You don’t need to break the bank to top up your tan – here are some handy hints to keep your both your piggy bank and your travel journal full to bursting!

Ask about pricing

If you don’t see a price listed on a bar or restaurant menu, always ask for the price in advance – you could end up paying much more than you expected. Some bars and restaurants may adjust prices based on what they think you’re willing to pay!

Use public transport.

Unless you’re travelling in a group, riding the train, tube or bus is almost always the cheaper option. If you’re going to be staying in one city for an extended period of time, consider purchasing a multi-ride ticket – you can get them in most cities. Work out how much you think you’ll be using public transport – if its a fair bit, its definitely worth investing in a multipass or travelcard.

Rent an apartment.

Room-rental sites like Airbnb (www.airbnb.com) can be great for short-term, cheap accommodation. For bigger groups, booking an apartment can be much cheaper – better yet, these will have kitchens so you can make lunches for yourself, saving money there too!

Use cash, not card

This ones mainly a tip for the night-owls. Alcohol and fiscal intelligence don’t usually sit comfortably together, so when you head out for the evening, only take out a certain amount, in cash. That way, you literally can’t spend any more than you’ve got with you! Make a point to bring enough local currency, and only use your credit card in proper emergencies. You’ll also avoid expensive bank charges this way.

Eat and drink with the locals.

Typically expensive destinations like Barbados are never going to be kind on your wallet, but if you wander off the beaten track, you’ll soon find yourself wandering into cheaper restaurants that serve delicious, local food. You really don’t need to spend your life’s savings on your holiday meals, you just need to have a sense of adventure and open mind – neither of which cost a penny!

Haggle at markets.

It will differ depending on where you are of course – but generally, you should give it a go. Most markets stalls will price their items far above what they actually expect to get, so if you can be bothered with an argument, we’d highly suggest it!