If you’re harbouring a belief that meaningful travel requires a hefty bank balance, think again. This kind of thinking can actually diminish your imagination for adventure and keep you from exploring the world on your own terms.
Over the years, I’ve learned that travel comes in all sorts of ‘packages’, each offering a different kind of travel experience. Every type—whether it’s a road trip, cruise, solo journey, or group tour—has advantages and disadvantages. Some are costly, others not so much. And as you move through the different phases of life, you’ll likely find yourself drawn to different travel experiences.
While it’s undeniable that doing almost anything these days requires money, there are certainly ways to incorporate adventure and travel into your life without breaking the bank. In fact, having less can spur your determination for more adventure, if you let it.
The Best Thing About Travel…
You don’t need to be rich to travel, but travel makes you richer.
The best thing about travel isn’t what you buy—it’s the experiences and memories. Looking back on my journeys, it’s the moments that stand out: what I learn about myself and others, the cultural immersion, and the realisation that, despite our differences, we are more alike than we think.
Budget-conscious travel often leads to deeper, more immersive experiences than cookie-cutter vacations that shield you from real exploration.
Now don’t get me wrong…I’m not going to suggest you pitch a tent (unless that’s your dream) or stay in a down-at-heel hostel. [Been there, done that!]. You and I have earned the right to travel comfortably, even if your budget is screaming ‘insufficient’ at you. There is always a solution!
Stop Waiting for the ‘Perfect’ Time
If you’re waiting to be financially comfortable before you travel, you might be waiting forever. Life circumstances change—sometimes in ways we don’t expect. Instead of postponing your dreams, find a way to tailor your adventures to suit your current resources.
Everyone has their own definition of ‘rich’, and I’ve come across people who think I must be wealthy if I can afford to travel across the world. But it’s all relative, and those perceptions often do not reflect reality.
For years, I had limited opportunities to travel due to family responsibilities, solo parenting, work, and everyday expenses. But that didn’t mean I didn’t travel at all. While I was lucky to enjoy occasional travel for work from time to time, most of my personal adventures were closer to home—camping trips, weekend getaways, and day excursions. It wasn’t until I was in my 50s—when I had fewer obligations but still wasn’t swimming in disposable income—that I found ways to make travel work on a limited budget.
Funding Your Adventures—It’s all about priorities
Yes, travel costs money. But it’s manageable when you make intentional choices. Here are some simple ways to save:
- Cut back on takeaway meals and cook more at home.
- Make coffee at home instead of frequent café visits.
- Pack lunches instead of buying them.
- Choose experiences over material purchases.
- Shop for fresh, locally sourced foods rather than dining out.
Of course, I enjoy little luxuries and the occasional indulgence as much as anyone. They’re important to me, too—a meal out or a coffee with friends. But, as we all learned back in primary school, small savings add up fast. If you can set aside $200-$300 a month, you’ll have a travel fund of $2,400-$3,600 by year’s end.
Budgeting isn’t about deprivation—it’s about putting what matters to you front and centre. By prioritising my desire to travel, keeping an ever-watchful eye on where my money is going, setting aside travel funds as often as possible, I can save enough to spoil myself occasionally on new adventures. Save the little pleasures for special occasions, or when you really need a boost.
The Benefits of Budget Travel
1. More authentic experiences
Travelling on a budget opens doors to deeper cultural connections. Instead of sitting on a tour bus with a guide endlessly chatting, you can plan your itinerary, walk from place to place, and immerse yourself in local life. [Note: Many tour guides are fabulous—informative, entertaining, and empathetic—sensitive to when the group would just prefer silence.]
Luxury hotels may be comfortable, but they can isolate you from the culture of a place. They tend to look much the same the world over, and truth be told, you’re probably asleep most of the time you’re in your room.
Budget-friendly options—such as boutique guesthouses, small hotels, and holiday rentals—often provide more genuine experiences. Even budget hotels can offer warm, personalised service that’s hard to find in high-end resorts. For a bit of adventure, consider agrotourism stays or B&Bs where you can interact with locals.
2. The freedom of flexibility
One of the biggest advantages of solo travel is the flexibility it allows. Without a rigid, prepaid luxury itinerary, you can follow your instincts, make spontaneous changes, and embrace unexpected opportunities.
When plans fall through: A change of course in Finland
I was in Rovaniemi, northern Finland for a few days—it was the end of the winter season, so Rovaniemi was pretty deserted; there wasn’t a lot to do. After booking a day hike to the mountains, I waited for an hour outside the hotel for the guide who simply never showed up.
But instead of moping about, frustrated, I altered my plans, booking an earlier flight to Iceland and gaining an extra day to explore that fabulous country. Because I’d booked flexible flight tickets, the change cost me nothing.
When you’re not tied to rigid plans, you gain the freedom to make the most of every moment.
3. Unexpected and Memorable Encounters
Budget travel often leads to wonderful memories. Whether it’s a chat with a fellow train or ferry passenger, an exchange with a shopkeeper, or help from a kind stranger, these interactions enrich your journey in ways money can’t buy.
Lost but not alone: my drive through rural brittany
I’ll never forget the time I got hopelessly lost while driving through Brittany, France. I found myself circling the same route multiple times—something that is surprisingly easy to do in France. It was the last day of my stay before taking a train from St Malo to Paris, and I was en route to return the rental car.
Getting comfortable driving the car had taken most of the week; the steering wheel and gears were on the opposite side of what I was used to, and in France, they drive on the ‘wrong‘ side of the road 😉. While I managed just fine on rural roads, the thought of navigating back into town, with it’s one-way streets, roundabouts, and busy traffic, set my stress level soaring!
Lost and confused, and fearing I would never make it to St Malo and would miss my train, I pulled into a service station to ask for directions. The kind attendant spoke no English and, of course, my rudimentary French wasn’t up to the job of explaining my predicament. However, he understood that I needed help.
Unfolding a large map on the car bonnet, I pointed to where I wanted to go. With a few French words (which, fortunately, I understood) and dramatic gestures, he showed me the way:
“Tour à gauche…tourner à droite…sortie…tout droit…” (Turn left…turn right…exit…straight on…).
To my great relief, I pulled up outside the Hertz office half and hour later. And yes, I made it in time to catch my train! Despite being somewhat stressful, this experience enriched my day and my stay in France. I would never have enjoyed such a day if I’d been on an organised tour.
4. A Greater Appreciation for Simplicity
Travelling on a budget makes you more mindful of life’s small pleasures. A picnic in a local park with new friends, a scenic walk, exploring a bustling night market, or a funicular ride up a mountain can become highlights of your trip. These moments often hold more meaning that extravagant, expensive outings.
Big adventures don’t always mean long trips, either. A weekend getaway can be just as rejuvenating as a month abroad. After the long stretch of pandemic lockdowns, I found myself restless and eager to travel. Instead of an overseas trip (which was still difficult at the time), I chose something simpler: a short visit to my old stamping ground, Sydney, where I’d grown up. Seeing the city through fresh eyes after decades away was an adventure in itself, and it cost very little.
Practical Tips for Budget-Friendly Travel
- Travel during off-peak and shoulder seasons: Flights and accommodation are usually significantly cheaper when you avoid peak tourist seasons. Take advantage of the best prices by making reservations as far ahead as possible. Alternatively, you can sometimes find great deals on “last minute” holidays.
- Prioritise experiences over ‘things’: Spend money on the things you really want to do: cultural experiences, concerts, day trips, hiking, etc., rather than luxury hotels or upscale dining. If there’s an expensive restaurant you just cannot miss, factor that expense into your budget.
- Use public transport: Buses, trains, ferries, cycling, and (of course) walking often provide a richer travel experience at a fraction of the cost of taxis or rental cars. Public transport is often an adventure of its own, giving you a real sense of the local rhythm of life. In some countries, taxis are less pricey, so are handy when you really need them.
- Travel in a way that suits your needs and budget: Not everyone wants the whole ‘solo’ experience when travelling. If a group tour or cruise is your preferred choice, do your research to be sure of getting the best deal.
- Leverage technology: Use travel apps and fare comparison websites to find the best deals on flights and accommodation. There is something to suit everyone.
Busting Common Travel Excuses
- “I can’t afford it.” Start small—explore nearby destinations or plan a weekend getaway. If you have a friend who owns a cottage at the coast or in the mountains, ask if you could ‘borrow’ it for a weekend. If you really want to travel then prioritise saving for it over other discretionary expenses.
- “I prefer luxury!” Luxury is a mindset, not a price tag. A scenic train ride or a small friendly hotel can feel just as indulgent as a five-star resort if you embrace the experience. Of course, there’s nothing wrong with luxury if that’s the way you prefer to travel. Perhaps consider it as an occasional treat.
Final Words
Spontaneity is part of being adventurous, and adventures, large or small, will add value to your life. Being open-minded exposes you to opportunities and experiences, so seize every chance you can—there’s always an opportunity for adventure, regardless of budget.
Many women in midlife already embrace resourcefulness and creativity in everyday life. These same qualities make travel incredibly rewarding. Whether it’s sharing a meal with locals in a Balinese village, discovering a hidden gem in Paris, or simply watching the sunrise, these moments bring a kind of richness that money can’t buy.
Travelling (aka…’adventure’) is about making smart, thoughtful choices that align with your resources and priorities. Start planning your next journey today, with intention, creativity, and curiosity.
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