The world is big and there are endless opportunities for travelers to explore. So why is Costa Rica consistently picked out as a top destination?
Well, there are plenty of reasons to visit Costa Rica: Its natural beauty, vibrant cultural offerings and unsurpassed surfing are all big attractions for travelers. Remember to bring lots of sunscreen!
But, perhaps one of the most important reasons Costa Rica regularly tops the lists of places people choose to visit is because it can be a very economical travel destination. Whether you are looking to save money on your spring break travel or are just looking for inexpensive places to visit in general, it pays to do your research.
The most effective and obvious way to save money while traveling is to pick a destination that has a low cost of living, or, if traveling internationally, has a favorable currency exchange (so your money will go further). In the United States, that means choosing a location that is not on a list of hotspots for the particular time of year you plan to travel.
For example, in February, Miami is a popular destination, so hotels are priced accordingly. On the other hand, San Antonio, while still offering mild temperatures, is much more affordable at that time of year. Consider visiting some of these less expensive destinations. If you cast your net wider, there are plenty of places outside of the U.S. that are a real travel bargain.
Aside from limiting your potential destinations, there are plenty of other ways to cut costs on travel. The most obvious strategy is to research deals and coupons before you go. Accommodation is one of the biggest expenses you’ll pay on a vacation and hotel rooms often run to hundreds of dollars per night. Often, all you’re doing at your hotel is sleeping! Consider renting a private condo or house instead. Not only are they often more economical, you’ll likely have more space and privacy, too. You can also make use of the kitchen for some meal preparation as another way to save money (restaurants can be pricy!).
Even if you don’t have the means to prepare your own meals, you can still find ways to save money on food while traveling. Take advantage of hotels that offer complimentary breakfasts and eat up! Consider limiting your sit-down meals at restaurants to just one a day, and opt instead for a couple of light snacks in between. In addition to saving money, this is a delicious way to really experience the culture of your destination. Nothing is more authentic than street food.
There is so much to see and do for travel aficionados. Where there is a will, there is a way, and money doesn’t need to be an obstacle to satisfying your wanderlust. With careful planning and research and some strategic decisions, it is possible to save money on traveling without compromising on the experience.
