The opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not reflect the views of his campus.
This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at FSU chapter.
As a Sagittarius, I was born to explore. However, I don't have any money saved! Between the cost of food, housing, and school supplies, each semester leaves me with empty pockets and an unfulfilled wanderlust. About two years ago, I began developing what I call the “Bailey Travel Method.” I was stuck in Tallahassee for summer school and needed to get away. However, as I mentioned, I had no money! So, I started planning.
step 1: reject the expensive taste
The first step in the Bailey Travel Method (BTM) is to reject the lavish and expensive taste. To succeed at BTM, I have to accept that I can either travel the world with a little less glamor or get bogged down in costs and go over budget. It all depends on my state of mind: if I really want to travel and see the world, I don't need a lot of money. I just need a little courage and adaptability. Once I've accepted this, it's time to move on to step two.
step 2: choose a destination within your budget
The second step of BTM is to write down places I would like to visit, but not get stuck on them. I have the rest of my life to get there. For example, Greece looks nice! However, a $1,000 round-trip flight doesn't do it. I try to be achievable and realistic! Set a budget and stick to it.
Once I have mastered this, I begin my research.
step 3: find a flight
The third step is my favorite. I am going to Google Flights and click “Explore”. I plug in my favorite airport and dates. I recommend flying from Orlando (MCO) or Miami (MIA) if possible. These are the cheapest airports in Florida. After plugging in my airport and some dates I'm looking at, just browse.
I recommend traveling during the week, as these dates tend to be the cheapest. Using the Date Grid feature on Google Flights helps me find the cheapest dates to travel to my destination. I saved hundreds of dollars just by changing my trip by one day. Plus, I don't bother buying a seat on the plane; it's just extra money. I sit wherever they designate me when I check in, especially if I'm traveling alone.
As I browse, I try to think of places I've never visited before. Consider the fact that everywhere there is something to do. You'll only get bored if you don't try. By doing this, you expand your travel opportunities infinitely. Don't panic about long layovers; bring a good book with you or do your makeup while you wait (my favorite). You can also use the layover time to catch up on your homework.
Congratulations, you have found your destination! It's time to move on to step four.
step 4: calculate your costs
The fourth step is meticulous, and this is when I start using a calculator to tally up my total expenses. I use an Excel spreadsheet to track costs, and it helps me tremendously.
Now that I have my destination, I check Airbnb, Reservation.com, Hotels.comAnd Expedia. I'm on a mission to find the cheapest (but safest) accommodation I can find.
If it's just you, Airbnb usually has cheap one-bedrooms that people rent in their own house or apartment, which is ideal for solo travelers. The BTM is designed for solo travelers, although it can be applied to multiple people; you might end up paying more for your accommodation. Use all of these sites to find the cheapest accommodation!
Don't worry about staying downtown. I've found that public transportation in every country and state I've been to has a system that's relatively easy to navigate (and cheap!). I save money the farther I get from the city.
Pro tip: If you're traveling to Europe or Canada, don't be afraid to use a hostel. I've never felt unsafe at any hostel I've stayed in and always felt like the management did a good job of promoting safety (and they're like $30 a night! You can't beat the price!).
step 5: plan your activities
The fifth step is the relaxation part. Once I have my flight, accommodation and added up all my costs, it's time to plan activities. Get your guide And TripAdvisor are my favorite to use. Additionally, Google will automatically suggest activities if you search for “Best things to do in (insert city here).” Get off the beaten track! Not all activities require money. Every city has something unique. You have to find it ! I advise finding out about concerts or events taking place in the area at that time. You never know what kind of events cities are having!
Overall, just be open to going where the wind takes you! If you love traveling, know that it doesn't have to be expensive. Your journey will be what you make of it. Happy exploring!
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