Travel doesn’t necessarily have to be expensive! If you love travelling and can’t afford an extravagant trip, then you must find ways to travel in an affordable yet adventurous manner.. The most important thing for budget travelling is, that it requires careful planning and finding smart solutions. I have compiled a list of 10 pointers into one handy post to help you all to plan a budget trip.
After backpacking in India for a couple of years now, I have come to the conclusion that Goa is one of the best places for backpackers in India. Meeting other travellers, lazing on the beaches, partying till sunrise and learning some yoga are some of the perks of being here. Many travellers start their backpacking trip from Goa and end up spending their whole trip here.
Here are the 7 most important things you should keep in mind —
1. Choose trekking bags over trolley bags
Goa is divided into two parts – North Goa and South Goa. If you wish to explore complete Goa, you can’t do it by staying at one place. Carrying a trek bag makes roaming from one place to another cheaper and convenient for you. If you are visiting during the rainy season, make sure your bag is waterproof. Also, when shopping for a backpack, buy models with proper lockable zips.
2. Hire a Bike or Scooty
On arrival at Goa, the first thing you need to do is hire a bike for your entire trip. You can explore the entire place a with that rented scooty. The whole day rent of a scooty/bike varies from Rs. 400 to Rs.1000, which is way cheaper when compared to taxis. Also, don’t forget to keep your driving license with you at all times.
3. Try couch-surfing or stay in a hostel
Couch-surfing can be a real fun experience for someone who wants to feel like a localite and get an insight into the lifestyle of the locals. It is a process in which you stay temporarily at somebody’s home or share a common room in a hotel. Also, there are a number of hostels or zostels in Goa where you can get a room at very reasonable rates. The best part about these hostels is, that you get a chance to interact with so many travellers from different parts of the country and you never feel bored or lonely.
4. Visit during off-season
If you actually want to get the most out of this beach destination without burning a hole in your pocket, then visit Goa during the off-season. Mid-June to October is considered to be the off-season and the best time for budget travellers. Hotel rates are almost half of what you pay during the peak season. Interestingly, You can find one of the best hotels in Goa. From flights to accommodations and even food, everything is dirt cheap. Also, if you love monsoons, Goa will be a feast for your eyes. You can book New Delhi to Goa flights via ixigo.com to get the best deals. You can compare the prices of various airlines and choose the ones that suits your budget and requirements. It is recommend that you make your bookings at least 30-45 days prior to the journey date.
5. Cook your own food
When we are out on vacation, we tend to spend a lot on our food. If you are staying in a home stay or in an apartment, ensure that they are providing an attached kitchen where you can cook your own meals. This way you save yourself a lot of money and also stay away from unhygienic food. Make it more interesting for yourself by trying your hand on cooking some local Goan cuisine.
6. Choose trains over flights
If time is not a constraint and you are booking at the last minute, it is suggested that you choose trains over flights. It is not just the flight ticket that costs more, but also the food and commutation charges from the airport are extremely high. Also, train journey to Goa is filled with scenic routes and you don’t want to miss that.
7. Diversify your trip
Spend every penny wisely! Enjoying at the beach parties or trying your luck at the casinos can be very exciting, till you realise that you have emptied your savings account. Instead of choosing the high life, do something that is more satisfying and doesn’t require much of your money. Indulge in birdwatching, trekking, church hoping, a road trip to nearby places or may be interacting with the locals. Also, you can visit the famous Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary and Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary.
Never forget to bargain
Not just beaches, Goa is also famous for its effervescent night-markets. From antique jewellery to funky t-shirts, from spices to amazing music collection, these markets are certainly a paradise for shopaholics. Why resist yourself from shopping when you can bargain and crack some good deals. Put your bargaining skills to test and indulge in some carefree shopping. Among the many night markets, don’t miss to visit the famous Anjuna Flea Market.
These were some of the tips from my own experience. Hope these tips benefit you and help you enjoy a wonderful Goa trip.