A MAN WHO HAS VISITED 19 OTHER NATIONS THIS YEAR has shared his top tips for saving money on travel.
Sam O’Connor, 33 years old, left his corporate job in March to fly around the globe.
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Sam has been on multiple boat cruises throughout Europe and jet-skied in Thailand in the past seven months. He also viewed Turkey from a hot air balloon.
He’s been to electronic music festivals in Croatia, traveled off-road on a motorcycle in Vietnam, witnessed the glory of Ibiza, and even gone horseback riding in Cambodia.
Sam is a documentarian and has an online business to finance his travels. His adventureson social media, as he doesn’t leave any stone unturned
He said this to Central Recorder Online “I have a goal to visit all 197 countries in the world.”
Sam, originally from Whangarei, New Zealand, has missed the chance to fly with his family and enjoy adventures.
He jumped on board a plane to travel to South East Asia in March, when it appeared that international travel was opening up.
Sam has not looked back since then. But getting around as efficiently as possible is Sam’s number one priority.
Here are his tips to keep his spending down.
TRAVEL DURING SHOULDER YEAR
Sam recommends flying shoulder season to anyone who has flexibility in their travel schedule.
This is the time between high season and low season.
He stated: “You’ll find better rates on flights and hotels and will also enjoy less crowds.”
EXTRA COMFORT
Sam says that he has a special trick that he learned about how to make more space in an airplane.
He said: “I learned is to be the last person to board the plane and as you’re walking down the aisle if you see three spare seats then just sit there.
“No one minds since they are empty seats and it means you get three seats to yourself.”
TRAVEL LIGHT
Sam recommends that you travel only with your carry-on luggage.
He explained that it saves time at airports as well as reducing the chance of your bag being lost, which is a lot more common than you might think.
“The extra fees airlines charge can add up.”
INVEST IN A LOOGE PASS
Nobody likes to wait in airports between flights.
It’s possible to spend hours at airports if you are embarking on a large trip.
Sam: “I invested in a lounge pass which gives you unlimited access to most of the airport lounges around the world for one year for a yearly price which includes free unlimited drinks, food and WIFI.”
GETTING AROUND
It’s easy to transport as there are many countries that offer ride-sharing services. But it’s still a good idea for you to be aware of where you are.
Sam said: “Always do an instant search to see what the market rate per km is as some taxi companies may tamper with the meters.
“It is relatively easy to find information about bus and train services on the internet, which works in most countries.
“Almost all major cities offer free walking tours. This saves time as you don’t have to research where to go. The local guide also knows the best spots.
“They accept donations at the end of the walking trip which I almost always do as they give such a great experience.”
USE CASH
Withdrawing cash overseas from ATM’s and booking online can involve some hefty fees.
Sam suggests that you research which banks offer great deals with no foreign transaction fees or ATM fees.
He explained that it could save you hundreds because some countries charge as high as $15 per ATM withdrawal.
“A big mistake is people withdrawing from an ATM using their own country’s conversion.
“It’s always best to withdraw in the local currency.”
EAT CHEAP
Although he enjoys exploring new places, finding food is not a problem. But it’s worth remembering one tip.
He stated: “I have always been a fan of eating where the locals eat so if you see a busy restaurant filled with locals then it’s for a reason and you normally get to taste quality local food at low prices.”
STAY HYDRATED
Bottled water is often expensive, especially in Europe.
Sam recommends being prepared by carrying a small bottle with you and filling it while on the go.
He stated, “I always take my own water bottle to fill up at the many water taps around the area for free.
“There are bottles that have built-in filters to ensure your water is always clean and safe.”
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