Sticking to a Budget

Many backpackers head off on a one-way ticket, or else their return flight is so far away that it seems inexistent. In either case, the aim of backpacking is to stretch out your savings for as long a time as possible to get the most out of your trip. Because of this, backpackers find themselves travelling on a very tight budget. Of course, for many of us a strict budget can often be very difficult to follow with the appeal of local bazaars, expensive activities, and the temptation of splurging on nice accommodation. Remember, one splurge can cost you a few days of travelling, so if you really want to stretch out your savings then you have to work hard.

Obviously, the best thing you can do to make sure you have enough money to do all those things you want without sacrificing time is to save. Be ruthless with your savings before you go. You won't need to take much with you in your pack so don't be tempted by those last-minute sales or you will end up spending money on unnecessary things that you won't use for months anyway.

This doesn't always work for everyone, but it can be a good start. If you have a rough idea of where you are headed you will know how you are getting from place to place. Whether you plan on flying or catching overnight buses, you need to make sure you have enough money set aside for transport. Once you know this, work out a rough daily budget that takes into account accommodation, three meals and other expenses. Remember, you're not going to spend the same amount of money each day, so this should just be an approximate figure. With these costs put together you will be able to see the basic amount that you will need for your trip. Don't forget to have plenty set aside on top of this for spending!

Be ruthless! Sure, you can splurge every now and again, but the point of a splurge is to spoil yourself so let it be a treat rather than a frequent choice. Stay in small guesthouses; they may not be luxury but they will save you a significant amount in the end. Eat at local restaurants - restaurants in Cusco that offer 'Western Food' are specifically targeted to tourists and so are the price lists. Not to mention you may find yourself disappointed with a Peruvian take on a burger!