Being frugal shouldn’t keep you from going on a wonderful safari trip. The thing about overseas vacations is that they can easily go out of control spending wise. When people are on vacation, they are more likely to be generous with their wallets. This could be you too if you are not careful. Here are several ways you can budget for your safari trip and prevent unnecessary spending:
Fly in Coach
Yes, fly in coach, the third class, the part of the plane that is least comfortable. It won’t be that bad; most international flights come with in-flight entertainment options. Don’t splurge and fly first class or even Economy Plus. Keep your spending to a bare minimum and purchase the cheapest plane tickets. After all, your vacation is about watching exotic animals, not rich people in first class.
Find an Affordable Safari
There are a number of safari options available to tourists. Some safaris, like on the famous Maasai Mara, can be more expensive. So, do your research and find the least expensive safari packages. You will have to be willing to spend significantly for African safaris. On the other hand, several Asian countries also offer safari tours which are far less expensive. But of course, if you want to see lions, you will have to go to Africa.
Find a Budget Tour Operator
Tour operators vary from luxury to budget. Budget operators are dedicated to finding their client’s cheap accommodation, eating options, local transportation options and so on. You can give your budget estimate to one of these operators and they can build the tour around you. Do a Google search for a budget safari tour provider. Request a quote from as many as possible to find the cheapest. You may have to spend several weeks doing this.
Try to Take Local Public Transportation
Once you have landed, you can remove hundreds of dollars from your safari trip by taking local transportation. It might be uncomfortable at first, especially if you are traveling in a third world country. But it will be a great experience too. Whenever possible, use local trains and buses and you will need less money to spend while on the trip.
Keep Shopping to a Minimum
It’s tempting to end up buying hundreds of souvenirs once you have gone on a safari or two. Souvenirs are outrageously expensive. Shop owners know that tourists are willing to spend, and also have no idea about proper local prices. So, buy only one or two souvenirs. If you want to shop more, avoid the tourist traps and shop where the locals shop. These places tend to have lower prices.
Eat Where the Locals Eat
Trying the local cuisine is one of the best parts of traveling overseas. This, like buying souvenirs, can get out of hand if you are not careful. Instead of using your credit card at the expensive international restaurants, spend local cash at local restaurants. These eateries tend to have non-inflated prices.
You can enjoy your safari trip and not end up broke if you follow the above advice.
