I’m no cheap travel newcomer. As a college kid, I flew Icelandic Airline, (better known as “Hippie Air”) to Europe and backpacked my way around the continent, staying in youth hostels and eating at cheap cafes.
These days I still travel on a budget — though I’ve traded my backpack for a rolling suitcase and I do much of my research and arrangements online.
But a new travel title on one of The New York Times best-seller lists piqued my interest.
“How To Travel the World on $50 a Day: Travel Cheaper, Longer, Smarter,” by Matt Kepnes, is a compendium of money-savings tips on air fares, accommodations, activities and more in countries around the world. The book includes chapters on travel to China, Japan and India.
“Nomadic Matt,” as Kepnes is known, has been traveling the globe since 2003. Along the way, he’s picked up an impressive number of travel hacks that he shares on his website, nomadicmatt.com.
One of Kepnes’ top tips? Choose your destination based on the currency exchange.
“Go where your dollar is going to go furthest,” says Kepnes. “It just makes sense.”
A lot of Kepnes’ content is geared toward those who are planning extended trips — information on setting up bank accounts in Europe or house-sitting in Australia or New Zealand and much of the book’s focus is on ways to save on transportation.
“Your biggest expense is usually air fare, followed by accommodations, food and activities,” says Kepnes. “If you can save on flights, you’re ahead of the game.”
To that end, he offers ways to maximize free frequent flier miles, fly budget airlines, consider alternative destinations and use social media to find flash deals. He also suggests his favorite booking websites, including theflightdeal.com, skyscanner.com and others.
And while Kepnes also includes tips on apartment rentals and hotel discounts and charming off-the-beaten path restaurants and cafes, his motto, “Travel cheaper, longer, better,” will appeal primarily to those who feel most comfortable slinging on a backpack and heading out for an adventure — rather than flying first class to a posh hotel.
“If you love resort vacations, this is probably not the book for you,” says Kepnes. “I’m super cheap, so I’m always looking for the best bargain, whatever that may be.”
About the Author
