a year.
Using rewards programs smartly doesn’t just save you money—it builds your credit too. Win-win.
Bundle, Book Smart, and Budget Without Sacrificing Fun
- I book a lot of my excursions and tours through Viator. They have so many activities you can book ahead of time, which helps spread out your spending.
- For transportation and local sim cards or Wi-Fi deals, Airolo comes in clutch.
- (Code: MAJJA1429 for $3 credit)
- And when it comes to accommodations, I always scope out deals on Expedia. Sometimes I’ll book a nice hotel for a few nights, and then switch to something budget-friendly or local (hello, Workaway stays). Balance, baby.
Little Things That Help Save Big
- Pack smarter: Bring versatile outfits so you don’t over pack (and avoid baggage fees). My favorite packing cubes and travel gear are up on my Amazon list. I also break down my top travel essentials here
- Bring a refillable water bottle (bonus points if it has a built-in filter)
- Download Google Maps for offline use and save your must-visit spots
- Travel during shoulder season (cheaper + fewer tourists = better vibes)
So, Is Travel Actually Attainable?
Yes. A thousand times yes.
You don’t have to drop thousands on a luxury escape to have a magical travel experience. If you plan ahead, use the right tools, and stay flexible, you can afford to take that trip you’ve been daydreaming about. Even just one trip a year can shift your perspective, fuel your soul, and remind you that life doesn’t have to be all work and no play.
So if you’re sitting there thinking, “I wish I could travel, but I just can’t afford it,” I’m here to tell you—you can. You just need a little strategy, a few hacks, and maybe a friend (like me 😉) to show you how.
Got questions or want help planning your next trip? Drop a comment—I’ll spill all the tea.
✈️ Catch you on the next flight,
Majjas Travel Diary 
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