💸 How I Traveled for 7 Days With Less Than $200
Yes, you read that right — seven days, a week full of adventure, and a budget under $200. It might sound impossible, but with a bit of planning, creativity, and flexibility, I pulled it off. Here’s exactly how I did it, so you can plan your own budget-friendly adventure.
1. Choosing the Right Destination
The key to budget travel is picking a destination that’s cheap to reach and live in. I chose a nearby city that had affordable public transport, low-cost hostels, and free attractions. Being close to home also saved a ton on travel costs.
Tip: Look for cities or towns with free museums, parks, and walking tours.
2. Traveling Light and Smart
I traveled with a small backpack — no checked luggage, no extra fees. Packing light saves money on transport and keeps you flexible to move quickly if cheaper options appear.
Tip: Bring versatile clothes, reusable water bottles, and snacks for long days out.
3. Finding Cheap Accommodation
I stayed in hostels, guesthouses, and even a few Airbnb rooms. Booking last-minute sometimes gets you discounted rates — especially for hostels. Staying slightly outside tourist zones can also save money.
Tip: Use apps like Hostelworld, Booking.com, or Agoda for deals and read recent reviews.
4. Eating Without Overspending
Street food, local cafés, and markets became my go-to meals. I avoided touristy restaurants, which were expensive and often underwhelming. I also carried a small stash of snacks for long sightseeing days.
Tip: Ask locals where they eat — you’ll find the cheapest and tastiest options.
5. Using Public Transport and Walking
Instead of taxis or ride-hailing apps, I used buses, trains, and walked whenever possible. It saved a ton of money and gave me a chance to explore the city like a local.
Tip: Download offline maps or public transport apps to navigate easily.
6. Free and Low-Cost Activities
I focused on free attractions like parks, museums with free days, hiking trails, and cultural events. Even simple strolls through local neighborhoods became memorable adventures.
Tip: Research local tourism websites for free or discounted events during your trip.
7. Tracking Every Expense
Every dollar counts on a tight budget. I used a simple notes app to track spending daily — food, transport, activities, and souvenirs. Being aware of my money helped me avoid unnecessary purchases and stick to the $200 limit.
Tip: Set a daily budget and try not to exceed it — even small overspending adds up fast.
💭 Final Thoughts
Traveling on a budget doesn’t mean sacrificing fun. With smart planning, creativity, and a willingness to try new things, I experienced a full week of adventure without going broke. The thrill of spontaneous discovery, meeting new people, and exploring unknown places made every penny worth it.
Your Turn 🌍
Have you ever traveled on a tight budget? Share your stories, tips, or favorite budget-friendly destinations in the comments — your experience could inspire someone else to explore the world!