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Home » Budget Travel » How to Travel FOR FREE: No Money, No Problems!

How to Travel FOR FREE: No Money, No Problems!

It’s something I’ve never been able to fully instil in my non-travelling friends back home:  just how cheap travel can be.  The myth is that travelling the world is expensive; the reality is that it’s often cheaper than being at home. Travellers don’t pay taxes, or electricity bills, or student loans. Travellers live cheap.

So what if we took it one step further? Today, we’re talking about how to travel the world for free!

The best things in life are free, or so it’s been told. Everything we need is right here. Maybe these things are true, I’m not sure. What I do know is…

Life is as simple as we choose to make it.

Nothing in this list of tips for travelling without money is complicated (except maybe frequent flyer miles – goddamn credit cards). Everything in this guide is easy and actionable – the more you apply, the more inexpensive your travelling will be. With enough practice and ingenuity, you may even find yourself spending  $0 !

Did anyone say  “Take a vacation for free” ? Yes, me, right now! Weren’t you listening? Well, you better start because I’m about to teach you…

How to travel the world with no money…

Dis shit is gonna get cheap, yo!

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A Big, Sexy Disclaimer

Folks, this article is not about how to travel the world like a dickweed. Anyone can travel for free if they take advantage of people along the way, lying, cheating, stealing, and being an all-round douchenozzle.

Similarly, though we’ll cover some of the more crusty methods of travel, as well as tackle that sticky topic of ‘begpacking’ , THAT’S not what this article is about either.

This article is about  learning how to live a low-cost lifestyle of travel. One that’s sustainable in the long-term as well as financially independent.  Travelling until you run out of cash and move back in with your Mum or Dad is cute in your early 20s, but that’s not what we’re about at The Broke Backpacker. That’s not what a broke backpacker is .

At The Broke Backpacker, we’re about teaching you how to live a lifestyle of indefinite travel in a responsible way – responsible to the world, yourself, and those who love you. Go out, travel, see the world, and do it for as long as you like, but do it right.

Don’t begpack, don’t abuse your privilege, and don’t ever expect a handout. Free travel is NOT about exploitation; it’s about travelling without burning through your savings in a way that’s more authentic and less insipid than simply blowing your funds on all the cheap booze and drugs .

Oh, and it shouldn’t have to be said, but, please,  don’t ever go travelling with literally $0 in your bank account. That’s just bloody stupid.

The Best Ways to Travel The World with No Money

How to get a free vacation, how to travel when you’re broke, travel the world for free: is it possible, remaining tips for how to travel free, closing thoughts on free travel.

Let’s start by talking about how to travel for a living. These options for free travel mean exchanging your time and energy (i.e. working) for the freedom of being on the road. (And probably somewhere super-duper pretty too!)

Yes, ok, they aren’t all strictly ‘free trips’ but you’re away from home, not burning through your savings, and, potentially, maybe even saving some money too! If you disagree with my criteria, well, shush your face! Go travel the world for more than three years with your savings still intact like I have and then come back and we’ll argue semantics.

Still with me? Good because I want to travel the world for free and you should too!

Travel the World for Free Volunteering

Volunteering abroad for free – ahhh . This is where it all began for me and, sometimes, when it all becomes too much, it’s back with the hippies in the fields, shoes off and muddy, that I return to. For me, this will always be one of the most authentic and best ways to travel for free or otherwise.

The name of the game is simple: you work some agreed subset of hours, you get a place to sleep and food in return. Hopefully, a washing machine too!

Travelling free by way of volunteering could mean a lot of things: hostel work, farms, working with kids, charities, construction, kitten sanctuaries (god yes). The only way to find out what’s out there is to get out there! (You could also start by reading this review/guide/informational post on Workaway .)

Interested in travelling the world for free volunteering? Here are some excellent platforms:

• Workaway – The biggest in the game. Follow the link and sign up to receive an extra 3 months on your subscription!
• HelpX – The oft-forgotten cousin of Workaway.
• WWOOF – Exclusively for organic farm work.
• Talking to people – In the 21st-century? Get outta my house!
• Facebook and other platforms – Plenty of groups for this stuff but it’s best to search by the country or local area.
• Worldpackers – Follow the link or enter the code BROKEBACKPACKER to get $10 off your subscription. We’ve also reviewed Worldpackers !

Note:  Most of the platforms have an initial subscription fee (nothing in life is  truly  free). It’s a small price to pay in exchange for a year of travelling and volunteering around the world for free.

Work and Travel for Free Teaching English

If you’re reading this sentence, then you probably speak English. Awesome! Step one complete! What’s step two?

Get your TEFL certificate. With that in hand, it’s time to discover another one of the best ways to travel the world. Didja guess yet?

Yup, teaching English!

There’s a whole host of ways to get involved teaching English overseas and what an experience it is! Impart wisdom, see cute Asian kids smile (yay), and learn how to travel abroad for free. Well, not free… you’re actually earning money – oh snap!

If you want to take it a step further, you can teach English online . You’re entering the realm of the digital nomad which is certainly a different way to travel but that’s ok because – BOOM, SEGUE!

Ditch Your Desk for a Different Way to Travel

Now entering the realm of the digital nomad . If you really want to learn how to travel more, nothing will give you quite so much geographical freedom.

Anywhere your laptop (and stable internet connection goes), your source of revenue goes. Living the vanlife? Easy.

Renting a nudists-only Airbnb by a beach somewhere? Making money online is best done while tanning your best bits.

Volunteering at a kibbutz in Israel? Now you’re actually travelling for free, costs covered, WHILE earning money. Level-up!

Learning how to travel the world for a living is a whole new ball game. It’s the holy grail for many travellers but beware of the ‘grass is greener’ syndrome: it’s a lotta work and a lot to take on and, at times, your brain will hate you. Is it awesome though?

Fuck yes it is.

So, yeah, this may be stretching the how to travel for free concept but it’s an important mention for anyone looking at opportunities to travel free and extend their already indefinite adventures. Theoretically, we all gotta grow up eventually and make some cash, right?

I dunno, don’t ask me. I’m still Peter Pan-ning it up over here.

Or Just Work for Inexpensive Travelling

If a job that glues you to your laptop isn’t appealing but adopting the low-cost travel lifestyle of a working traveller is, then maybe just get a job-job. You know, one that sounds better on your Tinder profile than “influencer” .

What kind of job? Well, potential travel jobs is a long-ass list (which we conveniently have right here) , but if you’re starting from scratch and need to know how to travel the world with no money, here are a few ideas to get you started:

• Busker – Traveller-life and street performance go together like drugs and sex.
• Bartender – A extremely internationally-transferable trade and lucrative too… if you know how to bat those eyelids just right.
• Scaffolding and stage construction – Construction/labouring is good in general, but the stage construction and scaffolding industries are very international.
• Picking/Trimming – Also a lucrative industry IF you’re fast.
• Flight attendant – How to travel around the world for free 101.
• Cruise ship work – The money can be good contingent on the company and you’ll always have the added bonus of copious amounts of drugs and sex!
• Tuk-tuk races in Sri Lanka – I dunno; my cousin does them and he seems to be doin’ alright!

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Free international travel is about to get hacked! Ready to hack? It’s time to hack with these hacks!

Did I say ‘hack’ too much? Righto, moving along.

These following ways to travel the world for free are more courtesy of the convenience of the 21st-century. And, that’s exactly where we like to be.

Being a “nomad” these days is very different from what it used to be. No longer do we have to hunt elk and forage for berries in the woods – now we can just order a pizza with UberEats!

Now, we have a whole host of tools and platforms to uncover and exchange free travel opportunities!

Catch Flights Right: How to Travel Overseas for Free

It doesn’t matter how cheap you live when you arrive, you’ll still have to pay for an expensive-ass flight to get there… right? Wrong!

Learning how to catch cheap flights is going to be integral to learning how to travel without money. Error fares, mega-discounts, turning on incognito mode… booking flights does my head in – truly. I just want to travel the world; I don’t have time for this humdrum!

I’d suggest reading the above-linked post because it’s really a whole other Pandora’s Box.

To take it one step further, you can sign up with airlines to earn frequent flyer miles. Accrue enough of these and you’re looking at a cheap or even free trip overseas. A travel rewards credit card is going to stack up points in much the same way until, eventually, you get a free trip.

All of this credit stuff does my head in but the point is obvious. Do your research and find the best program to sign up in. Don’t you be wasting them points!

Or, if you’re like me and credit cards and booking flights gives you anxiety, just do what I do – overland it ! Planes are for fools; border crossings are where it’s at. And cheaper!

Apps and Platforms with Opportunities for Free Travel

Ok, now it’s really time to hack this open, right to the gooey, delicious centre. Oh, sorry, I made it weird, didn’t I?

No matter. It’s the 21st-century and now the smartphone has paved the way in much the same way that the wheel once did. These days, a lot of good platforms exist online that offer their own free ways to travel the world:

• Couchsurfing – Where to go when you have no money… to a mate’s couch! Except now all your mates are strangers and internationally based. Check out our Beginner’s Couchsurfing Guide for more info but it’s basically a platform where travellers asked to be hosted by people with a sleeping space to spare.
• Housesitting – You’ll need to build up a few references and pay a membership fee but then you can get all kinds of free accommodation… and in a private home too! Travelling by housesitting is a fantastic way to travel for free with the bonus of never having to share a hostel dorm with fatty, unshowered humans.
• Fly and swap vacations – It’s kind of like housesitting except your swapping homes with someone. That means it’s a bit more nuanced – you need to actually have a home to swap away. HomeExchange and HomeLink are two platforms that cover this.
• Au Pair – If you enjoy the company of miniature-monster-gremlins hiding in the bodies of children, then consider working as an Au Pair . Travel around the world for free, connect with a family and their spawn, and make some money too!

Yay, ok, my speciality! I may get anxiety from credit cards and fancy hotels but the broke-ass swashbuckling backpacker lifestyle is my answer to the emptiness of existence. Life gets simpler.

Real quick, these tips can be also found in our Budget Backpacking 101 article – some crossover is inevitable in the world of low-cost travel!

There’s a whole host of good advice in there if you’re not just specifically looking at how to travel for free but also at the cheapest way to travel the world. Yeah, these two posts may crossover a bit but hand-in-hand they make for some excellent reading (self-plug) if you’re dedicated to learning about how to backpack around the world with no money.

Consider this your Budget Backpacking Light.

Believe it or not, there is a lot of free food out there! The first and most common way (arguably) to eat for free is dumpster diving . People throw away a lot of perfectly edible food and useful stuff (half my wardrobe comes from late-night scores) and getting good at harnessing this awesome power of wastage is going to go a long way if you want to travel for free.

From the humble park trashcan up to the almighty power of the supermarket skip, free food is everywhere. Alternatively, you can acquire food before it hits the bin by asking for food wastage: bakeries, fruit and veg shops, food markets especially. Then there’s tablesurfing too – eating someone’s leftovers at a restaurant.

It’s an excellently fun game!

You’ve also always got food giveaways (we’ll touch on that tentative topic of begpacking in a moment) and religious shindigs too. The Hare Krishnas love, love, love feeding travellers for nothing or next to it.

I’ve eaten free Prasad in the streets of Varanasi and in Gurdwaras in Agra. There’s free food near the Ibrahimi Mosque in Hebron and free bread at every turn in Jerusalem (it might be for the cats…). Hell, there’s even an online platform dedicated to helping us intrepid raccoons find excellent freegan sources (urban fruit trees are shockingly common).

The point is if you’re travelling without money, there are still heaps of ways to fill your belly. You just gotta get creative!

This one is a pretty basic tip for free travel. I’ve already mentioned Couchsurfing but option two is to just sleep where you land . It’s a big, wide world out there with ample floor space!

For this, except for truly warm and rain-free climates, you’re gonna need a few things. In my personal order of importance:

• A sexy-warm sleeping bag
• Backpacking sleeping pad (the floor is cold)
• A budget backpacking tent (you could get really nice tent but I’ve always found it to be overkill)
• A sleeping bag liner
• Or, alternatively to the tent and pad, a backpacking hammock

With a combination of these things, you can sleep free while travelling pretty much anywhere. Camp out in the woods, in urban environments, or if you think the cops will get funny about you pitching a tent, sleep under a bridge or in a bus station or abandoned building. As my dirtbag travel companion in New Zealand always said: we can sleep anywhere!

This, however, is not a commentary on safety. I’ve never had an issue but also I’m a white man covered in tattoos that looks like he sleeps with a knife in his pocket. Be smart, be safe , don’t go past your limits, and learn what a good pitch looks like.

Pro-tip: No one goes into graveyards at night. Oh, and on that note, leave no fucking trace.

Travel Free

If we’re talking the most literal definition of the term, there’s only one way to travel for free that I can think of: hitchhiking. I love hitchhiking! It’s free travel to places, you meet local people – people you never would have met otherwise – and see many worlds from the inside (or outside) of many vehicles.

Hell, sometimes people invite you over, offer to let you stay the night, or to go on an adventure. I don’t do it as much as I used to but sometimes, when I’m just needing a holiday from the work and travel life, I take a break from the tech and hit the road.

I see who picks me up and sleep where I land – no schedule, no itinerary. Simplicity at its finest. Hitchhiking is grand! And to those who question if it’s ethical – I can assure you some of my best travel memories involve those that gave me a ride.

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Single-use plastic bottles are a MASSIVE threat to marine life. Be a part of the solution and travel with a filter water bottle. Save money and the environment!

We’ve tested the Geopress  rigorously  from the icy heights of Pakistan to the tropical jungles of Bali, and can confirm: it’s the best water bottle you’ll ever buy!

I guess that’s the last big question:

how to travel the world with no money? Is it really possible? Teach me sensei that hasn’t bought a new piece of clothing in almost-three-and-a-half years!

Yes! It is. Buy a plane ticket on miles, choose a visa-waiver country, hitchhike from the airport to your volunteering gig, eat only the finest cuisine from the dumpster! It’s a free year long trip !

Ok, look, that may not be your ideal vacation (free or not), but it’s a portrayal of an extreme circumstance. This isn’t a strict guide to travelling the world for free; it’s a handbook. Take what works, when it works, and apply it at will.

Practice makes perfect and pretty soon you’ll be finding that you’re having some pretty dope-ass adventures on some pretty low spendings. Hell, why not set up some passive income at home and then earn a bit while you’re volunteering abroad cheaply. (Or just Couchsurfing.)

I met a dude in New Zealand way back near the beginning and he said something very insightful.

“You don’t need a lot to travel. A plane ticket, $500, and you can be gone for a while.”

He was so right.

Why travel without money?

Because it’s fucking awesome!

Seriously, the stunning sunrises and sunsets I’ve seen only because my days hitching ended where they did. The adventures I’ve ended up on just because I was asking around for a spot of work. The things I’ve done because I was working for a bed and feed… I milked a goat once!

Learning how to start travelling abroad for free opens up a lot of doors, both in the world and in yourself. Pretty soon you start to realise that you’re pretty damn capable! That in all likelihood, you got dis.

And, on the off-chance you don’t, chances are there’ll be someone around to lend a hand.

Give it some time and you’ll start to find that there’s always somewhere to sleep and something to eat. There’s always a spot of work that needs to be done by a willing hand.

After a bit more time travelling the world without money, you may start finding you already have everything you need. If not the best, then at least some pretty insanely spectacular things are free, and, best of all…

Simplicity is so damn blissful!

“I want to travel but have no money.” – Voluntourism, begpacking, and tact.

I said we were gonna touch on this, yeah?

Voluntourism is one can of worms; one that I feel fewer people take issue with. There are some points against it, and some validity in these points, but nothing that I truly believe is able to undo the sheer amount of good that comes from people travelling through volunteering overseas.

Connections between local communities and travellers are made and something is returned while travelling around the world. It’s a symbiotic relationship – if you’re heart is equally in it for the work as it is for the free-living – and it works, usually for the best.

Begpacking gets stickier – it’s a modern-day complaint against a style of living that has existed much longer. That, somehow, choosing to travel with no money makes you self-entitled and undeserving of the kindness of strangers. However, even the name “begpacking” itself stands as a bit of a misnomer.

I’ve never “begged” for something and I don’t know anyone who has. (However, travellers who do quite literally “beg” exist and they should promptly hand in their backpacker card).

I’ve hitchhiked but I’ve never even directly asked someone for a ride. I’ve never asked someone for a place to stay and certainly never for money. I have eaten at free food giveaways but only ones that were welcoming and warm to travellers and wanted me there (sometimes, with some volunteering on the side).

Usually, if someone wants to offer you something, then that’s a gift of kindness (except when ulterior motives may be at play). As a traveller, a long way from the comfort of home, a bit of kindness goes a long way.

I know there are people out there that abuse this kindness in their attempts to get a free trip. This is a reminder not to .

It’s about having tact and moving with grace; leaving places in the world better than when you arrived. Be a little bit of good in the world wherever you go. Considering all the places you’ll go, that’s a lot of good.

If you’re choosing to travel without money, then remember that’s your choice. A long way from home or not, no one owes you a hand, so be grateful when they lend it.

Before I tie up the ‘How to Get a Free Vacation Handbook’, it’s time for the final bonus tips. These may not individually rock your boat, but together they’ll groove it a bit for sure!

• Don’t burn out – Always stressing about money, looking for the cheapest way to travel to your next destination, and racing against yourself: it can be exhausting. Don’t push yourself too hard. Take a rest sometimes, go slow, and remember that when travelling without money gets stressful, home is always waiting.
• Every country is unique – Every country has its own nuances. What food is cheap, expectations on people volunteering abroad, even the hitchhiking hand signals! It takes time to learn a new place and mistakes probably will happen so cut yourself some slack, alright?
• Mistakes do happen – On that note, so as much as free travelling around the world may be the goal, it pays to stockpile a little rainy day money. Unless you don’t mind calling in financial favours from the ‘rents.
• There’s free food in more places than the dumpster – Many countries have food growing in abundance that isn’t privately owned (or in a bin). Learning edible plants and how to forage is pretty goddamn top-tier Broke Backpacking, but it’s certainly possible.
• Know your rights volunteering – While it’s important to put the hard work in for your hosts when volunteering, it’s equally important that you aren’t being exploited either. Not all hosts are top blokes and some do seek to take advantage of backpackers. Remember that no one is doing anyone any favours: it’s an exchange.
• You’re broke but you’re not poor – This is especially true when travelling in developing nations. It does get tiresome feeling like you’re being targeted as a tourist by touts and beggars, but you are a tourist. Travelling without money doesn’t bring you down to the level of the legitimately homeless and impoverished; one party chose to be there, the other did not. Just keep that in mind.

Our GREATEST Travel Secrets…

Pop your email here & get the original Broke Backpacker Bible for FREE.

Oh, and one last tip… Get insured before embarking on your free travel adventure!

Yeah, ok, insurance isn’t free (or cheap) but when you’re lying in a hospital bed with some truly astounding food poisoning from the dumpster diving, at least your treatment will be! Seriously, travel insurance is a super important consideration for any journey.

Members of The Broke Backpacker team have been using SafetyWing for some time now and made a few claims over the years. They’re an easy to use and professional provider that the team swears by.

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

You don’t need a lot of money to travel: that’s the takeaway! Maybe eventually you’ll need some money so leaving the country with $0 in the bank account isn’t necessarily smart. That said, I have a friend that got his working visa in Australia by photoshopping his bank statement, so, really, anything is possible!

Even if the low-cost world traveller game isn’t for you, I still think everyone should try it once. It changes your perspective a lot.

It changes your perspective on the idea of what you need and what you need to be happy; on what is possible. I have a friend that lost it all in Australia (a different friend) and spent months as a hammock-hobo in Melbourne. He says it was the happiest time of his life.

I can relate. My first experience travelling still remains some of my sweetest memories. It was free travel in New Zealand – a smelly backpacking vagabond volunteering, hitching, busking, dumpster diving, and sleeping in parks – and It taught me how beautiful life is. It taught me how kind people are and how simple things can be, should we so choose.

Gratitude turns what we have into enough.

To close, I’d like to repeat what a friend said to me today as we bid farewell (at another hippy farm). He said:

“No, I won’t wish you ‘safe travels’ because everywhere you go, you are safe. You have a good heart and many adventures ahead. I wish you to be free because that is the most important thing.”

And I smiled because I understood (and because he’d just written my outro for me). That’s all it is: be free, travel the world with a good heart, and learn what joy there is in nothing. You don’t need anything to learn how to travel for free.

And you don’t need money to travel.

Ziggy Samuels

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16 Comments

Awesome article for traveller specially who has low budget. Wonderful Insight.

Hey, great blog, read it like 3 times already!!! One question though…do you also get jobs ‘under the table’ with tourist Visa? Cause everyone talks about working and traveling to finance their further travels, but nobody talks about Visa issues. Could I work for a bit of money (whatever crappy job) with a tourist Visa/Visa waiver? And would people actually accept my work for cash on the hand, or can you actually find people who would accept your work for them although it could cause trouble because of the ‘under the table’ issue? Cause Work and travel Visa is too expensive for a broke gal like me and one year a long time for one country. I’m talking more about the ‘getting a bit of cash for travel’ kinda thing. Answers would be so so appreciated. Greetings from germany Svenja

People find, and will continue to find all sort of ways to make it work, Svenja… and so will you I’m sure. Some countries do have very strong rules against this type of thing tho, so it may be better looking for other things to trade for, such as food, accommodation, transport.

Wonderful and surprising information, Thank you

What a blog! Very funny and different, I was delighted with this wonderful content.

😀 dumpster eating

Thank you so much for sharing all this wonderful info with us! It is so appreciated and I would suggest you travel once to India

Hahah guess where that first picture of me in the tree is taken? Gokarna, baby! 😀

now i know how to travel, the next thing that is left is how to have guts to travel lol

Just do it, dude – you got this!!! All you gotta do is take the first step :)))

Is panhandling, begging/scamming arrogant rich backpackers and sneaking into peoples bushes/fields to sleep considered douchebaggery?

Scamming people is morally deplorable on every level.

As for sleeping in peoples fields and bushes, well as long as you remember the “leave no trace” principle.

Ziggy Samuels, it is very courageous of you to be able to travel like this. Besides, in the middle of the way, find good people to help you, even without asking. Good luck in this adventure that in a way is the best freedom.

Thanking you kindly, Sam – Perhaps it’s equal parts courage and stupidiity 😉 You’re 100% right though. There are good and kind people everywhere, and often, travel wouldn’t be possible (nor nearly as special) without them.

Last year i traveled for Australia for volunteering work and i can say it was one of the best experience of my life without any cost.

One good App for volunteering work is Workaway and it was that i used.

Interesting, I never thought that one can travel so easily without expenses a penny. But few ideas are really I think works like “volunteering the work” helps one to travel without any cost. I’m curious to check how this work. You shared some great ideas here to work on…Thank you for sharing such wonderful post.

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How To Travel For Free : 39 Smart Hacks

One of the biggest myths out there is that you need to be rich to travel. With these simple but life-changing hacks I’ll show you how to travel without money!

Let’s repeat that.

You do not need to be rich to travel.

In fact, a limited budget is a challenge that often results in funnier travel experiences and stories to tell. After all the best things in life are free… or at least cheap!

Here’s some simple life-changing hacks to travel more often with a smaller budget. Choose a category:  

Tips To Travel With No Money At All (Seriously!) >>

1 free walking tours.

One recent development in Europe is the advent of free walking (or even biking) tours. It’s a great way to get to know the place by the eyes of a local at a minimal cost. In expensive places like Stockholm free tours can be a great way to save money . Plus, you can meet loads of people too!

2 Stay in Hostels For “Free”

Paying with money is so last century. WorldPackers allows you exchange your skills for free accommodation in hostels worldwide.

So instead of paying, you can actually collaborate with your hostel. You can end up improving their website, painting a new wall or even bartending. Just be creative!

3 Seek Out Free Wifi

Finding WiFi abroad is becoming the Holy Grail for travellers nowadays. We all need to communicate, google some essential stuff or post some photos on Facebook to make everyone at home envious.

Start with booking accommodation with WiFi available. It’s convenient to communicate with people back home. While you are outside, mobile apps like WifiMagic make sure you are always grinding the networks nearby.

WWOOOF stands for World Wide Opportunities on Organic Farms and is a network of national organizations that accept volunteers on farms around the world.

While you’ll need to get there by yourself, volunteers have a free room and meals. No prior experience required. A great way to combine work and travel on the cheap.

5 Look For Free Days

A simple yet so powerful tip. Museums and other tourist sights often have free days or discounted days. Before your departure, make sure you look on their website for this info.

In Barcelona for instance almost of all of the major museums are free on Sundays after 3pm. Vatican Museums in Vatican City have free admittance on the last Sunday of the month. And the Museum of Modern Art in New York City has a free entrance on Friday afternoon .

6 CouchSurf

Couchsurfing connects travelers with locals willing to let them stay with them for FREE.

Frequent users of this website never have to pay for accommodation all around the world. While you can’t afford to be picky – you might get an air mattress or a lousy couch – it’s always free!

7 Walk, Walk, Walk

For me nothing beats walking when I’m abroad. It keeps you active while allowing you to fully explore a new place. There’s no better way to get lost in narrow streets, experience the local cafés or talk with locals. Ah did I mention it’s FREE?

8 Get Paid To Be a Travel Mailman

Ever been asked to bring something from a trip? Now you can finally get paid to do it! Grabr is a peer-to-peer shopping and delivery network that connects shoppers and travellers all around the world, generating a win-win situation.

Shoppers get a quirky item from anywhere delivered wherever they want and travellers have an extra way to earn extra money to continue their travels.

It’s literally making money while you travel!

9 Land a Job Abroad

I know, who wants to work while you are on vacation?

But if your desire to wander away is stronger than a desire to build a career, you’ll need a way to fund your next adventures. On the plus side, you’ll be making friends and get a taste of the local culture.

You’ll be surprised by the amount of opportunities out there. WorkAway is a good place to start but there are specific jobs that are very remote-friendly, like for instance being a language tutor. On Preply you can be a paid tutor and give language lessons via Skype. From anywhere.

Here are other short-term jobs that don’t require a fancy background or loads of experience.

Short-Term Jobs Abroad To Make Money While You Travel

• English Teacher (requires a TEFL degree)
• Ski Resort Worker
• Farm Worker (see #4)
• Local Tour Guide
• Hostel Worker (see #2)

Ways To Lower Transportation Travel Costs >>

10 become flight search savvy online.

Using flight comparison websites like Skyscanner can go a long way to find the absolute best price for your upcoming trip. I always set up their email alerts to let me know whenever there is a good deal.

Hopper goes deeper and gives you insights on the price range of the flight you’re seeking, as well as the expected price evolution until your departure.

I’ve also written a full guide on how to find cheap flights online , full of flight hacks you can start applying today.

Pro Tip to find cheap flights online: Don’t forget to look up flight prices in the anonymous mode of your browser (or delete the cookies/history)!

11 Sleep While Travelling

When travelling a long distance by plane, train or bus, time your journey at night and in order to save a night’s accommodation. You might not get the top of luxury standards, but that one ticket is a “two per one” deal.

12 Use Public Transportation

Whenever the distance is too demanding, I choose to get around using public transports. Not only is cheaper than taxis, it’s a challenging and more authentic way to navigate around a new place.

Bear in mind 24-hour, 3-day or even weekly public transport passes are usually way better value-for-money deals than single tickets.

13 Go On A RoadTrip

I’m a big fan of road trips. I’ve road tripped Portugal a couple of times and my road trip through Croatia was memorable.

Not only a road trip allows you to explore a country at your own pace and rhythm and take more in, it can also be a budget saver in many ways. Journeys, trips and flights can quickly eat your budget.

14 Rent A Bike

Bikes are extremely cost-effective ways of getting around AND you’re keeping yourself active at the same time. After walking, it’s definitely my favourite way to move!

While not all the destinations are suited for this, you can easily explore a city or town for less than 10USD/day in Europe and less than 3USD/day in Asia. I’ve rented a bike for 2USD for an entire day in Ninh Binh, Vietnam !

Some hotels even offer bike rentals included in the room price. I’ll be staying in a Bed & Bike accommodation on my upcoming trip to Chiang Mai .

15 Be Flexible with Your Flight Dates

This is one of the golden rules to find a cheap flight online .

Flexibility on flight dates, hours and even airports can make you save BIG . Websites like SkyScanner have monthly and yearly overviews which are quite handy for this kind of analysis. Flying on unpopular hours – like early in the morning – also guarantees you a friendlier price.

16 Explore The World Of Rail Passes

If you’re planning to use train a lot on your upcoming trip, booking ahead of time can usually save you loads of money. About half the price to be exact.

However, rail passes are a better option if you don’t want to stick to a fixed schedule. Specially in Europe, these can be a real bargain. EuroRail website has got more info.

17 Learn The Right Tools to Buy Your Flights

Getting a good deal for flights online has a bit of a learning curve and much of it has to do with timings. Start probing prices as early as possible, but aim to buy your flight 10-14 weeks in advance .

For more info on this check my guide on how to find the best time to buy cheap flights and my comprehensive travel hacks to get you the cheapest flight possible to anywhere .

Tips For Lower Accommodation Travel Costs >>

18 try secret hotel rooms.

Secret or mystery hotel rooms are unsold medium-to-luxury hotel rooms and being offered at a reduced price (usually somewhere 20%-50% their usual list price). Hotels use these as an alternative way to get some money for the rooms left empty.

The only catch is you don’t know before hand which hotel are you booking your room. Weeeeell, technically there are some tricks you can use to find which hotel are you likely to be booking.

Curious? Check my full guide to find secret hotel rooms .

19 House Sit

Not familiar with the concept? House sitting allows you to “take care” of the house of someone else when the owner is away. This basically means free accommodation worldwide!

The bad news is that on the large house-sitting websites like Trusted House Sitters you’ll need to pay before you are able to contact the homeowners. Still, the membership fee is a small fraction of what you can potentially save in accommodation around the world!

20 Deal Directly With The Hotel

Websites like Booking have great accommodation deals but sometimes the best way is to go back to basics.

Call or email the hotel, hostel or guesthouse and ask about rates on their rooms. You might get surprised with special deals there are not online anywhere.

Ideas To Lower Food Travel Costs >>

21 visit local markets.

Market places are usually a great place to take a pulse on the vibe and energy of your destination. For instance, you can get crazy cheap deals while shopping in the street markets in Bangkok . Additionally, it’s home to some of the best places to eat authentic local food without spending too much.

22 Avoid Having Dinner Out

Restaurants often raise prices for dinner and have their best deals during the day. There is a reason why lunch special menus are so popular. You can eat the same (or more) for a fraction of the cost you’d pay during the evening.

Brunches are also great options as they merge two meals – breakfast and lunch – in only one bill.

23 Hit The Buffets

Keep your eyes open for all-you-can-eat buffets. They offer an unlimited amount of food for a decent cost, to say the least. Hitting a few of these places on your trip is a smart way to keep both your belly and your wallet full.

Pro Tip: If you are on hardcore budget, make yourself some sneaky sandwiches and save them for later.

24 Cook Your Meals

While there is the obvious downside of eating out and missing on the local food experience, you won’t ruin your trip to London if you decide not to eat out one day!

Cooking your own meals can be a true budget-saver, particularly in the most expensive destinations. Aim to stay at an apartment – via AirBnb – with free use of the kitchen. Oh and here’s FREE 35USD to get you started .

25 Avoid Touristy Places To Eat

Cafés and restaurants near the top tourist attractions are often overpriced and not good quality. You might end up paying more for something that is not authentic at all.

Sometimes all it takes is to go one block or street over to find hole-in-the-wall places in which you can have much better local meal tucked away from crowds.

Rome is a good example. In a city which such a rich food culture, it would be a crime if you sit to eat in the first trattoria next to the Colosseum . Explore the nearby side streets or go to Trastevere to find cheaper food and avoid tourist traps.

26 Indulge On Street Food

Street food can be delicious, cheap and against all odds, safe! You can actually see what’s being cooked fresh right in front of you. Pay attention to the busiest street food stalls where locals eat or just try asking someone local where do they go.

An example of a country where you should definitely try street food is Belgium . Belgian street food is cheap, delicious and highly caloric. Oh lord, I’ll never forget those frites !

Digital Tips To Lower Travel Costs >>

27 use reviews in your favour.

Reviews, reviews, reviews. We live in a world of reviews. With this crazy amount of information online, make sure you use it to make smart travel choices.

Apps/websites like TripAdvisor and Yelp are absolute great ways to learn about experiences of other independent travellers and locals on hotels, sights and restaurants. While online reviews have reached the point you can’t trust everything you read, as a whole they’re still useful to make well-founded decisions on your travels.

28 Avoid Roaming Fees

Try to rely on apps that allow VoIP communications like Skype or Whatsapp and if you are an iPhone user, make sure your “Send as SMS” option is disabled. Buying a local or international SIM card might also be an option.

For more details check my complete guide on how to stay online abroad .

29 Save On International Transfers

Sending money overseas can do some A LOT of damage to your bank account. That’s why you need to consider to use a cost-efficient option like HiFX . It allows to send money internationally from one currency to another at great foreign exchange rates and minimal fees.

30 Use The Right Apps

Even if you are not a geek like me or you like to travel “off-the-grid”, some travel resources out there are able to save you money just with a couple of taps on your phone!

Here is a small shortlist of the apps you should have installed on your phone.

List Of Must-Have Apps For Budget Travellers

• Airbnb – Everything from minimalistic rooms to luxury suites, rented directly to the owner. Can be a huge money-saver. Plus, here’s a 37$ voucher to get you started!
• Yelp – To find out the best nearby restaurants, cafés and other places. Filter by price to get budget deals.
• Hopper – Amazingly detailed insights about price flights.
• Whatsapp – Stay in touch with your friends and family by text messages… for free. For voice calls I prefer FaceTime or Skype .
• Booking – Simply the best to find cheap hotels and hostels.
• SkyScanner – Great search engine to find the cheapest flights anywhere.
• XE Currency Converter – Don’t lose money when exchanging money!
• Splitwise – Keeping track of trip expenses when you travel in a group can be a nightmare, right? Well, not anymore.

Also don’t forget to check my full list of resources to make you travel smarter .

Other Generic Tips To Travel On A Budget >>

31 educate yourself on your next destination.

Even if you’re not the planning type, some research is advisable. Get savvy on the price of things, exchange rates and tours. Learn the best way to get around and the cheapest areas to stay and to eat. This will make it much easier to budget your trip. A good guidebook could be of great help in this planning phase.

32 Use Credit Card Rewards To Get Free Flights

I usually don’t like to give out this tip.

Firstly, I’m far from being an expert on credit card rewards. I could be doing a much better job, but for some reason it just seems too complex . It’s even harder to get advice on how to get airline miles on european credit cards.

Having that said, educating yourself about credit card reward schemes is a good bet. Get it right and you could be having free (!) flights frequently without spending almost any extra money!

I recommend you start learning with the experts I’ve got bookmarked on my favourites: The Points Guy and Flyer Talk .

33 Avoid Expensive Countries

I know, this one is pretty obvious. But I often know people who get surprised by the costs of food and accommodation in some countries so I feel it should be on the list. Even though expensive places like Stockholm can be travel hacked and visited on a budget, there are way wiser options.

Angola , Japan , Iceland and Qatar are also amongst the most expensive in the world.

Do some research, plan your trip accordingly and spend more time in budget-friendly countries. Most of the countries in Southeast Asia , Africa and Eastern Europe are affordable.

34 Keep Track Of Your Expenses

This is key. Take note of your expenses abroad in a notebook, a memo on your phone or in an app. I usually do this once a day, when arrive the hotel at night. Yes, sometimes is utterly boring, but it creates more awareness than you think. It’s way easier to keep on budget if you visualize where your money is going.

35 Travel Off Season

Traveling off-peak season is one giant step to make your travel costs go down instantly. Flight prices in high season can be the double as compared to peak summer dates, not to mention the combined price of accommodation, restaurants and guided tours which will likely be inflated too.

Timing your trip to target shoulder season – when crowds are far from massive and weather is still acceptable – to save you loads of money.

36 Buy Travel Insurance

I know, it seems another drain on your money, but travel insurance is essential. You never know what can happen. And if you’re not insured in a foreign country, it could end up with a bill of hundreds of dollars!

Get a quote from the simple & flexible World Nomad’s travel insurance .

37 Follow The Disaster

While the rest of the world rules out destinations because of political issues or natural disasters, it’s your time to enter in scene. Right after one of these events, flight prices and accommodation are at a fraction of what they normally cost.

This period of grace can last anywhere from a few days to years. If you are smart about it, you can save loads of money!

38 Be Careful With Exchange Rates

You should try to take a good amount of money at a good rate even before the departure. Additionally, this helps budget your total spend.

When you’re abroad, use the rule of 3: always check three places before exchanging money to get the best deal. Usually airports and withdrawing money directly from ATMs are a bad choice.

Like mentioned in #30, XE Currency can be of great value.

Obviously this can only be done in some countries, but if you train yourself at it, you can save a respectable amount of money in each purchase. In places like Thailand and Indonesia , take the initial price as a suggestion only, even if it is advertised.

Check out this guide to haggling by Rick Steves .

Haggling pro tip: As a rule of thumb, try to pay less than 50% of the initial price.

Travel Without Money Is Not A Bad Thing!

Watching what you spend by any means does not mean less fun. In fact, it’s often the opposite. To travel without (almost any) money you need to do is to do smart choices!

Like everything in life, balance is key .

Now that you’ve saved literally hundreds and hundreds of dollars, loosen up a bit. Use your savings and splurge on that amazing once-in-a-lifetime experience that is both an unmissable opportunity and something normally out of your price range. Allow yourself some treats.

Help me find the tip #40! What is your biggest budget secret to travel without money and to lower your travel costs?

Note: This page contains affiliate links which means by clicking them and visiting or purchasing the website, I may get a small commission. Please note there’s absolutely no additional cost to you. Instead, it’s a win-win relationship: you get an awesome product/service and I get to keep this website going.

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How to Travel Cheap: 16 Ways to Travel for Cheap or Free

Whenever I ask readers what the number one thing holding them back from traveling is, I almost always get the same answer: Money.

This is something I hear from everyone I talk to: “Matt, I simply don’t have enough money to travel.”

This problem — and how to overcome it — is my most asked question. Over the past 14 years , I have answered this question in a plethora of posts, emails, tweets, and Facebook posts. Long-term readers might even be getting sick of me discussing this subject because it is one I talk about so much. 

But I know no matter how often I address this question, it will come up again.

Since this question comes up so often, I like to constantly remind people of this fact: You do not need to be rich to travel.

Let’s repeat that: You do not need to be rich to travel.

There are plenty of ways to travel on a budget (and for free) — you just need to be willing to get creative.

Traveling the world with no little or no money sounds like an impossible dream. But it is possible. It’s not glamorous, but it’s possible.

It should be said that there are some expenses you shouldn’t compromise on (like travel insurance ) but there are tons of ways you can travel the world on a budget — including plenty of ways you can actually travel for free.

In this post, I’m going to show you two things:

• How to travel cheap
• How to travel for free

Learning how to travel cheap is all about taking advantage of helpful apps and websites that save you money, finding ways to lower your expenses, and even making money as you travel. It’s about finding value and lowering your expenses while still being able to afford to do what you want.

Learning how to travel for free entails taking advantage of free accommodation, transportation, and activities that are already out there, thereby reducing your cost to zero. You can also use points and miles to earn free flights and accommodation . Here, you sacrifice comfort and convenience to extend your travels as long as possible.

With the right budget and the right mindset, you can make your travel dreams a reality. Even if you don’t earn a lot or you have debt, there are still plenty of ways to go overseas (I still had debt when I went on my first trip around the world). They may not be fancy or luxurious, but if travel is your priority then you can definitely make it happen!

Ready to kick-start your budget travels and save money? Just click on either of the links below to jump directly to that section!

Table of Contents

1. Get a Job Overseas

2. teach english overseas, 3. do wwoofing and work on a farm, 4. use the sharing economy, 5. cook your own meals, 6. get rail passes, 7. sleep in large dorms, 8. use student and other discount cards, 9. get city tourist cards, 10. capitalize on your skills, 11. get free flights, 12. stay for free, 13. hitchhike, 14. take free walking tours, 15. house sitting & pet sitting, 16. use your social network.

Not making enough money at your job? Or, even worse, are you working a job you hate? Why not get a job overseas? There are plenty of opportunities in the world as long as you aren’t picky. After all, this isn’t a career you are starting — it’s just a way to earn money for travel.

Here are some popular (and easy to find) jobs you can get when you travel:

• Au pair – An au pair is a live-in caregiver who helps a host family by looking after their children and doing some basic housekeeping. In exchange, you get free room and board and a small salary. This is a great route if you’re looking to learn a new language or immerse yourself in a new culture. You can read this post for more info on being an au pair .
• Bartender – It’s always 5 o’clock somewhere, so if you have the skills then this is an easy job to move overseas. It’s also an easy job to get under the table if you decide to go that route. If you don’t have the skills to tend bar, consider being a dishwasher or busser.
• Hostel worker – Hostel workers rarely stick around for long, which means there is always a demand for new help. It’s a great way to meet other travelers while adjusting to a new location. You can usually also start off as a volunteer (in exchange for a free room) to avoid visa complications. Three websites that can help you find hostels to volunteer at are Worldpackers , Workaway , and HelpX .
• Waitress/waiter – There are tons of seasonal restaurants around the world (and around the US) that need extra help during the busy tourist months. If you have experience, this is an easy job to find abroad.
• Dive instructor – If you have your certification , this is an easy job to travel with as dive instructors are needed everywhere. Best of all, these jobs are usually in picturesque tropical locations !
• Tour guide – If you’ve got a knack for history and don’t mind speaking in front of groups, this is the perfect job for you. It’s also usually a cash job, which means you get your tips directly.
• Cruise ship worker – This is a much more formal position than the ones above, but it’s a great way to travel. The hours are long, but there’s something to be said about living at sea!
• Casino worker – While this might require some training, if you’re a night owl and don’t mind the casino scene this is a fun job to work abroad.
• Seasonal worker at ski resorts – Instructors, restaurant staff, hotel staff, lifeguards — ski resorts need all sorts of staff to keep things moving, making this a goldmine for the overseas traveler (as long as you don’t mind the snow!).
• Yacht worker – While the hours can be long, you can make great money working for the rich and famous on their yachts. Best of all, you’re usually in some pretty amazing destinations!
• Yoga instructor – If you have the skills (and certification), teaching yoga abroad is an easy way to make some spending money. While you might need to know the language, there are yoga studios in pretty much every city in the world.

Working overseas often gets discounted as an option because it seems hard to do. It’s not. Just be open. These jobs don’t require advanced degrees or a lot of work experience either.

Are you going to get a high-paying office job? No.

Will you get a shitty, low-wage job that will pay all your travel bills? Yep!

I’ve met people from all walks of life, both from Western and non-Western countries, funding their travels this way. It’s an easy, fun way to lengthen your travels, deepen your experience, and make a little money so you can keep on traveling.

READ MORE ABOUT WORKING OVERSEAS: 15 Ways to Find a Job and Work Overseas  

All you need is the ability to speak English fluently and a TEFL degree , depending on the country you work in. The world is yearning for teachers, and this is a job in high demand; many companies in Asia will even pay for your flight over as well as cover your rent while you’re there.

If you have a college or university degree you’ll be able to make more money and apply for better positions though it’s not necessary for many countries.

Additionally, there are many websites and services out there that allow you to teach virtually. As long as you have a great Wi-Fi connection, you can help people learn English from anywhere in the world!

Some places you can teach online are:

READ MORE ABOUT TEACHING OVERSEAS:

• The Best TEFL Courses for Teaching English Abroad
• The 9 Best Places to Teach English Overseas

WWOOF stands for World Wide Opportunities on Organic Farms . It’s a platform that allows you to work on a farm in exchange for free room and board. It’s a great way to see a destination in-depth while allowing you to commune with the great outdoors. You have to pay to get to the farm, but once you are there, everything else is covered! It definitely will help you travel cheap as well as have a unique experience and meet lots of cool people.

WWOOF has opportunities available in 130 countries around the world, with over 12,000 hosts and 100,000 WWOOFers. Some of the most popular destinations for WWOOFers are Portugal, France, Italy, Costa Rica, Australia, New Zealand, and Hawaii.

READ MORE ABOUT VOLUNTEERING :

• How to Travel and Work Around the World with WWOOF
• How to Ethically Volunteer Anywhere in the World

These websites have changed the travel game and made travel more accessible for everyone.

Here are some of my favorite websites:

• BlaBlaCar – A ride-sharing app that connects you with drivers who have extra seats in their car (primarily for medium and long distances, and mainly in Europe).
• EatWith – Platform that connects you with local cooks serving private meals.
• RVShare – Lets you rent RVs and camper vans directly from locals.
• Turo – A car sharing marketplace that lets you rent vehicles from locals.
• Campspace – This platform lets you camp on private property. Properties range from basic tent plots to luxurious glamping and RV stays.
• Trusted Housesitters – Connects you with locals with whom you exchange pet and house sitting services for free accommodation.

READ MORE ABOUT THE SHARING ECONOMY:

• How to Use the Sharing Economy to Travel on a Budget
• How to Find the perfect Apartment on Sites Like Airbnb

The best way to save money on the road is to cook all your own meals. While in Stockholm , I spent $60 USD for a week’s worth of groceries instead of an average of $15 USD per meal eating out! That’s a savings of $150 USD!

I’ve done the same thing in dozens of countries all around the world — especially in expensive destinations like Iceland where eating out can really destroy your budget.

If you are staying in hostels , book accommodation that has a kitchen so you have space to cook. If you’re Couchsurfing or using Airbnb,your host will probably have a kitchen.

No kitchen? Pack your own container and cutlery and make some sandwiches and salads on the go. Not every meal requires a stove, right?

Just because you are traveling doesn’t mean you need to eat out every meal. You won’t ruin your trip to Paris if you decide not to eat out one day! There’s simply no reason to be spending lots of money on food on your trip!

READ MORE ABOUT SAVING MONEY ON FOOD WHEN YOU TRAVEL:

• How to Eat Cheap Around the World
• How to Eat Around the World on a Vegan Diet

If you are booking individual trips, booking ahead of time can usually save you about 50% of the cost of a train ticket. However, that fixes you to a set timeline. If you don’t want to be tied into a fixed schedule, rail passes can save you a lot of money while giving you the flexibility you need. I’ve saved hundreds of dollars in Europe doing this!

READ MORE ABOUT RAIL PASSES:

• Is The Eurail Pass Right For You?
• A Complete Guide To The Eurail Global Pass
• The Ultimate Guide To Saving Money With Eurail Passes

Large hostel dorm rooms are the cheapest paid accommodation out there. If Couchsurfing isn’t your thing, this is your next best way to save money on a place to sleep. The bigger the dorm, the cheaper it will be. While a 4-6 bed dorm might give you more privacy, a 12-18 bed dorm is going to be a bit cheaper. In the long run, this will add up. As long as you’ve got earplugs and a sleeping mask, opt for the bigger dorm to keep your budget intact!

If you’re a light sleeper, make sure you read the reviews before you book to ensure you don’t choose a party hostel. In larger cities, you can usually find a hostel that is quieter than the others. It might not be as social or as centrally located, but you’ll at least be able to get a good sleep.

In a large dorm, you’re almost guaranteed to have some snorers. If earplugs don’t quite do the trick, download an app like Rain Rain , which plays rain sounds on a loop. You can set a timer so they stop playing after an hour or two, helping you ignore the noises of the dorm while you try to fall asleep. Spotify also has all kinds of rain and whitenoise playlists too.

For discounts on hostels in Europe, check out HostelPass . This card gives you up to 20% off hostels throughout Europe. They’re constantly adding new hostels too. I’ve always wanted something like this and am glad it finally exists! (Use code NOMADICMATT for 25% off your membership.)

READ MORE ABOUT HOSTELS:

• Why I Still Stay in Hostels When I Travel
• 11 Expert Tips on Picking a Good Hostel
• 6 Ways to Avoid a Bad Hostel

Are you a student, teacher, or under 26? Welcome to the world of 50%-off attractions and a plethora of discounts! Get a student/teacher/youth card and save big while you’re abroad. Even if you’ve recently graduated, chances are you can still get by with your expired ID card (as long as it doesn’t have an expiry date). Always ask if there are discounts available for students or youth as this is an easy way to save tons of cash as you travel around!

Museums, galleries, and other major tourist attractions usually have discounts (especially in Europe ). It never hurts to ask! (There are also often discounts for senior travelers and veterans as well, so always ask!)  

If you plan on seeing a lot of sights in a city, you should get a city tourism card. These will offer you discounted and/or free access to the major attractions and museums, as well as free public transportation. I saved over $100 USD with the London pass, $80 USD with the Paris Museum card, $50 USD with a Helsinki card, and tons more with other city tourism cards.

They are an amazing way to save money on attractions that not enough people use. Just head to the local tourism office to find out what cards are available. They can help answer all your questions and make sure you save as much money as possible. Not every city has them, but most major destinations do and you’ll save a lot of money if you plan on seeing the major sights.  

Need some cash? Use Craigslist (operates in 70 countries), TaskRabbit (mainly in the US and Canada, though also in Italy and Spain), or Gumtree (UK-based) to find paid odd jobs, like assisting people who need a few things done around the house. It’s a way to make money when you travel without committing to a long-term job.

Additionally, if you have a skill, sell it. Offer haircuts to other travelers, busk for money, provide online services like editing, graphic design, or consulting. It’s never been easier to work online. As long as you have Wi-Fi you can make money. The sky is the limit here — get creative!  

These days, there are tons of ways to earn free flights. Simply sign up for a few travel credit cards , collect miles, and then fly for free.

Most cards offer sign-up bonuses of 50,000 points (or more) — which is often enough for a free round-trip flight right there. And if you sign up for both an airline card (e.g., a United credit card) and a general rewards card like the Chase Sapphire, you can combine the two point balances and get a cheap flight faster.

You can go a lot further in the world when you take away the cost of flights and some accommodation. By collecting points and miles through credit card bonuses, smart everyday spending, online surveys, bonuses, and other methods, you’ll accrue a ton of miles even before you’ve left for your trip. There’s even a card now — the Bilt rewards card – that lets you earn points on your rent!

Collecting points and miles isn’t only for Americans either (though US residents have the best options). Canadians can collect points too, as can folks from Australia and New Zealand and the UK .

Europeans also have several options as well, including all kinds of airline cards such as Norwegian Air, SAS, Aer Lingus, Lufthansa, and more.

READ MORE ABOUT POINTS & MILES:

• Points & Miles 101: A Beginner’s Guide
• The Ultimate Guide to Points & Miles
• How I Earn 1 Million Frequent Flier Miles Each Year
• The Best Travel Credit Cards

There are many services that connect travelers with locals who are willing to let them stay with them for free. Using these sites, you will never have to pay for accommodation. Years ago I read about a guy who traveled for years while only Couchsurfing.

I’ve used this service dozens of times over the years and always meet amazing people. Sometimes you get a room, sometimes a couch, sometimes an air mattress, but it’s always free.

Ideally, you’ll want to repay your host’s kindness by cooking them a meal, bringing them a souvenir from home, or taking them out for a drink. But that will still be much cheaper than paying for accommodation!

There are also local Couchsurfing group meet-ups that can help you make friends in your new city. You can even use the app just to meet people without having to stay with them. It’s a great way to connect with local insiders — whether you want a free place to stay or not.

Moreover, because of the rise of the sharing economy in the last few years, there are now websites that let you not only stay with locals but share rides, meals, train tickets, gear, and much more! These websites not only save you a TON of money but also get you off the tourist track and into the local life. Win-win! Here is a list of websites to use for free accommodation:

• Couchsurfing
• Warmshowers

READ MORE ABOUT FINDING CHEAP OR FREE ACCCOMMODATION:

• How to Find Cheap Accommodation
• How to Start House Sitting and Never Pay for Accommodation
• How to Crush it on Couchsurfing

I’ve hitchhiked in more than a handful of countries (and I know solo female travelers who have done the same!). Sure, it has a bad reputation in North America, but with some common sense and a bit of patience, you can hitchhike almost anywhere — saving you tons of money in the process!

Here are a few basic tips to help you get started:

• Use a sign – Make a clear sign that lets people know where you’re heading. That will help drivers decide if they can help.
• Look presentable – Wear clean clothing, smile, and don’t obscure your face with something like sunglasses. People want to see who they are picking up.
• Check the laws – Hitchhiking is illegal in some places. Always check the laws to make sure it’s ok to do where you are.
• Take precautions – Note the license plate of anyone who picks you up and text it to a friend. Chances are you won’t need it but it’s better to be safe than sorry!
• Keep your valuables on you – Don’t leave any valuables in your bag if it goes in the trunk in case it gets left in the car (or stolen).
• Consult Hitchwiki – Hitchwiki is the #1 hitchhiking resource there is. Always consult it before you hitchhike to pick up tips and ensure you’re hitchhiking in a safe place.

READ MORE ABOUT HITCHHIKING:

• 14 Ways to Safely Hitchhike Across the United States
• What I Learned Hitchhiking Around China
• A Lesson in Kindness While Hitchhiking through Iceland

Want to learn about the city, get your bearings, and see the major sights? Take a free walking tour. You can find them in most major cities — just ask the local tourist office, your hostel staff, or Google “free walking tour (city name).”

You’ll get a solid introduction to the city while also getting access to a local guide you can ask questions to. I always start my visits to a new city with one. Just be sure to tip your guide at the end (that’s how they get paid).

READ MORE ABOUT TAKING FREE WALKING TOURS:

• The Best Walking Tours of NYC
• The Best Walking Tour Companies in London
• 8 Ways to Choose the Perfect Tour Company
• The Best Walking Tours in Paris
• The Best Walking Tours in Amsterdam
• A Self-Guided Tour of Colonial New York

You can sign up for one of the sites below to start house sitting, allowing you to stay in one destination for a while without having to pay for accommodation. Everyone’s account is verified and has reviews so you know you won’t get cheated.

This is a great way to travel long-term, with an important added bonus: you get a kitchen to cook your food (which saves you even more money!).

You will also often get access to a vehicle and sometimes will be left a tip or free groceries. It’s generally people who are well enough off that they can afford multi-month vacations, so you’re usually in pretty nice homes and apartments too!

Here are the best house-sitting websites to check out:

• Trusted Housesitters

READ MORE ABOUT HOUSE SITTING:

• How to Become a House Sitter and Never Pay for Accommodation
• How to Start House Sitting

Does your colleague have a relative in Spain? Or maybe you have a distant cousin who lives in New Zealand. Or maybe a childhood friend of yours is working down in Brazil.

These days, we have a vast social network of friends and family that stretches across the globe. Don’t hesitate to use that! Ask your co-workers and friends if they know anyone where you’re going. Get your mom to ask her co-workers and friends, too.

Using your social network can be hugely helpful in traveling the world . You never know who knows who!

By implementing a variety of these tips, you’ll be able to travel for relatively little money. With a little planning and some creativity, you can travel the world for cheap.

Because if I can do it, you can do it too!

Whether it’s two months, two years, or just a two-week vacation, travel doesn’t need to cost a ton. The key is to get out of the mindset that you must travel in the typical manner of simply booking a flight and a hotel. Using out-of-the-box, nontraditional ways to travel can lead to big savings.

But it all starts with a change in mindset. From there, with some patience and practice, you’ll be able to make your travel dreams a reality — without breaking the bank!

Book Your Trip: Logistical Tips and Tricks

Book Your Flight Find a cheap flight by using Skyscanner . It’s my favorite search engine because it searches websites and airlines around the globe so you always know no stone is being left unturned.

Book Your Accommodation You can book your hostel with Hostelworld . If you want to stay somewhere other than a hostel, use Booking.com as it consistently returns the cheapest rates for guesthouses and hotels.

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:

• SafetyWing (best for everyone)
• Insure My Trip (for those 70 and over)
• Medjet (for additional evacuation coverage)

Want to Travel for Free? Travel credit cards allow you to earn points that can be redeemed for free flights and accommodation — all without any extra spending. Check out my guide to picking the right card and my current favorites to get started and see the latest best deals.

Need Help Finding Activities for Your Trip? Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace where you can find cool walking tours, fun excursions, skip-the-line tickets, private guides, and more.

Hi, I’m Nomadic Matt, the New York Times best-selling author of How to Travel the World on $50 a Day and Ten Years a Nomad, as well as the founder of this website! And I’m here to help you save money on your next trip.

Got a comment on this article? Join the conversation on Facebook , Instagram , or Twitter and share your thoughts!

Disclosure: Please note that some of the links above may be affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase. I recommend only products and companies I use and the income goes to keeping the site community supported and ad free.

Related Posts

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How to Travel the World With No Money

Is it possible to travel the world with no money? In essence, yes, but it demands unwavering persistence and astute strategizing. Whether you seek cost-free travel opportunities or aspire to globetrot without financial constraints, this guide unveils methods to international travel with no money, ensuring your journey remains financially savvy without draining your resources.

Financial constraints often hinder individuals from venturing abroad, yet numerous approaches can kickstart your travels despite minimal funds. Reflecting on my quest over a decade ago to unearth avenues for free global exploration, I discovered steps that not only fulfilled my travel aspirations but are universally accessible.

You can travel the world for free too!

Persistence is key in realizing your travel ambitions. Suppose you’ve prioritized travel and now seek budget-friendly or complimentary global adventures—mirroring my journey’s inception. Embrace a shift in mindset, abandoning any limiting beliefs. Daunting as it may seem, remember: if you can imagine it, you can achieve it.

I firmly believe anyone can acquire elementary money management skills to nurture financial responsibility.

Should your desire be to wander the world without significant expenditure, cultivating the right mindset is paramount. Whether your travels span a week or several months, the underlying principle remains constant.

Read Next: Italy Travel Guide

Being a thrifty traveler, I firmly believe that every dollar saved today paves the way for richer experiences tomorrow. I advocate a minimalist approach on the road, recognizing only two essential expenses: airfare and accommodation.

Even these costs can be significantly slashed with strategic planning. Traveling around the world with no money, just with a backpack, camera, and toothbrush is my preference, reveling in the joys of minimalist travel.

While budget travel may occasionally pose discomfort, the rewards are immeasurable.

It’s a journey teeming with new encounters, diverse experiences, and everlasting memories.

These invaluable aspects hold greater significance for me than mere financial considerations.

If you share these sentiments, let’s embark on this fulfilling adventure together.

The Ultimate Guide to Traveling With No Money

1. earn points and miles for your travel.

To begin traveling the world with no or little money, securing a credit travel card capable of granting you complimentary flights is paramount.

Airfare stands as a significant travel expense, making it prudent to consider obtaining a rewards credit card, or multiple. And utilizing it for purchases within bonus categories.

Most major airlines offer co-branded credit cards with enticing sign-up bonuses.

Moreover, various cards accrue points at differing rates across distinct categories.

While one point per dollar spent is commonplace, there are more lucrative options available.

For instance, the Chase Ink Bold Business card allows you to earn 5 points per dollar on payments like cell phone bills, cable, and internet (during the initial year) and 1 point per dollar on non-travel expenditures.

With a suitable credit card, many travelers can amass ample reward miles annually to cover at least one round-trip flight.

Although credit cards offering complimentary hotel stays and other perks exist, prioritizing air travel cost reduction is advisable for budget-conscious travelers.

Seize this opportunity, enroll now, and capitalize on available bonus categories and everyday purchases to propel your free travel endeavors.

2. Get a Free Flight

Yearning for a complimentary flight without shelling out a cent while preserving rewards points?

Consider getting voluntarily bumped from a flight. As airlines frequently oversell flights due to the high volume of global travelers, exploit this opportunity to relinquish your seat in exchange for a cost-free journey.

To optimize your chances of being bumped and receiving a free flight voucher matching your ticket value, start by selecting a popular destination and booking a flight to a major airport.

Popular routes or peak travel times, such as weekends or holidays, with a considerable passenger influx, especially business travelers, enhance your bumping prospects.

Arrive at the airport early without any checked baggage, opting for light hand luggage instead—positioning yourself as an ideal candidate for bumping.

Approach the check-in counter with a warm smile and politely request to be placed on the bumping list.

Airlines seeking volunteers typically prioritize those on the list.

Additionally, inquire with the gate agent about potential accommodation options in case of missed layover connections, ensuring clarity on overnight stay arrangements near the airport to sidestep any unforeseen inconveniences.

3. Getting Around For Free

Transitioning from a complimentary flight to navigating between locations or cities without depleting your finances is the next challenge.

While hitchhiking presents an alluring option for traveling around the world with no money, ensuring additional funds can serve as a safety net during challenging circumstances and express gratitude towards local drivers when necessary.

An investment that will prove invaluable as your trip unfolds.

Embarking on hitchhiking adventures offers a thrilling and cost-effective means to traverse the world.

There’s an undeniable excitement in standing by the roadside, extending your thumb, and embarking on a trip with unknown destinations.

Recalling my initial hitchhiking jaunts across Europe evokes cherished memories.

Unplugged from technology, armed only with favorite books, camping outdoors under the stars, and relishing simple pleasures like crafting breakfast burritos before seeking the next ride.

Over the years, hitchhiking through eleven countries on a daily budget of 10 Euros has been both a challenge and a source of profound experiences.

Covering vast distances with just a backpack, these hitchhiking expeditions have gifted me unforgettable moments and unique encounters that would have been elusive through conventional travel methods.

How To Save Money While Traveling in Europe

My hitchhiking ventures have taken me through Germany , Poland, Ukraine, Romania, Albania, and Serbia on extensive multi-month expeditions.

These trips pushed me beyond my comfort zone , allowing me to forge connections with remarkable individuals and immerse myself in the vibrant local cultures.

As a passionate hiker, I meticulously scout hiking trails and complimentary attractions, eliminating the need for taxis or public transit.

I gravitate towards quaint small cities, particularly those in Eastern Europe, which can be effortlessly explored on foot within a few hours.

These charming destinations offer a treasure trove of local sights, each potentially hiding a captivating photographic gem waiting to be discovered.

When capturing moments through photography, achieving the perfect perspective and camera angle is paramount.

While the quest for a unique viewpoint may not be time-consuming, I find that strolling through the surroundings is the most organic approach to uncovering distinctive angles. And perspectives that elevate my visual storytelling.

4. Free Accommodation

Equipped with the knowledge of securing complimentary flights and navigating new horizons without breaking the bank, the next vital component to consider is free or cheap accommodation .

Delving into various strategies to cut down on lodging costs during your money-saving global escapades is crucial.

Allow me to unveil some of my preferred methods for achieving free accommodation worldwide:

House Sitting. Look After Someone’s House

As individuals vacate their homes for diverse reasons, there arises a need for caretakers for their residences and pets.

Leveraging the multitude of websites facilitating connections between house sitters and homeowners presents a unique chance to safeguard someone’s abode and furry companions. Simultaneously enjoying cost-free accommodation benefits.

It is a win-win for both parties since you get a place to live for free, while house owners have someone helping with keeping their house clean and pets fed.

How to Become a House Sitter?

Engaging in house-sitting transcends merely acquiring a complimentary abode; it underscores a profound sense of responsibility.

By tending to pets, and property, and maintaining the household in exchange for free lodging, one must approach each opportunity with utmost diligence and care.

If you find joy in caring for animals, exploring house-sitting possibilities on the following platforms can be a rewarding experience:

• Trusted House Sitters ;
• House Carers ;

These websites serve as invaluable resources connecting house sitters with homeowners, fostering a symbiotic relationship between both parties.

While several services offer house-sitting opportunities without membership fees, I have found it beneficial to invest in a reputable site. Such as one requiring an $8 monthly fee—to secure quality house-sitting assignments. The peace of mind and reliability afforded by these platforms are well worth the modest expense.

CouchSurfing

Couchsurfing stands as one of the world’s largest guest communities, transcending its role as a mere money-saving travel tool.

This popular service offers a gateway to secure a complimentary couch to rest on while fostering connections with kindred spirits and locals alike.

The unpredictability of each encounter adds a sense of excitement to the experience.

Individuals worldwide extend their hospitality by providing spare rooms, couches, and even camping cots. They facilitate a supportive network of travelers aiding one another in traversing the globe without incurring accommodation expenses.

Couchsurfing embodies a spirit of generosity and camaraderie, creating unforgettable moments and forging lasting connections among its diverse community members.

For those seeking savvy and economical travel options, WWOOFing emerges as a prime choice.

This global movement serves as a bridge connecting organic farmers across more than 60 countries with volunteers eager for cost-free travel opportunities.

Embrace the chance to reside on a farm without charge and receive complimentary sustenance from your host in exchange for aiding in farming or gardening tasks.

Prior to committing as a volunteer, engage in negotiations to clarify expectations.

Outline details such as farm location and the duration of your stay upfront.

Across most countries, farmers anticipate volunteers to engage in diverse responsibilities like weeding, harvesting, packing, or participating in winemaking processes.

While specific requirements vary among hosts, a common expectation involves dedicating 4-6 hours daily to farm tasks in exchange for accommodation. They offer a fair exchange for the invaluable experiences.

Few things rival the cost-effectiveness of free camping. For a significant portion of my life, my tent served as my portable abode, granting me unparalleled freedom.

Before setting up camp, it’s crucial to acquaint yourself with the environmental laws and regulations of the destination country.

While numerous free campsites exist, many close outside peak tourist seasons.

In such scenarios, in most countries, you have the liberty to pitch a tent along roadsides or on various beaches at no cost, offering a budget-friendly alternative to traditional accommodation options.

In certain instances, circumstances left me with no choice but to camp near highways.

Seeking out clearings amidst the trees, I ensured an inconspicuous setup and departed early each morning, leaving no trace of my presence behind.

A fundamental rule: always diligently collect and carry out all waste accumulated during your stay.

On occasion, I opted to camp in proximity to fuel stations, provided there was a secluded spot available.

These strategic choices allowed for a level of convenience while maintaining a sense of discretion in diverse camping areas.

Work-to-stay at Hostels

For travelers with adaptable schedules and no fixed itineraries, engaging in work-to-stay arrangements at hostels presents a compelling option.

Ever noticed a discreet sign at the check-in desk reading “We’re hiring”?

This subtle cue signifies an opportunity for savvy backpackers to explore lesser-known destinations.

Simply inquire with hostel staff about potential work exchange opportunities for complimentary accommodation.

Hostels often offer work-to-stay setups, granting travelers the chance to lodge at no cost in exchange for bartending or reception duties.

While I have not personally partaken in hostel work, it’s advisable to maintain a safety net of funds in case of unexpected emergencies necessitating swift travel arrangements home.

Conversely, individuals aiming to earn income while working at hostels should consider applying for the requisite work permits to ensure compliance with legal requirements.

5. Work Abroad

Following a year on the road, I grasped the vital importance of earning a sustainable income for prolonged travels.

In this section, the focus shifts from unraveling the secrets of traveling the world with no money to elucidating ways to make money while traveling.

Your skills serve as your most valuable asset!

Whether proficient in JS coding, crafting WordPress plugins, offering haircuts to fellow backpackers, or tutoring in your native language, leverage your expertise to earn.

Platforms like Craigslist, TaskRabbit, Upwork, or Envato can connect you with individuals seeking your programming skills, enabling you to monetize your talents.

As someone of modest means, I understand the significance of every penny.

For those traveling the world with no or little money, grasping methods to generate additional income is crucial for financial stability.

Explore a curated list of top travel jobs without delay to kickstart your journey towards financial independence:

Hotel Animator

Embarking on a career as a hotel animator necessitates no extraordinary skills.

These roles typically involve orchestrating diverse evening programs and beach shows, offering a vibrant and enjoyable work environment with ample interactions throughout the day.

The key allure lies in the comprehensive benefits provided by hotels, encompassing complimentary accommodation, meals, and beverages. A rewarding opportunity indeed.

Bartending emerges as a lucrative endeavor when equipped with local language proficiency or prior experience.

While bartending may appear straightforward initially, it transcends mere drink preparation.

A bartender plays a pivotal role in ensuring guests feel at ease and welcomed, fostering a homely ambiance within the establishment.

This multifaceted responsibility is what renders bartending a potentially profitable.

Waitress/waiter

If you’re young, ambitious and looking for traveling jobs with no experience then waitress/waiter is the job you should consider applying for.

There are plenty of restaurants around the world that will gladly hire a foreigner to help during the busy tourist months.

Scuba instructor

Possessing your PADI certificate (Professional Association of Diving Instructors) opens up exciting travel job prospects.

Head to renowned diving havens like Utila, Koh Tao, Cozumel, or Dauin to master the art of diving, navigate underwater with ease, and gracefully move as if weightless.

Additionally, you’ll forge meaningful connections with fellow diving enthusiasts at your diving school.

Once you attain scuba diving certification, the world truly becomes your oyster, offering boundless exploration opportunities beneath the surface.

For those passionate about assisting others, well-versed in extensive travels, and possessing in-depth knowledge of specific destinations, pursuing a career as a tour guide offers a remarkable opportunity to make money while traveling.

Although demanding, this role mandates perpetual availability to offer aid and address inquiries.

A genuine passion for showcasing local life and a constant thirst for learning about the region are essential attributes for success in this field.

Within Europe, opportunities for tour guide positions, such as those with Free Walking tours, abound, often without the need for a work permit, providing a seamless entry into this enriching profession.

Cruise Ship Worker

Have you ever thought about exploring the world by cruise ship? Or maybe by the private yacht or cargo ship. Cover your expenses and gain enough of free time when you get off the ship to explore the new countries;

Become An English Teacher

Teaching English stands out as one of the most financially rewarding travel jobs for backpackers seeking short-term commitments.

With a Bachelor’s Degree and native fluency in English, securing English teaching positions across numerous global regions is remarkably feasible.

In the absence of these qualifications, obtaining a TEFL certification serves as a valuable credential, demonstrating your proficiency as an educator.

Highly remunerative teaching roles in cities like Hong Kong and Beijing not only offer substantial pay but also encompass additional perks such as:

• Accommodation;
• Insurance coverage.

It makes them enticing prospects for aspiring English teachers.

6. Free Food

Indeed, complimentary food is within reach, even if it may not match the culinary delight of your tuna casserole. Rest assured, it will satiate your hunger.

In India, sacred sites such as Sikh temples and Ashrams extend the generosity of free meals to devotees.

By assisting in the preparation of chapatis (Indian bread), you can relish a nourishing feast in exchange for your contribution and service.

Undoubtedly, multiple pathways exist to procure complimentary meals while abroad.

From seizing the opportunity to acquire leftover baked goods at local bakeries to engaging in resourceful practices like dumpster diving, numerous options abound.

However, my personal preference leans towards preparing my own meals.

Though it necessitates a modest investment, self-catering enables me to meticulously monitor all my travel expenditures.

Furthermore, the anticipation of knowing my forthcoming meals holds its appeal.

Embracing this approach empowers me to store leftovers in either plastic or glass containers, facilitating convenient enjoyment of these meals at a later time.

9. Free Stuff

Food samples, local festivals, and complimentary walking tours serve as steadfast companions for anyone willing to travel with no money at all.

These resources prove invaluable when striving to explore the world on a budget, facilitating cultural immersion even in the absence of substantial funds.

Prior to embarking on a journey, I habitually scour for available free walking tours at my destination. A practice prevalent across most European cities and major Commonwealth urban hubs.

Researching and selecting tours that align with my interests enhances my travel experiences significantly.

For those inclined towards free travel, adept communication is paramount.

Initiating conversations is key: negotiating a flight bump with gate agents, offering assistance to hotels, hostels, or restaurants, and proposing honest reviews to tour companies can all present avenues for complimentary travel opportunities.

The bravery to initiate these discussions often leads to unexpected and rewarding experiences well beyond one’s initial plans.

HOW TO PICK TRAVEL CREDIT CARD

TIPS FOR FINDING CHEAP AIRFARE

HOW TO BUY BEST TRAVEL INSURANCE

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Travel, Learn, Grow

Ultimate Guide to Traveling the World Without Spending Money

With our practical tips and tricks, you can learn how to travel without spending money. Start your adventure today on a budget!

Table of Contents

Travelling the world is a dream for many, but the perceived high costs often hold people back. 

However,  travel without money  is not only possible but can also be incredibly rewarding. 

This guide will show you how to explore the world with minimal expenses.

Travel Hacking

Travel hacking involves using  frequent flyer miles ,  credit card rewards , and other loyalty programs to get free flights and accommodation. 

Here is how you can start:

• Credit Card Points : Sign up for travel credit cards that offer sign-up bonuses and use them wisely to earn points.
• Frequent Flyer Miles : Join frequent flyer programs and accumulate miles through travel and purchases.
• Promotions and Deals : Keep an eye on travel deals and promotions to get the best rates on flights and hotels.

Work Exchange Programs

Work exchange programs are a fantastic way to travel without spending money. 

You get free accommodation and sometimes meals in exchange for a few hours of work per day.

• WWOOF  (World Wide Opportunities on Organic Farms): Work on organic farms in exchange for food and lodging.
• Workaway : Offers a variety of opportunities from farm work to teaching languages.
• HelpX : Similar to Workaway but with a broader range of options, including hostels and family stays.

Volunteering

Volunteering is another excellent way to travel the world for free. 

Many organizations need help and offer  free accommodation  and meals in return.

• Peace Corps : Long-term volunteering with comprehensive support.
• Couchsurfing : Stay with locals for free; in return, you can offer help or cultural exchange.

Hitchhiking and Ride-Sharing

Hitchhiking is a time-tested way to travel without money. 

It requires a small quantity of courage and patience but can lead to unforgettable experiences.

• Safety Tips : Always hitchhike in pairs and avoid isolated areas.
• Ride-Sharing Apps : Use apps like BlaBlaCar to find free or cheap rides.

Camping and Couchsurfing

Accommodation can be one of the most significant travel expenses. 

Here are some ways to stay for free:

• Camping : Use websites like Freecampsites.net to find places to camp for free.
• Couchsurfing : Connect with locals willing to offer a free place to stay.

Travel with a Purpose

Travelling with a specific goal can help you cut down costs or even get sponsors.

• Blogging/Vlogging : Share your journey online and potentially earn through sponsorships.
• Digital Nomad : Work remotely while you travel, earning money to fund your adventures.

Eat Like a Local

Food can be a significant expense while travelling. 

To save money, eat like a local.

• Street Food : Often cheap and delicious.
• Local Markets : Buy fresh produce and cook your meals if possible.
• Hostels : Many hostels offer communal kitchens where you can prepare your food.

Travel Light

Packing light makes travelling more comfortable and can save you money on baggage fees.

• Essential Gear : Only pack what you need. A good backpack, versatile clothing, and basic toiletries.
• Free Activities : Research free activities and attractions in your destination.

Travelling without money might seem daunting, but it is achievable with the right mindset and strategies. 

By leveraging work exchange programs, volunteering, travel hacking, and savvy budgeting, you can explore the world without breaking the bank. 

Start your adventure today and discover the joys of travelling on a shoestring budget.

This comprehensive guide aims to show you that money should not be a barrier to seeing the world.

With determination and resourcefulness, you can embark on your travel adventures without spending a fortune. 

Safe travels!

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TRAVEL WITH THOUSIF

TRAVEL WITH THOUSIF blog aims to motivate individuals to leave their luxurious comfort zones and discover the world.

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How to Travel the World With (Almost) No Money

If there’s one thing that continues to surprise me on my globe-trotting journey, it’s the reactions I get from others when I give them a peek at my bio.

I’ve been asked if I am the son of some rock star or hedge fund manager – living abroad under a false identity, of course – or if I’m a trust fund kid living out an extended gap year, or a million of other things. ‎

The truth is, as the adage goes, less glamorous than fiction.

Or is it? What if I told you that what I do, living as a nomad, country-hopping for a living, is something that nearly anyone can accomplish, and that money is not the defining barrier between those who dream and those who do?

What if I went even further and told you that you can actually travel the world (almost) for free?

Well, that’s just what this guide will be about. I am going to share with you some tips, strategies, and valuable experience I’ve learned on how to travel without money.

Table of Contents

Before you go…

Before I send you off on your glorious journey, here are a few things to consider.

I’m by no means trying to be a killjoy (those who know me would know I am anything but), but sometimes you need to be able to sit down and think things through rationally.

Assess your savings

This is something you’d best do before you head out in the first place. After all, the vast majority of the people who will be reading this will be complete newcomers to backpacking around the world with no (or little) money.

That’s great! Believe it or not, but time, not wealth, can often be your greatest advantage. It allows you to plan ahead and calmly put things together before you dive in.

Before you embark on your journey (which might just become your new life), put together all your savings and everything you own. Count it up, make a list, do everything that helps you get an overview.

Of course, if you don’t really own so many possessions, that only makes it easier to keep everything accounted for.

The idea here is twofold. One, you want to make sure of which things to take and which to leave behind. Whether in the form of physical belongings or financial liabilities, there are probably quite a lot of things you could let go of to rid yourself of unnecessary stress while traveling.

Secondly, it helps you get an idea of how prepared you are to truly make it out there. Make no mistake, this guide is made to help you understand how to travel the world without money.

Still, you can’t deny having some in your pocket anyway could make life easier, right? So sit down, add everything together, and follow your gut to place yourself somewhere on the great risk-reward scale.

There’s no real right or wrong here; it’s all about how far you’re willing to go beyond your existing comfort zone.

Minimize the risks

Seeing the world without money comes with certain risks, legal, physical, and otherwise.

I believe that it is up to each of us to decide what we’re comfortable with, and what we’re willing to lose. Think about it: the expensive ways of traveling the world don’t exist for no reason!

Still, I also believe at the same time that most of us can find a happy zone somewhere in between a five-star, four-figure-a-night trip to the Galapagos and an illegal train-surfing escapade through Siberia.

As much as it’s all about risk assessment and finding (and maybe moving a bit beyond) your comfort zone, traveling the world like a true nomad is also about, dare I say, not acting stupid.

Recognize the real value of travel insurance like Safetywing , and invest in at least a bare minimum level of fallback security should something go wrong! As I already talked about above, additional savings can never hurt either.

Downgrade and embrace frugality

This one is not a thing that you can do to travel the world for free. It’s a thing that you can not do , and in fact should not do .

Let me explain. For many of us, particularly those raised in the West, a certain kind of (compared to the rest of the world) hyper-consumption and lavish spending on goods and services is taken for granted.

We make money to take out loans on things we can’t afford, and then we strive to make even more and more just to pay off those loans a bit sooner, while taking out new loans for even shinier things, all in a race to outdo the other.

If you want to live as a nomad and spend as little as possible, then let me break it to you: this kind of lifestyle simply isn’t sustainable in the long term.

When trekking through less wealthy areas of the world, such as Central Africa or South Asia, you might be tempted to think that the low local cost of living means you can use your savings in Western currencies to live like a king and spend like there’s no tomorrow.

For sure, there are some travelers that choose to behave like this – mostly retirees who have nothing to lose.

But apart from projecting a negative image about nomads in general, it is also in most cases extremely wasteful.

Instead, you’ll get by much easier by cutting down on your possessions, reducing your expenses to a certain minimum, and trying to live your life to the fullest in a way that isn’t expressed in constant consumption.

You don’t have to give up every possession, become a monk and move into a sleeping bag. But what you can do is to re-think your approach to the material world around you.

You will live more happily, be more in touch with the local lifestyle, gain more real friends, and staying on top of finances will also be much easier.

Trust me, it works. And it feels wonderful when you get the hang of it.

How to travel the world for (almost) no money

1. hitchhike or carpool.

When planning out your adventure, you’ll quickly run into a fundamental roadblock.

Sure, you might be able to imagine how it could be possible to get room and board without spending much (or any) money abroad – and I will go more into that in a bit – but how do you actually travel the world without money?

In other words, how do you get from A to B for free?

There are many options here, and it all depends on that comfort zone that I already mentioned. All of us have our own, and while the point of being a nomad for many of us is to challenge that comfort zone, you don’t want to go all-in without leaving at least a little room to get yourself adjusted.

A classic way to get around for free is hitchhiking, along with its younger brother, carpooling. If you know the right people, you can pull this off entirely risk-free. Of course, depending on where you live and how far away from home you’re thinking of going, that might not be so simple.

But for many, hitchhiking remains a reliable and safe option to see the world – for free! Excellent spots to look for hitchhiking ops include gas stations, rest stops, and roads frequented by travelers – such as those leading right out of or into a major city.

2. Train-hop

I’ll go on record right away saying that I have never made use of this strategy myself (though I know some who have), and part of the reason is that it’s one of the riskiest and most dangerous ways to travel the world for free. If you’re unfazed by my warning, feel free to read on.

Train-hopping will probably be one of the most effective methods of traveling without money for those starting out in Europe and planning to head eastwards into Central or South Asia. Particularly in Russia and other former Eastern Bloc nations, it’s fairly well-established.

Also in parts of North America, it’s not too rare of a sight.

But what is it, exactly? Well, train-hopping is the practice (supporters might say the art ) of using trains as a means of backpacking around the world with no money.

Usually, this means literally hopping on and taking a ride on a freight train to cover a big chunk, if not the entirety of the way to your destination.

You can also hitchhike by means of passenger rail, of course – whether riding the train’s carriage or by simply blending in with passengers or cargo and hoping to not get caught and fined.

In some parts of Europe, there is a great leniency on the side of the law for train-hoppers. This stems from a cultural association between train-hoppers and the poor. That’s why it’s also called “hoboing” in some places.

When I used to live and travel throughout France, I saw plenty of stowaways sitting and sleeping inside the luggage compartments of the long-distance TGV – and every conductor and service personnel in sight walked right past them, pretending not to notice.

Of course, no matter how you twist it, it must be said once again that this is an extremely risky, legally grey, and potentially very dangerous way to travel. For adrenaline junkies and those who really want to nullify their expenses at every cost though, it remains an option.

3. Work on a cruise ship

I know what you’re thinking. You’re the kind of person who accepts no compromises. You want the best of both worlds: a way to travel the world for free while also being entirely free of risk. Don’t worry, I got your back.

Ever been on a cruise? It’s a bit like staying at a fancy hotel but, well, out on the open sea. Ever imagined all the work that goes into maintaining a cruise ship, making sure everything runs as it should?

The reason I’m asking is that you might not have realized how you’re probably already qualified to work a fair number of positions on just such a vessel!

The idea is simple: you get a solid paycheck, room, board, healthcare and insurance is all accounted for, and you get to see the world while you’re working ! If that’s not the whole package, I don’t know what is.

Of course, there are downsides to working on a cruise. The hours can be long and tough, and unless you’re extremely lucky and play your cards right you won’t really be able to go exactly where you want to go.

If you don’t have a set destination though, and you just want to get “out there” and see the world without any big savings, then this career could be right up your alley! It’s also a great chance to meet some like-minded people and make lasting friendships, of course.

4. WWOOF your way around the globe

Speaking of a frugal lifestyle, let me introduce you to what is probably the world’s biggest gateway drug within the field of how to travel the world with no money.

WWOOFing , which you might be surprised to hear does not have to involve dogs, stands for WorldWide Opportunities On Organic Farms .

It’s a global volunteer program that allows you to stay anywhere in the world, room and board provided for free, in exchange for doing work on – you guessed it – an organic farm of your choice.

WWOOFing gets you to expand your horizons, pick up new skills, work with some wonderful people, and do a genuinely good deed! I can only recommend it for those just starting out; it’s been one of my favorite ways to see the world for a long time.

5. Exchange your skills for room with Workaway

Now, here’s a secret tip that many non-nomads often don’t know about.

Workaway , put in a nutshell, is a service that connects travelers to hosts who let those travelers live with them in a house, apartment, hostel, BnB, forest hut, camper…the list goes on. The point is, you get to stay there for free in exchange for performing some volunteer-type work.

This work can really be anything – writing, teaching languages, et cetera et cetera. This makes Workaway more accessible to a wide audience compared to WWOOFing, though you can find a lot of farm work as well if you’re interested in that.

Some hosts are totally casual and will let you stay as long as you keep them company, help with a few chores around the house, and partake in a little bit of friendly cultural exchange!

Others will be looking for trained specialists to assist with something highly specific. If you’re an experienced carpenter for instance, you can find a lot of good international work on here, and some of it will even be paid!

“Workaway” per se is just one website, and its name has definitely become the catch-all term for these kinds of volunteering opportunities, but there are many many more.

In the past, whenever money was tight and all I knew was where I wanted to go next, Workaway has been – more times than anything else – my go-to source of opportunity for what I could do.

6. Travel hacking

Of course, volunteer work like WWOOF is absolutely amazing, but there is one caveat: your travel expenses aren’t covered. Travel hacking is another great trick on how to solve that problem, even when going intercontinental.

Simply put, travel hacking means making use of various promotions, deals, and special arrangements that travel companies, airlines etc. usually provide for some of their more valued customers.

Of course, whether you have access to these kinds of opportunities will depend on a lot of factors, and travel hacking won’t be an option for everyone.

However, for those who can, paying for flights with points collected on your credit card, for example, can be one way of seeing the world without spending a single cent.

7. Couchsurfing

Couchsurfing is simple, and it works kind of like Workawaying.

You contact a host, who gives you room and board for a certain amount of time – except in this case, they mostly don’t ask for anything in return other than that you behave and don’t break anything.

This makes couchsurfing a means of backpacking around the world with no money that is to room and board what hitchhiking is to travel.

Of course, there’s also a downside to couchsurfing. Or shall I rather say, a risk? Simply put, couchsurfing is not the most trustworthy way of traveling.

You’re entrusting your physical safety to a total stranger whom you’ll be living with for a certain amount of time with no oversight, so that’s not exactly foolproof.

Particularly if you’re a solo female traveller, this is something I’d seriously consider before embarking on a couchsurfing adventure.

On the other hand, the “close quarters” intimacy of couchsurfing is exactly where it got its many many fans from.

You get to experience life in a new place from the eyes of an average Joe or Jane – and share with them your own unique perspective, learn from each other, and so much more. This cultural exchange is for many one of the primary reasons to go couchsurfing.

Mainly because of concerns about safety, the reputation of the actual Couchsurfing.com service has taken a bit of a hit in recent years. This is not to say that the actual practice of couchsurfing has become less popular though!

Far from it: countless of “unofficial” couchsurfing alternatives exist! My go-to favorite would be BeWelcome , which is run by an international non-profit and remains the most popular alternative to the original Couchsurfing website.

Alternatively, there is also Trustroots , which markets itself particularly towards hitchhikers, and as the name implies the whole business is based on mutual trust between all its members.

If you’re prepared and have the guts for it, couchsurfing as a means of travel can be one of the most rewarding of them all, period.

8. Try dumpster diving

Again, this is one of those ways of backpacking around the world with no money that some might scoff at. That’s perfectly fine and valid – but the rest might really be able to strike some gold with dumpster diving.

What is it, you ask? Well, in short, dumpster diving is the act of sustaining yourself from what ends up in large ditches, roadside waste containers, and so on.

No, this doesn’t have to mean literally “rummaging through trash”, wearing lousy clothing, or consuming rotten food.

In many places, establishments like grocery stores and large shopping centers will throw away perfectly new, fresh items every single morning if they weren’t sold by the proper date. Similar stories unfold at many urban landfills.

These can be clothes, food, hygiene products – anything! While truly living off of dumpster diving is a bit daring even for most budget-conscious travelers (though I have heard of some managing this way), you can at least try to drive down part of your existing budget by scoring some smaller consumables for free!

9. Be a house-sitter

What if I told you there is a way that you can travel the world (mostly) for free, and also live a very comfortable lifestyle within a set of four, very comfortable walls that are all your own, without having to worry about rent?

Well, that is just what house sitting is all about. If you haven’t heard of it, house sitting originated as the answer to a simple, common problem.

Many people own a second home, or perhaps a vacation house.

But when they leave their permanent residence, often for a few months at a time, what happens to it? Usually, the time frame is way too short to consider renting it out, but on the other hand you can’t just leave a place standing empty for that long.

Enter the house sitter. This friendly helper’s job is simple: “sit” the house (temporarily living there while the owners are away), make sure everything works, and provide small upkeep and maintenance, like tending to the garden or taking care of pets for instance.

In return, you get to live in luxury (relative to most ways of how to travel without money, at least), and you don’t have to spend a dime!

The properties you get to house sit are often in semi-rural and suburban, relatively wealthy areas, so safety is little of an issue. On the other hand, if you’re house sitting in a country where you don’t speak the language at all, you might run into some issues.

This is because there tend to be fewer cosmopolitans and international travelers here than in the big inner cities and capitals.

If you’re looking to become a house sitter, take a look at HouseSittingWorld , a global community of travelers and like-minded fellows who help each other out in finding homes to sit anywhere on the globe.

This can be much more helpful sometimes compared to “official” services like TrustedHouseSitters , which, while very useful, tend only to cover one country or region individually.

I personally would recommend house sitting to anyone who wants to see the world – for free or otherwise. Some might leave it at a one-time experience; others will turn house sitting into a lifestyle.

Regardless, it gets you places you would probably never end up in otherwise, and it’s yet another way you can travel the world for free, so why not give it a shot?

10. Connect with kind-hearted locals

If there is anything that I have learned through my years of traveling the world solo, it is that “traveling solo” as such is a romanticized myth.

What I mean by this is that no matter whether you’re going alone or with a partner (or a few), you will in all likelihood need to rely on the work of others – for transportation, housing, food, learning the language, and the list goes on.

Sure, it is theoretically possible to survive completely self-sufficiently, living as the proverbial hermit. But, in all honesty, only very few of us are willing to pay the steep price in quality of life, physical and mental effort, and safety that this demands.

In that sense, the friends and connections you make before and during your travels are truly worth their weight in gold.

In my experience, the number-one traveling resource that can truly open up worlds of opportunity when you least expect it to is the social network we all love to hate, good old Facebook.

If you’re like me, you might not particularly enjoy using Facebook that much, but it’s hard to escape the fact that its groups are often more useful than anything you will ever find anywhere else, online or otherwise.

No matter your community, vibe, or inclination, there’s bound to be a travel group for you. From LBGTQ Travel to the Black Travel Movement and Bloggers and Travelers , I’m sure you’ll find somewhere to fit in.

Specifically for women travelers, there is also the truly excellent Host a Sister group, which connects women worldwide with a plethora of hosts in their destination, offering free accommodation.

Many of these groups do not focus solely on connecting travelers with hosts; they’re also an excellent way to make new connections and friends while gaining valuable insight and cultural experience for the place you’re staying.

Of course, if I were to write about every Facebook group that could be useful for the budget-conscious nomad, this guide would approach the length of the average novel.

I’d encourage you to read up and discover for yourself how to travel the world for free, both within and beyond the scope that I covered in this article. See it as a stepping stone to your future adventures, and don’t be afraid!

Good luck out there!

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Solo Traveler

Solo travel tips, destinations, stories... the source for those who travel alone.

How to Travel with No Money and Love It

October 4, 2021 by Janice Waugh

No money for travel? Here are some great tips that will take you places for free.

Sometimes my need to travel exceeds my financial resources. I suspect I'm not the only one.

The need can be visceral. It may be called itchy feet by some but I experience it in my chest. It may sound weird but that's where, in my body, I feel an agitation to travel. The feeling is palpable.

Fortunately, I can honestly say that I have enjoyed every place I've traveled. It may be the history or the music scene. It could be many things that are enjoyable but, amongst them, is always the people. People are fascinating no matter how much you have in common or how little.

For me, it's not where to go that is the issue; it's how.

How can you travel with little or no money? Read this How to Make Solo Travel Affordable, Cheap and Even Free and read on.

Table of Contents

Trip Planning Is the Key to Free

When you want to travel and you have no money you need to get a bit creative. You need to reach out and make connections with people who just might be able to help you. It's also important to do so safely. But, with the right people on your side, you can really go places.

• Grow your network. If you have zero dollars to spend it can be worthwhile to reach out to people you know. Perhaps they can't help you but maybe they know someone who can. Perhaps they know someone going across the country who wants company. Perhaps they know someone who needs their house cared for while they are gone. And, if they don't, perhaps their someone's know someone. Seven degrees of separation is a real thing. There's a debate as to whether it's just six degrees. The point is, we're all connected and you can likely make those connections work for you. Start early.
• Earn some goodwill on the resource sites you plan to use. If you plan to use Couchsurfing or Women Welcome Women WorldWide , both of which are organizations that can help you with free accommodation (they have small annual fees), it's best to be a participating member well before you leave. Be a host. Participate in local meetups. Develop a good reputation and earn some goodwill before you go. Both are great for making connections and meeting locals, whether or not accommodation is involved.
• Be realistic about money . You will have expenses as you travel just as you would at home. The thing is, you likely won't have an income. So plan to save a bit before you go. Read How to Save Money for Travel: Top Tips to Help You Save .
• Set a budget, even if it's ridiculous . You need to plan how to spend what little money you have so that you don't come home in debt. Read How to Plan Your Solo Travel Budget – on Any Budget .
• Making money as you travel is an option . If you have enough time on the road, and in some cases, even if you don't, there are ways to make money while you're away from home. Read 14 Ways to Make Money As You Travel: Long and Short-term .
• Exchange your labor for your travels . Research volunteer opportunities before you leave and plan your travels based on those opportunities. Read more below in the accommodation section.

World Travel with No Money: Transportation

This is the toughest travel budget category to get for free. But there are some options to get you where you want to go.

• Free road trip with car delivery. There are sites where you can sign up as a driver and get a gig delivering a car to its destination. Check out Canada DriveAway and Cars to Florida . These are often seasonal opportunities as people move their cars south in the winter and north in the summer but the jobs come up for other reasons as well.
• Share the driving. This is where that network you set up before your trip comes in handy. Reach out to your connections to look for a drive sharing opportunity.
• Don't forget walking and cycling . Your feet are a mode of transportation as well, whether they are walking or peddling. Both modes of transportation are absolutely free and a joy unto themselves. You don't have to go to the extreme that Andrew Siess did when he walked around the world. Watch the doc about his trip here .
• Get the dream job as an air courier. I know no one who has this job but, apparently it is possible. Here's one site to explore. If you have any experience with this, please leave your advice in the comments.
• Try the “Everywhere” button . Skyscanner's “Everywhere” button doesn't come up with free flights but it will give you a list of flights from your airport listing the cheapest first. Match the cheap flight with your free accommodation and you'll do well.

Traveling Without Money: Free Accommodation

Accommodation is typically one of the most expensive budget items for travel. Fortunately, it is also something that you can often get for free. There are so many ways to save on accommodation and they often come with some serious perks.

• House sitting for family or friends . Scan your family, friends, and extended network for people who would like a reliable house sitter for when they are away. This often involves caring for pets which, for many people, is a bonus. Read:  16 Tips for Successful Solo House-Sitting .
• Try a home exchange . Home exchanging (also known as house-swapping) is trading your home with that of another traveler. You stay in their home while they stay in yours (some services also work on a points system in case both parties don't want to swap at the same time), essentially rendering your accommodation costs for your trip nonexistent. You can find someone through your own contacts, or sign up for one of the home exchange websites, such as  Home Exchange . 
• Use social networks of free accommodation. Use communities like  Couchsurfing  (which has grown up a lot since it first started) or  Women Helping Women WorldWide . With both, accommodation isn't guaranteed but there is the possibility as well as a community of locals for information and, maybe a cup of coffee.
• Volunteer and get free accommodation (and sometimes food). Volunteer work when traveling typically requires you to pay to get to the destination and, sometimes, requires you to pay for your stay as well. But this is not always the case. WWOOF (World Wide Opportunities on Organic Farms), for example, offers the opportunity to work and stay in 130 countries around the world. They say, “As a WWOOFer, you will participate in the daily life of your host, help on the farm, learn about sustainability, experience a new culture and meet new people, and receive free room and board during your stay.”

No Travel Money? Free Things to Do

Once you're at your destination you'll want to explore. Fortunately, there are many ways to do so with no money.

• Free walking tours. Most major cities have free walking tours but that's just the beginning of free.
• Free apps for self-guided tours . GPSmyCity is one of the best for this with tours of over 1,000 cities. For some cities there are many tours for special interests.
• Take membership benefits with you . Look at memberships you have at home as they may offer opportunities as you travel. Are you a member of an international organization? If so, you will likely have contacts around the world. But that's an obvious opportunity. There are many more subtle ways that your associations can help get you free stuff as you travel.
• New York City

Eating Cheaply As You Travel

The final major expense category for travel is food. This is an expense that you will have whether you're at home or on the road. It will take some money. But there are ways to keep your costs down.

• Volunteer where meals are provided . As with WWOOFing, there are volunteer opportunities that include meals. Accessing these opportunities requires research before you go.
• Picnics and parks. Eating al fresco is a wonderful, enjoyable dining experience. Picking up food at a grocery store that will not perish in your pack and eating in a park is a low-cost food option.
• Make one restaurant meal count for two. Take reusable food bags and containers on your travels. Restaurant servings are often more than one needs. Pack the extra away in your reusable containers. Yes, the restaurant could probably provide a take out container but why create the waste?
• Food trucks and street food .
• Safe water, no cost, no plastic waste . Bring your water bottle along on your travels and fill it every day to avoid the high cost of bottled water and the environmental damage it causes. If you're not sure of the water, use a purification system like GRAYL Ultralight Water Purifier. It deals with viruses, bacteria, protozoa, chemicals, and heavy metals. All the reviews I read were great.
• More ideas . For many more ideas read Travel, Eat Well and Save on Food .

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Publisher Janice: info @ solotravelerworld.com

Editor Tracey: tracey @ solotravelerworld.com

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Ask Me Anything: 12 Ways to Travel the World for Free

Home » Ask Me Anything » Ask Me Anything: 12 Ways to Travel the World for Free

I like to share common questions I get not only because it helps you but it saves me time in responding to emails and messages throughout the day. I do this in my “ask me anything” series. Click over to see more questions I’ve answered. I get this question a LOT about how to travel the world for free:

“I don’t have much money, I just break even paying my bills but I want to travel! How did you save? How can I start traveling, just get up and go with NO money?”

Ermm… it’s not that easy! But with some planning there are a few steps you can take to get on the path to traveling and help you see how to travel with no money. First up, remember to check out the articles I’ve already written on budget:

•   9 ways to save money for travel
• 13 ways to spend less money while you travel
• 14 ways to EARN money abroad

How to Travel with No Money / Ways to Travel the World For Free

1. couchsurfing.

Make your Couchsurfing profile as soon as you start thinking about how to travel the world with no money. It’s a website that helps connect travelers and hosts. You stay for free and the host will show you around their town most likely. Start hosting people who come through your town.

Even if you are in a small town, people might come through. Make a full post & follow these 9 safety tips for couchsurfing . You can go to “Couchsurfing meetups” to make friends in the community to give you references. Once you build your profile, reach out to hosts and set up free accommodation in the places you want to go. You truly can stay for free every night of your trip abroad. Always remember to give back to the community as much as you take; this platform will only enrich your experiences with locals and see a place the best way possible!

Sign up and create you profile so that you seem like a safe candidate to hosts. You can use this to sign up – it’s free.

2. Research what’s free in the places you are going

Usually cities offer free walking tours which are a great way to see the city. Literally google “what can I do free in  insert city name” and see what pops up. Whether its museums, hikes, public pools, or cool parks, there are an abundance of activities to do for free.

3. Start trying to save at least a little / Earn money online

You have to get a plane ticket. No one is going to give you that for free! You need to save money. It’s not possible to be dead broke and start a round-the-world trip (even if blogs makes it seem that way). Here are some tips to start saving money that actually work and tips on how to stay on your budget .

You could get a free flight potentially with travel hacking , but you have to spend money to earn points so this may not be an option for you if you’re broke. But if you’re using your card to pay bills online, why not earn points on that toward a flight or upgrade?

Earn money online: You can find odd jobs on Fiverr  even if you don’t have graphic design skills, for example holding a sign about a company up in a pretty place and taking a photo: $5 in your bank account. Crazy. I totally recommend signing up! As a blogger, I hire people on here all the time.

For more on my blogging tips:

• How I Make Money from Travel Blogging
• Best Blogging Tools for Productivity & Earning a Higher Income
• 10 Fail-Proof Ways to Up Your Travel Blogging Game

4. Travel somewhere less expensive

Your money will go further in Kuala Lumpur than in London . You have to pick a budget destination. Think Southeast Asia , India , Nepal , or Eastern Europe . This might be the most important step. A good idea is to use Kiwi’s anywhere or radius tool to “fly to the cheapest place” from your base and see what pops up. Next, you can see which of those places is affordable to travel. Now you’ve got a cheap ticket to a cheap place.

5. Travel to that less expensive place at the least expensive TIME

Traveling off-season has saved me bundles of cash. Everything in Goa is 1/2 off in monsoon ! You’ll find great deals and have fewer tourists around. The best time to go is just before or after a destinations “peak season” or you might get caught in too rainy of weather. Here are 11 ways to save on offseason travel . You can find all the best hotels deals online ahead of time for the monsoon seasons of the world.

**  Get $35 credit toward your first room!!* 

THE BEST DEALS are going to be people’s homes who are on vacation since locals leave in the off season. Check airbnb and get a gorgeous villa cheaper than a hotel. Sign up now on this link and get $35 off your first booking! It doesn’t expire.

6. Stay in rural areas

Sometimes staying away from the cities can save you huge amounts of money. In India for example, you’re going to spend more in Delhi and Mumbai than if you go even 45 min outside the city.

7. Consider hitchhiking or car sharing

I am not saying it’s safe, but I have done it in a number of countries. It saves bucket loads of money. If you feel like it’s too dangerous, that’s fine. It’s just one way that’s helped me. There’s a lot of websites offering car sharing now like Bla Bla Car  or you can join Facebook groups, for example, in Goa, there is a Goa car sharing group and people go to the airport together.

8. Volunteer

Many volunteer programs charge a hefty fee, but there are some that will give you a free place to stay and food if you work for them. You’ll be helping the community, learning more about the locals, and not have to spend much money at all. Sites like Work Away can help you find gigs but it does cost money to sign up. I can best speak to volunteering in Goa , so check that post out for tips.

Another option,  WWOOF stands for worldwide opportunities on organic farms. You can work on farms and in return get free lodging and food. Some people do this as a way to get a working visa into a country and then stay longer after working to explore. WWOOF isn’t the only way, and some jobs like this do pay. I met a girl who made minimum wage in Aus picking tomatoes and working on their farm from the break of dawn.

Just be careful you’re not veering into voluntourism , which can be detrimental to the community!

9. Cook in or eat local

If you’re really broke you won’t be able to dine out all the time, so this is imperative. Buying pasta and cooking it in the hostel will save you cash. Eating street food will also save you bundles. Even choosing take away rather than eating in (you can drink your own drinks and won’t have to pay luxury/sitting taxes many places have to eat in).

10. Camp or sleep in overnight transportation

You can camp if you take your own sleeping bag and tent. I haven’t done this because it’s a lot of work. I do tend to travel on overnight buses and trains instead of during the day because it saves on a nights’ accommodation.

11. Do your own laundry

Instead of paying someone to wash your clothes, wash them yourself! Here’s a guide on how to do laundry while traveling.

12. Housesitting instead of Couchsurfing

You can sign up for sites like Trusted Housesitters  and just babysit people’s houses as you go. You might have to take care of their pets but in return, you could get a great villa in middle of nowhere countryside! Typically you don’t get paid for this. Here are some tips on how to start housesitting .

PS it does cost money to sign up but is worth the investment. I’ve seen some bloggers perfect this and share the incredible mansions they stay in!

**Most importantly, travel slow & safe**

The longer you stay in one place (especially a free one) the more you save on transportation. When you’re on the road, that’ll cost you the most so this might be the most helpful tip of all. When you travel slow , you can also pick up work. Start your travels in your own country, figure out how to earn money online or another way (remember that article I linked above with 14 ways to earn while traveling?) so you can stay on the road longer!

You’ve got to be safe while you travel as well. The most important thing you can do is get travel insurance before your trip so you don’t have crazy bills abroad if you end up sick from the water, fall of your scooter, get an IV for food poisoning, or anything else.If you can’t afford that, you probably should wait for your trip!

Now that you’re doing all this to save up, spend less, and travel for free, you need to take the tips linked above to earn some money. Once you combine them all, you can shift to taking nicer transport and staying in cozy hotels with room service, right? ;)

But really, it’s a slow process. If you are dead broke I can see how it seems unreachable and could be. I don’t know your life, ya know? But when I think back to leaving for Europe the first time, after booking a plane ticket I didn’t have much more than 1,000 bucks and an emergency credit card. It was 6 years ago and I lived on baguettes and lettuce from the supermarket. You have to be able to rough it if you’re broke but if travel is your goal you WILL find a way to make it happen!

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45 Comments

Sleeping on overnight transport is my number one top tip for saving when backpacking. On my first couple of trips I made the mistake of wasting a couple of days on long bus journeys that I could easily have done overnight. Plus you save the money you would have spent on accommodation. I even enjoy most overnight buses – or at least I did in South America – as they’re quite comfy and they show hilarious movies :)

a movie would be nice! some volvo buses in india too, but they are VERY loud bollywood movies and i hate it lol

HI Rachel, nice summary indeed! Although it seems like these things are for free, they are indeed not. You always give back something to do community, just in a different form. House sitting is on my to-do list for next year, and I also want to try workaway.com project. I’ve been following you for some time, thank you for being so inspirational! Now I finally had enough courage to create my own travel blog – http://www.nextstopabroad.com I hope to be as successful as you are one day :)

I’m sure you will overtake me ;) good luck with your blog & thanks for sharing your thoughts

Great tips! We’re planning our long-term travel now and I completely forgot about WOOfing! Thanks for the reminder :)

awesome, have fun

Travel is like the comment that I made the other day about staying healthy; if it is a priority, then you will find a way to make it happen, if it is not, you will find excuses. That being said, there are plenty of ways to save money for a trip in addition to being frugal WHILE traveling. Here are my ways that we save PRIOR to traveling so that we can travel as much as possible! (Some of them are quite extreme, but hey, like I said, it is a priority to us, so we’ll make it happen!) http://www.economicalexcursionists.com/save-for-a-vacation/#.VbdmxPmqqko

sometimes extreme measures must be taken :)!

Great list… and add on season work! Its got me round the world for four years non stop… great because the company give you everything AND you get a wage. Think ski seasons, summer camps, yacht jobs…. I’ve even been a cowgirl in the outback! :)

great advice!! being a cowgirl sounds totally cool

Before kids, I did the Eurorail trip & always took night trains as it was cheaper -India is good for night train travel too. Will have to venture into camping with kids now! Great story & website! Keep adventuring!

that sounds like it’ll be fun!

Great tips Rachel. I’d agree with travelling slower and not trying to rush through every destination in just 24 hours unless you’re only going to visit a little part LOL and of course, go to cheaper destinations like Asia & Eastern Europe. Not only do they cost pennies, but you’ll find the locals more approachable and the experience more worth-while, since “everyone” hasn’t been there already LOL! Also, save a little and don’t try to leave your home country without some savings as you never know what might happen along the way!

great advice. you’re right you have to try and have some savings, i think it’s so important!

Wow Rachel…. It so much excites me that you are staying in Goa… I belong to near province of UP.Currently working in Malaysia. I myself miss my food. and language.. But have seen generally beaches in Thailand and Bali etc. very beautiful. What made you stay there so long?

Also… I would like to know …as night parties in Phuket,Pattaya etc.are so lively, how did you decide to stick in Goa.. Just m curious…:)

My boyfriend works in India, so we chose to live in Goa.

I also always think about sitting more on the one place as transportation really takes significant part of the budget (even at such comparatively cheap countries as India and Vietnam), but I am always getting bored so soon when sitting on the same place for more than several days..

Great tips!! I am just starting to blog and I am slowly saving for a month long trip to Thailand and I was pricing all the flights to travel throughout the country and it was adding up quickly. When I repriced with doing overnights trips on trains instead of flights it was dramatically less. Thank you!!

Awesome, happy to help!

no body has mentioned Africa yet. I traveled as a tour leader for an overland company for 3 years round Eastern and Southern Africa. Getting paid to see and do some amazing things. Overland companies often advertise for staff in Wanderlust magazine or online. You don’t have to drive trucks or buses either you could be a camp master and look after the catering and finances. I now enjoy overland trips round Europe and the UK in my VW caddy van. Vacations are the way to go! Happy trails folks.

That should say vancations not vacations. Sorry

OMG! THis is the best blog I have ever read! Thanks so much for sharing!!!!

Great tips! Especially about travelling to places that are historically less expensive. Your money can go a lot further in a place like Indonesia than it can in the United Kingdom, or France.

Yes! I was just in London and couldn’t get over the high prices! ahh

Hi Rachel How’s Goa compared to other places you had stayed as per cost of living.

I have a excellent suggestion one can contact by email the marketing head of state tourism departments and large travel companies usually they offer a all free stay especially to greatly dedicated bloggers with high follow rate like yours…

Omg! Thank you very much for these tips.

I’m only 15 years old, but I’m interested in travel. I can’t wait to grown up and to visit the world. Is one of my deep dreams. I save money since now, because I think people waste money on unnecessary things. So, for travel is worth it.

P.S. I’m sorry if my English is a little bit stupid, but I try to speak better everyday. Thank you again!

That’s awesome you know you want to travel at such a young age- so did I! It’s always smart to start saving young.

I think, it’s great to dream about your future, also it’s a good idea to save some money – it’s allways helpful) You can also “travel by google map” using streets’ sights or use some tips like to-do things to plan your trip. Good luck

I have never heard of couchsurfing, but it sounds really cool. It would be cool to host it too, I think people would love to go hang out in my little town.

You should totally sign up! I loved hosting when I lived in Charlotte.

You’re absolutely amazing Leanna! Truly, I have done the same things as you traveling wise but only in America. It makes me want to go across seas to Ireland and Rome like I’ve always wanted! Thanks for that extra push reading this made me feel like I’m not so alone in the World. Peace be with you Love. :D <3

Some great tips. I’m a travel hacker fan but appreciate it isn’t for everyone. Where in Goa are you?

I stay in North Goa near Anjuna!

Thank you Rachel For tips, tricks, hacks and insights And above everything thanks for showing the possibilities

I want to volunteer abroad so badly! I haven’t done it yet because I need to do a ton of research before I go – I have to fully trust the initiatives of the company and be sure that it’s making a positive impact on the surrounding community! Great tips here though, done quite a few of them myself

Yes that’s the problem it’s really hard to trust these companies because so many are cheating the people who need help.

Very good ideas here! Thanks for the post!

A very informative article to travel the world, save money and make some money to stay on the path we are following, not easy indeed, but possible – Hi this is Adam.

I love this post, always refer to it. Great advice. Everyone should be able to save a small amount to travel initially. There are so many travellers who start in Australia as the working holiday visa is easy to obtain and actually the money is much better than even in the home town. I had 2 friends from France who worked for 3 months and then traveled the whole Australia for another 3 and still had savings from their farm work to open a photography studio in Lyon. Australia has great programs for young travellers. Plus its a beautiful place (Im bias ) ;) Plus Australia is close to Asia and many travellers also do the South East Asia route after seeing Australia as its pretty cheap to get there. I’ve started a new section See Australia where I’ll give visa info and other backpacking advice for young travellers wanting to see Australia. http://www.eatstaylive.com/category/see-australia/

Hi Rachel, Interesting article, although I feel the title is a little misleading. Only 6 things on this list are actually free, the rest are good budget options. I also wanted to comment on ‘free’ walking tours. While this is how they are advertised, most ‘free’ walking tours ask for a tip at the end of the tour. While this tip is optional, it is also the only wages that the tour guide gets paid! So it’s important to encourage people to leave a good tip that represents the value of the tour, or else many of these tours may cease the exist. The only exception is free walking tours organised by the local council/government where the tour guide is a government employee (but these kind of tours are rare). Anyway, love your blog, keep up the great work.

Nice article it inspired me im totally fed up with this daily routine my wish i have to left everything and bag pack up travel the beutiful world like u rachel.

Thanks for suggestions Rachel. It has great info regarding start of travel though with less bucks having in pocket. I ll take these inputs and thanks for being inspirational

Great ideas! I will definitely take a look at Fiverr. Personally I am also a big fan of doing work exchanges with Workaway.

I am also planning to go somewhere, my tricks are inspired from your suggestions like travel with local bus with my friends and stay in normal good hotels which are not so expensive, Thanks for your help.

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How to Backpack Around the World with No Money: A Step-by-Step Guide  

  December 13, 2023

By   Keith Terrell

Traveling around the world without money sounds like a pipe dream, unless you're willing to take on the challenge of backpacking! You don't need a fancy holiday package or a pile of cash to do it– all you need is ambition and a free step-by-step guide to backpacking around the world with no money. 

You can backpack around the world on a shoestring budget. Consider things like couchsurfing, bartending, WWOOFing, and other ways you can earn or save money without relying on traditional financial means.

In this article, we'll cover the basics of backpacking, from choosing a destination to finding food and accommodation to ways to earn money on the road. So if you're ready to cross the globe with nothing but a bag on your back, let's get started on our journey!

Table of Contents

Key Takeaway

Creating a savings plan & stick to it, finding free attractions and activities, find jobs or other sources of income, staying on track with your expenses, bringing necessities on the road trip, carpooling to save on fuel costs, are there ways to finance a trip around the world without having to pay for it in advance, are there opportunities to work while traveling the world and cover expenses that way, what are the best strategies for traveling the world without money, are there ways to exchange goods to pay for travel expenses, are there free or discounted accommodation options available for budget travelers, setting up a budget for your trip.

Any successful trip around the world requires a solid budget. Before you embark on your journey, it’s essential to determine the total cost of your trip and figure out how you will manage these costs during your trip. By setting a budget before you leave, you can make sure you have enough money to pay for everything—from accommodation and transportation to food and entertainment.

There are different approaches when it comes to setting a budget for  backpacking around the world. Some people like to set a daily limit or monthly cap on their spending, while others prefer to create a separate budget for each country they visit on their trip. Both methods have their merits, but travelers need to assess their own needs and lifestyle to choose the best approach for their individual situation.

For instance, if a traveler is trying to save money on accommodation, their monthly budget should include more funds for low-cost accommodation options such as hostels or house-sitting. If, on the other hand, a traveler wants to be flexible and treat themselves to the occasional treat, they should budget more money for entertainment and food. Regardless of which approach travelers choose, setting a budget can be an invaluable tool for staying organized and keeping track of expenses while traveling.

Drawing up a budget also enables travelers to set aside part of their income for savings purposes. If you know exactly how much money is coming in and going out each month, you can make adjustments as needed—for example, cutting back on activities you don’t really need—to further increase your savings potential. With proper planning and smart financial decisions, travelers can get their finances under control when traveling around the world without money.

If you are clear about your needs and take the time to plan ahead and budget accordingly, even backpackers who have no money can see the world without breaking the bank. The next step? To turn this into reality, smart adventurers need to create a savings plan and stick to it!

Establishing a budget before traveling is an essential tool to stay organized, save within your means, and make sure costs are covered. Travelers must assess their own needs to choose the best budget approach for their situation. With proper planning and financial decisions, it is possible to travel around the world with no money.

Creating a savings plan and sticking to it is the most important piece of the puzzle when it comes to traveling on a small budget. This means understanding one’s financial limitations, setting realistic savings goals, and then making an effort to stick to that plan. Some people may choose to take more extreme measures, such as living on a minimal amount of savings or hosting couchsurfing guests at home to save money, but these are not necessary steps.

Automatically transferring a certain portion of your paycheck to a special bank account, each payday will go a long way in helping you save up enough money for your trip. Once the money has accumulated, you can use both tangible tools such as a spreadsheet or budget tracker, and intangible tactics such as self-discipline to make sure you do not overspend or touch your travel fund only when absolutely necessary. The right habit may take some getting used to, but it will eventually become second nature.

It is also important that your plan is tailored to your financial situation; there is no point in setting unrealistic goals without a reward system if success is hard to achieve without demoralizing yourself. If you are true to yourself and set achievable goals, you will feel more motivated and encouraged to stick to your savings plan consistently. Frequently reviewing your budget accounts for progress and holding yourself accountable for any missteps will also help toward achieving success in this area.

Last but not least, you should also plan time for trips that you can look forward to and that will satisfy your wanderlust. Small trips within your country or region can serve as inexpensive trial runs before you embark on larger trips around the world - depending on what activities excite you, they may even be free.

A plan is the be-all and end-all when backpacking around the world without money because it gives you the confidence that you have taken the necessary steps to be able to afford such an adventure when the time comes. With commitment and patience, the leap of faith you need to explore the world on a shoestring budget will soon be within reach.

Exploring The World On A Shoestring Budget

Exploring the world on a shoestring budget can seem intimidating, but with proper planning and budgeting, it is entirely possible. Traveling without money can be challenging and requires patience, creativity, and a bit of luck. There are two sides to this argument: those who advocate intensive travel budget tactics, and those who suggest topping up any tight budget with some extra funds.

For those who find traveling without money a challenge, opting for a strict budget can be a viable alternative. The advantage of this approach is that it forces travelers to get creative in exploring their destination, relying on free attractions or cheap transportation options such as hitchhiking or walking instead of taking expensive taxis or buses. With a little research, travelers can also find behind-the-scenes tours and experiences offered by locals that often don’t come at a high price.

On the other hand, some people prefer to travel on a tight budget while giving themselves some extra pocket money. This method gives travelers more freedom and flexibility to explore new destinations. It also opens up opportunities for experiences such as tickets to tourist attractions or unique tours that would otherwise not be possible due to budget constraints.

Ultimately, the decision depends on the goals and needs of the individual traveler when it comes to experiencing the world around them on their own terms. Whether you stick to a strict budget or allow yourself some financial leeway, careful planning of your expenses in advance is crucial to getting the most out of your travels—regardless of your financial situation.

As you prepare for your trip, remember that each destination offers its own free experiences or activities that can give you a valuable insight into a foreign culture without breaking the bank.

Finding free attractions and activities is one of the most important principles for traveling without money. While it is tempting to explore popular attractions near and far, remember that these attractions often charge high entrance fees that can add up quickly for backpackers. An effective strategy is to look for the free gems that each destination has to offer.

Many cities and rural areas are full of free attractions and experiences—national parks, funky downtowns, walking tours offered by local businesses for tips, outdoor concerts, and art exhibitions. If you search the internet or ask locals, you can discover even more gems. Even if it's a bit more effort, experiencing cities and nature for free can be fun and fulfilling and an effective way to save money on a backpacking trip around the world.

On the other hand, depending on where a backpacker is, there may also be advantages to paying for certain attractions and activities. If you;re traveling through expensive cities or countries, especially if the exchange rate to the US dollar is high, paid attractions may cost only a little more than those offered for free—although this contradicts the goal of traveling without money. Ultimately, there’s no denying that taking advantage of the many free attractions around the world is not only a cost-effective way to explore new destinations but also offers exciting opportunities for discovery.

With enough research (and perhaps a bit of luck!), backpackers can save on most travel costs without sacrificing the experiences they have along the way. Even if activities and attractions occasionally come at a cost, smart backpackers know when they are necessary investments—if at all —and make sure they get the most out of their trips. With creativity and resourcefulness, travelers will soon be on the road with a range of unique memories and valuable experiences—at no extra cost!

With new perspectives on free activities during your trip, you're now better equipped to earn money while on the go. From temp jobs like house sitting or bartending, to publishing your own app or writing travel content, the adventure awaits!

Making Money While You Travel

Many of us dream of traveling the world and enjoying all the culture, art, landscapes, and local flavors that each place has to offer. With all there is to explore and experience, it can be difficult to think about making money along the way. While this may seem counterintuitive for a trip without a budget, there are ways to fund your travels without overworking yourself or going into debt.

One way to earn money while traveling is through odd jobs you can find through third-party websites such as Airbnb Experiences or TaskRabbit. Whether you’re a photographer, a chef, a tour guide, or just an experienced innkeeper, these platforms give travelers the opportunity to connect with locals and take full control of their earning potential.

On the other hand, downsizing at home to transfer money abroad or selling unused items before departure are also practical solutions for those who do not want to work abroad or do not have the means to travel. This method gives people who already have some financial support (i.e savings accounts) time to adjust before departure and avoid additional stress while they find their way in new places and cultures.

Whether you decide to work while traveling or adjust your finances in advance, there are ways to maximize your budget without compromising your enjoyment of the trip. Doing research ahead of time, finding cost-saving activities in the country, and having various side hustles can help. You feel more secure while living your life unplugged—even if it’s only for a short time.

No matter which way you want to go financially on your journey: If you watch your spending and set a budget, you can avoid straying too far from your goal. With smart investments and prudent money management, you may even return home with more money than you had when you started your trip!

Earning money while traveling doesn't have to leave a bitter taste in your mouth. It can enrich your experience by making more connections with locals and having resources for exploring food and entertainment! This can support the next step in funding expeditions: finding jobs or other sources of income that best suit you along the way.

Now that you have found some creative ways to earn money while backpacking around the world, it is important that you continue to bring in money. Finding jobs or other sources of income is a good way to replenish your cash and stay solvent during your trip.

When it comes to finding work, many backpackers choose to look for opportunities in their country. This could be tutoring, working in hospitality, or another flexible job that pays enough to cover your expenses. There are also job postings on websites like Remoteok.io and We Work Remotely, which will allow you to work while traveling and still earn a living wage. However, these jobs can be competitive and require specific skill sets or experience.

Another option is to take up part-time jobs that do not require a long-term commitment. You could do freelance writing, digital marketing, consulting, participating in focus groups, selling items online, or teaching virtual classes on platforms like VIPKid or Italki. Part-time jobs are a great way to supplement your income because you can often decide when and how much you want to work.

No matter how you earn money while traveling, it is important to be mindful of how much you spend . Paying attention to where your money goes can help you avoid financial stress during your backpacking trip.

Now that you have the income to fund your travels, it’s important to stay on top of your expenses. It can be easy to get off track and fall into a deep financial hole. To make sure this does not happen, make a budget for every month you will be away from home and keep an up-to-date record of all your expenses. This will also help you ensure that you are following the recommended standards for safe travel (which may require additional spending).

It's important to consider both sides of this situation when thinking about a budget strategy. On the one hand, you can control costs with a tightly managed budget to ensure you don't overspend; on the other hand, it can be difficult to manage costs if you're looking for new experiences and opportunities. It is important to find a balance between these two considerations.

For example,  before your trip, research what is available in the major cities to get an idea of how much money you should budget for food and accommodation. This way, you avoid surprises and have more freedom at the same time. It can also help to set aside a certain amount each month for indulgence—whether it’s a spa day or a five-star meal—so you don't feel like you have to account for every penny.

Once your budget is set, track your spending regularly by keeping receipts and noting any online payments or transfers made during your trips. Avoid using cash whenever possible. If you need cash, take small amounts with you and activate the tracking function on your debit/credit cards via your personal bank account app so that all transactions are instantly and accurately recorded. With a little bit of planning and tracking, your expenses should be quick and easy to manage on a cash-free trip around the world.

These tactics will help lay the financial groundwork for your trip, but they're only part of the equation when it comes to how to successfully backpack around the world without money. Other crucial aspects (such as reducing weight by multitasking items) need to be considered in order to ensure that your backpacking trip is well-rounded in both form and function.

It's time to focus on bringing the essentials on the road trip without breaking the budget!

When it comes to taking the essentials on the road trip, it can be difficult for backpackers to decide which things are necessary and which aren't. Therefore, it should be important to strike a balance between packing for all possible situations and overpacking. After all, space is limited when you carry all your belongings on your back. In general, travelers should only take the things they need to feel comfortable and safe on their trip.

So what are these things? When we talk about "necessities" it is important to consider both tangible and intangible things. Tangible things include toiletries such as deodorant, toothpaste, toothbrush, sunscreen, and basic medicines; clothing suitable for all weather conditions, personal documents such as birth certificate and ID, as well as snacks, water bottles, and reusable containers for food and waste.

On the intangible side of things, travel insurance that covers unexpected incidents is an absolute must. Even though no one expects to get injured or sick on a trip abroad, it is always worth being prepared for the worst case scenario.

It is also important to have a well-prepared budget plan with a precise breakdown of expense categories (e.g. accommodation and food). Familiarizing yourself with local customs can also help you to find your way around in a foreign country without too much difficulty.

The combination of tangible and intangible elements should give backpackers an idea of where and how they can use their resources when traveling from point A to B without money at hand. As long as these necessities are taken care of before planning any other part of the trip, backpackers will feel more secure and ready to tackle their new routine with confidence.

And with that, another important step is just around the corner: carpooling often allows travelers to save on petrol costs while making lasting friendships during the journey—something we will look at in more detail in the next section of this guide!

Carpooling to save on fuel costs is an essential part of backpacking around the world with no money. If you are traveling long distances, it is advisable to team up with other travelers who have similar destinations to save on fuel costs. Not only will you save money, but you will also reduce your carbon footprint, an important factor in responsible travel.

Carpooling can be done in many ways, such as splitting the cost of a rental car between several people. In this way, you not only save money on petrol costs but also reduce carbon emissions compared to driving your own car.

It may be helpful to find other travelers who are willing to carpool and share the fuel costs if you are low on funds or just want to travel responsibly. It also has the advantage of someone else driving, which gives you a break and allows you to save energy for activities at your destination.

To start a carpool, you should search online resources such as forums and entry sites that connect you with other travelers looking for rides. These online meetings make it easier for travelers to coordinate and set common conditions, such as how long travelers should stay together and where they should meet.

You can also ask locals in the areas you want to travel to if they know who would like to join them on their journey. There are also many web-based carpooling services that offer specific routes at different times and locations, making it easy and cheap to access public transportation.

Carpooling is a great way to save on gas costs while you explore the world. For those on a tight budget or those who want to travel responsibly, carpooling is a cost-effective and ecological alternative to cover long distances while saving time and energy.

Frequently Asked Questions 

Yes, there are many ways to fund a trip around the world without paying for it in advance. For example, you can look for volunteering opportunities where you get free accommodation and meals in exchange for your help. You can also try couchsurfing, which is a great way to stay with locals for free.

Another option is to find a part-time job or freelance work while traveling, for example as an English teacher, in the hospitality industry or as a casual worker. You could even try working as a house or pet sitter to cover your expenses. Finally, you can look for flight deals and budget accommodation such as hostels, Airbnb, and guesthouses. With a bit of luck, careful planning, and creative thinking, it is possible to fund a trip around the world without spending money upfront.

Absolutely! There are many ways to earn money on the road, which you can use to cover your expenses while traveling. Working abroad can be a great way to cover a lot of costs and see many new countries. Popular methods include teaching English or other foreign languages, working in hospitality or tourism, freelancing online, or even volunteering for organizations or companies.

You can also get creative—start a blog or sell handmade items, offer your services as a virtual assistant or consultant, take part in surveys for pay, look after a home, etc. Just research the opportunities available in the places you want to visit, and you'll probably find something that suits your interests and skills.

The best strategies to travel around the world without money are to apply for offers that allow you to travel for free, work in exchange for accommodation and transport, and use cheaper transport..

First, the opportunity to work or volunteer in exchange for a free trip. WWOOFing, for example, allows people to stay on organic farms in exchange for free food and accommodation. The Peace Corps is another volunteer organization that offers overseas assignments, and many other organizations offer similar opportunities.

Second, you can use budget airlines, train travel, or bus travel as cheaper means of transportation. Searching for cheap flights and multi-stop tickets can also be very useful if you are traveling around the world with limited funds. Couchsurfing also provides free accommodation in many different countries.

Finally, less expensive methods of travel like hitchhiking and walking can be incredibly beneficial ways to get around without spending money. If you are willing to be flexible with your itinerary and plan these types of trips in advance, it can make a big difference in how much money you save when you don’t have to pay for transportation options such as flights or trains.

Yes, bartering services or goods can be an effective way to pay for travel expenses. The most important thing is to find out what you have to offer and look for possible potential trade partners in the region you want to travel to.

For instance, if you are skilled in IT, accounting, or web design, you could approach local businesses and offer your services. You may find some willing to exchange their services for a small fee or even accommodation, food, and transport costs. The same system can be applied to real estate, e.g. land you can rent, tools you need for farming, cleaning services, etc., so that you receive some form of payment in kind instead of cash.

Another good option is to barter directly with people. Many backpackers like to exchange items from their own country such as books, clothes, or knick-knacks for goods from locals. This way, you can get anything from cheap accommodation to rides into town without money changing hands.

In addition to these direct exchange and trading methods, some parts of the world also have alternative currency systems that are accepted in place of cash payments. For example, WIR Bank in Switzerland offers its own electronic currency, which is accepted by around 60,000 companies across the country. These alternative currencies can be a good way to cover your travel expenses while avoiding the need to carry large amounts of cash.

Yes, there are several free or discounted accommodation options for travelers on a budget. For starters, many hostels offer discounted rates on rooms if booked in advance. There are also websites specifically designed for affordable accommodation options, such as Airbnb and couchsurfing. These websites offer listings from private individuals who have spare rooms or extra mattresses, often at a fraction of the cost of a regular hotel room.

Another great option for travelers on a budget is to look for volunteer opportunities in hostels or guest houses in exchange for free lodging .Camping is also a good way to save money on a backpacking trip around the world. Campsites are available in many places and they offer significant discounts compared to other accommodation.

Keith Terrell

About the author

Keith is a one bag traveler and the owner of Backpacks Global. His go to backpack is the Osprey FarPoint 40.

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There are various ways of travelling for free. Often one of the greatest inhibitions for people on the verge of their next great adventure is the cost! But you don't have to spend a ton of money while you're travelling. You only have to be willing to work, sometimes stay on farms or in the wilderness, and have an urge to meet locals, slow down, and really experience the cultures surrounding you. Contrary to what you might believe, it's actually easier to save money the longer you stay. So pack your backpack, throw your ledger away, and begin the process of planning your free, or dirt cheap trip abroad.

Staying for free or cheaply

• Send a request to a host wherever you would like to go.
• Together you decide if it is the right fit, and for how many days you will stay with them.
• Since the verification process is not very strict, be aware that you could run into problems, but use your intuition, read the reviews, and steer clear of people who have not yet been reviewed. Note also that there are groups on the site as well, which might be great way to meet people travelling.

• Pay a small fee (usually per country). This will give you access to the contact information of hundreds of farms in any given country.
• Be prepared to work. The deal is that you work for them (you negotiate with the farms how many hours per day/days per week), and they feed you and give you a place to stay. This is all done with the intention of teaching and learning techniques involved with organic farming, however this is not always the case.
• Be aware that some people view this as people soliciting free work from people all over the globe, but it does give you a chance to meet people from all over the globe. You may be working on construction or something else, but you will also be given a direct back-stage pass into the lives and the cultures the locals. If you aren't picky about accommodations, (dietary restrictions are negotiable) or food, you can live and work with locals for free. Just make sure you know what you are getting into.

• Be aware that you might be a source of burden for some people, either because they're not well off and you're another mouth to feed, or because they felt obliged to help you but didn't really want to. If you pick up such vibes, either offer money to cover your costs or move on to give them back their space.

• Check out the websites devoted to people's experiences with services such as Couchsurfing that didn't work out so well. There are instances of failure to connect (therefore leaving a person without a place to stay), rudeness during the stay (as in, making it clear you're not welcome after all) and expectations that you'll contribute in some way (not always an appropriate way). Read the reviews and do trust filtering checks when you meet people. If a place doesn't feel right, trust your instincts and move on.

Getting from A to B for free

• Use your intuition. This is extremely important when deciding whether or not to accept rides from strangers. If you feel at all uncomfortable at all, pass on the ride.
• One great tip is to ask them where they are going first, before you divulge your destination. This allows you to quickly assess the person and decide whether to accept before jumping in.
• Where hitchhiking is illegal, find out how rigorously it is enforced. A free night in jail might not be your idea of fun travel.

Eating on the cheap

• Go to family owned restaurants and cafes at the end of the day. Ask if they are going to throw any food out. Sometimes you can score some great meals that would have gone to waste.
• Small grocery stores or family owned markets will have products that are recently expired to are about to expire. Just asking for those products may feel weird at first but once you get the hang of it you will be surprised by the results. You can get all kinds of products that are still good despite their expiration dates.
• Outdoor markets and fairs often have surpluses of produce. If the item is especially perishable like tomatoes or strawberries, they may be willing to give you some for free or for a greatly discounted price. It helps if you go right as the fair is closing down for the day, as this is generally when people are packing up and wanting to get rid of extra unsold product.
• It can help to explain that you're traveling the world without any money or on the cheap––a background story that's fascinating can be a real benefit. Make it a good tale though, or you won't get your supper!

Working as needed

• Workaway.com. This is a great website to check out. It is similar to WWOOF in a lot of ways, but it is not restricted to farms or the pretense of organic farming. Basically you volunteer your time and labor in return for a place to stay and food to eat. It is a great way to get involved with communities in foreign countries and perhaps learn a new language.
• You can also simply find employment in the country or city you are interested in travelling to. Some examples of jobs abroad are: Temporary agricultural jobs, teaching English, working as an au-pair, getting a job on a cruise ship, working as a tour guide, or finding temporary work in a restaurant or retail store. There are an incredible amount of opportunities out there, you just need to look.
• Busk or guide. Do an act if you are good at something, or offer to take walking tours if you know an area well enough, as well as its history. You can also try fun things, such as offering to be someone's butler for a day.

Not spending

• Forgo the souvenirs. You do not need all those mementos. Think of ones you've purchased in the past and how much dust is accumulating on them or how they're already long forgotten at the back of a drawer. If you want to help a local culture, donate your time, your teaching, your knowledge or small amounts of money instead.
• Eat everything if breakfast is included. Fill up at the beginning of the day when your energy needs are the greatest, at someone else's expense. Then, eat lunch from supermarket pickings, such as baguette and cheese or rice salad. For the evenings, hunt out vegetarian places––many of these will have decent feeds for small prices.
• Walk as much as you can. Provided you know an area is safe, you can find out a great deal by walking through it and observing everything.
• Be really choosy about sites you must pay to see or enter. Only go to those ones that are truly meaningful to you, rather than checking off every must-see in the guidebook. If it doesn't resonate with you, it's not worth outlying the money.
• Find as many free activities as you can. Think as the locals do and flock to the free things they're doing, such as fairs, festivals in parks, watching street theater and simply hanging about watching people. Check local newspapers for free events thrown for the locals.
• Forgo meals if they cost extra on any form of transportation. Take your own food from the supermarket. This does mean being organized ahead of time but pre-planning is an essential part of budget travel anyway.

Expert Q&A

• Read books written by people who have traveled the world for free. There are a few in publication from recent times and you'll get some great ideas from their experiences. Thanks Helpful 1 Not Helpful 0
• Carry as little as possible. This frees you up from having to have others tote your stuff and it also keeps you mindful about not adding more things to your bags. The freedom you gain from not carrying a lot will be very rewarding in itself and opens up opportunities to hitch lifts, walk, enter places, etc., where a larger bag might be a burden. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
• Take digital photos of things you would like to buy but can't lug around or can't afford at the time. When you get back home, order them from a website. Almost everything, even local handicrafts, can be found from some enterprising person online nowadays. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
• While many people are good and caring, there will always be those who seek to profit from you in some way or mean you harm. When you want something for nothing, be aware that many people will expect something in return. Others may think that you're being a pest or a troublemaker and may report you or treat you badly. You must have your wits about you at all times, and have back-up plans for the times when your free or cheap-as situations don't turn out. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 1
• It is often harder for a woman to travel the world for free or on the cheap because of people's assumptions about women traveling alone and what a woman might be prepared to do for something. Be extremely wary of the assumptions others make––you might be the most liberated and enlightened person in the world but you don't live in a world that thinks that way everywhere yet. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0

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Traveling The World With No Money: Insider Tips And Tricks

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Are you dreaming of traveling the world but think it’s impossible without a hefty bank account? Think again!

In this article, we will share insider tips and tricks on how to travel the world with no money. Yes, you read that right – it is possible!

By prioritizing free accommodation options, taking advantage of volunteer opportunities, and utilizing couchsurfing networks, you can significantly cut down your expenses.

Additionally, exploring house sitting opportunities and embracing slow travel can provide you with unique experiences while saving money.

Don’t forget about work exchange opportunities where you can trade your skills for accommodation and sometimes even meals.

To further stretch your budget, make use of travel apps and websites that offer deals and discounts.

Connecting with locals will not only give you insider tips and recommendations but may also lead to unexpected opportunities.

So pack your bags, leave your worries behind, and get ready for an incredible adventure around the globe without breaking the bank!

Prioritize Free Accommodation Options

Now, it’s time to start thinking about where you can lay your head at night without spending a single dime. When it comes to free accommodation options, there are a few strategies you can employ.

One option is house sitting, where you take care of someone’s home while they’re away in exchange for a place to stay.

Another is volunteering on organic farms, commonly known as WWOOFing, which allows you to work in exchange for free accommodation and meals.

Some websites require a small membership fee but offer countless opportunities for free places to stay around the world.

If you prefer more traditional options, consider staying in cheap hotels or hostels that offer affordable rates.

Additionally, embracing street food and immersing yourself in the local culture will help offset travel costs and allow for more free travel experiences.

Take Advantage of Volunteer Opportunities

Explore the vast array of volunteer opportunities available to you, allowing for a truly immersive and culturally enriching experience during your global adventures. Not only will volunteering help save money, but it also provides incredible opportunities for free food, free accommodation, and even the chance to earn free flights.

By participating in volunteer programs, you not only get to travel for free but also get a glimpse into the local life and eat local cuisine. Whether it’s teaching English in a rural village or helping with conservation efforts in a national park, there are countless ways to give back while exploring new destinations.

From working on organic farms to assisting with community development projects, volunteer opportunities offer an authentic way to connect with locals and make a positive impact while enjoying your travels.

So why not make the most of these valuable travel tips and embark on an unforgettable journey filled with meaningful experiences?

Utilize Couchsurfing Networks

Make the most of your global adventures by utilizing couchsurfing networks, where you can connect with locals and find free accommodation while immersing yourself in new cultures.

Couchsurfing networks are online platforms that connect travelers with local hosts who are willing to offer their homes for free. It’s a fantastic way to save money on accommodation and also experience the true essence of a destination through the eyes of a local.

These networks provide an opportunity to build meaningful connections and friendships with people from all over the world. You can browse through profiles, read reviews, and choose a host based on your preferences and interests.

Not only will you have a place to stay, but your host can also give you insider tips on the best places to eat, visit, and explore in their city or town.

So why spend money on expensive hotels when you can enjoy authentic experiences through couchsurfing networks?

Explore House Sitting Opportunities

Immerse yourself in different cultures and save on accommodation costs by taking advantage of house sitting opportunities around the globe. House sitting allows you to stay in someone else’s home while they are away, giving you a chance to experience local life without spending a dime.

Not only does this option provide free accommodation, but it also gives you the opportunity to live like a local and truly immerse yourself in the culture of your chosen destination.

To find house sitting opportunities, there are various websites and online platforms where homeowners post their needs. You can create a profile highlighting your skills and experience, making it easier for potential hosts to choose you. It’s important to be reliable, trustworthy, and responsible as homeowners are entrusting their property to you.

House sitting is particularly beneficial if you plan on staying in major cities or popular tourist destinations where accommodation costs can be high. By eliminating this expense, you will have more money left over for other activities such as trying out local cuisine or joining free walking tours.

In addition to saving money on accommodation, house sitting can also help with travel expenses. Some homeowners may offer additional perks such as access to their car or even free flights if they require someone to look after their pets while they are away.

Overall, exploring house sitting opportunities is an excellent way to travel abroad with little money while still enjoying comfortable accommodations. With some research and effort into building your profile and reputation, you can secure amazing housesitting gigs that allow you to earn money through savings on accommodation expenses while immersing yourself in new cultures around the world.

Embrace Slow Travel

Insider tips and tricks reveal that rushing from one major city to another can quickly deplete your funds. Instead, take the time to explore smaller towns and villages where costs are lower and experiences are richer. Consider Eastern Europe, where the cost of living is generally lower than in Western countries.

By staying in one place for a longer period of time, you can save on accommodation costs by negotiating long-term stays or even house sitting opportunities. Furthermore, cooking your own meals instead of dining out will significantly reduce expenses during your journey.

Slow travel also allows you to avoid busy tourist months, giving you more authentic experiences and interactions with locals. So why rush? Take it slow and enjoy the journey at your own pace—your own country or abroad!

Cook Your Own Meals

By preparing your own meals, you can not only save money while on the road but also have the opportunity to explore local markets and discover new ingredients to create unique culinary experiences.

When traveling the world with no money, cooking your own meals is a fantastic way to stretch your budget. Most major cities have affordable grocery stores where you can stock up on essentials like bread, fruits, vegetables, and pasta. Instead of dining out at expensive restaurants or falling into tourist traps, you can whip up delicious meals in the comfort of your accommodation.

Not only will this save you a significant amount of money over time, but it will also give you the chance to immerse yourself in the local culture through food. So grab some fresh produce from nearby markets and start creating tasty dishes that will satisfy both your taste buds and bank account!

Use Public Transportation or Walk

Now that you’ve learned the importance of cooking your own meals while traveling, let’s dive into another money-saving tip: using public transportation or walking.

When it comes to exploring many countries around the world, relying on public transportation can be a game-changer for your budget. Instead of splurging on expensive train tickets or succumbing to pricey taxi rides, opt for buses, trams, or subways to get around.

In South America, for example, local buses are not only affordable but also offer an authentic way to experience the culture and interact with locals. And if you’re in a city where walking is feasible, lace up those shoes and explore on foot! Not only will you save money but also uncover hidden gems that might have been missed with a tour guide or by sticking to touristy areas.

Just remember to familiarize yourself with the local language and transportation routes beforehand for a smoother journey. Plus, who knows what unexpected adventures await when you travel like a local?

Look for Free or Discounted Activities and Attractions

When traveling on a tight budget, it’s essential to find ways to make the most of your time without spending a fortune. Luckily, there are countless options available that won’t break the bank.

Start by researching online for free walking tours or guided hikes offered by locals who are passionate about sharing their knowledge of the area.

Explore local markets and festivals where you can savor delicious street food, experience traditional music and dance performances, or browse unique handmade crafts.

Take advantage of free museum days or check if there are any discounted tickets available for popular tourist attractions.

By seeking out these opportunities, you’ll not only save money but also gain a deeper understanding of the destination’s rich cultural heritage.

Take Advantage of Travel Rewards Programs

Make the most of your adventures by taking full advantage of travel rewards programs, which can offer incredible perks and savings for your journeys. These programs are a fantastic way to earn points or miles that can be redeemed for flights, hotel stays, rental cars, and more.

Many airlines and hotels offer their own rewards programs, allowing you to accumulate points with every booking. Some even have partnerships with other companies, giving you additional opportunities to earn rewards. The key is to sign up for these programs and start earning points as soon as possible.

Once you’ve accumulated enough points, you can use them to book free or discounted travel experiences around the world. Don’t miss out on this amazing opportunity to see the world without breaking the bank!

Utilize Travel Hacking Techniques

Get ready to unlock a treasure trove of secret strategies and hacks that will help you maximize your travel experiences while saving big bucks!

One key technique in the world of travel hacking is utilizing credit card rewards. Many credit cards offer sign-up bonuses, which can earn you free flights or hotel stays just by meeting a spending requirement. Additionally, some cards provide bonus points for certain categories like dining or travel expenses. By strategically using these cards and paying off your balances each month, you can accumulate a significant amount of points or miles that can be redeemed for future trips.

Another tactic is called ‘manufactured spending,’ where you use techniques like buying gift cards or prepaid debit cards to meet minimum spending requirements without actually spending much money.

With these travel hacking techniques, you’ll be jetting off to your dream destinations in no time!

Embrace the Sharing Economy

Embracing the sharing economy allows you to immerse yourself in unique local experiences and connect with like-minded travelers from around the globe. By utilizing platforms like Couchsurfing, you can find locals who are willing to offer free accommodations, giving you a chance to experience their culture firsthand.

Not only does this save you money on accommodation expenses, but it also provides an opportunity to make lasting friendships and learn about the local customs and traditions. Additionally, websites like Airbnb allow you to rent rooms or even entire apartments directly from locals at affordable prices. This not only gives you a comfortable place to stay but also allows you to support the local community by contributing directly to their economy.

Embracing the sharing economy is not just about saving money – it’s about creating meaningful connections and embracing new cultures as well.

Find Work Exchange Opportunities

Discovering work exchange opportunities can be a rewarding way to immerse yourself in local communities and gain unique experiences while traveling. Work exchanges allow you to trade your skills for accommodation and sometimes even meals.

There are countless opportunities available worldwide, ranging from farm work to teaching English or helping out with hostel operations.

To find work exchange opportunities, start by researching online platforms like Workaway, HelpX, or WWOOF (World Wide Opportunities on Organic Farms). These platforms connect travelers with hosts who are looking for help in various fields. Read through the listings carefully and choose the ones that align with your interests and skills.

Once you’ve found a suitable opportunity, reach out to the host and discuss the details of the exchange. It’s important to establish clear expectations regarding working hours, tasks, and duration of stay. Remember that these exchanges are based on trust and mutual respect.

By participating in work exchanges, not only will you save money on accommodation but also have the chance to develop new skills, make lifelong friends, and truly immerse yourself in the local culture. So why not give it a try?

Utilize Travel Apps and Websites for Deals and Discounts

Take full advantage of travel apps and websites to snag amazing deals and discounts that will make your adventures even more affordable and exhilarating.

With the rise of technology, there are countless resources at your fingertips to help you find the best travel deals out there. Websites like Skyscanner, Kayak, and Expedia allow you to compare prices across multiple airlines, hotels, and rental car companies, ensuring that you get the lowest price possible.

Additionally, apps like Hopper can track flight prices for you and notify you when they drop, so you never miss out on a great deal.

Don’t forget about accommodation options like Airbnb or Couchsurfing which offer unique experiences at a fraction of the cost of traditional hotels.

So before embarking on your next adventure, be sure to do your research and utilize these valuable tools to save money while still having an incredible travel experience.

Connect with Locals for Insider Tips and Recommendations

One of the most valuable resources for any traveler is connecting with locals. These are the people who know all the hidden gems, secret spots, and insider tips that can make your journey unforgettable. By reaching out to locals, you’ll gain access to authentic experiences that are off the beaten path.

Connect with them through social media groups, forums, or even by striking up conversations when you arrive at your destination. Locals can recommend the best places to eat, where to find cheap accommodations, and even share unique cultural events happening during your stay.

So don’t be shy – embrace the opportunity to connect with locals and unlock a world of knowledge that no guidebook can provide!

Be Flexible and Open to Unexpected Opportunities

Embrace the unexpected and keep an open mind, because being flexible on your journey will lead you to incredible opportunities you never could have imagined!

When traveling the world with no money, it’s important to be open to unexpected opportunities that may come your way. You might meet someone who offers you a place to stay for free, or stumble upon a local festival that showcases traditional culture and cuisine. By staying flexible in your plans, you can seize these unique experiences and make unforgettable memories.

Don’t be afraid to deviate from your original itinerary if something interesting pops up – sometimes the best adventures are the ones that happen spontaneously. So embrace the unknown, take risks, and let yourself be guided by the serendipity of travel.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can i find affordable accommodation options while traveling.

To find affordable accommodation while traveling, consider staying in hostels, which offer budget-friendly dormitory-style rooms. You can also try couchsurfing, where locals offer their homes for free. Another option is to search for deals on websites like Airbnb or

Are there any websites or apps that provide discounted travel deals?

Yes, there are several websites and apps that offer discounted travel deals. They can help you save money on flights, accommodations, and activities. Just search for them online or download the apps to start exploring amazing discounts!

How can I connect with locals to get insider tips and recommendations?

Connect with locals by joining online travel communities, using social media hashtags, or participating in Couchsurfing. Engage with them genuinely, ask for recommendations and tips, and be open to their suggestions. Their insights will make your trip unforgettable!

What are some ways to save money on transportation while traveling?

To save money on transportation while traveling, consider using public transportation, such as buses or trains. Look for discounts or passes, and consider sharing rides with others through carpooling or ridesharing services.

Are there any travel rewards programs that can help me save money on my trips?

Yes, there are travel rewards programs that can help you save money on your trips. These programs offer benefits like discounted flights, free hotel stays, and exclusive perks. Joining them is a smart way to make your travels more affordable and enjoyable.

In conclusion, traveling the world with no money isn’t just possible, but it’s also an incredible adventure waiting to be embraced. By prioritizing free accommodation options, taking advantage of volunteer opportunities, and using couchsurfing networks, you can save a significant amount of money on lodging expenses.

Embracing slow travel and finding work exchange opportunities allow you to immerse yourself in different cultures while sustaining your journey. Additionally, using travel apps and websites for deals and discounts, connecting with locals for insider tips, and being flexible will open doors to unexpected opportunities along the way.

So pack your bags, embark on this thrilling journey, and let the world be your playground without breaking the bank.

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How to travel for cheap? 8 ways to see the world with less money

In this article I'll share the best tips on how to travel for cheap, based on my knowledge as a solo traveller around the world.

Lauren Worldpackers Community

Sep 18, 2023

Are you wondering how to travel for cheap? Whilst travelling the globe can seem incredibly expensive, it doesn't always have to be. There are many alternatives to save a lot of money on the road.

Travel used to be something far out of reach for many, but these days people are able to go far and wide without spending much. We now have smarter transport, more choice of accommodation and more knowledge on how to travel for cheap.

Whether it's a city break, staycation , or backpacking your way across the globe, there are many ways in which you can enjoy the trip of a lifetime on a low budget.  In this article, I'll give the best tips I learned from my own experience and from talking to other travelers.

How to travel for cheap? 8 tips to help you to save money

Before we start, the number one tip is to be realistic about your trip. You may want an all-inclusive luxury holiday to the Maldives, but if your bank account says otherwise, it's best to listen. 

Make sure to have a rough budget and stick to it - that way you can enjoy yourself without worrying about the expenses.

With that said, here are 8 top tips on how you can travel the world for cheap:

• Pick the right destination to make the best with your budget
• Do your research to find the lowest airfare
• Curb your meals expenses by cooking in your trip
• Live it up with some free events
• Pack light with a minimalist packing list
• Do volunteer work exchange with Worldpackers
• Seek out discounts to travel cheaper
• Use your skills to make money travelling

1. Pick the right destination to make the best with your budget

As mentioned before, it's good to be realistic about your trip and what you can afford. If you're on a tight budget, travelling to one (or some) of the cheapest countries to visit will make your life much easier. 

To start, the best thing to do is create a budget plan . When choosing your location, research the average costs of transport, accommodation, food and other expenses like the experiences you want to have when you're out there. 

Take Europe for example - the North is typically very expensive with Nordic countries like Iceland and Denmark but Eastern Europe is the complete opposite. And if you want to save even more, especially on longer trips, consider going to Southeast Asia or Latin America , where most countries' cost of living and currencies make it easier to travel for cheap.

There are plenty of beautiful, fun and cheap places to travel around the world. Want some ideas? Read our articles on The best places to travel on a budget  and The cheapest vacation destinations.

But if your absolute desire is to go to an expensive country, though, the following tips can help you reduce costs on your trip.

2. Do your research to find the lowest airfare

One of the most expensive parts of travelling, especially abroad, is the transport. If you're going somewhere far, you're likely to be flying there. 

A great hack to travel smarter  is to search for flights on incognito mode on your web browser. And if you can have some flexibility on your travel dates, you're much more likely to find cheap flights.

One of the best things to do if you want to travel for cheap is book flights outside school holidays, that way you won't pay the higher prices. And some airlines offer cheaper flights on Tuesdays, for instance.

Depending on where you're going, you might also consider taking a bus or a train to your destination, even if it's a longer journey. Not only it might be cheaper, but it's also more sustainable. 

And if you're flying, it's also good to check out the prices for a city or country near your destination - maybe it's worth it taking another means of transportation from there.

Find out more amazing tips reading our article on how to find cheap airfare.

3. Curb your meals expenses by cooking in your trip

Sure, wining and dining out is great but you don't need to do it every meal. One of the fundamntals of travel for cheap is deciding what you really need and what you can live without. 

My tip is to pick a few places you're desperate to try out and make a budget for them. The rest of the time, you can cook your own meals. With that in mind, I suggest you  stay in accommodation with a kitchen , like a hostel or apartment.

If you don't have access to a kitchen, you can still buy produce from a local supermarket and make your own breakfasts and snacks. As for dinner, if you want something hot then fast food places are a good shout and they don't always have to be unhealthy. 

It's also good to look for local restaurants with cheap lunch menus, or street food stalls that allow you to explore local flavours for cheap.

Top tip: Help reduce food waste and save money with apps like Too Good To Go  where you can get the end of day food that's been highly discounted. Also, many supermarkets reduce their food at the end of the day too. Always worth looking out for.

4. Live it up with free events

Experiencing a country is best done when you immerse yourself in the culture, explore your surroundings and get to know the locals. You may be tempted to do some of those pricey tours, but they aren't usually as authentic. 

In most cities, there are plenty of free walking or bike tours, which is a fantastic way of sightseeing whilst making friends. If you're travelling solo then events like these are one of the best ways to create some great memories and life-long friends. 

Some hostels may offer free experiences like cooking classes, tours and pub crawls . And if you talk to locals and do you research, you'll probably find out about days when museums have free entrance, or attractions that aren't made for tourists like parks and street markets. 

 There's plenty of free stuff out there, in most parts of the world. You just have to look for it!

5. Pack light with a minimalist packing list

If you're prone to taking two huge suitcases on a weekend away, you might want to rethink your packing style. 

There are exceptions for items like medication if you have a medical condition or work equipment if you're a digital nomad. However, if you're just packing a years' worth of clothes into a suitcase to keep up with fashion trends , then it's time to become a bit more ruthless. 

Many airlines allow you to take one or two free bags for hand luggage and then charge for check-in bags.  Travelling light is also a way to travel for cheap because it makes it easier to use public transportation and walk, instead of spending money on taxis and such.

Do a  minimalist packing list  and you'll realise how much more practical your trips will be.

6. Do volunteer work exchange with Worldpackers

Volunteering while travelling is a great way to learn about different cultures, practice or develop different skills and make new friends. You'll come back home with great memories and it's also a great hack for those who wonder how to travel for cheap, since you'll save a lot of money on accommodation and other expenses.

You can find volunteering positions at Worldpackers , a work exchange platform that connects travelers to hosts from all around the world that offer free stay and other benefits, like meals and tours, in exchange for a few hours of help. 

There are hundreds of different opportunities and there will definitely be a perfect position for you. Here's some examples:

• If you like animals and eco projects you can volunteer on a  farm , ecovillage or permaculture project . 
• If you're a party person, you can do a work exchange in a hostel and make many friends. 
• You can also help out at a social impact project , volunteering in a community , school or NGO in amazing places.

Volunteering does mean giving up some of your free time, of course. However, if you choose a good position you'll gain a lot in return for your work. You might be able to learn amazing new things, and connecting with your hosts and other volunteers will make your trip much more memorable.

You might also like to read: 

• The most unique places to stay for cheap around the world
• 14 TOP cheapest countries to visit as a Worldpackers volunteer

7. Seek out discounts to travel cheaper

If you're a student wondering how to travel for cheap, you should definitely take advantage of the student discounts  that are widely available. Meals, transport, accommodation, drinks and experiences are cheaper for students in many places.

As for the rest of us, we may not get as many discounts, but there are always railcards and bus passes that make a difference for those looking to  save money while travelling . 

And if all else fails, there are low cost airlines and bus companies to get you from A to B without splashing the cash. 

8. Use your skills to make money travelling

How about not only travelling for cheap, but also making money on the go?  Digital nomadism is very common nowadays, so if you can get into it, it may be very worth it. You might not have much money before you go travelling, but if you can work remotely, you can make money and see the world at the same time.

Things like social media marketing , blog writing , video making, and web developing  are all examples of how the digital world opens up endless opportunities . 

If you don't already have a job that allows you to travel remotely you can still create that opportunity for yourself. This does require some effort, but once you find the right balance between work and travel, traveling becomes much more rewarding.

Bonus tips on how to travel for cheap and be a sustainable traveler

Have you stopped to think that budget travel choices are often good for the planet? When looking for affordable alternatives for transportation and meals and experimenting collaborative ways of travelling , you might also travel more sustainably . 

Here are some  attitudes that save you money and help the environment:

• Walk or cycle around a city if possible, rather than getting a taxi 
• Prefer taking buses or hitchhiking than renting a car
• Take a reusable water bottle with you and fill it up where possible
• Buy shampoo and soap bars, which save space and last much longer

If you're ready to get out there and explore the world, don't forget to check out the amazing volunteer opportunities on Worldpackers .

Have any other good tips and tricks for how to travel the world for cheap ? Share them in the comments!

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Lauren Mclachlan

Worldpackers Community

Hey I’m Lauren! I’m from a small town in sunny (I wish) Scotland and took on my first solo travelling trip after graduating in 2019 My experience was way better than I could’ve imagined – meeting wonderful people, seeing amazing things, great experiences and even teaching weekly yoga! I couldn’t have done all this without Worldpackers, I’m so grateful I came across the website. I think everyone should get to experience travelling at some point in their lives – wherever and whatever it may be! My advice if you’re thinking about it is – don’t think too much! Just do, you won’t regret it. Also, if you want 10% off your Worldpackers memberships you can use the code LAUREN10

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Write here your questions and greetings to the author

Feb 12, 2022

I am a handicapped and I have a wish since childhood that I travel solo around the world but I'm unable to fulfill this wish the only reason for one shortcoming is lack of money because I don't have money to buy it I humbly request your company that I need a lightweight Racksak Bag which is 65 liters & a tent which can be of 2 person & rest as you wish so that I can make my dreams come true & I can set a better example in the society for this I will be eternally grateful and thankful to you and all your loved ones.

Sep 29, 2022

how about to get visa

Lauren (Author)

Oct 10, 2022

Hi Rusul, I don't know about visas as I have never had to get one. The best thing to do would be to search the internet depending on where you want to go.

Apr 04, 2023

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Jun 16, 2023

Those are excellent tips for traveling on a budget! Here's some additional information and advice on each of the points you mentioned: Pick the right destination to make the most of your budget: Some destinations are naturally more affordable than others. Consider countries or cities where the cost of living is lower, as it can significantly impact your overall expenses. [tunnel rush](https://tunnel-rush.co/)

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More about this topic

How to save money for travel? 15 tips to help your planning

Cheapest and safest places to live in the world

10 Best cheap vacation ideas: unique experiences that fit your budget

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How to Travel the World When You’ve Got Absolutely No Money 

Jun 10, 2015 | Fund Your Trip , Get Unstuck , Live Anywhere | 354 comments

My all time favorite question to ask someone I’ve just met is “If you won the lottery, what would you do with the money?”

The reason I love to ask this question, is that I believe it instantly reveals someone’s deepest desires. It reveals what they’d be doing with their lives if they removed the barriers of limitations and looked through the lens of possibility instead. When people imagine having all of the money they could ever dream of, immediately they see a life without limits.

Without fail, nearly everyone I ask answers, “I would travel the world.”

Indeed, money seems to be the main factor that prevents people from leaving a job they don’t love, a life that doesn’t make them happy, and chasing their dream of traveling the world.

But it doesn’t have to be that way.

A few days ago I shared with all of you How I Afford a Life of Constant Travel, And You Can Too . Since then I’ve been positively stunned by the number of shares, comments, and messages I’ve received. One thing became overwhelmingly clear: people want to know how a nomadic lifestyle is financially possible.

In that post I share lots of advice for how to financially sustain a life of constant a travel. But how do you get started when you’re flat broke? When you’ve got nothing saved? When your feet are so itchy you can barely stand still, but you’ve got absolutely no financial reserves to get up and go?

If there’s one thing I’ve learned in three and a half years of travel, it’s that nothing, literally nothing, is impossible. So today, I’m here to tell you, that even if you’ve got absolutely no money at all, you could pack up your bags and set off to travel the world tomorrow. You can live as if you won the lottery, even when you’re flat broke.

Here is how:

Sell Your Shit

The first step in quickly getting money to be able to travel, is selling your stuff. Not only will this help you pay for your trip, but it removes the baggage you still have at home. If you don’t have any stuff, you don’t need an apartment to keep it in. You don’t need a storage unit to store it in. You have one less thing tying you to a physical space.

Selling my belongings was the initial step that helped me make my dream of traveling long term a reality. I did anything from sell my leather boots and dresses to consignment shops to sell my car and furniture on Craigslist.

Assess your belongings and ask yourself what you can let go of. Rather than losing something or having less, consider it an exchange. By selling your belongings, you’re essentially exchanging a material possession for a bigger piece of freedom. What is freedom worth to you?

Do you still own a car? How would it feel to let it go? Do you still have a house? How would it feel to let it go? Big items will certainly help you save the money quickly, but no item is too small. What do you have that you are willing to exchange for freedom? Have a garage sale, sell on Etsy , post on Craigslist , auction on Ebay , and put the word out to your friends on Facebook.

Travel For Free

Would you believe me if I told you that it’s not only possible, but fairly easy, to travel for free? I never would have believed this to be true until I started meeting people, all over the world, who were really doing it. I’ve witnessed that traveling for free, or at least on a budget, can actually yield richer, more authentic, and more life changing experiences than organized, luxury travel. Why? It requires resourcefulness,  human connection and trust, and embracing a more down to earth way of living. Here are some of the best ways to travel the world for free:

Couch Surfing

One of the simplest and most popular ways to sleep for free is through couchsurfing . If you’re not already signed up with couch surfing get on there now! You can search for hosts offering a free couch, a free bed, sometimes a free bedroom, with no expectations in return. Some hosts will even cook you breakfast and show you their favorite parts of the city. Let me say it again, FOR FREE! It’s particularly helpful if you want to travel in more expensive cities like Singapore or London, where even dorm beds can cost as much as $50 per night.

Admittedly, I’ve not done much couchsurfing, but I have many friends who swear by it. My friend Anna, from The Legendary Adventures of Anna , has couchsurfed all over the world and made tons of friends in the process. I stayed with one of her couchsurfing hosts in San Jose, Costa Rica who was totally sweet, gave us our own room, and even made a full Costa Rican breakfast in the morning! A friend of hers took us out to his favorite bar overlooking the city, he ended up staying with me down in Puerto Viejo , and we’re still friends to this day.

That said, you certainly need to take some precautions with couch surfing, especially if you’re a woman traveling on your own. There are plenty of men who use couchsurfing as a way to pick up chicks, and I had a very uncomfortable experience in Munich with a guy who advertised a couch, yet when I got there he expected me to share the bed with him. Try to plan ahead and look for hosts with good reviews and common interests. Couch surfing at the heart is about making friends and being part of a community, rather than just a free bed.

For more on Couch Surfing, check out: The Comprehensive Guide to Couchsurfing

Nature lovers rejoice, there are tons of places all over the world where you can camp for free. One of my friends, Foster Huntington , is basically the king of “vanlife” and has lived and traveled all over the world in his campervan. I’ve met travelers who backpack with lightweight tents and either pay a small fee to pitch their tent at hostels or camp in the wilderness. A great option in the tropics is to simply travel with a hammock and a mosquito net. I met people who did this all over Southeast Asia. Of course, safety is certainly something to consider, and be sure that you’ll be secure where you choose to camp.

Here’s a great resource on getting started: Travel For Free By Camping Around the World 

Housesitting

Far and away the most luxurious, comfortable option for free lodging is housesitting. I know tons of people who have afforded long-term travel by looking after people’s vacation homes. In Costa Rica I know expats who leave during the rainy season and have long term travelers stay for free in their home during that time. Recently I stayed with a friend of mine who has been housesitting at a beautiful place in the countryside of Spain for over a year. In exchange for looking over the property and feeding the cats, she lives for free in a big two-bedroom house with a garden and a courtyard among the olive groves of Andalusia. Many travel bloggers, particularly families and single parents, travel and live abroad through housesitting opportunities across Europe, Bali, Thailand, Mexico, you name it.

You can sign up now with Trusted Housesitters to start looking, or if you need more infomation for getting started, read this  house sitting guide .

Free Transportation

When I’m traveling I walk almost everywhere. I’ll happily walk for hours to get to the best hidden beaches, hike into the jungle to discover the waterfalls, and wander around the city all day. Walking is not only FREE transportation, it’s also my favorite form of transportation because it allows me to connect with what’s around me, take tons of amazing photos, and get exercise at the same time.

I’ve also met travelers who put their bicycle in checked luggage and cycle from one destination to the next. It’s not easy, but it’s totally possible and a great way to see a lot on a low budget. If you don’t already have a bicycle, you could always show up to your destination and buy a used one, then sell it when you leave. This is what I do every time I go to Costa Rica. For around $60 I find a bicycle that I can take into town and out to the remote beaches. Then, I sell it for exactly what I paid when I leave a few months later.

When my parents were traveling in their 20s people hitchhiked, these days it’s all about carpooling. Today there are tons of ride share and carpooling resources online, where you can pay a small amount, or sometimes ride for free. You can find reputable drivers all over the world through Bla Bla Car . Also look up different Facebook groups. In Costa Rica we have local rideshare groups where people post when they’re driving to different destinations across the country.

Travel Hacking

Think of travel hacking as knowing how to work the system. By understanding the way that reward points, frequent flier miles, and credit card offers work, you can rack up enough credits to be able to get free flights and hotels anywhere in the world. Nomadic Matt is the expert on Travel Hacking, so get started with his guide on Time, The Incredibly Simple Guide to Getting Totally Free Flights and Hotels , or if you’re serious about learning, buy his eBook The Ultimate Guide to Travel Hacking .

I’ll never forget the moment when I realized that even if I drained all of my funds, I could still keep traveling forever. That happened when I learned about the incredible world of work trade. Hundreds of thousands of establishments all over the world are looking for travelers to come and volunteer on their farms, in their hostels, at their retreats, and for their organizations in exchange for free room and board. Even if you have money saved for travel, this is an excellent way to extend the length of your trip.

You can organize work trade ahead of time by contacting hosts online and planning your trip accordingly, or make last minute plans when you find yourself in a country that you’d love to stay in longer. It’s even possible to walk into businesses, especially hostels, and simply ask at the front desk if they’re looking for work traders.

Here are some resources for finding work trade opportunities:

Work Away and Helpx

These are the most popular and comprehensive websites out there for work trade opportunities. Both require a subscription fee to directly apply for jobs, around $25/year, and with Work Away you can still browse the jobs for free. You can find trade opportunities in nearly every country in the world, ranging from working reception in a hostel to pouring drinks in a beach bar to playing music in a nightclub to growing vegetables on an organic farm to teaching yoga at a resort in the jungle. If you want to volunteer specifically in Latin America, check out Volunteer Latin America , a socially and environmentally sustainable organization that connects volunteers with programs in South and Central America. Their opportunities are typically free and many include free food, accommodation, living stipends, and sometimes even free flights!

If you’re already a certified yoga teacher or body worker, there are tons of retreat centers, resorts, hotels, and studios looking for work traders. Many of the hosts pay money in addition to free room and board, especially if you offer massage or reiki. Yoga Trade is, to my knowledge, the only resource out there with work trade opportunities specifically for the yoga field. An opportunity on yoga trade was actually how I managed to work for my 200-hour yoga teacher training last year. Since then I’ve discovered amazing yoga teacher options through Yoga Trade. Some examples include leading retreats at a surf and yoga villa on the coast of Morocco, teaching yoga at a retreat center on a deserted beach in Costa Rica, and teaching yoga at a nonprofit for women in a riverside town in Cambodia.

Want to learn about organic farming, or simply like the idea of getting your hands dirty in a foreign country? You should definitely take a look at Woofing, where hosts offer free accommodation, meals, and training in exchange for hard work.

Get a Job Overseas

For travel to truly be sustainable, you’ll need to start earning some income sooner or later. Check out my article How I Afford a Life of Travel, and You Can Too , for ways that I’ve made money on the road, especially by working online. The list below focuses on job opportunities overseas that you can sign up for before you even leave home.

Working Holiday in Australia

Working abroad in Australia is practically a backpacker right of passage, and a great way to experience life in Australia while saving up a lot of money. I have friends who spent six months to a year earning high wages in Australia and saved enough to spend a year traveling in Southeast Asia. The job options are limitless, it all depends on your skill set. One friend of mine was already a trained barber and had an amazing time cutting hair in Melbourne. Another taught at a yoga studio by the beach in Byron Bay. A copywriter friend worked in an office for an internet marketing company. And I meet tons of travelers constantly who picked bananas on farms, worked in bars in Sydney, and did all kinds of odd jobs. There are two caveats, however. One is that you must do it before you turn 31, so sign up while you’re young. The other is that Australia is very very expensive, so if you want to actually save money, you will have to live frugally in an expensive country. Working outside of the cities on farms makes this much easier, and you’ll often have room and board included in your compensation and few temptations for spending money.

Find out how to apply for a working holiday visa here .

Teaching English

When you literally have no money and you’re looking to save a lot of it quickly, teaching English overseas is an amazing option. Some programs will even pay for your flight, your training, your relocation costs, your housing, and you’ll get a decent income to top it all off.

Last month in Morocco, I met a couple from the UK who are both gym teachers, moving to Japan to teach English for a year. Two of my friends from High School teach English in Saigon and earn enough to travel around Southeast Asia often. Popular travel blogger That Backpacker taught English in South Korea and managed to save $17,000 in just one year!

If you’re already a teacher, the opportunities will come easily for you. Some schools will pay for your training, a great option if you want to go quickly and you don’t have a teaching background. Though you will have better teaching options if you invest in a TEFL training program.

Find out more information on teaching English overseas in this guide .

Be a Tour Guide

Perhaps the most fun way to travel and earn a living at the same time, is by being a tour guide. Yes, you will still have to work, but you’ll get to experience a lot of different places, meet people from all over the world, and make a decent income. Contiki is a popular option for young adventurers, Beach Travelers is a great choice if you’re into the island party lifestyle, and Stoke Travel focuses mostly on festivals all over Europe. Other popular tour companies to contact include G Adventures and Intrepid Travel .

Work as an Au Pair

I remember about five years ago when I was working a desk job back in the states and my best friend was a nanny. While I spent the summer in an office in a basement, she was exploring London, living in her own beautiful flat, and taking vacations to Greece. When she was working back in the states, she would take the kids on trips to Hawaii, Los Angeles, and Mexico. Since then, that same friend has started a company called Adventure Nannies , connecting adventurous families with experienced nannies. They even have a specific section for travel nannies. If you’re already a qualified nanny, spend some time researching different sites for au pairs in countries you’d like to travel to. However if you’re looking to get into the field, read this guide How to Become an Au Pair .

Work on Cruise Ships

Friends of mine who have made the most money on the road, and have seen the most of the world, are the ones who worked on cruise ships. I know people have been anything from a captain to a steward to a private chef. The work can get intense, the hours can be long, and you might go crazy out at sea, but you can save a lot of money quickly, develop solid relationships, and have the chance to travel to some of the most coveted destinations in the world. If you’re serious about getting a job working on cruise ships, popular blogger Wandering Earl has an entire guide to getting jobs which you can purchase here .

Trim Weed in California

Disclaimer: I’m in no way endorsing that you do something illegal, I’m simply letting you know what’s out there . One extremely monotonous, though extremely lucrative way to earn money for travel while having a new experience is by trimming marijuana in the good ol’ USA. Humboldt County in Northern California is the epicenter, where it is indeed illegal. I’ve met many many many many more people than you would ever imagine, who fund all of their travels by trimming weed for just a few months of the whole year. How much money you make depends on how much you trim, so it’s possible to make a thousand dollars a day if you’re really fast, $200 a day if you’re really slow. Your experience will vary wildly depending on where you decide to trim and how you plan ahead. I’ve heard many horror stories, but I also know people who trim at very laid-back farms run by families. If you do decide to trim, try to find a personal connection through friends to ensure that you’re in a safe situation.

This guide will help you get started: Everything You Need to Know About Trim Camps But Were Afraid to Ask

Crowd Fund Your Trip

There are people all over the world who are traveling because other people paid for it. No, they don’t have trust funds. They’ve created a trip that adds enough value to the world, that people are happy to support them.

Years ago Kickstarter completely changed the way that people approach business by offering an easy fundraising platform. Nowadays there are crowd funding websites designed specifically for travel. Trevolta is one where you can propose trips with a purpose and offer different donation levels with different benefits for your donors. The cool thing about Trevolta, is that it targets not only your network, but also potential sponsors who may want to get involved.

A friend of mine who I met last year in Southeast Asia, The Nomad Barber , raised enough money through Kick Starter to go on a year long trip around the world to make a Youtube series about barbering. His project became incredibly successful, some of his videos have over a million views, and he leveraged this success to get investors on more of his projects.

If you’ve always dreamed of writing a book, or making a documentary, or starting a blog, whatever, create a campaign through one of the many crowd funding websites and get people to support you. Remember, money is simply an exchange in energy, so create something valuable, full of worthwhile energy, and people will want to support it.

This guide offers some clear directions in creating your own crowdfunding campaign: How to Crowdfund Travel

Phew, that was a lot. I sincerely hope that this article has shown you that traveling the world, even when you’re flat broke, is entirely within reach. And even more importantly, that the more you see beyond the limits and into the possibilities, the more expansive your entire world becomes. Everything is possible if you believe in it enough.

Now, go! Live as if you won the jackpot. Because the truth is, you already have.

354 Comments

Wow, this is such a comprehensive resource – thanks for including our house sitting guide! We have had great success with house sitting, travelling the world and living rent free for the last four years! It is a great way to immerse yourself in the communities you visit and of course saves a huge amount of money on accommodation!

Absolutely! You wrote a great guide and I’m happy to have found it 🙂

Great Article! I fell in love with Costa Rica last year and Im dying to get back. Please tell me what camera & lens your using to take your pictures. I love it!

Thank you so much Rae!! I actually just use a canon powershot automatic camera. I shoot in their “miniature mode” which emulates a tilt shift lens.

Is it better to have a travel partner or get solo. I want to live a life of nomads but I love people and afraid to get lonely during travel. What should I do?

If I can have a travel partner then can you help me with how should get find the perfect one?

These last two articles have been so wonderful and truthfully, so critical to my commitment to reading your blog. I was enchanted with your story at first, but over time grew suspicious and a bit cynical of how easy you made traveling the world appear. Having real information like this not only validates (for me) your experience, but also gives me food for thought on how I can one day pursue my own wanderlust dreams.

Thank you Marissa I really appreciate your honesty. Money is one of those things that I’ve felt uncomfortable talking about in the past, hence the reason why I haven’t written about it! But I know it’s sooooo important to bring it out into the light, which is why I’ve chosen to write these last two posts. Please let me know anything else I haven’t written about that you’d like to know. xx

Hi Camille, From then, it intrigues me hows ur love life going on? Hmm Keep posting 🙂

Hahaha, ummm by “love life” do you mean my LOVE for life? If so, it’s going swimmingly 😉

Thank you for all this inspiration! I will certainly make use of some of the ideas in the near future 🙂 I just have one question: what do you do when you get sick? Or what would you do if you would get sick on the road, I mean seriously ill or injured? You dont have any kind of insurance, do you? Thank you! Elena

Hi Elena, you’re so welcome 🙂 A lot of people have been asking this question, about healthcare, so I definitely am going to put together a blog post about it. Stay tuned…!

What about this? I always used to joke that I have DAN and I’d claim that aything that happens was a dive accident. Now they have a plan that actually does cover a lot of other watersports and non diving accidents.

http://www.diversalertnetwork.org/guardian

This may be a silly question, but… do you need to fluently speak the local language to teach english? I’d imagine so, just making sure. Great read!

Absolutely not! I have friends who taught English in Latin America knowing a little bit of Spanish, and a lot of my friends who taught in Asia don’t speak a word of the language. They’re looking for more advanced teaching, so assume that the students already have basic English knowledge.

Very nice article… It Covers it all. There’s however another way to get free accomodation, free transport to some of the most remote place on earth and in some instance even work: get a sailboat or crew on one. I started as a volunteer crew on boat, kind of like a work-away thing, and then I bought a 10m sailboat for 200 US$ (I admit i got luky on that one but it happens..). I fixed it up for a bit more than that and now I’m cruising in the Andaman sea for almost a year. Anchoring is for free, the wind pushes the boat to his destination (also for free), wind and sun generate the electricity needed on board (again free), if you’re good (which i’m not) you can catch fish to sustain yourself and if you can’t catch fish you can still make money to feed yourself by bringing backpackers on a budget cruise… Pretty cool…

Yes thank you for sharing!! I can’t believe I forgot that one. I’ve met many people who have done live aboards, and especially in Bocas del Toro, Panama I’ve met sailors who make money from taking tourists down to Colombia or around the Caribbean, whatever. Thanks for pointing out yet another possibility 🙂

Can I join you?

Are you no longer a resident in the US? Do you have a domicily somewhere? How can you have a bank account without an address anywhere? Or don’t you have a bank account anymore? This is what I don’t understand from all the stories I read from nomads like you. And nobody addresses this topic. Please, enlighten me!

You don’t need a permanent address to have a bank account. You just have to be a citizen of a country. She is still an American citizen despite traveling around the world, so most probably she has a bank account in USA.

I have a permanent address at my family home where I have mail sent, etc. I do still have a USA bank account. I think most “nomads” have home bases and they set themselves up there, as well as keeping a permanent address in their home country.

I am like so much convinced and truely amazed by the way this works, travel has alwaysz been my forte, so looking forward to try it at an earliest, but how do u manage visas around coutries?, I am an indian citizen.

That’s great! I’m not exactly sure how the visas work for Indian citizens. As a US citizen I’m very fortunate that I can visit many countries as a US citizen. I recommend researching the visa restrictions in the different countries you want to travel to. Good luck! 🙂

This is all well and good, but what about the people who only get 10 days of paid vacation per year? You can’t do much international traveling with so few days.

Exactly. Which is why so many of us are starting to leave that world and create our own. I used to be in that same situation and then I decided to make a major lifestyle change. Read more about it here: https://www.thisamericangirl.com/2015/06/03/why-i-left-my-fancy-city-life-to-become-a-globetrotting-gypsy/

Wow, such a great post. I work in biomedical research and can’t see myself doing anything else so I will have to learn how to make the most of my 10 days!

Thank you so much! Glad to hear you’ve found something that you love on your path 🙂

I guess you’d have to save up a bit of money and then just take unpaid leave on top? I’m in a similar situation, part of me wants to just leave the career world totally though.

I just found your post How to Travel the World When You’ve Got Absolutely No Money and it was great! They say if you love what you do you will never work a day in your life. It looks like you are having fun!

Absolutely! Thanks so much 🙂

WOW. I cannot express how much I appreciate your incredible article! Like many, I’ve got a traveling bug but have a habit of blowing my money on experiences rather than saving it (ain’t even sorry). My best friend and I plan to au pair in Spain next year but I definitely wonder about staying there more than a year and moving around. I know there are so many recourses out there but who’s to know what is legit, what really works, etc. Youre article not only gives so many people hope because you have (or you know someone who has had) personal experience with each travel method, but you also provide a list of practical ways to get up and GO! From one full life-seeker to another, thank you so so very much for taking the time to share your wisdom!!!!

You are so so so so welcome!! This is what my blog is all about, showing you that everything is possible <3

Don’t just assume you should get an English teaching job. Many English teaching organizations are scams that exploit and profit on your passport.

As somebody who actually has a teaching degree and has taught at actual international schools, I’ve seen many English instructors who know nothing about education and don’t care about their students. If you’re just looking to travel then please find something besides teaching to fund it. It does a disservice to my profession and, most importantly, the students. English language learners need stability and not a new person every couple months of year.

Thank you for your personal and practical experience. It’s true, some of these jobs I’ve listed are not to be taken lightly. Friends of mine who have done teaching overseas all committed to a minimum of one year. Several have been doing it for 5 years in Saigon.

This is such a good post! I’ve been someone who has been limited by the belief that you need to have a lot of money to travel, but after being extremely poor overseas, I just put everything I had into travelling the world. Not only do you get your travel done, but also heaps more exciting experiences along the way! And the walking tip – I definitely abide by this! It’s cheap, exciting and you get excercise! Win win!

https://aworldlyaddiction.wordpress.com/

Awesome! So glad to hear you are living out your dreams Adelaide!!

Thank you for including us in the article.

It is a good read with some really useful tips. Particularly like the part about selling stuff. I have sold numerous things in the past to fund my overseas trips, including a canal boat, a VW Beetle, and two large cases of ‘white label’ records.

Best wishes

Sure thing!! 🙂

Yay for not needing to be rich to travel! Haha. I’ve been asked if I was an heiress…seriously people? I just work and don’t spend a lot of money. lol. Good article Camille, love your style of writing 🙂 travel on <3

Thanks so much you too dear!! 🙂

I am so interested in all your articles on your website.I started by reading How I afford to live a constant life of travel & u can 2.But, then I saw your article what the f@ck 2 do with ur life…i am already doing nothing with my life because am disabled supposedly bipolar, I have panic attacks and take many meds, but now physically also do to kidney stones, reoccuring UTI’s, and I have had so many surgeries I have lost count , do to the operations from removing the stones. I have also broken my tibia and wrist. But, I dont get money from being disabled because I tried so many times, I gave up. Here in Florida its hard to get it. Plus, I am the mother of a beautiful and very smart 7 yr old daughter. What’s even more sad is I live in one of the most beautiful, fun, and relaxed places , Cocoa Beach/Cape Canaveral, Florida. It very realistic that I received a scholarship in high school for writing bring editors of the Newspaper and Yearbook. I love to write! Now, after crying and your article I believe I can do it for a living! I used to make beautiful hemp jewelry, but I had a baby and stopped. Its funny that I even started doing Yoga on my Windows Phone. Thanks to u I am convinced that my true calling in life is not too far away. Hopefully, my bliss is very close. Thanks for the links that I can use to try to make some money. I really need to reread and read more of your articles and I am starting today. So very grateful for you 🙂

Awww Sarah that warms my heart SO much to hear! You can absolutely do it!! That’s the great thing about writing, you can do it from anywhere and you can start small and build up your portfolio. Also, if you’ve taken a lot of medications and had surgeries for stones (which btw are caused by medications as well as other toxins in our environment) I highly highly recommend you start adding some holistic healthcare and cleansing. You can start basic, simply try to include probiotics ( https://www.thisamericangirl.com/2014/11/26/travel-world-never-get-food-poisoning/ ) to support your immune system and drinking warm lemon water first thing in the morning. In the coming weeks I’ll be posting more health related content too 🙂 xo

Most kidney stones are made of calcium and oxalic acid. These are both present in the urine. In the presence of Vitamin B12 they will stay separate. If the body is low in B12 they will combine to create the stones. Before the internet I searched for 2 years to find this information. I am so happy it is freely available now.

Curious… how many people of color have you met living this way? One of the down sides of traveling in the past for me is that once people see that I am black they often rescind their invitation or make excuses, happened to me in Belgium, Paris and England and I was paying….I loved your article but wonder how practical it is for people without the privilege of being white? This isn’t about “racism” but the way the world works at least for now….any ideas, suggestions, information will be appreciated.

Hi Evelyn, thank you so so much for raising this question. It’s an important one, and something that I admittedly don’t have the answer to. You’re right, I often see travelers who are white, perhaps Latino or Asian, but rarely black. In fact, in Costa Rica, if you’re a black traveler the locals immediately assume you’re a local from Limon (the Caribbean side) rather than a tourist. I’m really sorry to hear about your experience with prejudice, a treatment which you most certainly do not deserve. Personally I find that Europe is the most racist part of the world I’ve traveled in. I highly recommend you read this post “Traveling While Black” ( http://www.roadaffair.com/traveling-while-black/ ) and reach out to the blogger who wrote it, I’m sure she will have tons of great insight.

Thank you for that thoughtful, kind, mindful response. I will check out the link….I want my granddaughter to travel and thus my concern. You are very kind, may blessings spring forward to you. Warmest friendship, Evelyn

Thank you Evelyn, you too! <3

Thanks Camille for adding our post as a resource for Evelyn. Hope it was helpful Evelyn! If not, or you want to ask more questions feel free to email us!

You’re welcome! Thanks for writing it 🙂

I had the exact same thought! I read this whole article and it all sounds amazing but as a black woman I know if I tired to do all that was suggested, my experience would be quite different. Not to take dig at you or anything but, your “white privilege” affords you to have this lifestyle (and it’s not really your fault) but it’s the facts. I wanted to teach English in Thailand but I quickly learned the ideal “American” is a white person. I’ve also heard first hand stories of blatant discrimination in countries like Greece, Spain and Italy and it saddens me because I want to see these places and more! But who can really ENJOY the travel if I can’t get service, I’m getting dirty looks, being called names or no one will help me simply because I’m black. It not an excuse not to go of course but it’s something I keep in the back of my mind. I know there is not much you personally can do about it but the dirty little secret of the lifestyle the article implies can be afforded to anyone is that is can’t…blacks need not apply.

Hi Christina, I hear you. While of course I can only truly see the world through my eyes, I do understand where you are coming from. However, I have friends and fellow travel bloggers who are black and from many other ethnicities who have done many of the things mentioned in this article. Soon I’m putting together a collaborative post featuring some them, telling their story along with tips for how you can do it too. xo

Hey Christine, I just want to say that what Camille mentions in her article can be achieved as a black women, because I am doing it now and working on traveling for free for the rest of my life. I am a couchsurfer,I have traveled for 5 months already with limited amount of money and I have already bought my ticket to go to Thailand in March. I would say to you, that you shouldn’t let other people’s bad experience or some dirty looks stop you from visiting Greece, Spain, Thailand or the rest of the world for that matter. Blacks need to apply, because I believe the more black people travel and educate others,the more the stares, and discrimination will decrease. The amazing people you meet and the positive experience you will have will more than make up for the few stares and dirty looks you get for being a black women traveler. Travel because it is possible if you make it possible.

Jazzy, THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU! Your sense of empowerment is so inspiring. I’m STOKED to be featuring you on the blog Monday!!

Merchant Marines! Just spent four months traveling to Europe, the Americas, and across the big blue to Japan. If you’re on the right ship (grain typically) you’ll be in port for a couple days at s time giving you time to see everything. In addition you get to see the subculture that Americas economy thrives on.

Thanks for sharing Danielle 🙂

Thanks for this, and I’m so mad you wrote it. Thanks for it, because I am always trying to explain to people that money is the least of your worries when traveling. I’m mad at you, because I really want to travel but am in the middle of planning a wedding, haha.

Also, I WWOOFed in Belgium and it was one of the best experiences of my life….everyone should do it! Liz

Haha, thanks Liz. Congrats on your wedding and start planning that honeymoon 😉 !!

how can I travel for free

You could join the navy and get paid to travel. Or you could earn your CDL and drive a truck and live in it.

Having some basic equipment helps reduce expenses a lot. Warn sleeping bag, a bivy sack and some bushes to hide behind will take care of accommodation when you are not couch surfing. A water bottle and a water filter will take care of fluid needs. A p-38 can opener and a spoon will assist you in food needs. A lighter will help you get a fire going, a stainless steel cup will heat water for coffee, tea or ramen soup. I carry an immersion heater coil when electric is available. Toilet paper and a trowel will take care of the other end. Hitch hiking or ride sharing or walking will provide transportation. I pulled a dozen bananas out of the trash bin. They were delicious. Only a few minutes before they were on the shelf for sale in the store. You don’t have to go to these extremes but open your mind to the possibility. Say why not instead of if only.

Wow, I’ve never heard of Yoga trade before. So you were able to complete a 200 hour course in exchange for work? Can I ask which country? I had a look at the website but don’t want to pay for it until I know all the facts

Hi Nikki, that was in Costa Rica. The work trade was in exchange for social media and blogging help. It didn’t cover the entire cost of the program but it was a big help! That position was rare though, typically the work trade opportunities are for helping out at retreat center and yoga studios. Most jobs are for yoga teachers but there are some for massage therapists, health cooks, receptionists, you name it! Anything that’s in the health/yoga field.

My husband and I have often considered a drastic lifestyle change like this, but honestly it usually comes down to being unwilling to leave our pets. They are very much a part ofmoving our family and movig with them seems incredibly complicated from the research I’ve done. Mexico doesn’t seem to be an issue and I expect Canada might be equally as simple, but overseas looks to be difficult and expensive. Any advice for afamily duet children?

This is a great question. I don’t have any pets, so I’m not an expert, but this article has lots of detailed info: http://petfriendlytravel.com/intl_travel As far as traveling with children, I know many people out there are doing it. Typically they do homeschooling and/or commit to at least one year in each location with summer breaks for travel. Many of them do housesitting since it provides a much more stable environment for the family.

If your interested in this type of lifestyle check out the book The Man Who Quite Money by Mark Sundeen! He writes about a man who “quites” using money and basically sees the world and lives for free!

Hey Holly I will most definitely check it out! Thanks 🙂

great information! I love all of those ideas and I’m sure I could pick out a handful which would apply to my current situation easily

Awesome! So glad to hear that!

Two words. Plane ticket. How do you get one of those for free?

Hey Autumn, check out the section above on Travel Hacking. Also, read this post: http://www.moneycrashers.com/get-free-flights-travel/

Finally, flights can be MUCH cheaper than you might think, if you have flexible dates. Especially if you’re willing to buy multiple one way tickets to major hubs. For example, rather than pay $900 to get from Morocco to Seattle one way, I bought a $80 flight on Ryanair from Marrakech to London, then a $300 flight from London to LA, then a $100 flight from LA to Seattle. I spent $480 to go halfway around the world.

Thanks for taking the time to post all of that information for everyone to see! I stumbled upon this because I have friends sharing on Facebook. My biggest question to you is: How do you afford the transportation required to get to said destinations? Airfare is so expensive these days and for me that’s my biggest hurdle from pulling the proverbial trigger on going on trips.

You’re welcome Shawn, thanks for taking the time to read. I hear you on the flights, and that seems to be a big question for many people on this post. I’ve found that if I plan it right, the airfare is really not that bad, the most I’ve ever paid for a flight was $500. If that’s for a brief vacation, yes it’s a lot, but if you’re traveling for 6 months? A small expensive. Further, I know lots of people who do travel hacking to get free flights, and some credit cards have great offers to help you get a lot of points off the bat. I’m not an expert on travel hacking by any means, but if you look at that section in the article, I have some links to free guides as well an ebook by Nomadic Matt who is very knowledgeable on the subject.

This is a great and comprehensive “how to”. I just got back from a 24 Europe tour and everyday back I’m already planning on how to see the rest of the world. Thanks for sharing this, it’s truly awesome. Needless to say I found myself saving a ton of your link references to my reading list and this article in particular. Thanks again and safe travels.

Ah you’re so welcome! Hope you will become a regular reader and will keep us up to date on how your planning goes! 🙂

you forgot a crucial first step: be a conventionally attractive white lady.

Keep thinking that’s true and that will keep being true. I’m friends with other world travelers and travel bloggers who are from all over the world, all different nationalities, ethnicities, gay straight man woman conventionally gorgeous and not conventionally gorgeous. We all have different challenges in life, and we can dwell on them and assume others have it easier, or we empower ourselves and empower others. I choose empowerment.

Or you could acknowledge your privilege, but hey, guess that’s too much to ask.

You could also acknowledge an attractive white women could be in more danger because she’s attractive and may get more attention. Maybe there is a little privilege but it comes with an extra side of risk.

Sometimes harassment is indeed worse when you’re a white woman and everyone is staring at you. I don’t pretend to know what it’s like to not be white the same way someone who isn’t white can’t pretend to know what it’s like to be white.

It’s her fault for being born white, yes you’re absolutely right…..Not to mention all the “colored” men and women I’ve personally met at hostels enjoying the same “privilege” as she is.

I wish I would have put more energy into traveling instead of racking up debt and wasting my youth in an office. Unfortunately, many of these options are for extroverts, not the introvert voyagers among us. Having said that, this list has also given me renewed inspiration for finding ways to travel the world, even if for a little while!

You’re just angry you haven’t got the balls to do what she’s done.

Hey there fellow traveler, I’m managing a yoga retreat center in Koh Phangan. feel free to come swing i the hammock and practice yoga if you make it back to Thailand… Happy trails !

Ah thanks so much for the invite! Sounds amazing 🙂 I hope to be back in Southeast Asia next year. Have you seen my post on Koh Phangan? https://www.thisamericangirl.com/2014/03/17/koh-phangan/

Amazing post!!! This is such a great resource for people who don’t know where to start with budget travel.

Thanks so much! 🙂

Love it! I believe in what your doing an am doing something similar. Look me up and let me know what you think! Keep living the dream and explore your world! Jarrid Balling on a budget Facebook, YouTube an all that technology

Thanks Jarrid! I will look you up 🙂

Does work trade require working visa?

Nope. However you do need to keep in mind how long your tourist visa will allow you to be in the country for.

Thanks for all this information. I definitely want to travel but my question is, if people are house sitting for a year what kind of Visa do they get? Thanks again.

Excellent article and such a comprehensive list, even trimming weed!

Hahaha, thanks!

Excellent Article Camille!

It really surprises me that I forgot about all of these opportunities when I was just in Costa Rica and now Nicaragua without a job and an empty bank account. (I posted a very similar blog post 3 years ago with many of these same items but your list looks SO much nicer!).

I read this just when I needed to as well since I started in Costa Rica until I went broke. I was too connected to my things and only thinking about teaching jobs/call centers. Of course I had a ‘game-plan’ to restart this blog that I’m just now working to relaunch and also offer photography workshops and tours.

I’ll be looking over these opportunities again in the hopes of finding some answers on what I’ll do after my housesit finishes in July and I have no income.

If you hear of any great opportunities back in Costa Rica for a well-seasoned traveler and photographer (but a not too savvy web-developer) send some love! I’d be thrilled to go back and find a place on my favorite beach of Santa Teresa while doing whatever it takes to keep this dream going.

Happy Travels!

You too Josh! 🙂

I loved this! The idea of it, the content, and knowing other people want to see the world as I do! I did have one question, however. Have you met many flight attendants who are able to book cheap flights to wherever they want while recieving benefits? Just curious, please reply:) Thank you!

Hi Lane, thanks so much! Yes, in fact a good friend of mine used to be a flight attendant, now works in the airport, and he and his wife get free flights all over the world!! They travel several times a year this way 🙂

You can also join the peace corps. While the process is lengthy the rewards from the experience are endless and now potential volunteers have the opportunity to not only select the place they want to serve but also the type of work they could be doing.

Absolutely true, thanks so much for the addition! 🙂

The title is mussleading – this article is merely about how to travel without money. It is about where to get some extra money from to afford to travel. There is no such thing as travel for free.

Hi Cata, actually the article includes ways to travel for free and ALSO ways to make money while you’re traveling. I’m not really sure why you consider this article misleading. There also is certainly such thing as free travel, I’ve done it, and I know tons of others who are doing it too. Limited thinking leads to limited living.

Salesmen and women travel all over the world at their employers expense. Can you sell? Can you sell your skills? Repair technicians fix products sold by their company. Find a company with international customers. I work in IT and my company has locations in 3 countries. I travel domestically frequently. Company car, company credit cards, meals and hotels on the company dime. My son works for a software development company. He travels to train customers how to use the software. Can you train people?

I took a family vacation over July 4, which happened to be 4 hours from a company office. I offered to stop by the office and do some service work. I was given the use of the company car and they paid the gas. Bonus for both the company and me.

You are literally living out my dream and reading this gave me so many ideas and thoughts on how to live it myself so for that, thank you.

Aw you’re so welcome!! Keep chasing those dreams!

greetings ms willemain i admire your hutspa! (to say the least) continued happy travels sistah Godspeed and one love michele

Thanks Michele 🙂

Wow what a great and comprehensive post! Money is the go to “reason” people don’t travel. But if you strip that away, it’s usually fear of some kind that prevents people from following their travel dreams.

Absolutely! Thanks for your comment Shelley 🙂

So I absolutely love your article a great read!! I’m actually I the process of yoga teacher traing certification. And when I’m done look out world!! Here I come!! But there’s a problem. I have a beautiful well mannered amazing blue heeled. She’s my best friend of course!! Is there a way I could manage to travel freely with her?? I’ve come to realize it’s not lookin to good….

Blue heeler!! Dog haha

That’s awesome! Honestly I’m not really sure about that as I don’t have any pets. However, I do address this question with links to some resources in my latest post here: https://www.thisamericangirl.com/2015/06/17/quit-job-travel/

This article has dug me from the deepest hole and ultimately saved my life.

Krys, thank you. My heart is with you and I love you.

This is inspiring, but I am curious about how you then save for retirement or the future?

I know I am a planner and so I am already focused on putting away 15% for my future every month. But how do you do that when you are somewhat living hand to mouth and without tangible assets like a home (which admittedly is not a very good investment as we have seen lately) or are you still able to save for the future?

I hear you Walla. These options are more for people who want to go off and travel for a year or who just need a boost in getting started. In my opinion the way to do this sustainably is to build your own online business or find a place in the world that you love where you can invest in property or vacation rentals, hostel, etc. A lot of people first just need to get out of their current routine and environment to begin to see those possibilities, and that’s what this post is all about.

Love this article! I’m studying in San José, Costa Rica this summer and I’ve quickly realized how much traveling can add up if you aren’t careful. What is the name of the bar in San José that overlooks the whole city? Any other recommendations for San José?

Hi Grace, thanks so much! You can see all of my San Jose recommendations, along with TONS more on Costa Rica in my Ultimate Guide to Costa Rica ebook. Get it here: https://www.thisamericangirl.com/ultimate-guide-costa-rica/

I wish I was young!!!…. Do it now girls when you are YOUNG!!!!

GReate GREATE artcile !

Im about to finish my Master degree and quit my job in a few weeks, I am seeling my stuff and want to go back to Canada, I actually want to travel all around Canada and USA and then South America, I definatly will follow this guide !

Thank you !

Best regards from France, Edouard.

You’re so welcome! Best of luck Edouard 🙂

Amazing compilation Muah to the author 🙂

Thank you Camille. 🙂

And thanks a ton 🙂

You’re so welcome!

I feel like reading this article changed my outlook on traveling but, it definitely inspired me and possibly changed my life forever. I’m 22 and I’d give anything to see the world. I have no children, no significant other because I still feel like I’m “finding myself”! Yeah the party every weekend phase has just about come to a close for me at this point and I’m so curious about what lies out there. I’ve heard a lot of stories about how people have been outside of the country yet, I’ve never seen the ocean. It’s time for a serious change. There was no way I was born to work a 9-5 my entire life! It’s time I start living the “free spirit” life that I’ve always wanted. Thank you so much for sharing this with us. You have no idea what you’ve done! 🙂

Kiera you just gave me chills. I’m beyond humbled to serve as this inspiration for you. Go out there and discover what makes your heart flutter.

This article was absolutely amazing. Filled with so much direct information , it’s everything I’d want to know and then some, after considering travelling on a budget. I aspire to do everything you have done and hope one day I will be able to share my stories too

Thank you Melissa!! Stay focused on that goal and it will become your reality I’m sure of it xo

Hey Camille

How are ya? I don’t know if you remember me but we met in September at OM in Puerto Viejo. I was with my Aussie friend Bridget and I live in Isla Mujeres, Mexico (which you should come visit!). I just wanted to let you know that I came across a post of yours today (shared by an Isla friend) on facebook. What a small world! Hope you are well. Maybe we’ll cross paths again one of these days. Stay travelling 😉 Jen

Thanks dear! I love love Isla Mujeres. I’ll let you know when I’m in that neck of the woods again 😉

You forgot escorting – it will take you many places – both male and female. I once got a trip to Dubai in the UAE for 10 days just because I was tall American with super long brown hair. No sex! If you got the looks use what God gave you.

This isn’t “travelling the world on a low budget,” its called selling all your shit and being a homeless person. An easier way to do it is go try meth a couple times and you’ll be “travelling the world” in this fashion very quickly…

My son works for a county detention center. More lives have been shattered by drugs and alcohol than any other force outside of an earthquake. The world is a beautiful place and it is worth visiting. Work hard, save some money and see the world your own way. Find the peace inside of you and you can be happy anywhere.

Beautiful thank you <3

Couchsurfing is not just receving FREE but the guest should respect and give the best too… As civilized guest we bring a gift and we cook for our host, HONOUR the HOSPITALITY pls..

Yep, agree, it’s about building connections not just a free couch.

is there any way I can private message you?

Hi Serena, check out my contact page here: https://www.thisamericangirl.com/contact-me/

What an amazing article ! So much useful information 🙂 Well done, and thank you for sharing. From one nomad to another, Aloha

You are so welcome gorgeous 🙂

I just wanted to reach out and say that I absolutely LOVED your article!! Very informative to anyone wanting to travel, regardless of their money situation. I’m currently working as an AuPair in British Columbia (originally from Southern Ontario) and it’s the ideal situation for cheap travel! I will definitely be passing this on to all my friends 🙂 cheers!

Thank you Brittany so glad you enjoyed it!

great article – thanks for sharing the tips! I sold my car before travelling in South Amerixa for 5 months – mainly so I could afford to get to the Galapagos- a once in a lifetime opportunity!

Katie Travel adventures, including Galapagos on a backpacker budget on my blog at katiesyearoff.blogspot.co.uk

Thanks Katie, congrats!

Stop adding Tilt Shift to your photos, you’re making them look awful.

To each his own.

Great article, wonderful travel tips and thoughtful advice. However, I feel I must comment on the “trim weed in California” part.

I lived in the “emerald triangle” for many years. I was involved in the Medical MJ trade in about every way one could be without actually being a landowner. (Though I lived on farms) I have NO PROBLEM with travelers, or as we locals referred to them, “trimmigrants” coming to our beautiful neck of the woods looking for work. But as someone who lived there, let me clear up a few things for people who might be living in other countries (women especially) who might read this article and go, “hey! That sounds fun and lucrative! I’m gonna do it!”

•the medical marihuana trade is sketchy at best. People do get busted, and trimmigrants deported. I’ve seen it happen.

•claiming that being “fast” can net you a $1000 a day is wildly inaccurate. Most growers pay around 150 a pound, and most new trimmers (who are slow) do a half- to one a day at best. The fastest I’ve seen and heard of, talking one on a thousand trimmers, maybe do 4 a day. Do not go there expecting to make $1000 a day. But, you can expect to make more than a hundred a day, which is pretty cool for sitting around with your friends working.

•it’s usually not very comfortable, because of the illicit nature of the business and being way out in the woods, and can be dangerous. Women traveling alone, even in pairs, beware! There are lots of lonely mountain men out there, who live hours out on dirt roads and would love to take a pretty little foreign girl to their cabin. IN THE MIDDLE OF THE FOREST.

•THE LOCAL PEOPLE MAKE THEIR LIVING GROWING, AND SOME PEOPLE, TRIMMING POT! So don’t be surprised if people are annoyed with you showing up looking to pay for your vacation. People there do this to feed the families. Every October small, rural California towns are invaded with people with backpacks and dreads looking for work, AND MANY DON’T FIND IT. If you are male, or don’t speak English very well than the chances you’ll find work are even less. BE RESPECTFUL, and if you do find work, please don’t complain about what you’re getting paid/ quality of the work. Be grateful you have it.

That being said, Northern California is beautiful. Being on a farm can be fun, and magical. But it can also be miserable and dangerous. Not for the faint of heart.

Thank you so much for offering a very detailed on point account of what trimming is like. I’ve never actually done it myself, so my description is based on what I’ve heard from others. We truly appreciate you giving your first hand insight 🙂 Thank you!

I’m confused about this article. The title of it is, “How to Travel the World When You’ve Got Absolutely No Money” yet the vast majority of points are “make money by selling things”, “work so you can afford things”, and “obtain money from other various ways”. Pretty much every single thing on this entire list involves needing money aside from “walk places”.

The point isn’t “how to travel without money” it’s how to get unstuck when you think that you need money in order to set off and go explore the world.

I am a public employee and I am always without money. Not enough money for a car.

I hear you Jorge. I’m a huge fan of Kate Northrup who has lots of videos on how to heal your relationship with money and create greater abundance: https://www.youtube.com/user/GlimpseTV

Thanks for sharing these awesome tips. Working holiday in Australia is definitely a way. When I was living in Toowoomba, Australia, I met a few friends who were solo travelers and they shared with me how they can afford to travel around Australia for a year. They were on holiday working visas and they found part time jobs every where they went. Jobs like fruit picking, restaurant customer service, etc.. is every where. This is definitely one of the way to travel without having a lot of money.

Most def! I have a lot of friends who did this too 🙂

If I was still in my early 20s this would be great but I have 2 dogs and 3 cats. It would be nice to find ways I could travel with little or no money with the dogs but I’d still have to pay someone to house/pet sit the kitties. These travel tips are really only for someone who has no responsibilities or don’t have other lives dependent on them. :/

Caroline, I disagree. Everyone has responsibilities. It’s choosing whether you want to release yourself from certain responsibilities in order to make travel possible or not.

i agree Camille. I have been adventuring for 4 years from England and ive done pretty much what you have in order to travel. I love you blog , i really do! its spot on and i wish everybody could understand / Experience. I totally understand why people dont it at all, people think im crazy for what i (and the way you travel) do, but i think its crazy people dont follow there dreams :). Go You! Keep going. Im exploring your Country next in the new year after my trying to reach northan norway for free to forfill my dream of shooting the Northan lights 🙂

Sorry for the horrendous spelling / Grammar. my laptop has taken a beating in my backpack and i have to really concentrate on my keypad as it plays up, ALOT. lol

That’s awesome Olly! Thank you so so much for your comment 🙂 xoxo

You can find a good home for your pets and be at peace. You will be free to travel.Or you may value your pets more than traveling. This is a choice you make.

Check out Trusted Housesitters on line. You can get someone to pet sit in your home for free. I’ve done 4 pet sits already in 3 different countries. Most pet sitters through the site care for your home & pets in exchange for free accommodations. It’s a win/win!

Ah great tip thank you Lynn!!

I’ll be interested in know how to travel the world.

This is great – a lot of awesome information!

The one issue I have is one facing many people – the giant student loan albatross.

Unfortunately those payments don’t stop and neither does the interest just because you travel. Going on income based repayment isn’t a great option because you are just stuck with the capitalized interest payments after that.

My question is – do you think you can make about $1,500 a month while traveling? I ask because if loan payments are about a grand (for me they are) – I assume you would need something like $500 a month to live on, give or take. What’s the best option there?

I have been a working professional now for some time, but the travel bug I caught when I was 19 has been biting. I want to go on a long-term journey, but also don’t want to backslide on the student loans.

Hey JM, I appreciate your question. Sorry to hear your student loan payments are that high, that’s nuts! If you plan to live on just $500/month, you’ll need to do some sort of work trade arrangement and or lots of couch surfing. A $1000/month budget backpacking in a cheap part of the world like Southeast Asia is more realistic. However, it is absolutely possible to make $1500/month especially if you work online. Just doing freelance writing I was making $1500/month and only working about 10 hours the whole month!! So I definitely could have made more. Check out my post about How I Afford a Life of Constant Travel, it has more advice for working online: https://www.thisamericangirl.com/2015/06/08/how-i-afford-a-life-of-constant-travel-and-you-can-too/

Great article!

I just wanted to add a word about hitch-hiking, you made it sound like it’s a thing of the past. It’s still well possible at least in whole of the Europe, Turkey and Morocco – That’s where I used it. I just crossed all the way from Belgium to the balkans just using my thumb. I also know a French girl who travelled like this all the way from France to Papau New Ginea. There is a lot of fear about hitchiking, but 99% of it is bullshit created by media. Anyway, there is a webpage called Hitchwiki.org which contains all the info you will ever need if you want to try doing it, including detailed guides how to get a ride out of biggest cities.

And then for money making on the road there is also busking, if you play an instrument, sing, do breakdance, magic shows etc. you can always make some money on the streets. It’s also a great way of dealing with stage fright, and you improve at your act when you do it. But first of all it’s fun 😉 I managed to pull off something like 60 dollars in 2 hours in some places, and at the moment it’s my only source of income.

And for free food there is always skipping/recycling/dumpster diving. There is a webpage for that too, Trashwiki.org . While I’ve done it many times myself – I realise it’s not for everyone, but it’s good to know your options. But trust me, at least in europe and the states – there are tons of perfectly good food in supermarket’s dumpsters, it’s all still sealed in it’s package and perfectly good to eat 😉

So just that, thanks a lot for giving us all this information about how to do this. I remember that when I started travelling I couldn’t find too much articles covering this on the web, so keep up the good job!

Absolutely thanks for all of your tips John!! I agree, however I must say the precautions with hitchhiking are certainly different for a woman than a man unfortunately :/

Hi Camille,

I’ve had several friends ask me to put a donate button on my blog or to start a crowd funding campaign. Do you have to have any kind of non-profit status to do this? Or just claim any income on your taxes? Or is it considered a gift and therefore only taxable if a donation is over $14,000? Any info is appreciated, thx 🙂 Lynn

Hey Lynn so technically paypal considers it payment unless you have an actual verified nonprofit. Therefore I consider it taxable income. However, perhaps there are ways around this, admittedly I’m no tax wiz…

Thanks, Camille, I’ll check with my tax lady if/when the time comes that I actually receive any money 🙂 And thanks so much for your great comprehensive articles on traveling long term on a budget. I’ve shared them on FB, as I often get asked if I’ve won the lottery, and it’s a long explanation to tell them that no, I have hardly any money & describe all of the ways we can manage to have this lifestyle.

Hi, when I looked at the Working Holiday eligibility requirements, it looked like the U.S. was not included in the countries eligible to apply for the visa. Did your friends have passports from other countries? I want to apply for a visa but not sure if I can. Thank you!

Hey Janae, hm that’s strange. You can definitely do it as an American… Look again, and if you can’t find it, perhaps google “USA citizen Working Holiday Visa Australia (or New Zealand)”

So it is cool you can do this… have pets which I am responsible for and parents as well. And I had responsibilities like this when I was in my 20’s as well.

So while this works for you, I still find it a bit selfish. Just my opinion. and now you are making money from it….for doing nothing.

I love your pictures but there is NO WAY you can travel;, have relationships like you have and have no $$.

Sue, I’ve been hearing this message from you for the last 2+ years. The fact that you’re still reading my blog, obviously means that something about it speaks to you. Perhaps you’re living vicariously through my travels? Since day 1 you’ve posted comments that it’s not possible for you to do it, so I’m selfish for doing it myself. I’d say it’s about time you decided what you really want in life, and took the agency to make it happen. You are powerful. You are limitless. You can do anything. The only thing in your way is the negative chatter in your mind, blocking you from being your authentic, beautiful self.

What a nice and positive response, Camille. As far as your “not doing anything,” I wonder if this person has ever written a blog. They may not take long to read, but there’s a ton of work that goes into them, between shooting, editing, writing & putting it all together. And judging by all of the responses you get, you’re obviously touching a lot of people. When I debated about going on my round the world trip, I hesitated for fear it was selfish of me, but a friend put it this way. She said, “It’s a lot less selfish to follow your heart & dreams and put positive energy out into the world, than to stay stuck and share your negativity.”

Great quote thank you for sharing and for your support Lynn <3

wow you are great. Universe has called you N you heard as well.

Thank you Michael <3

Another great post! Ashley and I are definitely close to be very broke on our 6 year around the world trip. Ash has a little money coming in but not enough to keep us both going. So we are switching things up and taking some risk and hopefully it pans out so we can complete our goal. If that does not pan out then we switch things up again until we finds something that works. It wont be the first time for us running low on funds. Im hoping to grab a wine harvest job in Croatia for a few months. I have also been thinking of doing a crowd funding project as well. I have a couple of ideas floating around in my head. If I won the lotto what would I do? I think I would put at least 25% into charities. Then what ever is left I would take a million to travel and the rest I would put in savings and live off the interest. I would then spend the rest of my life traveling the world and become and expert in world cuisines and just live life to the fullest. I would still write my blog. I think the only thing I would buy is a house on a remote beach some where. The rest would be for food and transportation and maybe new close when I need them.

Sounds awesome Alex! 6 years? That’s amazing. You will figure it out I’m sure <3

Hi there thanks so much for all this great information. I just checked the visa for australia which gave me a shock. So i think it does need some safe up money to getting started. But i’ll try to follow some advicec. Cheers

Yes the Australia route takes some planning, but I know people who put the visa fee and the flight on a credit card, then paid it off within a couple of months earning high wages in Oz.

Thank you so much for this! You are amazingly inspiring! I WILL travel the world now, and, while I have some other people in my life to thank for making me consider the nomad life, I have you to thank for showing me how. Know that you touched my heart and fueled my desires today 🙂

Thank you Kevin, that means so much to hear. Travel you will, and you can 100% do it. I believe in you <3

Help me please! http://igg.me/at/vuJT47RVIzM

Cool post Camille, really great detailed info about all the awesome free travel options out there. Makes me want to grab my backpack & get out there! Thought you might like to know about Culture Go Go – it connects travelers & hosts to make a simple & fair exchange of free room & board for free English practice https://culturegogo.com/en

Glad you liked it and thank you for sharing!

this blog inspire to think beyond normal excuses and to persue dream of travelling .

Wow! I have wanted to travel the world long term for so long and I have been so hung up on the money issue and wondering if I should get a good job first and save up and have something to come back to ect!

But it all seemed so pointless considering its not what I want, what I want is to travel! I have made up my mind im selling my shit and soon as my lease is up im going I don’t care how little I have saved ill figure it out!

Woo hooo!! That’s awesome! Chase your dreams 🙂 xoxoxo

I have let everything go. I am traveling starting today. Bus ride.

Ohhhh so exciting!!

I came upon your website today and it was so well timed. I am a soon-to-be 50 year old woman and I would love to be able to travel. I know you said to just sell your stuff and pick up and go, but what do you really do first and especially as an older person? Do you save to get that ticket to wherever and hope to get a couch or house sit and wait for that to come through or get the ticket and just go? Sounds silly, but some fear involved as I have ALWAYS had to be the responsible one and old habits die very hard. Love that you all are out there and not afraid to LIVE!!! Good for you all.

There seems to be lots of travel advice out there for and by 20 and 30-something year olds but not so much for us in our 50’s and up. A lot of the advice is relevant to all ages, but traveling in your later years, there do tend to be some differences. Check out Rita Golden Gelman’s book, “Tales of a Female Nomad,” as she was in her late 40’s when she took off. And feel free to check out my travel blog http://www.travelynntales.com – I was 56 when I took off almost a year ago to travel around the world. I bought a one-way ticket to Australia, and winged it from there, after selling almost everything, so I did have a little nest egg, but it’s amazing how the path appears once you’re on your way…

This article has truly given me hope for my future!

I’m so happy to hear that! xo

Your article gave me a hope that I can travel the world , too. I am so glad that I have found your post! You made me daydream. Thank you! Keep posting!

You are so welcome Kelley xoxox!

Thank you for this. I see thousands of people’s dreams coming true because of you 🙂

Aw thank you for that sweetie!!

I just bought me ticket! I’m outta here!

The author failed to mention the simplest and easiest way to travel when you have little or no money: have a vagina.

Vaginas are beautiful aren’t they???! So blessed to have a flower between my legs 🙂

This is right on point. Thanks for sharing. I want to explore the crowd fund option. I’m a traveling urban sketch artist and had made a living supporting myself by selling my sketches as postcards in Spain. There truly is multiple ways to make it. Cheers!

Wow that’s awesome!! Thanks for sharing!

Hey, what an amazing work.

Love your sharing and for sure is a inspiring way to people like me, that are on the merge of going, but still have many doubts…

Like if everything around is saying.. it’s your turn .. Go for it 😀

Big Hug from Madeira Island for the moment.. hopefully the world in the near future;)

Thank you so much! YES you can do it 🙂 xoxo

This gives me hope! It seems so easy and really I think it is….The thing is that you just got to DO it! Its all about the resources you will find once at destination!….I was wondering how do you deal with working/traveling visa if you are broke? Or even travel insurances?? I mean you kinda need it at all time if something happens with your health and its costly!

Absolutely, it all works out! Most countries you don’t have to pay for a visa, you get a free 3 month visa upon arrival 🙂 For things like insurance and all of that stuff, check out this post: https://www.thisamericangirl.com/2015/06/17/quit-job-travel/

This article should be renamed “How to travel the world and not need a real job as a spoiled, white, conventionally attractive, middle-class 20-something female with a U.S. passport.” Ever notice how all these articles and blogs about traveling seem to be written from the same demographic?

Most people live in the real world and can’t afford using their looks or privilege to get by (just look at Marti’s comment). Try being a brown/black male of a humbler background or a non-U.S./non-Northern European citizen and see how that pans out for you. Quit your day job and see how long your unemployed ass will last. Sure, there may be exceptions to the rule, but they’re called exceptions for a reason.

Hey Carl, here’s my response to that:

https://www.thisamericangirl.com/2015/06/22/minority-travel/

I have been traveling for over 10 years now. Your advice is great and well presented. But, a bit confused at your “weed trimming” advice. Honestly, I find it insane. $200 to $1000 a day? You realize that the standard is $150 to $200 a pound? You think you are going to do 5 pounds a day? Obviously you have never trimmed and whoever has given you this info was fluffing your pillow. Plus, giving people information to go rolling down to cali looking for a grand a day is doing nothing but harm. It is dangerous for not only the seeker but also for the grower. The industry is changing. Not only because of new players on the scene but also for the irrespondsibility and misunderstanding of folks like you. Please do not continue to suggest to random people that they go to cali looking for dough. Thank you! I do appreciate the rest of your info. Bravo!

Thanks Nicole I appreciate your comment. You’re absolutely right, I’ve never gone trimming so this info is totally based on what I’ve heard from others. Though, I’ve met SO many people who go trimming and most have had good experiences. I also link to an article that’s more informative from someone who has actually done it. Many people I meet say that the minimum requirement is usually 1-2 pounds a day, and yes I have heard of people doing 5lbs a day, though I know that 1lb a day is more typical. I def appreciate your comment though because it’s not something to take lightly, and I’ve personally chosen to never do it. That said, TONS of travelers do it all of the time with no problems, so it’s certainly worth mentioning in this article. xx

This is such pure gold, thank you! I am starting my own journey and saved just about every link you posted. You are wonderful!

Thank you so much! YOU are wonderful 🙂 I wish you limitless happiness xx

I’m in Thailand right now and this past weekI just met a couple from Germany who spent 6 months in Australia where the girl was working on a farm picking tomatoes, and the guy was working construction. They made enough money to travel for the rest of the year.

Just be aware that you need a working holiday visa in Australia and New Zealand, and must be age 30 or younger to get one. My mistake going there not knowing this.

Yep! Super important. There’s a link to the visa application and more info in this article 🙂

Yep, there are so many people doing this!

Great article.

I wanted to share it on facebook but all the shares seem to only let me “pin it”. Maybe a glitch on my computer??

Just thought you’d like to know.

Thanks so much! At the bottom of the article there is a facebook share button. let me know if you have any troubles xx

I am 52, HIV +, just had a triple bypass, and am tired of living day to day paying for rent and utilities and other stuff I can’t own. So I am thinking about packing my backpack and just walking away from it all. Your article makes me believe it is possible. Although I am in good health now, I am not sure how wise it would be for me to just take off , damn the doctors and health institutions that try to hold me back. What is your advise?

Hi Marvin, wow I am so inspired by your bravery and strength. Phew, that’s a tough one. I’ve never been in your shoes, so it’s hard to say, and I certainly can’t tell you what to do. But I will say that you deserve to live however you want to live, no matter any diagnosis that was given to you, and you deserve to follow the beat in your heart. Go with what feels right and trust yourself. You know what you need, and you know where you are meant to go <3

This an amazing guide! Traveling the world does seem like something that would cost a lot of money. But this guide has made me one of the happiest people ever!

Happy to hear that!! 🙂

How to Travel the World Without Money.

Step One: Get some money

Very Nice Post! Thanks for the valuable information.

You are so welcome!

You didn’t tell us about food?

Thank you for the article! I am going travelling with less than £2000 (I will be going to Thailand, to Cuba and through South America). Wish me luck 🙂

Beautiful have a fantastic time xx

Hello ! This sounds like my dream come true but I have questions. While you are working in other countries or doing house sitting ecc. ecc. how do you find the time to see places when you are working. Also how do I pay my rent back home when I’m working in other countries making little money or no money. Just curious if anyone has any tips.

Hey Carmela most people who go and work trade or house sit abroad aren’t still paying rent back home, either they’ve given up their place or are renting it out while they’re away. When you do work trade you do have time to explore and experience the local culture. It’s pretty nice actually you get to experience what it’s like to live there, totally different from backpacking from place to place or vacationing however. I hope that helps.

What a great post! I’ve been thinking to follow my dream and travel the world too. You’re tips gave more confidence that this lifestyle is possible. Definitely will follow your advice. Thank you 🙂

Thanks love I’m happy to hear that xx

Been following you a while and keep coming back to this post. Big things will happen in the coming months but it could go one of two ways: find a job, save up and book a one-way ticket to Peru in Feb 2017 to do the YTT that I signed up for (two days before losing my job – I need to somehow gather $3000-3500 more to make this happen) OR sell what I can, give up my house and just go somewhere. That will entail working online (which I’ve been setting up already) and completely surrendering the yoga training in Peru, knowing that it may or may not happen. I’m still torn at this point.

However, it does bring me to my question: that opportunity you found on Yoga Trade, that allowed you to complete your YTT, that probably wasn’t listed explicitly as a work trade for YTT, was it? I’m very interested in how your experience with that came about. I read in a different post that you shifted your mind set and worked with affirmations leading up to finding the opportunity but I’m also curious about the factual stuff 🙂

Much love to you, Camille. I love where you are at in your journey at this point (post training in Guatemala) and am also grateful for everything you’ve shared up till that point – it inspires the stuck and struggling, like myself 😉

It sounds like you have so many amazing options, I’m excited for you!! Which makes your heart flutter more? Do you see the connection between signing up for your YTT and losing your job shortly after?? Sounds like a big energy shift 🙂

The opportunity I found on Yoga Trade was genuinely divine manifestation. I set the intention that I wanted to do my training at that particular school, the Pavones Yoga Center, but I didn’t have any money. The next day a friend sent me a link to the yoga trade website and I found a posting for the EXACT school I wanted to attend, Pavones Yoga Center, with a listing for blogging in exchange for 200 hour YTT. I know it sounds too perfect to be true, but that is honestly my story. It’s one of pure magic and destiny.

Perhaps you can reach out to the school you signed up for, explain your situation losing your job, and see if they have any work trade opportunities given your skill set?

Thank you so much for your words of love and support <3 I'm also really excited to see how my journey unfolds in this new skin. I have lots of ideas and inspiration xx

Thanks for your thoughtful reply, Camille. The universe seems to be sprinkling some of its magic my way again so i’ll continue to trust and surrender and see where rhat leads. Pretty sure it’ll become clear which is the right way to go (the fact that I will become a first time auntie shortly before I’d head out to Peru might factor in to things 😉)

What a fantastic page. Great ideas and invaluable links. I’m 54 and you’re never too old!

Thank you so much and I completely agree 🙂

Thank you for this information. I am an older traveller and want to see the world before I get too old to travel. I know some of this information is geared towards younger travellers but there are still some great information for people in my situation. Thank you.

You are so welcome. Thank you for reading and for being the change.

Nice, i enjoyed what you wrote. I am thinking of spending a few month per yes travelling the world as a body healer😊

Thank you Cuong

Beautiful, I wish you the best on that journey.

This is the best guide I’ve encountered about travelling without money (and ways to funding it). There were some amazing tips and you actually give me the extra-push I needed. Thank you!

Awesome I am so happy to hear that!! xoxox

Very inspiration!! I love seeing post like this. Keep your hard work and enjoy life! I hope i can figure out my plan soon.

Thank you, I wish that for you too! xo

i,m very serious looking for that oppturnity to archeave my dreams

Nice tips! I’ve started a travel around the world with low budget, and your information on how to get some money in the way will help me a lot! Thank you for the post and congrats for the blog!

Great! I hope all goes well for you 🙂 xx

Feeling all motivated already! I read the whole article in front of my computer in my desk at work and I gotta tell you, I am far from happy of being in here, but now reading this is all I needed it! And reading the comments below made me more comfortable about the idea of travelling all around the world ASAP

Awesome I’m so happy to hear that!!

Thank you so much for writing this post. It was full of all the information I was looking for to start the nomadic life with my wife. We are Argentinian expats living in Israel. I really liked your blog, very helpful. Thanks again and keep traveling! 🙂

Thank you. Enjoy every part of your journey <3

Most of this stuff, only a woman can do. The things that man can do to travel the world are highly competitive and probably still require a lot of money, even after that the destination might not even have been a desired one.

Women can just be pretty and go around from place to place, be a little bit of a flirt and have fun and BOOM – everything is handed to them.

May you feel as unlimited as you really are.

Hi there! Well! It is an awesome guide for people like me who are planning to explore overseas with a limited budget. I have been readying a lot and exploring how to have success when you don’t have too much money to expend traveling, and I found thisamericangirl.com website. I want to travel to Europe next year, March 2017, and I haven’t done anything like this before, so I decided to take a look online and read what people with the same conditions like me had done before. I am living in Costa Rica, my plan is to take a flight to Spain and explore the country; then, get to France and take a flight to Iceland, where my best-friend lives. Finally, I will be returned to Costa Rica having a great story to tell, memories to save, and a experience to teach.

Beautiful! I hope you have an incredible journey xx

Travel with no Money!!!! Wow, what a great idea dear. I have become a big fan of your blog. Thanks dear for sharing your unique ideas with us. I hope it will help in my next trip.

You’re so welcome, I hope it helps you.

I think you just showed me a pathway to paradise! I mean these resources are just so amazing. I just have one question to ask you. Did you work while travelling to earn money? And what if i got broke while I am travelling?

Awesome! Check out these posts of mine: https://www.thisamericangirl.com/2015/10/05/travel-budgeting/ https://www.thisamericangirl.com/2015/06/08/how-i-afford-a-life-of-constant-travel-and-you-can-too/

Wow, such a great post. I work in Huawei technologies in *india* and can’t see myself doing anything else so I will have to learn how to make the most of my 10 days!

Hi Im Nilay an eighteen year old student from Kolkata, India!!!!…. And ur guide just turned on the inner traveler in me!!! And will be stepping out in the big world to experience everything out there as soon as my college is over!!! So excited!!! One of the best guide….. Only one thing that haunts me that I don’t loose this enthusiasm for travelling the world just because of the environment here, growing up in India…. If any Indian is reading my comment he or she will probably know what I mean 🙁

Thnx a lot!! 🙂

You are so welcome Nilay may you have all of the strength, courage, and willpower to follow your heart’s deepest desires.

i am from Nigeria. I want to school while working in Canada but i dont have any money. I have always dream of living in Canada all my life. Am very harding working so am very sure am going to Canada will be of good benefit to all Canadians.

Awesome article…. you should disable the scroll jacking on your website theme though.

Thank you 🙂 What is scroll jacking?

Haha. Thanks for sharing. I really enjoyed this article, but it is very helpful article to someone. I will certainly use some of the concepts in the near future and I would like to join you.

Wow thanks for this, I’ve seen a lot of the states but never really had thought of increasing my range… You are right, by being born to this planet we really have won the jackpot!

Absolutely! Wishing you all the best as you expand your horizons xoxo

I read your story ,,,, i really get interested I’m gemmalyn from Philippines,, i really want to travel around the world but, my main problem is money it really cost me too much, I’m a bread winner of the family , but I want to enjoy my life,, so I hope that maybe just one time experience will be enough for me can I go with you in one of your travel in the future

May you discover all that you are looking for

I think another great resource that allows you to travel is the Peace Corps and it can help you save up money and you can get some of your student loans forgiven

This all sounds amazing and was very informative. I would love to do this immediately but don’t really know how to go about it. I tried leaving my email ([email protected]) but this website thinks its invalid.

This is nancy and I would like to say I’m admiro you. Always wants to do this but. I filled to old I’m 46. And don’t know if I can do it I’m so glad to read about you. And I always thought. People can travel with out money Especially when we believe in God. I wish the best to you. Thanks for your information

Thank you so much Nancy. Wishing you the best on your journey.

Great blog! I love @NomadicMatt’s website!! He’s the best and so humble. I am definitely a wanderlust at heart, and was wondering if you know of any sites where I can cook my way across a country? I’m a private chef.

So happy I’ve found your blog!! Keep on truckin’ girl!!

Ohh so cool! I recommend checking out work trade and just independently contacting retreat centers where you’ll be traveling to see if they have openings.

Wow i literally just last night after years of patience and debate i decided to actually follow my heart and just travel the world how ever i could next day i think “why not google how to do that i mean my friend Emiliano is always googling his thoughts”. and this is the first thing i find i almost burst into tears 😢

Emilio that is so beautiful and I’m so happy to hear it <3 I wish you everything your heart dreams of.

Great tips ! I travel a lot and I tried all kinds of ways to make money online What works best for me is Koocam. Can do it from anywhere I teach my hobbies, and sells my knowledge in any field that I’m good at It’s great 🙂

Thanks for sharing 🙂

Hello Camille, wonderful post to travel almost free. I think workaway and blogging are two best options to make money. I am also a full time traveler.

Awesome keep sharing 🙂

You’re article is awesome and in depth offering plenty of examples. As a person who is planning on traveling the world with my friend I plan on taking a lot of this into account. Thank you for your insight.

You are so welcome Dillon!

Thank you so much for all these ideas! I was so stressed about my trip to Europe and not having enough money to go places. This page has opened up new possibilities.. I am excited!

Wonderful, happy to hear that 🙂

Great list. I’ve wanted to travel for a long time but never had any money. One option I thought of, busking. Would busking make money in other countries? I know where I live you may need a permit before you go busking. I play guitar and sing. That may fund my travel to another country if I did it here but not sure about other places if they allow busking.

Hmmm yes some people do it! I mean I don’t actually know how much they make, but definitely on the travel trail in Central America I have seen many people performing for money, even connecting with local hostels and bars having parties to draw a big crowd. In Southeast Asia I’ve not seen it at all. Europe I’m sure it’s quite popular. Good luck 🙂

like to travel free

I would really like to more information on how to start the process of travel around the world with no money and by myself where to start

Thank you so much for sharing this! I already share this post with my friends and they loved it 🙂

But tell me one thing: do you have a list of hostels or other companies where you work abroad that I can try to “apply” for a position? I already did a 6 months travel in Asia but I’d like to go now to South America.

Thank you in advance!!

I don’t, but you can definitely look up places in the location where you’re planning to go… or just check Workaway which I link to in the article. Good luck love 🙂

I hate my life

Reading your blog has truly inspired me. I will graduate in two months and at the moment i’m working on a fast food restaurant. All i was dreaming about was just travelling and getting to know awesome people from all over the world. I believe the dreams are slowly turning into action and i’m starting to plan my journey. You had a big part in this process by inspiring me with your blog and showing me it’s possible. Thank you!

That is so amazing and I’m so happy to hear it!!

Nice guide, I really needed it because I’m very interested in traveling and i don’t know where to start…I just wanna leave South Africa for once.

Wonderful! I hope you find all that you seek 🙂

You are so cool! I do not believe I’ve truly read something like this before. So wonderful to find another person with a few unique thoughts on this subject. Seriously.. thanks for starting this up. This website is something that is needed on the web, someone with some originality!

Thank you I’m so grateful to hear that! xx

It’s really great to read out this amazing article. I just so much love it and sure that it will be really great to try these all points.

Hey, any advice for a dirt poor south african? our money is literally worth jack shit so I can’t even go do volunteer work anywhere and they ask for outlandish fees let alone the bloody flight costs like I couldn’t go anywhere even if I saved up for 30 years

Hi dear, you can do lots of work trade opportunities that you don’t pay for. I’ve met tons of South Africans traveling. Wishing you clarity and trust in whatever choice you make xx

I’m making preparations to venture out around April 2018. Your tips are gold. The only question I haven’t seen answered anywhere so far is, what do I pack? Hiking boots and flip-flops? Jeans, walking shorts, swimming shorts, 27 pairs of socks? 😉 Or do you simply buy everything wherever you go and donate it when you leave? What is included in the ultimate backpacker’s packing list?

Thanks! Rick

Hi Rick, thanks for your comment! I’ve got my packing list here: https://www.thisamericangirl.com/2015/09/28/what-to-pack-travel/

This is a great guide to so many opportunities abroad. People always ask me how I have the means to travel. My reply to them is how can you afford not to travel? If it’s your priority then it’s easy and accessible to everyone. If your priority is owning a home and luxury items that you have nothing left to travel with them you should reconsider your priories

Mmmm I agree completely! Thank you for shining your courageous free spirited light for the well being of all <3

this article was amazing glad to have it in my favourites…

So grateful to hear that!

Thank you very much for all these informations. this brings me a hope for my dreams.

What about food and living money? How do you go about surviving if you are not working and have no savings?

Thank you so much for this article. It is exactly what I was looking for! My wife and I recently sold nearly all of our belongings (including our house), because we were tired of being caught in the rat race of life. Our HUGE desire is to travel. I am adventurous and willing to try new things, but my wife is more traditional. We are still working on creating a residual income to completely eliminate the need for a job which takes a lot of time and patience, but I have an extremely bad itch to travel the world… NOW! Your article has so many great ideas to scratch my itch for travel sooner rather than later. Thank you so much.

I would like to share a short story about my life. I was born and brought up in India. I started working with my father at an early age and I loved it. Later, I commenced my Bachelors of Commerce and within few months I just had an amazingly itchy feeling that this wasn’t what I want to do. Amazing itch because I just couldn’t live at the peak of my happiest zone. Not that I wasn’t happy to be with my family and closest friends, just that I expected so much more for myself. I believe in expecting more from yourself to get motivated and smash everything to achieve it. So later, I moved to Australia to study Building and Construction. Its been 3.5 years I’ve been studying and I’ve got one more semester to go. I’m already working in my industry and I feel I’m doing good with this. But this itchy feeling got into me again few weeks back. This might sounds weird, but maybe, just maybe, this itchy feeling wasn’t to study abroad and make my life better and beautiful. This feeling was to Travel. People might take this lightly, but this is getting into my veins, head and everywhere I couldn’t possibly describe. From no where I started reading books and surfing internet on travelling. I feel amazing to have this kind of feeling. I am 22 now and I’m read to leave this life and go away. But! But, I’m too scared. I feel I have responsibilities to take care of. I am finding each and every way to get them off of my life to break free. It might not even be a big thing, but its just in my head. I don’t know how to get rid of it! I need advice. Can you help me?

Hey Abizar, I totally understand that “itch” you are feeling and I agree it is most likely an itch for travel and not necessarily to study abroad. I’ve had the same itch a good majority of my life. If I can give some words of wisdom, here it is… Fear is an illusion. It’s something that holds you back from going the direction you are supposed to be going. I’m not talking about the fight or flight fear that keeps you alive in a dangerous situation, but the fear that tells you “no” to doing something when you know the answer is yes. I am 41 years old, my wife and I have a grown daughter and the only thing I am trying to instill in her now is to live life, explore and write her own story. We often spend our lives letting others write our story for us. What I mean is we ask for advice from those who are closest to us, they give is their input which is well meaning and good advice in their eyes, but the thing we have to ask ourselves is “are the people I love living the lifestyle I want to live?” If the answer is no, then the thing to do is go look for people who are living the lifestyle you desire and learn from them how to live the same way. You can find these people by reading books, blogs like this one, and by meeting and becoming acquainted with people who live the lifestyle you desire. The next step is to realize fear is an illusion, tell fear to shut up and then make the plunge. We all like to live in our cozy bubble without stretching too much outside our comfort zone. We are okay with reading about or watching others live their dreams and thinking those people are lucky or special, when the reality is, they chose to punch fear in the face and write their own stories. They struggle with fear and hardships, but they push through and overcome. My wife and I decided to stop watching others live their dreams and are choosing to write our own story. We became entrepreneurs, sold almost all of our belongings and dug ourselves our of a quarter million dollars worth of debt over the past two and a half years. Now we are debt free, writing our own story and helping others do the same. The first time I flew on a plane was when I was 27 years old. Now I can’t count the times I’ve flown. Write down your goals and dreams and look at them every day, stop asking yourself “what you want to be” and start asking yourself “how do I want to live?” then get out there and start living. Hope this helps.

Hey Mike! This changes my mind. Each time someone advice’s me, I break free bit by bit. Every advice is so unique and hearing these amazing stories makes me want to jump off of my seat and run away. Its hard for me to express how much I appreciate you for this. I don’t know how many times I wrote something and deleted that back but in short, this is motivating for me and I value it a a lot. Thank You:)

It’s my pleasure. Everything I shared with you is due to the guidance I have received from my mentors. I’ve learned to that surrounding myself with people who live the lifestyle I want and with people who are going the same direction I want to go. They have helped me change my mindset by pushing through my fears. They’ve also helped me free up my time, so I can do the things I am passionate about which includes helping others realize their dreams. Happy travels. Keep me posted on your adventures.

I must have read this (wonderful) blog post at least 10 times over the past year. I’ve been in a terrible depressive rut, losing my job, my home, and having to move back in with my parents at age 30. But I’ve been slowly recovering, and I think I’m finally ready to re-start my life with my own travel adventure. I just have one question: what did you do about insurance? Did you get A&E, health, theft etc? And how much do you pay? (I want to make sure I’m not getting ripped off.) Many thanks, Tom

Great article! I myself am gearing up for this, I have one question though, it might seem stupid, but my country’s passport doesn’t allow visa-less travel to a lot of countries, so… how do I get past that barrier? Again, great article, really helpful.

Hey I really wanna travel the world. Write a book and start a YouTube blog but I’m 20 and idk if that means I’m too young. But I wanted to know if we could start talking so I can get more information and help with my dream. I really wanna discover new things and even if I can help the world in some way. Thank you for your time

great stuff. always dreamed about seeing the world and meeting other people. maybe one day i’ll find the courage to live that dream. just can’t leave my kiddos yet.

Beautiful! May you discover all that you seek <3 <3 <3

Very thorough and useful post – thank you! I mostly travel in the context of my work these days so I barely spend any of my personal money on trips, but it’s nice to know how to literally travel for free/ without low income. Do you have a preferred method or enthusiastic recommendation for solo female trips? – Loriade || http://www.lorikemi.com

Hey love!! yessss actually I’m putting together a whole book for solo female travel <3 It's nice to stay in hostels or guest houses with a yoga vibe, or take retreats and workshops to be connected with like minded people <3

I’ve edited a list resources for finding seasonal jobs which I previously posted on Escape Normal- these have helped me get nearly every seasonal job I’ve had. Most of the jobs provide housing which is deducted from your wage. So you don’t need to worry about finding your own place to live, and food is often included as well. If you’re willing to work while you travel, it’s a really excellent way to see the world on a small budget.

http://jacquelineboss.com/2017/12/15/work-in-beautiful-locations-close-to-nature-resources-for-seasonal-jobs/

Great, thanks for sharing Jacqueline 🙂

Can you tell me at what age you left your desk job and started traveling. How many years you spend on that job. Had u saved enough before leaving the job. I am currently doing a desk job which i started recently. After reading your post i want to leave my job and start travel. Traveling and meeting new people has always been my passion

Hey dear! Check out this post of mine 🙂 http://www.thisamericangirl.com/2015/06/03/why-i-left-my-fancy-city-life-to-become-a-globetrotting-gypsy/ Many blessings to you 🙂

Dumb AF… not everyone is a fairly attractive young woman. Don’t kid yourself…. it’s THAT which allows you to travel cheaply.. mostly men wanting to accommodate you in hopes of some return. So, you get jobs.. you get places to stay.. you get meals paid for… it’s not your brain doing all this it’s things below the neck.

A hot girl such as yourself wouldn’t have any problem getting free stuff thrown your way. Most Couchsurfing or house-sitting websites aren’t interested in single males who are now past their prime (I’m only 35 and believe me, I don’t feel young anymore). When I’m backpacking, I know it for sure that most locals want nothing to do with me if I’m not spending money.

I have extensively backpacked around 45 countries in Asia, Middle-East, Europe, Australia and Africa. But I see no point in starting a travel blog either because those few cents and dollars on WordPress ads won’t cover my enormous costs.

I usually save money by finding the cheapest hotel deals online, and walking a lot instead of taking any forms of transportation. I sometimes don’t eat well for days because every cent counts. Everyone hates me for being a cheapskate but I must stretch the dollar.

It really burns me that chicks like you can get nice stuff for free. I hope you choke on those freebies someday. When you grow older, of course you and I will be at the same level and you will feel my misery.

Bless your sweet innocent heart. I love you.

So…two things. 1. Has the author probably benefited from “freebies” or some other intangible advantages due to her good looks and extroverted nature? Undoubtedly. Some of the most privileged people I met steadfastly believe they’re not privileged. But the fact of the matter is we can take what she’s given us here and mold it to suit our own individual situations. 2. If you’re feeling misery from having been to 45 countries while still in your youth, then your perspective on life is very f*cked. I’m 28, have “only” been to 10 countriee, and would probably literally kill to be in your shoes. Seems like you need to check YOUR priviledge.

I want to live a life of nomads and travel all my favourite places in the world but my problem is I am afraid of getting lonely during travels. So is it good to have a travel partner with me and how to choose one.

Thanks you very much i like your articla-blog-website.!!! aladinqq

Really awesome article! I’ve just recently graduated and am seriously considering traveling indefinitely in the near future. This was amazingly helpful; thank you so much for your time, energy, and wisdom.

I agree with the statements about you getting these freebees due to your looks. You can’t travel the world without money. Period.

P.S. Just read about your retreat fees of just under $3,000. That is not traveling free. Please send me my a free pass to one of your retreats. Seems as your having the time of your life, while a 57 year old man and my 60 year old wife are trying to save money to live in Panama on 50 acres owned by my wife’s family. As I stated before nothing is free and miss guiding people that could have serious consequences on their lives is not a good thing to do.

Really amazing article… I want to travel full time and this article gives me some hope and inspiration to travel the world with fewer resources.

Amazing content… Sometimes i get so lost and almost give up about my dreams to travel but your contents gives me inspiration and i feel that my dreams can become true again 🙂

Nice job ! I would like to add a tip: There are a lot of companies that sell tickets online. I therefore advise you to use ticket comparators to find the best deal at the moment. I use https://www.kombo.co/fr because it allows me to buy the ticket directly through the site and my matches are automatically created.

I’m a lawyer in love with webdesigner but in my spare time I love to travel but I always spend a lot I can’t save but thanks to your tips I’ll now be able to travel much more peacefully than before, having a lot more fun and spending a lot less. It’s a great way to travel cheap, visiting new places while enjoying the comforts of home at the same time. Having paid accommodation can make all the difference between paying for a trip or not

volunteers will enjoy an experience of life time .view more about please visit https://volunteeringjourneys.com/

why I’ve traveled so much the last 5 years. Really opened my eyes. Tom is right, your friends and family will tell you that you’re going to die if you travel alone but that’s just the media trying to scare you.

Trackbacks/Pingbacks

• You Don't Have to be a Privileged White Girl to Travel - This American Girl - […] lately, some people have burst my optimism bubble. After reading my post How to Travel the World When You’ve Got…
• Yes, it’s Practical to Quit Your Job and Travel, and Here is Why - This American Girl - […] entirely possible. There are plenty of ways to travel for free or work abroad (check out my post How…
• Daydreamin’ – the fab & not so drab - […] How to Travel the World When You’ve Got Absolutely No Money […]
• Starting Your Travels – houseboattraveler - […] April Harris began this journey several years ago and has started her backpacking journey in the United States to…
• Why you should quit all that you’re doing and start travelling right now? | creativeshin - […] Money is nothing but freedom units in this world and if you have enough units to do what you…
• Why you might want to start travelling? | creativeshin - […] Money is nothing but freedom units in this world and if you have enough units to do what you…

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Traveling with no money

14 best travel credit cards of June 2024

The best travel credit cards offer an array of premium perks and benefits . For both occasional travelers and frequent flyers, adding a travel credit card to your wallet is a great way to earn rewards and save money on every trip you take. At The Points Guy, our team has done the legwork and curated a selection of the best travel credit cards for any globe-trotter, whether you prefer to backpack through mountains or settle into a luxury villa for some relaxation. From generous travel credits to premium lounge access, we’ve chosen the cards packed with the best benefits to elevate your next travel experience.

Check out our list below and discover which travel credit card from our partners makes the best addition to your wallet for all of your adventures.

• Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card : Best for beginner travelers
• Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card : Best for earning miles
• Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card : Best for premium travel
• Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card : Best for maximizing business purchases
• The Platinum Card® from American Express : Best for lounge access
• American Express® Gold Card : Best for dining at restaurants
• Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card : Best for no annual fee
• The Business Platinum Card® from American Express : Best for business travel
• Wells Fargo Autograph Journey℠ Card : Best for unlimited point earning
• Chase Sapphire Reserve® : Best for travel credits
• Wells Fargo Autograph℠ Card : Best for variety of bonus categories
• American Express® Business Gold Card : Best for flexible rewards earning
• Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card : Best for travel rewards beginners
• Alaska Airlines Visa Signature® credit card : Best for Alaska Airlines miles

Browse by card categories

Comparing the best credit cards, more details on the best credit cards, credit pointers with brian kelly, what is a travel credit card, helpful tools, how we rate cards, how to maximize travel credit cards, how to choose the best travel credit card, ask our experts, pros + cons of travel credit cards, frequently asked questions.

• Airport Lounge Access

Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

The Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card is one of the most popular travel rewards credit card on the market. Offering an excellent return on travel and dining purchases, the card packs a ton of value that easily offsets its $95 annual fee. Cardholders can redeem points at 1.25 cents each for travel booked through Chase or transfer points to one of Chase’s 14 valuable airline and hotel partners. Read our full  review of the Chase Sapphire Preferred Card .

• You’ll earn 5 points per dollar on travel purchased through Chase Travel, 3 points per dollar on dining, select streaming services and online grocery store purchases, 2 points per dollar on all other travel and 1 point per dollar on everything else.
• Annual $50 Chase Travel Hotel Credit
• Premium travel protection benefits including trip cancellation insurance, primary car rental insurance and lost luggage insurance.
• The card comes with a $95 annual fee.
• Earn 75,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's over $900 when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.
• Enjoy benefits such as 5x on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3x on dining, select streaming services and online groceries, 2x on all other travel purchases, 1x on all other purchases, $50 Annual Chase Travel Hotel Credit, plus more.
• Get 25% more value when you redeem for airfare, hotels, car rentals and cruises through Chase Travel℠. For example, 75,000 points are worth $937.50 toward travel.
• Count on Trip Cancellation/Interruption Insurance, Auto Rental Collision Damage Waiver, Lost Luggage Insurance and more.
• Get complimentary access to DashPass which unlocks $0 delivery fees and lower service fees for a minimum of one year when you activate by December 31, 2024.
• Member FDIC

Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

When it comes to simplicity and strong rewards, the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card is a solid choice for most travelers. You’ll earn earns 2 miles per dollar on every purchase with no bonus categories to memorize, making it an ideal card for those with busy lives. Read our full review of the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card .

• This flexible rewards card delivers a solid sign-up bonus of 75,000 miles, worth $1,388 based on TPG valuations and not provided by the issuer.
• You'll earn 2 miles per dollar on every purchase, which means you won't have to worry about memorizing bonus categories.
• Rewards earned are versatile as they can be redeemed for any hotel or airline purchase for a statement credit or transferred to 15+ travel partners.
• Highest bonus-earning categories only on travel booked via Capital One Travel
• Capital One airline partners do not include any large U.S. airlines.
• Enjoy a one-time bonus of 75,000 miles once you spend $4,000 on purchases within 3 months from account opening, equal to $750 in travel
• Earn unlimited 2X miles on every purchase, every day
• Earn 5X miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel, where you'll get Capital One's best prices on thousands of trip options
• Miles won't expire for the life of the account and there's no limit to how many you can earn
• Receive up to a $100 credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck®
• Use your miles to get reimbursed for any travel purchase—or redeem by booking a trip through Capital One Travel
• Enrich every hotel stay from the Lifestyle Collection with a suite of cardholder benefits, like a $50 experience credit, room upgrades, and more
• Transfer your miles to your choice of 15+ travel loyalty programs

Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card

If you can maximize the  $300 credit toward Capital One Travel, the Venture X’s annual fee effectively comes down to $95, the same annual fee pegged to the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card (see rates and fees ). Add in a 10,000-mile bonus every account anniversary (worth $185, according to TPG valuations ) and lounge access, and the card may become the strongest option out there for a lot of travelers. Read our full  review of the Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card .

• 75,000 bonus miles when you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first three months from account opening.
• 10,000 bonus miles every account anniversary
• $395 annual fee
• $300 credit annually, only applicable for bookings made through Capital One Travel portal
• Earn 75,000 bonus miles when you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening, equal to $750 in travel
• Receive a $300 annual credit for bookings through Capital One Travel, where you'll get Capital One's best prices on thousands of trip options
• Get 10,000 bonus miles (equal to $100 towards travel) every year, starting on your first anniversary
• Earn unlimited 10X miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel and 5X miles on flights booked through Capital One Travel
• Earn unlimited 2X miles on all other purchases
• Unlimited complimentary access for you and two guests to 1,300+ lounges, including Capital One Lounges and the Partner Lounge Network
• Use your Venture X miles to easily cover travel expenses, including flights, hotels, rental cars and more—you can even transfer your miles to your choice of 15+ travel loyalty programs
• Elevate every hotel stay from the Premier or Lifestyle Collections with a suite of cardholder benefits, like an experience credit, room upgrades, and more

Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card

The Ink Business Preferred Credit Card’s sign-up bonus is among the highest we’ve seen from Chase. Plus earn points across the four bonus categories (travel, shipping, advertising and telecommunication providers) that are most popular with businesses. The card comes with travel protections, shopping protections and will also have primary coverage when renting a car for business purposes for you and your employees. Read our full  review of the Ink Business Preferred Credit Card .

• One of the highest sign-up bonuses we’ve seen — 100,000 bonus points after $8,000 worth of spend in the first three months after card opening.
• Access to the Chase Ultimate Rewards portal for points redemption.
• Reasonable $95 annual fee.
• Bonus categories that are most relevant to business owners; primary car insurance.
• Perks including cellphone and purchase protection; extended warranty; trip cancellation/interruption insurance; trip delay reimbursement.
• Yearly cap on bonus categories.
• No travel perks.
• Subject to Chase's 5/24 rule on card applications.
• Earn 100k bonus points after you spend $8,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $1,000 cash back or $1,250 toward travel when redeemed through Chase Travel℠
• Earn 3 points per $1 on the first $150,000 spent on travel and select business categories each account anniversary year. Earn 1 point per $1 on all other purchases
• Round-the-clock monitoring for unusual credit card purchases
• With Zero Liability you won't be held responsible for unauthorized charges made with your card or account information.
• Redeem points for cash back, gift cards, travel and more - your points don't expire as long as your account is open
• Points are worth 25% more when you redeem for travel through Chase Travel℠
• Purchase Protection covers your new purchases for 120 days against damage or theft up to $10,000 per claim and $50,000 per account.

The Platinum Card® from American Express

The Amex Platinum is unmatched when it comes to travel perks and benefits. If lounge access, hotel elite status and annual statement credits are important to you, this card is well worth the high annual fee. Read our full  review of the Platinum Card from American Express .

• The current welcome offer on this card is quite lucrative. TPG values it at $1,600.
• This card comes with a long list of benefits, including access to Centurion Lounges, complimentary elite status with Hilton and Marriott, and more than $1,400 in assorted annual statement credits and so much more. (enrollment required)
• The Amex Platinum comes with access to a premium concierge service that can help you with everything from booking hard-to-get reservations to finding destination guides to help you plan out your next getaway.
• The $695 annual fee is only worth it if you’re taking full advantage of the card’s benefits. Seldom travelers may not get enough value to warrant the cost.
• Outside of the current welcome bonus, you’re only earning bonus rewards on specific airfare and hotel purchases, so it’s not a great card for other spending categories.
• The annual airline fee credit and other monthly statement credits can be complicated to take advantage of compared to the broader travel credits offered by competing premium cards.
• Earn 80,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $8,000 on eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Apply and select your preferred metal Card design: classic Platinum, Platinum x Kehinde Wiley, or Platinum x Julie Mehretu.
• Earn 5X Membership Rewards® Points for flights booked directly with airlines or with American Express Travel up to $500,000 on these purchases per calendar year and earn 5X Membership Rewards® Points on prepaid hotels booked with American Express Travel.
• $200 Hotel Credit: Get up to $200 back in statement credits each year on prepaid Fine Hotels + Resorts® or The Hotel Collection bookings with American Express Travel when you pay with your Platinum Card®. The Hotel Collection requires a minimum two-night stay.
• $240 Digital Entertainment Credit: Get up to $20 back in statement credits each month on eligible purchases made with your Platinum Card® on one or more of the following: Disney+, a Disney Bundle, ESPN+, Hulu, The New York Times, Peacock, and The Wall Street Journal. Enrollment required.
• The American Express Global Lounge Collection® can provide an escape at the airport. With complimentary access to more than 1,400 airport lounges across 140 countries and counting, you have more airport lounge options than any other credit card issuer on the market. As of 03/2023.
• $155 Walmart+ Credit: Save on eligible delivery fees, shipping, and more with a Walmart+ membership. Use your Platinum Card® to pay for a monthly Walmart+ membership and get up to $12.95 plus applicable taxes back on one membership (excluding Plus Ups) each month.
• $200 Airline Fee Credit: Select one qualifying airline and then receive up to $200 in statement credits per calendar year when incidental fees are charged by the airline to your Platinum Card®.
• $200 Uber Cash: Enjoy Uber VIP status and up to $200 in Uber savings on rides or eats orders in the US annually. Uber Cash and Uber VIP status is available to Basic Card Member only. Terms Apply.
• $189 CLEAR® Plus Credit: CLEAR® Plus helps to get you to your gate faster at 50+ airports nationwide and get up to $189 back per calendar year on your Membership (subject to auto-renewal) when you use your Card. CLEARLanes are available at 100+ airports, stadiums, and entertainment venues.
• Receive either a $100 statement credit every 4 years for a Global Entry application fee or a statement credit up to $85 every 4.5 year period for TSA PreCheck® application fee for a 5-year plan only (through a TSA PreCheck® official enrollment provider), when charged to your Platinum Card®. Card Members approved for Global Entry will also receive access to TSA PreCheck at no additional cost.
• Shop Saks with Platinum: Get up to $100 in statement credits annually for purchases in Saks Fifth Avenue stores or at saks.com on your Platinum Card®. That's up to $50 in statement credits semi-annually. Enrollment required.
• Unlock access to exclusive reservations and special dining experiences with Global Dining Access by Resy when you add your Platinum Card® to your Resy profile.
• $695 annual fee.
• Terms Apply.
• See Rates & Fees

American Express® Gold Card

This isn’t just a card that’s nice to look at. It packs a real punch, offering 4 points per dollar on dining at restaurants and U.S. supermarkets (on the first $25,000 in purchases per calendar year; then 1 point per dollar). There’s also an up to $120 annual dining credit at Grubhub, The Cheesecake Factory, Goldbelly, Wine.com ,  Milk Bar, and select Shake Shack locations, plus it added an up to $120 annually ($10 per month) in Uber Cash, which can be used on Uber Eats orders or Uber rides in the U.S. All this make it a very strong contender for all food purchases, which has become a popular spending category. Enrollment is required for select benefits. Read our full review of the Amex Gold .

• 4 points per dollar on dining at restaurants and U.S. supermarkets (on the first $25,000 in purchases per calendar year; then 1 point per dollar)
• 3 points per dollar on flights booked directly with the airline or with Amex Travel.
• Welcome bonus of 60,000 points after spending $6,000 in the first six months of account opening.
• Weak on travel and everyday spending bonus categories.
• Not as effective for those living outside the U.S.
• Some may have trouble using Uber/food credits.
• Few travel perks and protections.
• Earn 60,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $6,000 on eligible purchases with your new Card within the first 6 months of Card Membership.
• Earn 4X Membership Rewards® Points at Restaurants, plus takeout and delivery in the U.S., and earn 4X Membership Rewards® points at U.S. supermarkets (on up to $25,000 per calendar year in purchases, then 1X).
• Earn 3X Membership Rewards® points on flights booked directly with airlines or on amextravel.com.
• $120 Uber Cash on Gold: Add your Gold Card to your Uber account and each month automatically get $10 in Uber Cash for Uber Eats orders or Uber rides in the U.S., totaling up to $120 per year.
• $120 Dining Credit: Satisfy your cravings and earn up to $10 in statement credits monthly when you pay with the American Express® Gold Card at Grubhub, The Cheesecake Factory, Goldbelly, Wine.com, Milk Bar and select Shake Shack locations. Enrollment required.
• Get a $100 experience credit with a minimum two-night stay when you book The Hotel Collection through American Express Travel. Experience credit varies by property.
• Choose the color that suits your style. Gold or Rose Gold.
• No Foreign Transaction Fees.
• Annual Fee is $250.

Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card

If you’re looking to dip your toes into the world of travel rewards, the Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card is a great way to get started. With no annual fee and a simple 1.25 miles per dollar on all your purchases, you won’t have to keep up with multiple bonus categories — just earn rewards on everything you purchase! Coupled with the 20,000-mile sign-up bonus, you can use your rewards to book travel, transfer to Capital One’s loyalty partners and more. Read our full review of the  Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card .

• No annual fee.
• Earn a bonus of 20,000 bonus miles once you spend $500 within the first three months from account opening.
• Use your miles to book or pay for travel at a 1-cent value, or transfer your miles to loyalty programs to gain potentially even greater value for your rewards.
• Earn 1.25 miles per dollar on all purchases.
• No foreign transaction fees.
• Other credit cards can offer you higher rewards for your common purchase categories.
• Capital One airline transfer partners do not include any large U.S. airlines.
• $0 annual fee and no foreign transaction fees
• Earn a bonus of 20,000 miles once you spend $500 on purchases within 3 months from account opening, equal to $200 in travel
• Earn unlimited 1.25X miles on every purchase, every day
• Enjoy 0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for 15 months; 19.99% - 29.99% variable APR after that; balance transfer fee applies

The Business Platinum Card® from American Express

The Business Platinum Card from American Express is a great card for frequent travelers looking to add a touch of luxury to their business trips. While the card does come with a high annual fee, you’re also getting a ton of valuable benefits in return. They include generous annual travel credits, unparalleled lounge access that includes Amex Centurion Lounges and more. Read our full  review on The Business Platinum Card from American Express .

• Up to $100 statement credit for Global Entry every 4 years or $85 TSA PreCheck credit every 4.5 years (enrollment is required)
• Up to $400 annual statement credit for U.S. Dell purchases (enrollment required)
• Gold status at Marriott and Hilton hotels; access to the Fine Hotels & Resorts program and Hotel Collection (enrollment required)
• Steep $695 annual fee.
• High spend needed for welcome offer.
• Limited high bonus categories outside of travel.
• Welcome Offer: Earn 150,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $20,000 in eligible purchases on the Card within the first 3 months of Card Membership.
• 5X Membership Rewards® points on flights and prepaid hotels on AmexTravel.com, and 1X points for each dollar you spend on eligible purchases.
• Earn 1.5X points (that’s an extra half point per dollar) on each eligible purchase at US construction material, hardware suppliers, electronic goods retailers, and software & cloud system providers, and shipping providers, as well as on purchases of $5,000 or more everywhere else, on up to $2 million of these purchases per calendar year.
• Unlock over $1,000 in statement credits on select purchases, including tech, recruiting and wireless in the first year of membership with the Business Platinum Card®. Enrollment required. See how you can unlock over $1,000 annually in credits on select purchases with the Business Platinum Card®, here.
• $200 Airline Fee Credit: Select one qualifying airline and then receive up to $200 in statement credits per calendar year when incidental fees are charged by the airline to the Card.
• $189 CLEAR® Plus Credit: Use your card and get up to $189 in statement credits per calendar year on your CLEAR® Plus Membership (subject to auto-renewal) when you use the Business Platinum Card®.
• The American Express Global Lounge Collection® can provide an escape at the airport. With complimentary access to more than 1,400 airport lounges across 140 countries and counting, you have more airport lounge options than any other credit card issuer on the market as of 03/2023.
• $695 Annual Fee.

Wells Fargo Autograph Journey℠ Card

The Wells Fargo Autograph Journey credit card offers healthy reward earning rates on top of uncapped point-earning meaning the sky's the limit — especially if you strategize and spend in popular categories.

• No foreign transaction fees
• Uncapped earning potential
• $50 annual statement credit
• Solid point earning rates in popular categories
• This card features an annual fee
• Select “Apply Now” to take advantage of this specific offer and learn more about product features, terms and conditions.
• Earn 60,000 bonus points when you spend $4,000 in purchases in the first 3 months – that’s $600 toward your next trip.
• Earn unlimited 5X points on hotels, 4X points on airlines, 3X points on other travel and restaurants, and 1X points on other purchases.
• $95 annual fee.
• Book your travel with the Autograph Journey Card and enjoy Travel Accident Insurance, Lost Baggage Reimbursement, Trip Cancellation and Interruption Protection and Auto Rental Collision Damage Waiver.
• Earn a $50 annual statement credit with $50 minimum airline purchase.
• Up to $1,000 of cell phone protection against damage or theft. Subject to a $25 deductible.
• Find tickets to top sports and entertainment events, book travel, make dinner reservations and more with your complimentary 24/7 Visa Signature® Concierge.

Chase Sapphire Reserve®

The Chase Sapphire Reserve is one of our top premium travel cards. With a $300 travel credit, bonus points on dining and travel purchases and other benefits, you can get excellent value that far exceeds the annual fee on the card. Read our full  review of the Chase Sapphire Reserve card .

• $300 annual travel credit as reimbursement for travel purchases charged to your card each account anniversary year.
• Access to Chase Ultimate Rewards hotel and airline travel partners.
• 10 points per dollar on hotels, car rentals and Chase Dining purchases through the Ultimate Rewards portal, 5 points per dollar on flights booked through the Chase Travel portal, 3 points per dollar on all other travel and dining, 1 point per dollar on everything else
• 50% more value when you redeem your points for travel directly through Chase Travel
• Steep initial $550 annual fee.
• May not make sense for people that don't travel frequently.
• Earn 75,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $1,125 toward travel when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.
• $300 Annual Travel Credit as reimbursement for travel purchases charged to your card each account anniversary year.
• Earn 5x total points on flights and 10x total points on hotels and car rentals when you purchase travel through Chase Travel℠ immediately after the first $300 is spent on travel purchases annually. Earn 3x points on other travel and dining & 1 point per $1 spent on all other purchases
• Get 50% more value when you redeem your points for travel through Chase Travel℠. For example, 75,000 points are worth $1125 toward travel.
• 1:1 point transfer to leading airline and hotel loyalty programs
• Access to 1,300+ airport lounges worldwide after an easy, one-time enrollment in Priority Pass™ Select and up to $100 application fee credit every four years for Global Entry, NEXUS, or TSA PreCheck®

Wells Fargo Autograph℠ Card

The Wells Fargo Autograph card packs a punch for a no-annual-fee product, with an array of bonus categories plus solid perks and straightforward redemption options. Read our  full review of the Wells Fargo Autograph here .

• This card offers 3 points per dollar on various everyday purchases with no annual fee. It also comes with a 20,000-point welcome bonus and an introductory APR offer on purchases. Plus, you'll enjoy up to $600 in cellphone protection when you pay your monthly bill with the card. Subject to a $25 deductible.
• Despite the lucrative earning structure, Wells Fargo doesn't offer any ways to maximize your redemptions — you're limited to fixed-value rewards like gift cards and statement credits.
• Select "Apply Now" to take advantage of this specific offer and learn more about product features, terms and conditions.
• Earn 20,000 bonus points when you spend $1,000 in purchases in the first 3 months - that's a $200 cash redemption value.
• Earn unlimited 3X points on the things that really add up - like restaurants, travel, gas stations, transit, popular streaming services, and phone plans. Plus, earn 1X points on other purchases.
• $0 annual fee.
• 0% intro APR for 12 months from account opening on purchases. 20.24%, 25.24%, or 29.99% variable APR thereafter.
• Up to $600 of cell phone protection against damage or theft. Subject to a $25 deductible.
• Redeem your rewards points for travel, gift cards, or statement credits. Or shop at millions of online stores and redeem your rewards when you check out with PayPal.

American Express® Business Gold Card

The Amex Business Gold card is a solid choice for high-spending small businesses with the flexibility to earn 4 points per dollar in the two categories where you spend the most. The card is ideal for businesses who value simplicity above all. Read our full  review of the American Express Business Gold Card .

• You'll earn 4 Membership Rewards points per dollar in the top 2 spending categories each month (on the first $150,000 in combined purchases each calendar year).
• Hefty $375 annual fee.
• There may be better options for small businesses who don't spend a lot.
• Welcome Offer: Earn 70,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $10,000 on eligible purchases with the Business Gold Card within the first 3 months of Card Membership.*
• Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points on the 2 categories where your business spends the most each billing cycle from 6 eligible categories. While your top 2 categories may change, you will earn 4X points on the first $150,000 in combined purchases from these categories each calendar year (then 1X thereafter). Only the top 2 categories each billing cycle will count towards the $150,000 cap.
• Earn 3X Membership Rewards® points on flights and prepaid hotels booked on amextravel.com using your Business Gold Card.
• Earn up to $20 in statement credits monthly after you use the Business Gold Card for eligible U.S. purchases at FedEx, Grubhub, and Office Supply Stores. This can be an annual savings of up to $240. Enrollment required.
• Get up to a $12.95** statement credit back each month after you pay for a monthly Walmart+ membership (subject to auto-renewal) with your Business Gold Card. **Up to $12.95 plus applicable taxes on one membership fee.
• Your Card – Your Choice. Choose from Gold or Rose Gold.
• *Terms Apply

Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card

The Bank of America Travel Rewards credit card is a great starter card thanks to its no annual fee and no foreign transaction fees when you travel internationally. Earning and redeeming is effortless, with no confusing bonus categories to keep track of and the ability to redeem your points for all of your travel needs. Read our  full review of the Bank of America Travel Rewards  card.

• 1.5 points per dollar on all purchases
• No annual fee
• Bank of America does not offer airline or hotel transfer partners like other banks such as American Express, Chase or Capital One.
• No travel and purchase protections.
• Earn unlimited 1.5 points per $1 spent on all purchases, with no annual fee and no foreign transaction fees and your points don't expire as long as your account remains open.
• 25,000 online bonus points after you make at least $1,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening - that can be a $250 statement credit toward travel purchases.
• Use your card to book your trip how and where you want - you're not limited to specific websites with blackout dates or restrictions.
• Redeem points for a statement credit to pay for travel or dining purchases, such as flights, hotel stays, car and vacation rentals, baggage fees, and also at restaurants including takeout.
• 0% Intro APR for 15 billing cycles for purchases, and for any balance transfers made in the first 60 days. After the Intro APR offer ends, a Variable APR that’s currently 19.24% - 29.24% will apply. A 3% Intro balance transfer fee will apply for the first 60 days your account is open. After the Intro balance transfer fee offer ends, the fee for future balance transfers is 4%.
• If you're a Bank of America Preferred Rewards® member, you can earn 25%-75% more points on every purchase. That means instead of earning an unlimited 1.5 points for every $1, you could earn 1.87-2.62 points for every $1 you spend on purchases.
• Contactless Cards - The security of a chip card, with the convenience of a tap.
• This online only offer may not be available if you leave this page or if you visit a Bank of America financial center. You can take advantage of this offer when you apply now.

Alaska Airlines Visa Signature® credit card

There’s a lot to love about the Alaska Airlines credit card, in part due to its highly valuable loyalty program: Alaska Airlines MileagePlan. Whether you’re a loyal Alaska flyer or a points maximizer looking to diversify your rewards portfolio, this card has a lot to offer. For starters, you’ll receive Alaska’s Famous Companion Pass each year from $122 ($99 fare plus taxes and fees from $23) each account anniversary after you spend $6,000 or more on purchases within the prior anniversary year, free checked bags for you and up to six guests on your itinerary, 20% back on in-flight purchases and more. Plus, Alaska has joined the oneworld alliance, opening up endless redemption opportunities. Read our  full review of the Alaska Airline credit card.

• Free checked bag for you and up to six guests on your reservation.
• Alaska discounts, including 20% back on in-flight purchases.
• Limited Time Online Offer—60,000 Bonus Miles!
• Get 60,000 bonus miles plus Alaska's Famous Companion Fare™ ($99 fare plus taxes and fees from $23) with this offer. To qualify, make $3,000 or more in purchases within the first 90 days of opening your account.
• Get Alaska’s Famous Companion Fare™ ($99 fare plus taxes and fees from $23) each account anniversary after you spend $6,000 or more on purchases within the prior anniversary year. Valid on all Alaska Airlines flights booked on alaskaair.com.
• Earn unlimited 3 miles for every $1 spent on eligible Alaska Airlines purchases. Earn unlimited 2 miles for every $1 spent on eligible gas, EV charging station, cable, streaming services and local transit (including ride share) purchases. And earn unlimited 1 mile per $1 spent on all other purchases. And, your miles don’t expire on active accounts.
• Earn a 10% rewards bonus on all miles earned from card purchases if you have an eligible Bank of America® account.
• Free checked bag and enjoy priority boarding for you and up to 6 guests on the same reservation, when you pay for your flight with your card — Also available for authorized users when they book a reservation too!
• With oneworld® Alliance member airlines and Alaska’s Global Partners, Alaska has expanded their global reach to over 1,000 destinations worldwide bringing more airline partners and more ways to earn and redeem miles.
• Plus, no foreign transaction fees and a low $95 annual fee.
• This online only offer may not be available elsewhere if you leave this page. You can take advantage of this offer when you apply now.

You’ll earn a solid return on dining and travel (6% back and 4% back, respectively, based on TPG valuations ) on top of your generous sign-up bonus, and you also have access to some of the best travel protections offered by any travel rewards credit card.

We’ve long suggested the Chase Sapphire Preferred Card   as an excellent option for those who are new to earning travel rewards because it lets you earn valuable, transferable points  with strong bonus categories and a reasonable annual fee.

“The Chase Sapphire Preferred has remained a top card in my wallet for years. Between the consistently strong sign-up bonus, low annual fee and continual improvements that have been made over the years, it’s hard for any other mid-tier rewards card to compare. I love that I can earn bonus rewards on travel, dining, streaming and online grocery purchases — all with just one card. Plus, Chase Ultimate Rewards points are valuable and easy to use whether you’re new to points and miles or an expert.” — Madison Blancaflor , senior content operations editor

To add more luxury to your travel experience, consider the Chase Sapphire Reserve® . Though it comes with a higher annual fee, you’ll enjoy Priority Pass lounge access plus a $300 annual travel credit.

With the Capital One Venture, you’re earning 2 miles per dollar on every purchase, which makes it easy to rack up rewards without having to juggle different bonus categories or spending caps. And with flexible redemption options and a manageable annual fee, this card is an excellent choice if you’re looking to keep just one credit card in your wallet for all spending.

Those looking to earn flexible rewards should use the Capital One Venture card as it allows you to redeem miles for a fixed value or transfer the miles you earn to 15+ airline and hotel transfer partners , including Avianca, Etihad Airways, Turkish Airlines and Singapore Airlines.

“The Capital One Venture is a great card that can add value to pretty much anyone’s wallet. I use it to earn 2 miles per dollar on the purchases that fall outside of my other cards’ bonus categories. The annual fee is low, Capital One miles are easy to redeem and the card does come with a few nice perks — including TSA PreCheck/Global Entry application fee reimbursement.” — Madison Blancaflor , senior content operations editor

Even if you’re a casual traveler, consider jumping to the Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card  (see  rates and fees ). The card’s up to $300 annual credit for purchases made with Capital One Travel immediately covers the higher annual fee — and that’s not even considering the added perks you’ll enjoy.

At $395 per year (see rates and fees ), this premium card is cheaper than all of its competitors without sacrificing the breadth of valuable perks it includes. Cardholders will get unlimited visits to Capital One’s premium network of lounges and 1,300-plus Priority Pass lounges worldwide  and able to bring up to two guests for no additional charge.

For frequent travelers, the Capital One Venture X is a must-have and is well worth the $395 annual fee. If you travel frequently with your significant other, family or friends, you can even add some authorized users for no additional cost. This will grant them their own lounge access (and the ability to bring up to two guests for no fee), among many other benefits, making this a huge cost-saver for those who travel in groups.

“With an annual fee that is $300 less than The Platinum Card® from American Express (see Amex Platinum rates and fees ), the Capital One Venture X card is my favorite travel credit card. The card comes with an annual $300 Capital One Travel credit, which I use to book flights. That effectively brings the annual fee down to $95 per year (see rates and fees ). Cardholders enjoy a Priority Pass Select membership. Authorized users — you geta number of them at no cost — also enjoy their own Priority Pass Select membership. I use my Venture X card to earn 2 miles per dollar (a 3.7% return at TPG’s valuations ) in spending categories where most cards would only accrue 1 mile — like auto maintenance, pharmacies and medical bills.” — Kyle Olsen , former points and miles reporter

Those turned off by the Venture X’s annual fee could opt for the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card , which has a $95 annual fee (see rates and fees ), identical sign-up bonus and similar earning and redemption options.

The Ink Business Preferred earns 3 points per dollar on the first $150,000 in combined travel, shipping, internet, cable, phone services and advertising purchases made on social media sites and search engines each account anniversary year. TPG’s most recent valuations  peg the value of Chase Ultimate Rewards points at 2 cents apiece, so you’ll get a fantastic return of 6% on purchases in these categories.

If you spend a lot on business travel or social media advertising, you’ll be able to earn significant points using the Ink Business Preferred card .

“I originally signed up for the Ink Business Preferred primarily for its sign-up bonus. But, over the last year, I’ve found myself making it my go-to card when booking travel. After all, the Ink Business Preferred earns 3 points per dollar spent on travel and provides excellent travel protections, including trip delay protection and rental car insurance.” — Katie Genter , senior writer

If you don’t want to worry about maximizing specific purchases and are looking for a lower spending requirement to earn a sign-up bonus, consider the Ink Business Unlimited® Credit Card , which offers 1.5% cash back on all purchases and carries no annual fee.

The Amex Platinum is a stellar premium travel card that can provide amazing redemptions . Besides the welcome offer, it comes with more than $1,400 in credits each year and various lounge access options. Enrollment is required for select benefits.

Anyone looking for luxury travel benefits will find that the ton of annual statement credits make the annual fee worth it. Plus, you’ll get unparalleled lounge access , automatic Gold status with Hilton and Marriott, and extra perks with Avis Preferred , Hertz Gold Plus Rewards and National Car Rental Emerald Club . Enrollment is required for select benefits.

“While this card has a high annual fee, it more than justifies itself for frequent travelers like me. The lounge access options that come with the Platinum are unrivaled by competitors. I put all of my flights on this card to earn 5 points per dollar spent and trip protection insurance. I make sure to take full advantage of the Uber, Saks Fifth Avenue, Hulu/Disney+ and Clear credits (enrollment is required). And, honestly, pulling a Platinum card out of your wallet to pay for something does feel pretty fancy.” — Matt Moffitt , senior credit cards editor

The Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card  can be a great alternative to the Amex Platinum, with a notably lower annual fee, similar perks and a more rewarding earning rate on everyday purchases.

The Amex Gold earns 4 points per dollar on dining at restaurants, with no foreign transaction fees (see rates and fees ), meaning you’ll get an 8% return on purchases (based on TPG’s valuations ). While a few other cards temporarily offer higher return rates on dining, this is the best option for long-term spending, making it one of the best dining cards and best rewards cards .

Those looking for a great return on dining and purchases at U.S. supermarkets will get a lot of value from this card.

“Groceries and dining at restaurants are two of my top spending categories, and I love that the Amex Gold rewards those purchases with 4 points per dollar. When you factor in the $10 dining credit and $10 in Uber Cash each month, the $250 annual fee is a net cost of $10.” — Senitra Horbrook , former credit cards editor

For those who dine out a lot and also want additional bonus categories and other valuable perks for a lower annual fee, consider the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card .

The no-annual-fee Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card (see  rates and fees ) has the same redemption options as its sibling card (the Venture Rewards card) but with a lower rewards rate and fewer perks. The miles earned on the card can also be transferred to airline and hotel partners, a benefit not usually seen with a no-annual-fee card.

The VentureOne is a strong card to have in your arsenal and great if you are budgeting. After all, there aren’t many no-annual-fee cards with the ability to transfer points and miles directly to travel partners, so it’s a big bonus that this card offers that (see rates and fees ).

“I wanted a credit card that earns Capital One miles without an annual fee, and this is a winner (see rates and fees ). It doesn’t have the bells and whistles of some other cards, but I’m happy earning 1.25 miles per dollar on all purchases without paying a fee to keep this card year after year. I’ll never cancel this card.” — Ryan Smith , former credit cards writer

For a small annual fee, many travelers could benefit from the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card . You’ll earn at least 2 miles per dollar on all purchases and receive a statement credit for TSA PreCheck or Global Entry membership.

There are certain ways to earn bonus points for spending on the Amex Business Platinum Card, but it’s the array of perks on the card that make it a great option. Beyond airport lounge access and automatic hotel elite status, there are a number of statement credits that are specifically targeted to common business expenses.

If you travel for business frequently, this card could help you upgrade your experience in the air and on the ground while saving you money on select business-related services. And the current welcome bonus is just the icing on the cake.

“I find that the annual perks and credits vastly outweigh the large annual fee. And that’s even without using some of them. By using the benefits with Priority Pass and Amex lounges, the airline incidental credits, plus the statement credits for Clear, our cellphone plan and restocking my home printer with ink and paper from Dell (enrollment required), I get more value out of the card than it costs to keep it. Plus, it earns my favorite points — American Express Membership Rewards — earning 5 points per dollar on flights and hotels booked with Amex Travel.” — Ryan Smith , former credit cards writer

For less-frequent travelers, consider the American Express®  Business Gold Card , which offers 4 points per dollar spent on your top two spending categories each month on the first $150,000 in combined purchases from these categories each calendar year (then 1 point per dollar thereafter).

The Autograph Journey offers cardholders the chance to earn elevated rates across travel categories including 5 points per dollar spent on hotels, 4 points per dollar on airline purchases and 3 points per dollar on restaurants and 'other travel' which includes timeshares, car rentals, cruise lines, travel agencies, discount travel sites and campgrounds. On top of this, cardholders also get the added benefit of earning a flat rate of 1 point per dollar on other purchases for a $95 annual fee.

If you travel frequently and are looking for a card to help you rack up points you can redeem for future travel, this card is a decent option. Additionally, those looking for a way to fill gaps in their points earning strategy will benefit from the flat 1 point per dollar spent on other purchases outside of the main travel categories.

Another great perk the Autograph Journey features is an annual $50 statement credit triggered by an airline purchase of at least $50. This is on top of elevated earning rates in the certain travel categories and a solid welcome offer for new applicants. There's also no foreign transaction fees on the Autograph Journey card making it a good first travel card as well as a decent supplemental card to add to your travel credit card roster.

If you're looking for a more general use credit card with no annual fee, consider the Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card (see  rates and fees ). It earns a flat rate of 2% cash rewards on purchases making an excellent choice to help fill gaps in your reward earning strategy. The best part? Like the Autograph Journey card, the Active Cash Card doesn't put a cap on the amount of cash back you can earn.

The Chase Sapphire Reserve comes with an annual $300 travel credit to offset a variety of expenses — such as airfare, hotels, rental cars, transit and more. You’re also getting an up-to-$100 Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application fee credit  once every four years along with Priority Pass Select membership. And Chase’s slate of transfer partners allows plenty of opportunity to get the maximum value from your points.

Those looking for elevated earning rates and extensive travel protections should have this card in their wallet. The 50% redemption bonus when you use your points to pay for travel through the Chase portal  is also a nice perk.

“I’ve had the Sapphire Reserve for years, and it’s going to stay in my wallet for the near future. I get $300 off travel every year along with great earning rates on travel and dining (3 points per dollar) and various trip protections that can reimburse me when things go wrong. And by leveraging other cards in the Ultimate Rewards ecosystem, I’m able to maximize the earnings across all of my purchases.” — Nick Ewen , director of content

If you just can’t stomach the Sapphire Reserve’s $550 annual fee, go for the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card  instead. It has similar perks, redemption options and travel protections — for a much lower $95 per year.

The Wells Fargo Autograph is a great no-annual-fee card that offers quality earning categories and travel and shopping protection.

Travel card beginners who are looking to get into points earning should consider the Wells Fargo Autograph, which offers a welcome bonus, 3 points per dollar on a variety of everyday spending categories and cellphone protection.

If you’re just getting into the travel credit card world and are not sure travel cards are for you, consider the Wells Fargo Autograph, which will allow you to earn bonus points on travel spending without the commitment of an annual fee.

If you’re looking to earn transferable reward points but still maintain a similar earning structure, consider the Bilt Mastercard® (see rates and fees ). The card earns 3 points per dollar on dining and 2 points per dollar on travel purchases for no annual fee. Plus, Bilt points can be transferred to any of its multiple travel partners. 

The American Express Business Gold card comes packed with perks and benefits, but its most unique feature is the ability to shift your monthly bonus categories. Cardholders will automatically earn 4 points per dollar in their top two spending categories on the first $150,000 in combined purchases from these categories each calendar year (then 1 point per dollar thereafter), so if your business spending varies month to month, you won’t have to commit to a bonus category.

The American Express Business Gold card is an excellent choice for business owners who are looking for a premium business card with premium business perks like monthly office supply statement credits, travel and shopping protection and access to The Hotel Collection.

The American Express Business Gold is an excellent choice for small businesses that have changing bonus categories but still want more premium business perks and benefits.

If you still want to earn Membership Rewards points without paying an annual fee, consider The Blue Business® Plus Credit Card from American Express (see rates and fees ), which earns 2 Membership Rewards points on all business purchases (up to $50,000 per calendar year, then 1 point per dollar).

The Bank of America Travel Rewards card operates similarly to the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card . You’re earning flat-rate rewards across all spending, and then you can use those rewards as a statement credit to cover eligible travel purchases.

It’s perfect for low-budget beginner travelers  who want a card with no annual fee and a simple way to earn and redeem points.

“I’m happy earning 1.5 points per dollar on all purchases on a card without an annual fee. I can’t pay for everything in life with transferable points, and it’s nice to have a card with fixed-value points for those situations. I use this card for travel purchases where I need to pay in cash, then I can reimburse myself with the points.” — Ryan Smith , former credit cards writer

If you’re interested in a card with transferable miles that still has no annual fee (see  rates and fees ), consider the Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card .

The Alaska Airlines Visa earns 3 miles per dollar on eligible Alaska Airlines purchases; 2 miles per dollar on eligible gas, EV charging stations, cable, streaming services and transit (including local ride share purchases); and 1 mile per dollar on everything else. You get a free checked bag on Alaska flights for you and up to six guests on your reservation, an annual Companion Fare on your account anniversary and 20% back on all inflight purchases.

Whether you live on the West Coast or not, the Alaska Airlines Visa is a good cobranded airline card to consider adding to your wallet. The Seattle-based airline is mostly limited to North American routes, but international destinations through Oneworld partners make this card valuable for all travelers.

“With new benefits, this card is even more valuable to me — even with its higher annual fee. It provides a free first checked bag, discounts on inflight purchases and priority boarding. My favorite feature, however, is the annual Companion Fare. I get hundreds of dollars in annual value from this perk.” — Ryan Smith , former credit cards writer

If you’re not looking to collect airline-specific miles, a general travel card like the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card might be a better option.

Travel rewards credit cards earn points, miles or cash back that are redeemable for travel expenses or are geared toward travel spending. The cards on this list are some of the best credit cards to book flights , hotels and more with their many perks and rewards . 

Travel credit cards offer rewards on different purchases that can help you book flights, hotels and more for little to no out-of-pocket expenses. Some cards also provide valuable perks and benefits that upgrade the overall travel experience — from Global Entry application fee credits to lounge access to complimentary elite status . If you have the right card (or cards) in your wallet, the sky is the limit on where your travels can take you — literally.

Additionally, it’s often advantageous to travel with more than one credit card for a variety of reasons. Carrying a backup credit card when you travel can provide peace of mind in the case of bank or issuer problems or if you have a card flagged for fraud while you travel. (In this case, knowing if your card requires you to set up travel alerts for lengthy travel could be worthwhile).

Are you new to travel rewards? Check out our beginner’s guide to all things points and miles . You’ll learn about top loyalty programs, how to maximize your credit card strategy to reach your travel goals and so much more.

Related: The complete history of credit cards, from antiquity to today

We have researched various types of travel credit cards to help you figure out which one is best for you.

Travel vs cash back credit cards

A travel credit card is a card that is geared toward travel spending and a cash-back credit card is a card that earns cash back on purchases made with the card.

Generally, when we are talking about travel credit cards we refer to cards that earn points and miles like the Platinum Card from American Express or the Hilton Honors Aspire card. The Platinum Amex earns transferable points which can be used with any of Amex's travel partners while the Hilton Honors Aspire card only earns Hilton points which can be redeemed at Hilton properties. These cards do not earn cash back on any purchases.

Cash back cards generally offer cash back as a flat rate or feature bonus categories that earn an elevated cash back rate. Select cash-back cards can also be a great travel card such as the Blue Cash Preferred Card from American Express which offers 3% cash back on transit including rideshare, trains, buses, and more. Even though it is a cash-back card, the Blue Cash Preferred offers an elevated return on select transportation which potentially makes it a solid travel card option.

How do travel credit cards work?

Travel credit cards work like other reward credit cards: They help you earn rewards, primarily points and miles, on your purchases. This section will primarily focus on transferable rewards credit cards, like the Chase Sapphire Reserve and The Platinum Card® from American Express, as they are what are typically considered travel credit cards.

Related: How to redeem Chase Ultimate Rewards points for maximum value

How to earn transferable points

Transferable points credit cards earn points or miles when you make a purchase on the cards. These points and miles can then be transferred to travel partners for rewards like flights, hotel stays and more. Different cards will have different currencies, but they are generally called either “points” or “miles” (depending on the issuer). All transferable reward credit cards, airline credit cards and hotel credit cards will have their own currency that is redeemable for travel rewards. 

Travel cards have varying rates for different purchase categories. For example, the American Express® Gold Card card earns 4 points per dollar spent on restaurants but only 3 points per dollar spent on flights booked directly with the airline or Amex Travel. While the Amex Platinum may be a better card for travel as it earns 5 points per dollar spent on flights (booked directly with airline or Amex Travel and up to $500,000 per calendar year), the Amex Gold can be a good addition for Platinum holders who spend a lot of money on dining out.

Related: How to redeem American Express Membership Rewards for maximum value

How to redeem points and miles  

Once you’ve decided on a travel credit card and earned a welcome bonus, it’s time to put those points or miles toward free travel. There are many ways to redeem your rewards with travel credit cards. Many cards feature an online booking portal through which you can use your rewards to book things like flights, hotels and car rentals. Before booking your flight, you should consider doing a  flight portal comparison to ensure you're getting the best redemption. Others allow you to transfer your points or miles to individual loyalty programs. Depending on the redemption, this could unlock even more value.

There are plenty of ways to ensure you don’t make mistakes with your travel rewards . For instance, be sure you do your research with your rewards to get a high-value redemption and make sure your accounts are in good standing so you don’t risk losing them.  

Related: Tips and tricks to get maximum value from your Capital One miles

It’s up to you to decide whether a specific trip is worth spending your rewards. You can use TPG’s monthly valuations to help you determine if the price of your flight or hotel room is worth your points and miles. Some travels are more affordable in cash, but you can always save your points to splurge on a business-class flight to Europe or an overwater bungalow at a luxury resort. 

How to use travel credit card portals  

In the world of travel credit cards, the four major players are American Express, Capital One, Chase and Citi. These issuers also have their own travel portals which can be used to earn and redeem points for travel. 

Some issuers, like Capital One and Chase , offer an incentive to book travel through the bank’s portal but it is not always worth booking through a portal. 

We do not recommend booking hotel travel through card portals as it typically does not honor elite-status benefits or elite-qualifying stay credits. 

Luckily, flights typically allow you to earn bonus points through a card issuer’s portal and with the airline. Keep in mind that this does not apply to all cards. When purchasing in cash, there generally is little variance in booking through a portal or on the airline’s website so if your travel credit card offers incentives to book through the portal , it can be a great way to earn extra points. 

Related: Ultimate guide to the Citi travel portal

Points and miles redemptions will have a fair variance, especially if there are incentives to book through the travel portals. Overall, travel portals can be a great addition to your points redemption journey if properly used. Always remember to compare the price or redemption value of booking through a portal or directly with an airline. 

Booking through a portal may make matters complicated if you ever need to change or cancel your flight. 

Related: Battle of the credit card travel portals: Which is the best for booking flights?

Types of travel credit cards

Travel credit cards are cards that are geared towards travel spending. Luckily, there are many types of travel credit cards which means there is a good option for any traveler. Typically, when talking about travel credit cards, we are referring to transfer rewards credit cards, airline credit cards and hotel credit cards. There are additional types of travel credit cards that are less popular but can still be a good option for the right traveler.

Transferable rewards credit cards earn points and miles that can be redeemed through a card’s rewards program directly or by transferring them to a travel partner . Many of our best travel credit cards fall under this category because they are the most valuable type of points you can earn. Transferable rewards give you the flexibility to redeem your rewards in a way that will be most beneficial to you. Examples of top transferable rewards cards are the Chase Sapphire Reserve® and The Platinum Card® from American Express .

Airline cobranded cards earn a specific type of airline miles. These cards also generally come with perks specific to that airline. For example, an airline card may offer free checked bags , a certain number of elite-qualifying miles to help you reach status, priority boarding privileges, inflight discounts and more.

Hotel cobranded cards work like airline cards. You’ll earn rewards that are redeemable for a particular hotel program, such as Hilton or Marriott. Hotel cards come with their own benefits, such as complimentary elite status or free award-night stays. In addition, hotel cards can help you stack your earnings on hotel stays with the hotel’s program.

For example, if you have a Marriott credit card , you’ll earn bonus points for every dollar spent at participating Marriott properties on top of the 10 base points you get as a member of the Bonvoy program. This can really amplify the rewards you can earn when you use your hotel card to pay for your booking.

The points and miles world can be confusing for new credit card users but it doesn’t have to be. While transferable rewards cards are arguably the best way to earn points and miles for travel, they can also be incredibly confusing. Fixed-value credit cards and cash-back credit cards are good alternatives for beginners who are looking to get into the travel credit card world.

Fixed-value cards earn points or miles that are always redeemed for the same value. For example, the Bank of America® Premium Rewards® credit card earns points worth 1 cent each. These cards are great for beginners who haven’t quite gotten the hang of maximizing transferable points or casual travelers who are looking for their first travel credit card . Fixed-value credit cards are often the best travel credit cards for beginners. 

As more hotels and airlines move to a dynamic pricing model where award pricing shifts dramatically, fixed-value rewards programs are becoming more popular.

Another great credit card option for casual travelers or credit card beginners is cash-back credit cards. You don’t have to worry about points, transfer partners or maximizing your rewards with these cards. Cash-back cards provide a percentage of cash back on your spending and provide a simple way to save on your upcoming travels. 

The Capital One Quicksilver Cash Rewards Credit Card (see rates and fees ) is a great option for beginners to travel rewards. It earns unlimited 5% cash back on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel and has no annual fee.

Travel credit card benefits

Some travel cards offer automatic elite status with various programs when you sign up and can also accelerate the journey to elite airline status by converting points to air miles. If you are loyal to a particular hotel brand, status with that brand will be valuable. You’ll be entitled to room upgrades, resort credits, early check-in, late checkout and more. If you’re not loyal, it won’t. The same goes for elite status with an airline — you’ll get lounge access, upgrades, increased baggage allowance, etc. When comparing the perks of various cards like elite status, be realistic about which ones you will and won’t use.

One of the coveted perks of premium travel credit cards is complimentary airport lounge access. Many premium travel credit cards come with Priority Pass lounge access , a membership that allows access to airport lounges across the world. These lounges are a great place to relax before your flight or have a snack during a long layover. Amenities will vary between lounges but most lounges provide wifi, private seating and refreshments. Be sure to check the priority pass guest policy as many lounges allow you to bring a complimentary guest (or guests).

TSA PreCheck and Global Entry are both expedited screening programs for travelers. TSA PreCheck is reserved for expedited security screening for domestic flights and Global Entry provides expedited customs screening for international travelers when entering the United States. 

The application fee for TSA PreCheck is up to $85 and $100 for Global Entry. If you are approved for the program, the membership is valid for 5 years. Many travel credit cards will offer statement credit for the application . 

What TPG readers have to say about their favorite travel credit cards

Fan favorites among top travel credit cards include those that earn both points and miles. In addition to helping offset the cost of travel — whether it’s for rental cars, hotel stays or flights — some TPG readers love that travel cards also offer travel insurance (including protections for things like delayed or lost baggage). We asked our readers which credit card has made the biggest impact when they travel and why — here are their responses.

Note: Responses have not been edited.

“Allowed me to justify staying at nicer hotels and just overall leveling up with how I travel.” — Jackie C via Facebook  

“ Venture X for me - lounge access and my first long haul biz [sic] class flight on points! Changing my travel game for the better!” — Lauren R via Facebook

“Can't beat the flexibility of the $300 travel credit from the Chase Sapphire Reserve .” — Armando S via Facebook

• Awards vs cash calculator Compare the cost in points or miles to cash.
• CardMatch™ Get prequalified offers in less than 60 seconds.

Earn the welcome bonus

One of the best ways to maximize your travel credit cards is to earn the welcome bonus . Most travel credit cards will offer a welcome or sign-up bonus that allows cardmembers to earn points or miles that would otherwise require a very high spend. Welcome bonuses are a crucial part of a card’s value, so before you apply for your next travel card, be sure to plan for how you will meet the spending requirement. Ideally, you would align large purchases with your card opening so that you don’t need to spend frivolously to earn that lucrative welcome bonus .

Use a travel card that matches your travel style

There is a travel credit card for everyone, but not every travel card is the best fit for your wallet . Consider what type of traveler you are, whether you have any brand loyalty and what perks you are looking for from your next credit card. If you travel often and in luxury, consider premium cards like The Platinum Card® from American Express or Chase Sapphire Reserve® . These cards are loaded with tons of luxury perks like lounge access and automatic elite status . 

Alternatively, if you’re a more thrifty traveler who likes to maximize your travel earnings, consider a mid-tier travel card like the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card or Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card . These cards allow you to earn points on your travel, and while they don’t come with a long list of luxury perks, they’re much more cost-effective for a traveler on a budget .

And even beginners don’t have to veer away from travel cards, since many products out there offer an introduction to the travel rewards world without incurring an annual fee.

It’s important to consider where you’re looking to go when you book trips, as certain cards are especially useful for international travel . Plus, if you’re someone who frequents the skies (such as a digital nomad), there are certain credit cards best for long-term travelers .

Knowing what your travel style is like will help you determine what type of travel card you need.

Use loyalty programs to stack your rewards

You don’t have to limit your earnings to just travel credit cards . Many airlines and hotel chains have loyalty programs that can be used in conjunction with your travel card to unlock added perks when doing business with a specific brand. In addition, many travel credit cards allow you to transfer points from your card to your eligible loyalty programs . This can open up nearly endless redemption options, including award chart sweet spots that can get you the most maximized redemptions for your points and miles.

• 1 Sign-up bonus Choosing a card with a healthy sign-up bonus will help jumpstart the possibility of unlocking elite status across different areas, including airline and hotel loyalty programs.
• 2 Annual fee Premium travel credit cards typically feature higher annual fees. Double-check that the card you choose suits your spending habits and travel needs before applying.
• 3 Bonus categories It also helps to check which bonus categories a card offers to ensure that they align with your spending, whether it’s at restaurants, at grocery stores or on streaming subscriptions.

What's your favorite travel credit card — and why?

• Using credit cards responsibly can help build your credit score
• Travel credit cards can earn cash back, points or miles on every dollar you spend.
• Travel credit cards can provide purchase, theft and fraud protection.
• Travel credit cards provide perks like travel insurance, complimentary hotel stays and more.
• Credit cards can encourage overspending.
• Carrying a balance and using your card irresponsibly can damage your credit score
• The cost of borrowing on credit cards is higher than traditional loans
• Having too many card applications can negatively affect your credit score
• Travel credit cards may be too complicated (or expensive) for those who aren’t frequent travelers.

Generally speaking, you need at least a very good credit score in order to get many popular travel credit cards. According to FICO, the scoring model used by most lenders, this is a score of at least 740. However, there’s no hard-and-fast rule, as each individual credit card issuer looks at a variety of factors in addition to your credit score when deciding whether to approve or decline your application.

Thankfully, there are a number of ways to check your credit score for free , so you can get an idea of where you stand before wasting an application (and a hard inquiry on your credit report) for a card for which you’re unlikely to qualify.

Points and miles are simply two different ways to describe the same thing: the rewards you earn on a credit card. As an example, many popular Capital One credit cards earn miles, whereas cards that participate in Chase Ultimate Rewards accrue points. There’s no appreciable difference between the two words.

This gets a little more complicated when you begin discussing cash-back credit cards. Some of these show earnings with a dollar amount, while others show cash-back rewards in points. However, here too there’s no significant difference. It’s simply how the card issuer chooses to describe the rewards you’re earning.

It depends entirely on your typical travel habits. Many popular travel credit cards feature rewards, benefits and redemption options that only come into play when you’re actually on the road. This includes perks like airport lounge access,  rental car insurance  or statement credits for certain travel purchases. Ultimately, you should look at how much value you expect to get out of a given travel card in one year. Then, compare that to the card’s annual fee to make sure you’re getting at least that much value.

It depends. Generally speaking, you should aim to use your rewards from travel credit cards for travel-related purchases – like flights or hotel rooms. However, everyone has a different version of what “value” looks like here. Some travelers are perfectly content redeeming 25,000 miles for a $250 economy flight. Others would rather save up and use 100,000 miles for a $5,000 business-class ticket. The important thing is to avoid redemptions like gift cards or merchandise, since those typically offer poor value for your points and miles.

Ultimately, it’s up to you to determine whether you want to keep cash in your pocket by using rewards for a particular purchase instead.

Many of the luxury travel cards on this list offer hundreds of dollars in annual travel statement credits. However, not all annual travel statements are created equal. While some cards feature easy redemptions, other cards feature redemptions that come with more restrictions. 

Out of the various cards that offer annual travel credits, the Chase Sapphire Reserve has the easiest redemption process for travel credits . The Chase Sapphire Reserve's travel credit covers a broad selection of charges, including flights, hotels, campgrounds and more. Additionally, the travel does not have to be booked through Chase’s travel portal, and the statement credit will automatically post when you make an eligible purchase. 

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There’s a Program to Cancel Private Student Debt. Most Don’t Know About It.

A nonprofit group is publicizing the relief program that Navient, a large lender, created for students who attended for-profit schools that misled them.

Danielle Maynard took both federal and private loans to attend the New England Institute of Art. Credit... Simon Simard for The New York Times

Supported by

By Stacy Cowley

• May 30, 2024

More than a million borrowers who were defrauded by for-profit schools have had billions of dollars in federal student loans eliminated through a government aid program. But people with private loans have generally been excluded from any relief — until recently.

Navient, a large owner of private student loan debt, has created, but not publicized, a program that allows borrowers to apply to have their loans forgiven. Some who succeeded have jubilantly shared their stories in chat groups and other forums.

“I cried, a lot,” said Danielle Maynard, who recently received notice from Navient that nearly $40,000 in private loans she owed for her studies at the New England Institute of Art in Brookline, Mass., would be wiped out.

Navient, based in Wilmington, Del., has not publicized the discharge program that helped Ms. Maynard. Other borrowers have complained on social media about difficulties getting an application form. When asked about the program and the criticisms, a company spokesman said, “Borrowers may contact us at any time, and our advocates can assist.”

So a nonprofit group of lawyers has stepped in to ease the process: On Thursday, the Project on Predatory Student Lending , an advocacy group in Boston, published Navient’s application form and an instruction guide for borrowers with private loans who are seeking relief on the grounds that their school lied to them.

“We want to level the playing field and let people know, instead of having it be this closely held secret,” said Eileen Connor, the group’s director.

Senator Elizabeth Warren, Democrat of Massachusetts, and eight Senate colleagues sent Navient a letter last month with a lengthy list of questions about the program. Navient responded, but did not directly address many of the senators’ questions.

Navient’s new program — which it calls a “school misconduct discharge” — is something of a private parallel to a federal program known as “ borrower defense to repayment ,” which allows those who were seriously misled by their schools to have their federal student loans eliminated. Under President Biden, the Education Department revived the relief program and used it to cancel nearly $30 billion in debt owed by 1.6 million borrowers.

The Project on Student Predatory Lending backed a class-action lawsuit against the government that led to a 2022 settlement under which nearly 200,000 borrowers had their federal student debts eliminated. Ms. Maynard, who is 34, shed $38,000 in federal loans through that deal.

But she, like many borrowers, remained mired in private student loans. Ms. Maynard paid $700 a month to Navient for more than a decade for her private loans.

For nearly a decade, in the early 2000s, Navient — then known as Sallie Mae — struck deals with for-profit schools to issue private loans to their students. Lawsuits from state attorneys general later accused Navient of making those loans knowing that most would never be repaid . Many schools indemnified Navient for the private loans, agreeing to defray the company’s loss if the loans defaulted.

In 2022, Navient settled with 40 state attorneys general and canceled $1.7 billion in debt on those private loans — but only for borrowers who had already defaulted. Because those debts were unlikely to ever be repaid, the deal cost Navient only $50 million, the company said in regulatory filings. Borrowers who had kept paying their bills, like Ms. Maynard, remained stuck.

But a pressure campaign from lawmakers, federal regulators and lawyers representing borrowers prompted the company to create the “school misconduct discharge.”

Navient began sending a 12-page application form this year to some borrowers who complained about their private loans. The document lists dozens of types of impropriety by schools — such as inflating job placement rates and graduates’ earnings, or misrepresenting their educational programs — and asks borrowers to choose which apply to their experience. Applicants are required to submit documentation for their claims.

After Ms. Maynard’s federal loans were eliminated last year, she stopped making payments on her private loans and called Navient, seeking relief options.

A few months ago, Navient sent her its misconduct discharge form. Weeks later, she received the notice that her application had been approved.

The senators’ letter to Navient called its private loan discharge process “burdensome and confusing.” It also asserted a legal basis for borrowers’ claims that their loans should be canceled: the so-called holder-in-due-course rule, a 1975 regulation by the Federal Trade Commission that lets those who use certain types of loans contest the debt if the goods they bought were fraudulent.

The response that Navient sent the senators acknowledged the rule as a ground for claims. “We are committed to canceling all loans that meet the Holder Rule criteria,” Navient’s chief executive, David Yowan, wrote in the letter, which was reviewed by The New York Times.

The letter said Navient had discharged “some” loans for borrowers who raised claims under the rule, and had “recently introduced an enhanced process for borrowers to seek discharge,” which it described as “still in its early stages.”

Mr. Yowan told investors on a conference call in January that Navient had put $35 million in reserve for losses on school-misconduct claims. He cited “new regulatory expectations” as the reason. Navient has not disclosed how much of its $16.6 billion private student loan portfolio consists of loans that could be eligible for the debt cancellation program.

Senator Warren said in a written statement this week, “Navient has admitted responsibility for canceling their predatory loans but set up a process for cancellation that’s impossibly confusing for borrowers.”

Some trying to navigate the process have already failed.

Thomas Jean-Mastej had his federal loans for studies at American InterContinental University — a school cited by the Federal Trade Commission for deceptive recruiting tactics — canceled through the borrower defense program. In March, he filed a complaint with the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau about his private loans.

Navient responded by sending him the school misconduct discharge application form, which he submitted in mid-April. On May 10, he received a denial notice. It said Navient “carefully considers a variety of factors in determining whether a private loan should be discharged” but did not specify why his claim was rejected.

Mr. Jean-Mastej said he had hoped Navient “would have some compassion” — especially since he has, over the years, already repaid the company nearly $17,000 for a loan of just less than $7,000. He still owes almost $4,000.

Scores of others are in limbo, awaiting a response. Thomas Carter learned about Navient’s program on a Reddit forum . Following the steps recommended there, he filed a consumer bureau complaint, then received an application form from Navient. He sent it in three weeks ago.

“My thoughts were, like, why is this such a secret?” said Mr. Carter, who attended the Art Institute of York, in Pennsylvania. “You had to go through all these hoops to get the application.”

Stacy Cowley is a business reporter who writes about a broad array of topics related to consumer finance, including student debt, the banking industry and small business. More about Stacy Cowley

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