Guest post: by Martin Newcombe, a seasoned traveler with an ambition to visit as many countries as possible in his lifetime. Having spent the past five years travelling on a budget, he has learned some great ways to cut costs while still living out your dreams, and now works to share those with other like-minded travelers.
The Digital Nomad Lifestyle
The digital nomad lifestyle has become increasingly popular in recent years as more and more people opt for a location-independent career that allows them to work from anywhere in the world.
“Twenty years from now you will be more disappointed by the things that you didn’t do than by the ones you did do. So throw off the bowlines. Sail away from the safe harbor. Catch the trade winds in your sails. Explore. Dream. Discover.”― Mark Twain
While this lifestyle does offer numerous benefits, including the freedom to explore new cultures and live out your dreams, it also comes with its own set of challenges.
One of the biggest challenges faced by digital nomads is how to manage their finances while on the move. With no fixed outgoings, it can be difficult to keep track of your spending, making it easy to overspend without realizing. Financial health is an important part of optimal wellbeing, so getting a handle on your money helps you to enjoy life overseas to the max.
In this article, we’ll be exploring some effective money saving tips which can help digital nomads to live their dream lifestyle without breaking the bank...
Opt for flights with layovers
Flights are often one of the most costly aspects of the digital nomad lifestyle. Travelling from place to place, particularly country to country, typically requires air travel.
Depending on the location and distance, this can be quite pricey, so it’s advisable to take advantage of any cost-saving options when you can.
Opting for flights that have one or more stops throughout the journey can help you save up to 20% of the price, so if you’re willing to extend your travel time, this is a great way to cut costs. With most airports offering desks and office facilities, you could take this time to catch up on work so that no time is wasted.
As an example, Turkish airlines offers cheaper prices with a stay over in Istanbul called TourIstanbul.
Alternatively, venture outside of the airport and explore the local area during your layover. This provides an opportunity to see another location that you may not otherwise have been able to. Even if it’s not somewhere you’ve dreamed of visiting, you may surprise yourself and find some hidden gems.
Try pet-sitting to save on accommodation
Pet-sitting abroad is a relatively new concept, but it’s gaining popularity as it becomes a viable accommodation option for digital nomads. Plus, it's great for animal lovers who can't have pets because they travel so much!
There are now plenty of websites that allow owners to list their homes when they’ll be away and need someone to take care of their pets. If you’re an animal lover, this is an incredible opportunity to cut down on your accommodation costs, and a win-win for everyone involved.
Pet-sitting not only provides a free place to stay, but you’ll earn some extra cash as well. This allows you to experience what it’s really like to live in the area, and with some homes located in the heart of cities, you may get to see places you otherwise wouldn’t be able to.
Plus, the use of a kitchen can really cut down on food costs compared to catered alternatives.
Take advantage of public transport
Although the cost of flying is often unavoidable, you can cut down on other transportation costs by utilizing local public transport.
Taxis can be quite expensive and rather unpredictable, and drivers could take advantage of tourists and increase their rates unbeknownst to the passenger.
With the other option being car hire, public transport is often a preferable alternative.
Driving in a foreign place can be stressful and not to mention expensive, so consider familiarizing yourself with the local buses and trains instead. Travelling this way also means you could meet local people and even get tips on the best sights to see, while allowing you to relax and enjoy your journeys.
Stay away from major cities
This may be somewhat of an obvious one, but staying away from major cities can have a significant impact on your finances.
The accommodation alone can be pricey in the heart of a city, and combined with the increased food and drink prices, it’s easy to quickly run out of funds.
Instead of staying in built-up urban areas, consider exploring some of the lesser-known cities or rural towns.
These locations are a great way to discover local culture and often have a more authentic feel than some of the more tourism-catered cities.
If you’re still dying to see a particular city, pick somewhere that has good transport connections.
Travelling for the extra time and doing a day trip will save you a significant amount of money compared with staying in the center itself.
Embark on a new adventure
Life as a digital nomad, although unpredictable, can be a wonderful experience. The chance to truly experience the world and meet new people is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for many, and can be easier than you think in this day and age.
To ensure that your travel plans unfold smoothly, follow our top tips in this article. Finances are the most common barrier for many people, so once you’ve become accustomed to managing your money in new ways, you’re sure to make the most of this unique experience.
“And then there is the most dangerous risk of all — the risk of spending your life not doing what you want on the bet you can buy yourself the freedom to do it later.” — Randy Komisar
About guest writer Martin Newcombe:
Martin is a seasoned traveler with an ambition to visit as many countries as possible in his lifetime. Having spent the past five years travelling on a budget, he has learned some great ways to cut costs while still living out your dreams, and now works to share those with other like-minded travelers.
ANDREA HUNT - Online Transformational Life Coach & EFT Tapping Practitioner based in Munich, Germany
I'm an accredited transformational life coach from Animas Centre for Coaching UK and a member of the International Coaching Federation. I'm also a Level 2 practitioner in EFT Tapping (Emotional Freedom Technique) and a member of AEFTP (Association of Emotional Freedom Technique Professionals).
If you're not sure where to start transforming your life, you can download my free ebook on How to Start Your Personal Growth Journey.
Are you ready to change your life, let go of old beliefs, empower yourself for a mindset shift to move forward? Mark Batterson says: You're always one decision away from a totally different life.
If you're interested in booking a free 15 minute discovery call for transformational life coaching, EFT Tapping or checking out my services page click here.
Header image: Peggy Anke
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