Go Alone

Is Solo Travel Right For You?

October 26, 2020 By Hangry Backpacker 1 Comment

Solo travel for extended periods of time is not appealing to everyone, and it can be an intimidating prospect for travelers new to the idea of wandering the world alone. When navigating through the hurdles and frustrations of planning a trip, it’s reasonable to wonder if, perhaps, solo travel is right for you.

To be clear, solo travel is not for everyone. It has plenty of advantages over other types of travel, but there are also a few drawbacks.

However, there a loads of resources – such as hostels and the connections made therein – for travelers thinking about seeing the world on their own. If you’re uncertain, consider the following benefits and obstacles to decide if solo travel is right for you.

Benefits of Solo Travel

There are a lot of benefits to solo travel. I could ramble on for a long time about the specifics and minute details where solo travel has advantages versus traveling with others. To save us all some time, I’ll focus on some of the major benefits of solo travel. These are some of the primary perks of going alone:

Flexibility – Go when and where you want.
Eat What You Want – Want spicy local food? No problem. Street food? Go for it. Tired of local food and want a burger or pizza? No one is stopping you.
Travel Cheaper – Solo travel isn’t always cheaper, but it tends to be more budget-friendly for most travelers when you can afford to be a little selfish.

Old Portuguese coins Lisbon Flea Market — *the spoils of solo travel*

Considerations

Before you decide if or when to set off on your solo travel adventure, there are a few considerations one must give attention. I encourage all who are able to experience solo travel at some point in their life, even a short weekend away.

Make sure you’re up for solo travel before taking an extended trip abroad. Ask yourself a few important questions:

Where are You Going?

This is an important (and obvious) question. The first step of travel is to figure out where to go.

Some places might not be ideal for solo travel. Cities known to attract couples might not be the best place to spend a week alone. A rugged, rarely-traveled country might not be the best choice for a first-time solo traveler.

Choosing a country/region that aligns with your travel experience is key. Europe and Southeast Asia are hugely popular solo travel destinations for a reason. Don’t drop into the Himalayas or Central Africa alone if you’ve never done any backpacking in comparable locales. Common sense goes a long, long way in solo travel.

On the other hand, some destinations are exceedingly expensive for solo travel. In general, it’s easy to travel cheaper by yourself. There are always exceptions, though, and it would be wise to choose a destination that is reasonable on a solo travel budget.

Make a list of places you want to go. Choose destinations that make sense for solo travel. Save the adventurous backpacking trips until you’re practiced and ready.

For solo travelers, you need to decide how comfortable you are with a particular destination. Getting lost in the sense of aimlessly wandering is great, but being lost and overwhelmed is not fun.

What Kind of Travel Do You Like?

Solo travel and backpacking can be done just about anywhere. Some types of travel are better suited alone, while others are less so.

I like to wander the streets of cities and villages. I take pictures, search for restaurants and explore backstreets. This is usually, to me, best by myself. The same goes for hiking or museums. My preference is to go on my own. I cannot stand being rushed through a museum. And when I’m hiking, as long as it’s safe to do so, I want to go alone and at my own pace.

For the traveler who wants to go shopping, my guess is this person prefers to shop with others. The same is probably true for stereotypical backpackers who want nothing more than to spend their travels partying the days (and nights) away. Sports, especially foreign sports, are better with others. Some things are better with friends.

Consider what types of activities you like to do before deciding on a solo trip. This is a good indicator of whether or not solo travel is right for you.

Do you enjoy doing things and exploring new places on your own? If so, solo travel might be right for you.

Can you handle the potential of essentially being alone for days at a time? Solo travelers aren’t completely devoid of human contact, but there is a reasonable chance that you won’t have any deep, personal connections with other people for extended periods. In my experiences, this rarely lasts long, but it does happen. It’s just too easy to meet nice people in hostels for it to linger too long.

If the idea of hardly having any genuine human connection for a few days scares you, then maybe don’t plan a long solo backpacking trip. Try something shorter first. Give hostels a chance. Ease into solo travel to see if it’s right for you, to see if you can handle the alone time.

Is it Safe?

Is your travel destination safe? How about safety for solo travelers in that locale? These are the most common concerns for travelers prior to going on their first solo adventure.

Most places in the world are safe, often safer than the media portrays (because only the negative stories get attention, especially negative travel stories). For Americans, almost anywhere in the world is statistically safer than Chicago, New Orleans, Baltimore, Detroit – you get the idea.

To be fair, like many places in the world, the unsafe part of these “dangerous” cities is usually nowhere near the tourist areas. More often than not, it’s easy to tell when a neighborhood is sketchy or unsafe. If you feel uncomfortable, that’s okay. Just leave.

As long as you remain aware of your surroundings, mind your pockets, avoid drawing attention to yourself and don’t do something stupid – common sense is especially important for solo travel – safety won’t be an issue.

Crazy things happen. That’s life. And that’s also why travel insurance is important, but employing sound, sensible judgement is the key to travel safety.

When is the Right Time for Solo Travel?

After considering whether or not you should travel solo, the next question is when. For the typical traveler, picking the right time and place to wander alone might not be the easiest decision.

When is the right time for solo travel? Well, that depends. There isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach to travel of any kind.

It’s simpler for younger people to hop on any random flight, such as students on a gap year or in between semesters of school. It is also a lot easier for a young person to justify quitting their job or taking a sabbatical to go and wander the world.

Single travelers – that is, travelers without a significant other – have the freedom to travel without the worry of leaving someone behind. The only feelings to consider are their own. The only schedule to consider is their own.

But young people often cannot afford to travel. And the average single person might not fancy the idea of backpacking for weeks/months all alone. Every traveler has to clear a hurdle or two of some kind before they can hit the road.

Traveling solo usually entails a few additional complications, but there has to be some point that is better to travel. Right? So, when?!

Probably Never

If you’re waiting for the perfect time to go gallivanting around the world by yourself, get comfortable. Because you’re not going anywhere anytime soon. No, you’re probably not going anywhere ever.

There isn’t a perfect time for solo travel. Something will always come up and spoil the fun.

Waiting for the perfect time to set off on that long-awaited solo travel adventure is just waiting for something else to come up and ruin your plans. Natural disasters, labor disputes, political unrest. These things happen.

Oh, and what about those who waited for 2020 to be the perfect year to travel? Hello pandemic and the largest travel shutdown in history!

These are global interrupters, things out of your control and outside your personal life. But events in your own life can affect travel plans, too. Family emergencies, health issues, unexpected opportunities – events out of your control are, well, out of your control.

Waiting for the perfect time to travel is nothing more than waiting for further disappointment. The way I see it, especially as 2020 mocks travelers incessantly, the worst time to travel is “later” or “when life settles down.”

How Important is Travel to You?

If you’re like me, travel is an important part of your life. Even if I wasn’t the Hangry Backpacker, I have no doubt that travel, the next trip and my travel bucket list would still consume a significant amount of my life.

If you’re like that – if travel drives and motivates your daily routine, spending habits, etc – find someone who’s cool with that. Your life will be a lot easier. Whether that person has similar travel desires or is agreeable to your solo travel wanderings, a significant other who accepts your passion to travel is important.

Or, of course, you can stay single. That’s always an effective method to steer clear of conflict and inconvenience, though I’ll be the first to say that some destinations are more enjoyable with someone special.

Big life changes like careers, marriages and children put a damper on loads of travel plans. Some of us want those things and to wander about the world for long periods of time. Big life events make solo travel a tricky proposition.

Finding the right balance – honestly, finding the right person – will make life easier as a solo traveler. If traveling the world is on your bucket list, make sure to consider that before you start climbing the corporate ladder or settling down in suburbia.

How About Now?

If you can’t make the time, take the time. There’s no time like the present. It may be trite, but it’s true. The best time to travel is now.

Obviously, global events like the 2020 pandemic require prospective travelers to heed caution. And, to which I can personally attest, the idea of traveling now, ASAP or on a moment’s notice in 2020 was squashed over and over and over again.

The point is that the world is changing rapidly. When the world finally opens back up to travelers – and it will! – don’t hesitate to take the solo travel adventure of your dreams. Don’t waste time with all that silly planning. Who knows what global crisis will pop up next and ruin another set of plans.

Solo travel isn’t complicated, and it doesn’t require months of delicate planning. Maybe some destinations are better during certain seasons, but those are minor considerations. Waiting for the stars to align, hoping for something to magically make solo travel easier – you’ll never leave your couch. The time to travel is now.

The easiest way to determine whether or not solo travel is right for you is pretty straightforward. Go for a trip. Something short, a few days or a week away by yourself. You’ll find out quickly if you like the idea of solo backpacking or long-term wandering around the world.

new travel hostel friends drinking wine in Porto Portugal — *hostels means new friends*

Hostels are a savior to ease the minds of first-time solo travelers. Of any age! Solo travel doesn’t have to mean being alone.

Even if that isn’t feasible or doesn’t yield a clear answer, it’s still fairly simple. People who want to travel independently, on their own schedule and do what they want to do are ideal candidates for solo travel. Maybe that’s a little selfish, but who cares.

Waiting for others to get their shit together and join you on the road is the epitome of waiting in vain. The best time to travel is now, and solo travel is an excellent way to see and experience the world.

The Hangry Backpacker contains affiliate links. The Hangry Backpacker may receive a small commission for purchases made through these links AT NOT ADDITIONAL COST to you.

Vietnam Travel Itinerary & Guide

October 15, 2020 By Hangry Backpacker Leave a Comment

A travel itinerary for one month in Vietnam can generally go in two directions: north-to-south or vice-versa. Backpackers have a little more flexibility in their Vietnam travel itinerary, and the options for visiting alternative destinations are endless.

One month of travel in Vietnam is not nearly long enough to thoroughly explore the country. Vietnam is not an especially large country, but it is very long with tedious travel required between cities. First-time visitors, backpackers, solo travelers and those looking for a thorough experience in Vietnam should plan ahead and use this itinerary to maximize time in one of the most fascinating countries in the world.

Why One Month?

The reason this Vietnam travel itinerary is for one month is because that is the most common length of e-visa granted to tourists. Be practical and check the dates on your documents. Depending on how immigration officials mark your visa, the length of stay can be less than 30 days. Mine was actually 31 days.

Citizens of some countries can enter Vietnam visa-free for 15 days, but this isn’t enough time to see more than two or three places. Were I able to enter without a visa, I would still opt to pay for the longer duration. At $25 USD (you have to pay cash in USD, euros or Vietnamese dong), it’s cheap.

One month, or 4 weeks, whatever the length of your stay in Vietnam, check your documents and eligibility. Make sure to apply for the e-visa before you travel to the country.

Travelers arriving at certain international airports can also choose a 90-day visa option. Though more expensive ($70), it allows travelers the multiple-entry option over that 3-month period. Of course, three full months in Vietnam would be an unforgettable travel experience.

This post contains affiliate links that help support the Hangry Backpacker. I may receive a small commission from purchases made through these links AT NO ADDITIONAL COST to you.

Should You Travel Vietnam North-to-South or South-to-North?

As noted in this comparison of Hanoi versus Ho Chi Minh City (formerly Saigon), Vietnam differs significantly from north to south. Some of the differences are due to climate, while others are due to politics and history.

The decision of whether to set your Vietnam travel itinerary in a north-to-south or south-to-north direction depends where you arrive and where you’re going next. If the idea is to return home after the trip, the start/end point doesn’t really matter. If you’re hopping around Southeast Asia via airplanes, again, it doesn’t matter which direction you travel.

For most travelers, and certainly for backpackers in Vietnam, there will likely be further travel after visiting the country. Whether to start your Vietnam travels in Hanoi (north) or Ho Chi Minh City (south) depends on your plans after Vietnam. Overland travel means the next destination can be Laos, Cambodia or China.

Vietnam to China:

Crossing from Vietnam into China is not a common travel route. Lukewarm relations between the countries and more stringent visa policies for entrance into China mean this is not common or practical (if even possible) for most tourists.

Vietnam to Laos:

The Vietnamese border with Laos is the country’s longest international border. However, due to the rugged terrain of Vietnam, crossing the border to Laos is, at the very least, a laborious ordeal.

It is not uncommon to travel overland from Vietnam to Laos, but it is less common. The most popular route would be from Hanoi to Luang Prabang or Phonsavan. Either journey is exhausting and will essentially take an entire day on a bus. Car/motorbike will be faster, but there are vehicle restrictions at some Vietnam-Laos border crossings.

Vietnam to Cambodia:

The most popular overland, international travel route from (or to) Vietnam is to Cambodia. In southern Vietnam, Ho Chi Minh City is about 130 miles (about 210 km) from Phnom Penh. The terrain is also pretty flat in this part of Vietnam and Cambodia. Flat land means a decent road, and a decent road (by Southeast Asian standards) between the two cities means that travel from one to the other is relatively painless.

Travel time from Ho Chi Minh City to Phnom Penh takes about three to four hours. The border crossing, though not especially annoying or frustrating, adds at least an hour to that time. It’s a fairly easy trip that costs around 200,000 VND (about $10 USD).

The north-to-south travel itinerary in Vietnam provides the easiest route of onward travel. The opposite direction, finishing in the north, is equally tiresome and more commonly undertaken by backpackers in Vietnam than other types of travelers. That doesn’t mean you shouldn’t consider traveling south-to-north and crossing from Vietnam to Laos. It’s just a different journey, and that border-crossing takes a lot longer. Personally, I think these experiences are often more memorable and fun.

The Easiest One-Month Vietnam Travel Itinerary

This route will give you a thorough taste of Vietnam. It’s the ideal itinerary for the person who wants to see as much of Vietnam as possible without going too fast and missing things. This Itinerary is also perfect for travelers who want to delve into Vietnam for a month to figure out where in the country they may want to return and spend more time in the future.

This is a north-to-south Vietnam travel itinerary. It can be flipped around to go south-to-north should you wish to end your Vietnam travels in Hanoi.

Hanoi – 4-5 days

Hanoi is the political and cultural capital of Vietnam. The city of 8 million people and almost as many motorbikes is really old, with sites over a thousand years old. There are many points of interest in Hanoi, ranging from the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum to the Hoa Lo Prison (Hanoi Hilton) and ancient temples.

The Old Quarter of Hanoi is the center of tourism and history in the city. Despite being the tourist center, it is very much a local area. Hanoi’s Old Quarter is a chaotic, beautiful, busy, mind-boggling labyrinth of business, history, motorbikes, culture and food. Seriously, the food is incredible, and this place is wild.

During my first trip to Hanoi, I planned to stay for 3 days. After my first day, I wanted to leave. It was overwhelming. After reaching my third day in Hanoi and exploring further, I was hooked. I wound up staying for six days, and I didn’t want to leave then.

It would be easy to spend a few days only in the Old Quarter. Four days is adequate for a taste of Hanoi’s historic center and the surrounding newer parts of the city. A fifth day will be easy to do. Personally, on my next trip to Vietnam, I’ll be spending at least a week in Hanoi.

Cat Ba Island/Ha Long Bay – 3 days

About two hours east of Hanoi, along the only decent highway in Vietnam (between Hanoi and Haiphong), is Ha Long Bay and Cat Ba Island. Ha Long Bay, a seascape of limestone karst formations towering above the water, is the most famous natural tourist attraction in Vietnam. For clarification, “Ha Long Bay” is used in reference to the entire archipelago – Ha Long Bay, Lan Ha Bay, etc.

The city of Ha Long is on the north side of this natural phenomenon, and Cat Ba Island sits to the south. Most tourists decide to visit Ha Long Bay from the eponymous city, but Cat Ba offers the same tours and beautiful scenery on an island with far fewer tourists. The island is still popular and developed, but it’s simply not nearly as crowded as Ha Long.

I spent three days on Cat Ba Island. One of those days was spent on a large boat with four other tourists exploring Ha Long Bay and the surrounding area. The rest of the time I used to explore Cat Ba Town.

Two days is long enough to reach Cat Ba Island, explore Cat Ba Town and spend a day sightseeing in the archipelago. If possible, I recommend a third day for extra time sailing through the islands or to visit the national park on the island.

Tam Coc/Ninh Binh – 2 days

Tam Coc is sort of like Ha Long Bay but on land. Instead of karst formations rising above the sea, there are rice fields, villages, rivers and wilderness between the towering rocks. Tam Coc is a small town where most tourists set off to tour the landscape via small boats on the rivers or by hiking.

Ninh Binh is the larger city a few miles away. There is little in Ninh Binh that will interest most travelers. Tam Coc, on the other hand, is a wonderful little town surrounded by natural beauty.

I spent a couple of days in Ninh Binh. As noted, most tourists won’t find much of interest here, and most tourists are simply here to see the countryside. Personally, I found Ninh Binh to be a cool city with excellent food and relatively few tourists. I spent a further three days in Tam Coc hiking, relaxing and enjoying a quieter setting.

Two days is plenty for the average traveler to see Tam Coc. The small town is nice, but there isn’t much to it. The surrounding landscape is the primary tourist draw, and that can be reasonably covered in a couple of days.

Hue – 2 days

Hue (pronounced: hway) is the former royal capital of Vietnam. The city is located about halfway between Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City and home to about 500,000 people.

Hue is a popular stop on backpacker itineraries for Vietnam largely due to its location. Whether you’re traveling north to south in Vietnam, or vice-versa, you pretty much have to go through Hue. Thanks to the aforementioned historic status as a royal city, Hue also has a few notable points of interest. The Imperial City and Citadel are each popular attractions.

I spent three days in Hue, and this was more than enough time. Aside from the historical points of interest, there isn’t much to it. In fact, I found it to be a somewhat unpleasant place with a lot of sketchy people who all wanted to rip off tourists. Aside from great food – it is Vietnam, after all – Hue is probably the only place I truly disliked in Vietnam. The Imperial City has an annoying, extra-high price just for foreigners.

Two days is adequate time in Hue. The Imperial City, though overpriced, is cool if you’re not on a backpacker budget. There are a few other minor things to see, and the food is good, but Hue is mostly a necessary stopping point in Vietnam (because transportation in the country sucks).

Hoi An – 4-5 days

Hoi An is super touristic, but it is also one of the most beautiful, fun cities in Vietnam. The Old Town of Hoi An is picturesque, charming and all of those things. Essentially, it has a well-preserved colonial old town and is the perfect place to wander and get lost.

In addition to the Old Town, Hoi An is known for its tailors and night market. It is an excellent place to cheaply get high-quality, custom-made clothes. After fittings and measurements are complete, the night market has cheap goods and stall-after-stall of tremendous fresh food.

I spent a week in Hoi An. My initial plans did not even include Hoi An in my Vietnam itinerary, but other backpackers convinced me it was worth it. I then planned for two to three days, but backpacking is best with loose travel plans. I was in Vietnam in the middle of Tet (Chinese New Year). Travel in Vietnam during Tet comes with serious challenges. I sort of got stuck in Hoi An for longer than planned due to Tet, but I was happy to linger.

Four to five days is easy to do in Hoi An. Longer is understandable. Hoi An is touristy for a reason – it’s beautiful, interesting, historic and easy for tourists. The city is also a short bike ride (or a long walk) from beaches.

Da Lat – 3 days

Da Lat is unique in Vietnam. The former French colonial resort town is different in so many ways. The geographical position of Da Lat, about 5000 feet above sea-level, makes it cooler (relatively speaking) than other places on this Vietnam itinerary.

Da Lat is cleaner than most cities in Vietnam. It has a lot of flowers and a relaxed vibe, not something for which Vietnam is particular famous. Even the architecture in Da Lat is different, with super-modern structures in the middle of the city, the Crazy House and regular homes that have a strange Western-Asian fusion look.

I spent three days in Da Lat. Most of that time was spent eating and resting. At some point, I didn’t follow my own rules of food safety and was sick in Vietnam. Despite that, I still enjoyed wandering around and eating in Da Lat.

Three days is an ideal time for backpackers to stay in Da Lat. The unique city, despite having a population of nearly 500,000, is a nice break from the sweltering heat and nonstop commotion that is much of Vietnam.

Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) – 5-6 days

Ho Chi Minh City is the largest city and economic center of Vietnam. Formerly Saigon, the southern counterpart to Hanoi is enormous, busy, loud and thriving. The city of nearly ten million people and somehow more motorbikes than Hanoi is significantly different than the nation’s capital.

Ho Chi Minh City is not only bigger and busier than Hanoi, the city is more modern and has a greater Western influence. It is home to some of Vietnam’s most famous museums, beautifully-preserved remnants of French colonial days and some of the best food in the world. Ho Chi Minh City is also a backpacker haven. Pham Ngu Lao Street is the backpacker center of Vietnam, though I’m not a big fan of the area due to the prices.

I spent 4 days in Ho Chi Minh City, and this was not enough time. The city itself deserves at least that much time to modestly sample the great food. Most of my time was spent wandering around surprised by the differences from Hanoi, sweating profusely and ticking a few major tourist sites off of my list.

Five days is a good amount of time in Ho Chi Minh City. The Cu Chi Tunnels (Vietnam War remnants) and the Mekong River Delta are popular day trips. The Mekong River Delta is especially worth a day outside of the city. The War Remnants Museum is an interesting look into the Vietnam War from the victor’s perspective. And the food in Ho Chi Minh City is worth a serious chunk of time. There is a lot more to do in Saigon, and five days is only a starting point.

Additional & Alternative Destinations

Obviously, the above travel itinerary through Vietnam does not quite add up to 30 days. Travel time between these places will likely take up a chunk of that time (more on transportation below), and many travelers may decide to linger somewhere they particularly enjoy.

The following are other popular (and worthwhile) places to visit in Vietnam. These can be substituted for above destinations or squeezed in if time permits. From top to bottom, the following is organized north-to-south.

Sapa (3 Days) – mountainous region known for terraced rice fields, national park and motorbike rides
Phong Nha (1-2 Days) – famous cave (only accessible by boat) and national park
Da Nang (1-2 Days) – large city north of Hoi An famous for Marble Mountains, Dragon Bridge and Golden Bridge (giant hands)
Nha Trang (2-3 Days) – beach city with a pretty bay, resorts, amusement parks and scuba diving on offshore islands
Mui Ne (2-3 Days) – small coastal town notable for beaches, watersports and huge sand dunes
Phu Quoc (3 Days) – largest island in Vietnam home to beautiful beaches and famous fish sauce

Backpacking, Solo Travel, Groups Tours & More

Backpacking is the ideal way to travel in Vietnam. Travel in the country is especially tedious. Clinging to timetables and plans is a great way to induce stress, anxiety and frustration. Backpacking provides the necessary wiggle room to keep your cool. Flexibility is key in your Vietnam travel itinerary, and patience is equally important.

Solo travel is a fun way to tour Southeast Asia, especially if you’re staying in hostels. The backpacker trail in Southeast Asia is made for solo travel. In Vietnam, though I arrived by myself, I ran into the same travelers in city after city. Most people are going one of two directions, so you’ll see familiar faces again and again. This makes Vietnam incredibly adept to solo travel.

Group tours are a waste of money in Vietnam. The country is so cheap (see below), and most group tours in the country are grossly overpriced. The rigid nature of group tours in a place like Vietnam will be another drawback of traveling in a structured setting. The one advantage I can think of for group tours in Vietnam would be more comfortable transportation.

Transportation

The biggest impact on any Vietnam travel itinerary is transportation, particularly transportation between cities. No matter which way you look at it, transportation in Vietnam is a headache. I used 12Go for a lot of transportation in Asia, and it is a tremendous help.

Vietnam’s larger cities are heavily congested with motorbikes, and the noise is constant throughout the day and night. Fortunately, most of the big cities are fairly easy to get around on foot.

Travel by Bus

The most common method of travel around Vietnam is via bus. The highway system in the country is barely existent. Buses in Vietnam are a painfully slow method of transport, but they go pretty much everywhere. And they’re pretty cheap, too.

A majority of tourists opt for “tourist” buses in Vietnam. There isn’t a clear distinction between these and local buses, but the tourist buses will cost more and should be more comfortable. Local buses are a fraction of the price but are known to pack the vehicle to the brim. You might even wind up with a stranger’s child in your lap.

Tourist buses aren’t specifically for tourists. These are just more expensive options, though still cheap for most tourists. For example, I took a “sleeper” night bus from Hoi An to Da Lat. The trip took about 14 hours and cost about $15 USD (300,000 VND).

For a large person like myself (6’3”/250lbs), it was hell trying to sleep in the tiny cubby-bed. The capsule-beds are too short to extend my legs and too small to bend them normally. By the time I reached Da Lat, I felt like a stiff pretzel.

That being said, it is the more comfortable option compared to the cramped, slow(er) “local” bus. And for backpackers trying to keep their Vietnam travel itinerary budget-friendly, it makes sense. Buses are cheap, and saving money by not paying for a room/bed for a night means more cheap Vietnamese beer the next day.

Train Travel

To the surprise of many, Vietnam has an extensive rail network. It might be antiquated, uncomfortable and super slow – yep, slower than buses – but the country has trains! Travelers who enjoy trains will be in for an interesting rail travel experience in Vietnam.

Train travel in Vietnam is not that expensive. The route all the way from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City ranges from $40-65 USD. For the distance, that’s not a bad price. The downside is that the trip takes about 30 hours.

Train travel is an option in Vietnam, but it’s not fast or comfortable. Personally, a Vietnamese rail journey from top to bottom is on my bucket list, and I look forward to it. For more info on prices and times, check out what Seat 61 has on train travel in Vietnam.

Air Travel

The fastest way to get around Vietnam is via airplane. The country has major airports in Hanoi (north), Ho Chi Minh City (south), Da Nang (central) and Nha Trang (south-central). Tourists flying into or out of Vietnam primarily land in Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City.

Flying between cities in Vietnam is not practical if you want to see much aside from the major cities. The only reason to fly between cities in Vietnam is for travelers with time constraints. For instance, travelers may have a flight out of Hanoi but are traveling north-to-south. Rather than spending 1-2 days on buses/trains getting back up north, a short flight from Ho Chi Minh City saves significant time.

Motorbikes in Vietnam

Vietnam has a ridiculous amount of motorbikes. They’re loud. They’re everywhere. Literally, tens of millions of motorbikes. And a lot tourists decide to get in on the action.

From an individual standpoint, it makes transportation easier. You have freedom to travel wherever on a motorbike, and you’ll get to see parts of the country few tourists ever do. Buying a bike in Hanoi/Saigon, riding from one end of the country to the other and then selling it to another backpacker is a popular way to travel Vietnam. The Ha Giang Loop (north of Hanoi) is a shorter trip that is also popular.

Honestly, it all sounds pretty fun. And, full disclosure here, I’ll probably partake in some motorbike adventuring on my next visit to Vietnam.

However, from a safety standpoint, I cannot recommend riding a motorbike for most travelers. I’ve stayed at several hostels throughout Vietnam, and I’ve met at least one traveler in every single hostel that had been in a motorbike accident. Several had the scars, scrapes and casts to prove it.

Motorcycles are obviously dangerous (if you get in an accident). In Southeast Asia, poor road conditions and drivers who barely follow traffic laws make the accidents and injuries worse. Inexperienced riders and tourists not accustomed to riding in Vietnam are at greater risk. There are short, single-day to multi-day motorbike tours ideal for those with less experience who can’t resist the temptation but still want the adventure.

In addition to the inherent danger of riding a motorbike in Vietnam, it is technically illegal for many foreigners. On top of that, if you are in an accident, a lot of travel insurance companies have out-clauses where they don’t have to cover your injuries if you’re doing something illegal or especially dangerous.

A majority of motorbike-riding backpackers (BIKEpackers? Is that a thing?) never have any issues, but be aware that there are serious risks with motorbikes in Vietnam. And you may have to pay a “fine” to a cop to keep riding. Have fun, but be safe and ride at your own risk.

Vietnam Travel Costs

Vietnam is notable as a cheap travel destination. In my experience, Vietnam is actually the cheapest country in Southeast Asia.

The most obvious cost-saving measure in Vietnam is food. Local food is not only delicious, it’s cheap. A meal in a local restaurant/cafe will typically cost $2-3 USD. Street food in Vietnam is especially cheap, often 20,000 VND (about $1 USD) or less. Food in Hanoi is excellent and slightly cheaper than Ho Chi Minh City, though cheap eats can be found anywhere in Vietnam with a little patience and persistence.

A simple hotel in Vietnam (a family-run, local hotel) will cost $10-20 USD/night for a room with basic amenities. Large, international hotel chains are certainly nicer, but prices are high and beyond any backpacker budget.

Hostels are the way to go to save money. Of all the reasons to stay in a hostel, those in Vietnam are super cheap and often have much better locations than more expensive hotels. $10 USD/night is typical for a nice hostel with free breakfast and air conditioning. Rates can be cheaper depending on the city/location/amenities. Some examples of what I have paid:

Hanoi – $7/night (hostel, free breakfast, no A/C needed)
Cat Ba Island – $12/night (private hotel room, very basic)
Hoi An – $10/night (mediocre hostel, more expensive during Tet)
Ho Chi Minh City – $11/night (no A/C in backpacker district, not my favorite hostel)

Transportation is cheap. Souvenirs are cheap. Food, activities and most attractions are cheap. Pretty much everything about Vietnam is budget-friendly.

My travel costs in Vietnam, on a backpacker budget, were about $25/day. I ate local food, drank plenty of local beer and did just about everything I wanted to. My Vietnam travel itinerary was designed to be backpacker and budget-friendly. My costs could have easily been higher, but I also could have traveled even cheaper.

Like most places in the world, your desired level of comfort will dictate costs of travel. Also, your Vietnam travel itinerary can influence travel costs. Essentially, backpacking is cheaper, and a one-way travel route in Vietnam also bodes well for travel budgets.

When – The Best Time to Travel to Vietnam

Vietnam is generally a hot, humid place. Surrounded by water, the warm weather is amplified by the heavy air. Mostly.

Vietnam is really long, over 1000 miles in a direct north-south measurement. Naturally, weather differs in a range this large. The southern three-quarters of Vietnam are pretty much always hot and humid. Seasons in the northern part of the country are slightly more pronounced.

Saigon is always hot. Winter typically has fewer rainy days, but the weather is still warm. I can personally attest to being in Saigon in the middle of Winter – no rain, still felt like a sauna.

Up north, the weather in Hanoi is somewhat seasonal. Most of the year is predictably hot and humid. However, temperatures in Winter are cooler, sometimes cool enough for a jacket and pants. The mountains north of Hanoi occasionally receive small amounts of snowfall.

I wouldn’t suggest packing your puffy coat in Vietnam. That’s a serious packing commitment, and unless you’re camping in the mountains mid-Winter, there’s no need for a heavy coat. I survived cool nights in Hanoi with a long-sleeve shirt and a rain jacket.

So, when is the best time of year to travel to Vietnam? There are two ways to answer this question, and neither is wrong.

First, Winter (December-March) is the most pleasant time of year. It is cool in the north and dry in the south. Of course, better weather means more tourists.

Second, Summer (June-August) is the hottest and wettest time of year. The dead of Summer wouldn’t be my first choice, but there are advantages to traveling in Southeast Asia during the rainy season. As a trade-off for the weather, there are fewer tourists.

The ideal time to spend one month of travel in Vietnam would be late-Fall or early-Spring, basically December to April. As a general guideline, the rains tend to start in April.

Traveling on either end of that time frame will likely mean fewer tourists and better weather. Keep in mind that the climate is different in the north and south, and the weather also varies slightly from other countries in the region.

Safety in Vietnam

The most common questions I get about Vietnam are regarding travel safety. Specifically, more than anything else, I hear, “Is Vietnam safe for Americans?”

Given that the United States and Vietnam were in the midst of a bloody war not so long ago, it’s a reasonable question. The answer is a resounding “yes.” I have never encountered a local in Vietnam with any animosity towards Americans. If anything, I have heard several Vietnamese people comment that what happened is in the past and between governments, not people.

In general, Vietnam is a very safe country for tourists. There are reports of scams and street thefts, such as pickpocketing and snatch-and-go theft.

Always mind your pockets in Vietnam, especially in big cities and crowded areas. Personally, I never had any issues, but, then again, I’m always looking over my shoulder and I wear smart travel clothing to prevent pickpockets.

Snatch-and-grab theft is reported by tourists on occasion. This happens when a tourist is carelessly walking or on a street corner, usually loosely holding onto their cell phone, purse, bag etc. Someone will come by on a motorbike or on foot, grab the item and flee before the tourist realized what happened. The trick is to hold on (tightly) to your stuff and pay attention.

Violence against tourists is extremely rare. Most tourist injuries are from accidents involving motorbikes or alcohol. In rural areas, be cautious. In big cities, avoid bad neighborhoods. If you feel uncomfortable somewhere, just leave.

The “tourist tax” is the most common scam in Vietnam. This is simply the act of charging tourists more than locals. The amount is usually minimal, and there is little that you can do (unless you speak Vietnamese, perhaps). If the tourist tax levied upon you is egregious, stand up for yourself. Know and confirm prices before handing over money or getting your food. The tourist tax is one of the frustrating parts about travel in Vietnam, but smart travelers can work around it.

Taxi scams, especially motorbike taxi scams, are the worst scams that get tourists. Exercise caution before you hire a cab. Your hotel/hostel can help with a taxi if need be. Do not take a random motorbike taxi.

Common sense is the most valuable travel safety tool in Vietnam and everywhere else. No matter where you are, be aware and watch your back. Don’t do stupid things like stumble around drunk alone at night. Drugs are illegal, so maybe don’t be an idiot. Common sense, though shockingly uncommon, goes a long way.

Vietnam is one of the most fascinating countries in the world. The chaotic country will test the patience of many travelers. Whether backpacking, traveling solo, traveling with a significant other or even an organized group tour (but yeah, don’t do the group tour), those who wisely plan their Vietnam travel itinerary will find a country full of beautiful scenery, kind people, incredible food and culture.

First-time visitors to Vietnam are warned of crazy scams and stereotypes based on ignorance or the misfortunes of the very few. Travel in Vietnam for a few days, a month or several months is all about patience and common sense. No matter when or where you go, a stop in Vietnam is a must when traveling in Southeast Asia.

15 Tips to Travel Cheaper & Longer

August 2, 2020 By Hangry Backpacker Leave a Comment

Too many people write off travel as prohibitively expensive, with the idea that cheaper travel is unattainable. That’s simply not true. Cheaper travel and longer trips are possible for anyone willing to reconsider the travel process, from research and bookings to the return flight home.

Budget travel doesn’t mean sacrificing the best parts about travel. Affordable travel doesn’t have to be uncomfortable, either. It means making a few simple decisions that save money. Here are some of the ways I personally travel cheaper, which also enable my travels to last longer:

1. Travel Cheaper – Forget the Fancy Hotels!

Traveling cheaper doesn’t mean you have to stay in a 20-bed hostel dorm room. Hostel dorms are usually only a few beds and nicer than most people presume anyway, but saving money on travel accommodation doesn’t have to mean staying in a hostel, either.

Guesthouses, short-term apartment rentals and smaller hotels are easy ways to save on travel. Many hostels even offer private rooms for the fraction of the cost of a typical hotel room.

Nice budget hotel in Malaysia — clean, A/C, great location – less than $10/night

Name brand hotels usually offer consistency, amenities and comfort. That’s not always a guarantee, though. On one occasion in a South American capital city (before I discovered hostels), I stayed in a hotel that is known around the world for being comfortable, expensive and fancy. It was not. As it happens, a recognizable brand and more than $150 a night in South America guarantees nothing.

2. Travel Independently, Travel Longer

Tour groups are expensive. It may be easy and carefree to travel in a tour group, but this is not the most economic way to travel. If you want to travel cheaper and longer, independent travel is the way to go.

Group travel has its place, but that place is not in the realm of budget travel.

Most group tours cost several thousand dollars and typically last a week or two. These tours rarely include the cost of flights. It’s not uncommon for travelers to drop $3000, $5000, $7000 or more on a 10-day trip. Before buying a plane ticket! It’s no wonder people think travel is too expensive.

If you’re willing to spend a tiny amount of time researching and booking things yourself, you can save thousands of dollars. Travelers still hesitant to wander by themselves can hire a personal guide to lead the way. In most places, a personal guide for a few days is still far cheaper than a group tour.

Group tours are easy. Tourists in structured group travel don’t have to think about anything or do any research. If that’s the kind of trip you’re looking for, go for it! For those who want the ability to travel cheaper and longer, travel independently. It’s more economical and, honestly, a lot more fun.

3. Travel Solo

Better than traveling independently – that is, outside of a group but with other people – is traveling by yourself. Solo travel is a wonderful experience. Granted, long-term solo travel isn’t for everyone, but you never truly know until you give it a try.

Solo travel has a rewarding and freeing impact on travelers. You won’t have to constantly worry about appeasing someone else. Solo travelers can go at their own pace. They can eat when and where they want. For many travelers, this will save money.

When I travel solo, I don’t have to waste time shopping. I stay in hostels. I eat cheap and spend loads of time just walking around. In short, I save money and do what I want.

Everyone who can should travel solo at least once in their life, even if it’s only a short weekend away. It’s a great way to learn about yourself, and it’s also another great way to travel cheaper.

4. Eat Local

Eating local is a great way to cut costs abroad and make your travels cheaper. To be clear, “local” does not mean local fine dining. For instance, eating at a Michelin-star restaurant in Bangkok (yes, there are several) is not what I mean when I encourage local eating.

Don’t get me wrong. If you have the means, desire and appreciation to enjoy a world-class meal at any time, take the chance. But if you are trying to travel cheaper, fine dining is not the answer.

Eating local with the aim to save money is all about finding the little holes in the wall, the mom-and-pop shops and street food. Forget about the table cloths. Find a small, unassuming cafe. Not only is the food in these “hidden” places often better, it’s budget-friendly. For adventurous eaters, apply these guidelines to safe eating in Southeast Asia. The tips are useful for eating abroad in many places.

Eating local food is a great way to experience a more local side of a destination, but it is also an easy way to save money so that you can travel longer.

5. Sign Up for Rewards Credit Cards!

Without a doubt, the single most expensive part of traveling abroad is the cost of airfare, at least most of the time. Lodging/accommodation is another major cost of travel. These two aspects of travel can quickly add up and make a trip considerably more expensive. To many people, the costs of airfare and hotels is enough to write off traveling altogether.

There are easy ways to defray – or outright eliminate! – these expenses. How? Travel rewards credit cards.

No, it’s not a scam, and there is a card for just about everyone. Picking the right card for you can mean easily earning enough points/miles to cover flights or hotels for your entire trip.

If you (wisely, of course) transfer as much spending as possible from debit cards/cash/checks to credit cards with travel rewards, the rewards can easily cover substantial travel costs. This is only sensible if you spend normally, avoid big purchases you wouldn’t otherwise buy and pay your bill ON TIME.

There are a ton of options, so take the time to research appropriately. This review from Money is an excellent place to start diving into the world of travel credit cards. Imagine turning everyday spending into free travel. That is how you travel cheaper and longer.

6. Stick to a Travel Budget

Too many travelers set off without a budget. For the average traveler, that is not a good idea. The constant swiping adds up, and when you’ve got the distractions and excitement of exploring a new place, it can be difficult to keep track of all the spending.

What if you’re in a cheap location? Well, that’s a great start! However, disregarding a budget, even in a cheap destination, can quickly lead to spending a lot more than you realize.

This doesn’t mean that you can’t splurge here or there. You can stick to a budget and do all the fun stuff, too. The key is to have simpler, cheap days to offset the more expensive days/activities.

Hiking Trail in the mountain woods Anthony Lakes Eastern Oregon — *Nature, usually pretty close to free*

You can save on food for a day or two by cooking for yourself or shopping at the supermarket. Instead of taking an organized day trip, using public transportation to reach a trailhead is a cheaper alternative. Offset hotels with time in hostels. There are so many ways to have budget travel days to offset the occasional splurge without sacrificing the fun.

Set a budget. Stick to it. It might not sound like a fun thing to worry about when you’re staring at delicious food and wandering the streets of postcard-perfect little villages, but responsible and disciplined budgeting is important to travel cheaper and longer.

7. Pay with Cash

I know, as mentioned above, credit cards can be a great way to earn miles/points/rewards for your spending. A lot of these cards will offer the same rewards abroad, but using cards abroad can also be frustrating.

The reason I use credit cards sparingly when I’m abroad is for practical reasons. I don’t spend that much money when I travel, and it’s one less thing I have to worry about monitoring. My credit card spending when I’m traveling is generally kept to secure online spending like transportation and accommodation. It’s easier to stick to a budget and track daily spending when I’m not swiping for every purchase.

Unless you’re earning killer perks with a credit card on every purchase, pay with cash. Even then, I’ll often sacrifice the few miles/points to make my life easier or avoid using my card somewhere sketchy.

Physical money is always a better way to keep track of finances. On a subconscious level, paying with physical money registers as spending more than swiping the plastic over and over.

Another simple way to save is efficiently using ATMs. Foreign ATM charges can add up, and most banks charge foreign “processing” and “conversion” fees on all international card purchases. Withdraw cash sparingly.

It’s certainly greedy of banks to charge people to access and use their own money, but there’s no way to avoid this. There are, however, some banks/credit card companies that charge customers less (or nothing at all) for these foreign transactions. Find and use one of these banks. You’ll save money on card purchases and ATM withdrawals abroad.

8. Don’t Travel in Peak Season

What if I told you that Amsterdam is a more expensive place to travel in summertime? And so is Prague and the South of France? What if I said that Munich is crazy expensive during Oktoberfest? Or that prices in Southeast Asia are higher in November and December?

These are examples of peak season. Almost every tourist destination in the world has a peak season, when, for one reason or another, tourists visit in higher numbers.

The simple law of supply and demand applies to travel, too. When the demand for services is higher, so are prices. That means hotels, excursions and even restaurants raise prices because they can.

If cheap travel is the goal, don’t travel during peak season. Visit Southeast Asia during the shoulder season. Go to Munich after Oktoberfest.

How about an air-conditioned, clean, beachside room on the island of Koh Lanta (Thailand) for about $6USD/night? That’s the offseason for ya, and that’s how I managed to travel cheaper and stay longer in paradise. Sure, it was hot, but the water was the perfect way to cool down from the sun on that EMPTY beach.

Empty low season Koh Lanta Thailand Beach in Southeast Asia — *people-free tropical paradise*

Yes, better weather is tempting, but at what cost? Literally. How much are you willing to pay to ensure Thailand is not as hot during a trip? I hate to be the bearer of bad news, but it’s always hot there. And the sun still comes out during the rainy season in Southeast Asia. The main differences in peak season are higher prices and larger crowds.

Eventually, I will make it to Oktoberfest. In the meantime, I’d rather spend a couple of weeks somewhere else for the same price as two or three days at Oktoberfest. Traveling in the offseason or shoulder season is a great way to travel cheaper and extend the length of a trip.

9. Choose Cheaper Destinations

The easiest way to save money on travel is to choose cheaper destinations. A little bit of research and an open mind can mean saving thousands of dollars and enjoying longer travels.

Famous and popular tourist destinations are almost always more expensive than necessary. But similar experiences can often be found in lesser-traversed places. At the same time, some places are simply cheaper than others no matter how popular they are.

For people who just want to travel somewhere and are discouraged by the apparent high costs of travel, consider alternate destinations. There are stunning mountains, vast deserts, enormous cities, pristine beaches and great food in every corner of the world.

For cheaper travel, expand your horizons. Widen the search. What’s the point of having the same travel experience as everyone else anyway? A small amount of research can lead to the most exciting trips and save thousands of dollars. There is always a cheaper travel alternative.

Zagreb Croatia street, a cheaper travel destination — *the Balkans, beautiful & cheap*

Here are a few examples of cheap travel destinations where your money goes further on the ground:

Southeast Asia
South Asia
Central America
Eastern Europe

10. Flexible Travel Dates Saves Money

Traveling with flexible dates is challenging for most people. Not everyone has the liberty to freely pick and choose their departure dates, and I understand that.

Popular tourist destinations – for instance, places in Europe like Paris, London, Amsterdam, Madrid, etc. – are busier on weekends. Arranging to be in these places in the middle of the week means accommodation rates will be lower. I try, though not always successfully, to spend my weekends in smaller, less touristy destinations.

If you are able to be more selective with departure dates, you can travel cheaper. Flights departing in the middle of the week are generally cheaper. Some of the best travel deals are last-minute deals. For those who don’t have the flexibility to drop everything and travel with little notice, booking far ahead with a little wiggle room is the best option.

Having a rigid schedule usually makes travel more expensive. With flexible travel dates/plans, you can take advantage of cheaper airfare, hotel rates and other costs when demand is higher. Flexible travel dates are a great way to travel longer and cheaper, and you might even find your destinations less crowded.

11. Start Walking

I save money when I travel by walking as much as possible. Taxi fares and Uber charges add up. Local buses or subways, while typically a cheap way to get around, are not free.

Walking instead of paying for transportation can save a few bucks a day. Over time, the savings add up and are an easy way to travel cheaper. In addition to savings, walking is a great way to see more of your destination.

Getting around on your own two feet is also an easy way to avoid gaining travel weight. Travel is often an unhealthy undertaking for many people, but it doesn’t have to be. Best of all, extra walking means I earn more of the beer with which I reward myself. At least that’s what I tell myself.

When I travel, I rarely hold myself back when it comes to eating. And I’m not known for passing up that second beer, either. That’s one reason you can always find me in the gym before and after a trip. Walking ten miles a day when I travel might negate a fraction of what I consume, but it eliminates almost all of the guilt! And I save a few bucks a day that goes towards spending money where I enjoy it – experiencing my destination with food and drink!

12. Pack Smarter, Travel Better, Travel Cheaper

Not everyone has the freedom to spend months at a time traveling. For many travelers, a day on a bus here or a half-day on a train there cuts into time that could be spent sightseeing, wandering and eating – all the best things about traveling somewhere new.

It’s not uncommon for tourists to take short flights to maximize time spent in the actual destination. These flights can add up, but there are ways to minimize the financial impact.

Lose the bag fees.

Checked bag fees can be expensive starting with the first bag. Occasionally, bag fees are as low as $15 – in rare instances, free – but in my experience, $25-40 is normal for a domestic flight in the United States. International (transoceanic) flights regularly charge more than $50 for the first checked bag. The cost to check a bag on my last transoceanic flight was $60 each way.

Black Osprey Travel Backpack — travel cheaper with a practical backpack

If you purchase a bag that is small enough to be a carry-on, you’ll save money. What I did was buy a backpack that splits into two pieces: A small backpack that I use as a personal item; and a larger part that zips up like a duffel bag. Before I get on a plane, I break down the bag into two pieces. It takes 1-2 minutes to disassemble or reassemble the backpack.

I spent about $200 on this backpack, but it’s even CHEAPER now! The first trip in which I used the new backpack consisted of three flights that had a total of $160 in bag fees for the first checked bag. My bag conveniently splits in two, so it appears (and functions) small enough to be my carry-on and personal item.

In a single trip, this bag nearly paid for itself by helping me avoid checked bag fees. Pack lighter and smarter, and invest in a practical bag. This is an easy way to shave a few hundred bucks off of a trip. By my estimations, I’ll save thousands of dollars in bag fees by the time this backpack wears out.

13. Leave the Kids at Home

No, I don’t have kids (yet). We’re not talking about Summer vacation, either. I’m just saying, if you’re not going to Disney World and you want to save money on travel, leave the kids at home.

Honestly, what benefit is there to bringing a 5-year-old to Europe? They’re not going to remember much, if anything, from the trip. Even most 12-year-olds aren’t going to appreciate traveling in foreign lands.

Traveling with kids means it will be more difficult to go for a hike, visit a winery or have a nice dinner. Most kids don’t like museums. Walking several miles a day isn’t easy for them. And you’ve always got to keep an eye out. I’ve never hired a babysitter, but doing so in a foreign country must be difficult and unnerving.

Perhaps I’ll feel differently when I have children, but I think saving a couple thousand dollars now – this includes flights, larger hotel rooms, souvenirs and extra admission prices – will benefit kids later.

I’m not suggesting anyone withhold their kids from the world of travel. Rather, travel can be expensive, and I don’t understand the reasoning behind spending gobs of money traveling with small children when they might appreciate it better (and, ya know, remember some of it) a few years down the line.

Leave the kids at home. Your own travels will be cheaper, more enjoyable and less stressful. A couple of weeks with the grandparents (or whomever) is good for everyone.

14. Cut Out the Extra Stuff

Why is it that when people travel they suddenly decide to go on shopping sprees, eat expensive food for every meal and live some imaginary Beverly Hills lifestyle?

Why do people who can’t afford to live that way at home suddenly turn on the switch to burn money abroad?

If the goal is to travel cheaper, and, by doing so, enable yourself to stay abroad longer, then stop wasting all that damn money! Cut out the extraneous fluff. The same methods you employ at home to cut back on expenses or save for something special work for budget travel, too.

Not to sound too cliche, but skip the expensive coffee. Sure, slowly sipping an espresso on a corner in Paris is a moment to savor, but spending a few bucks every day on coffee will quickly eat into a budget.

Budget travel abroad is very much like being cheap at home. Choose the right moments to splurge, and don’t make it a habit. To travel cheaper and longer, you’ll have to exercise discipline and a bit of sense.

15. Stop Buying Souvenirs!

No one cares that your new scarf is from Milan. And do you really need that $20 t-shirt that says the name of whatever city?

When I travel, I hardly shell out for souvenirs. I certainly don’t seek them out. I keep a few bottle caps and a few coins. Sometimes I buy one of those pretty, albeit touristy, canvas paintings. They roll up nicely into my bag, and I make sure to get a good price. Otherwise, I’m not interested in more junk cluttering my life. I never go out of my way to buy a souvenir.

cheap travel souvenirs, beer caps of the world — *a cheap, fun way to collect souvenirs*

If you’re going to buy a souvenir, make sure it’s cheap, small, lightweight and not breakable. Larger souvenirs – things like rugs, lamps or other useless junk – are a waste of money. At the very least, it hinders an attempt at budget travel. Buying anything that doesn’t fit inconspicuously into your bag is not the way to travel cheaper.

Most of the things I buy when I travel are practical items. In Hoi An, Vietnam, I bought a water buffalo leather wallet. It was useful and less than five bucks. Naturally, like an idiot, I lost my wallet in Bangkok.

I also try to take pictures with myself in the frame. What better souvenir is there than an image capturing a memory of a place with yourself in the image? Seeing yourself in an image is a great way to look back and reflect on past travels. Added bonus: pictures are free and don’t take up space in your bag.

I used to buy magnets, cheesy tourist hats and the occasional trinket. Now, I don’t waste time or money on such things. Instead, by traveling a little cheaper, that extra money goes towards something better. Something like longer travels.

There aren’t many ways or tricks to simply cut travel costs by 50% in the blink of an eye. Some money-saving measures are more tedious than others, but there are several steps to travel cheaper and longer.

Each step you take to travel cheaper adds up, and, eventually, there’s a surplus. Whether that surplus is used to travel longer, splurge on a fancy meal or put back into savings, the options are there. Better, longer and more interesting travels starts with cheaper travel.

This post contains affiliate links. We may receive a small commission from any purchases through these links – at no extra cost to you. The Hangry Backpacker is also a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate program designed to provide a means for us to earn commissions by advertising and linking to Amazon.com.

Marrakech Solo Travel Guide

December 9, 2019 By Hangry Backpacker Leave a Comment

Solo travel in Marrakech can feel like a daunting task. It may seem like a risky affair, but is it? Traveling solo in Marrakech isn’t inherently dangerous, but it is exhausting.

A walk through the winding streets of the Marrakech medina is a sensory overload. Peculiar, picturesque scenes around every tiny corner are distracting. The intoxicating smell of Moroccan food, in all of its underrated glory, combined with whiffs of (what I assume is) sewage or donkey excrement, adds another level of intrigue. The sound of motorbikes, construction, music and, of course, touts yelling at passing tourists adds another layer to the complex nature of Marrakech. [Read more…] about Marrakech Solo Travel Guide

Solo Travel vs. Travel with a Girlfriend

June 13, 2019 By Hangry Backpacker 1 Comment

Traveling with a significant other – in my case, traveling with a girlfriend – is a drastically different way to see the world than solo travel.

The differences can range from eating to transportation, and each type of travel has its advantages and unique daily challenges. [Read more…] about Solo Travel vs. Travel with a Girlfriend

Baku, Azerbaijan: Complete Solo Travel Guide

April 6, 2019 By Hangry Backpacker 4 Comments

Solo travel is one of the best ways to see Baku, the capital city of Azerbaijan. This fascinating city barely registers on most travel radars, and there are plenty of reasons, from food to history, to visit Baku.

Here is everything you need to know for a solo trip to Baku, complete with tips getting around, expenses, safety and what to do: [Read more…] about Baku, Azerbaijan: Complete Solo Travel Guide