Traveling abroad is often considered expensive and difficult by many people, especially those who earn minimum wage. However, this doesn’t mean your dream of traveling to another country has to be put on hold.
With proper planning and some budget-friendly strategies, traveling abroad is still achievable. So, what does proper planning involve? Read the explanation below!
Choose Affordable Destinations
One of the key points to traveling abroad on a minimum wage salary is choosing budget-friendly destinations. Some countries offer lower living and travel costs compared to others, allowing you to enjoy your trip without draining your savings.
Southeast Asian countries like Thailand, Vietnam, Malaysia, and Cambodia are ideal choices because food, transportation, and accommodation prices are relatively affordable. With good research and flexibility in choosing your destination, you can still enjoy traveling abroad on a limited budget.
Research Costs and Create a Travel Budget
Conducting thorough research on estimated travel costs is a crucial step. Find out the prices for airfare, accommodation, transportation, meals, and entrance fees for tourist spots in your chosen country.
After understanding the costs, create a realistic travel budget that matches your financial capability. Allocate funds for essential needs such as flights, lodging, food, transportation, and other expenses. Also, prepare an emergency fund to ensure safety during your trip.
Save Consistently
The key to traveling abroad on a minimum wage is consistent saving. Start by setting a travel cost target and make a realistic saving plan. There are several saving methods you can try, such as:
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50/30/20 Method
This divides income into three categories:
50% for basic needs (food, rent, transport, bills).
30% for lifestyle (entertainment, shopping, dining out).
20% for savings and investments, including travel funds.
From that 20%, you can set aside a portion specifically for your travel fund without sacrificing other needs. -
Saving Spare Change or Savings Challenges
If it’s hard to save large amounts, try saving small daily amounts or savings challenges like:
Saving IDR 10,000 or 20,000 daily into a piggy bank or special account.
A 52-week challenge starting with IDR 10,000 in week one, IDR 20,000 in week two, and so on up to week 52 (one year).
With this method, you can accumulate enough money within a year without feeling burdened. -
Set Aside Bonuses or Extra Income
If you receive bonuses, overtime pay, or extra income from side jobs, allocate some of it directly to your travel savings. This helps you gather funds faster without cutting daily necessities.
Find Additional Income Sources for Your Travel Fund
If minimum wage feels tight for saving for a trip abroad, finding extra income can be an effective solution. There are many ways to earn additional money without sacrificing your main job.
For example, freelancing in your expertise such as writing, graphic design, or translation via online platforms. Side jobs like online selling, dropshipping, or reselling products can also add income without needing large capital.
In today’s digital age, creating social media or blog content can also generate extra money. For instant income, part-time jobs like ride-hailing, tutoring, or affiliate programs offering commissions for sales are options to consider.
Hunt for Cheap Flight Ticket Promotions Early
Flight tickets tend to be cheaper when booked well in advance, especially during promotions from airlines or travel agencies. Keep an eye on ticket promos through official airline websites, travel apps, or social media that frequently share discounts.
Also, turn on “price alerts” or “promo alerts” in travel apps to get notified when ticket prices drop for your destination. Avoid booking tickets during holiday seasons or peak periods when prices tend to be higher.
Choose Budget-Friendly Accommodation
Instead of staying in star-rated hotels, consider more affordable options like hostels, guesthouses, capsule hotels, or Airbnb, which often offer cheaper rates. Some hostels provide dormitory-style rooms where you can share with other travelers at very budget-friendly prices.
Many destinations also have budget hotels or capsule hotel chains that are comfortable and clean with basic facilities suitable for short trips. If you want to save even more, try couchsurfing, where travelers stay for free at locals’ homes and enjoy a more authentic experience.
Traveling abroad on a minimum wage is not impossible with careful planning and the right strategies, such as applying the tips above. So, don’t let a limited budget stop you from exploring different countries!
