A recent study by an online travel agency found that Gen Z and Millennials prefer budget-friendly travel, keeping costs below USD 50 (approx Rs 4,300) per person per night. Gen Z is more likely to this (56%) compared to Millennials (44%). According to the study, travelers now focus on affordable travel while seeking meaningful experiences.
Experts say travelers are now smarter about spending. “Flexible dates, off-season bookings, and loyalty rewards help cut-costs. Budget airlines, no-frills stays, hostels, and home rentals are popular choices. There’s also a shift towards experiential travel, where unique local experiences matter more than expensive hotels.”
LOW-COST EXPERIENCE:
Traveling on a budget doesn’t mean sacrificing comfort — at least, that’s what I discovered on my recent trip with Milo, my dog. Private cabs from Delhi to Shangarh cost upwards of Rs 10,000, which was way out of budget. Instead, I took a non-AC public bus to Aut for just Rs 2,300. From there, a taxi to Shangarh struck the perfect balance between cost and convenience. For food, I chose home-cooked meals, at just Rs 150 – Rs 200 per dish. Luxury came in simple ways — scenic picnics by bubbling streams, serene walks through pine forests, and avoiding peak season. Using travel rewards for my bus ticket was another smart hack.
COMMON TRAVEL MISTAKES TO AVOID:
- Don’t book popular travel packages without reviewing the itinerary.
- Avoid blindly following online or hand-me-down itineraries.
- Carry pet essentials. Pack food, a leash, and other basics to avoid last-minute costly or unavailable purchases.
- Be budget-smart, as overpriced and poorly planned trips can lead to an underwhelming experience.
SMART WAYS TO PLAN YOUR TRIP:
FLEXIBLE TRAVEL DATES AND EARLY RESERVATIONS:
“I have often secured the best deals on flights and accommodations by planning well in advance and booking during the off-season when demand is low. Flexible travel dates and early reservations can lead to significant savings.”
BUDGET STAYS:
“I always cross-check with local tour to understand what a fair price should be. When it comes to accommodations, I make sure to compare prices from different sources and call them directly to get a rate that doesn’t include brokerage fees.”
SAVING ON TRANSPORT:
Talking to local drivers and local booking agents is a great way to save on transportation costs. “One can opt for public transport, explore free attractions and maximize travel credit cards and rewards programs to reduce costs.”
EAT LIKE A LOCAL:
“Stay with the locals. Visiting only tourist spots won’t give you a true cultural experience. To immerse yourself in a place’s culture, explore local markets and eateries.”
