Backpacking and travellers on limited funds are synonymous with each other, so you’ll be looking to keep costs down and save cash wherever and whenever possible. Here are a few tips that might just help.

If you’re still in full-time education or have a university acceptance letter, then get an International Student Identity Card (ISIC). These are valid in 120 countries are entitle you to over 40,000 discounts globally. If you have left the world of study but are still the youthful side of 26, then get an International Youth Travel card. Much the same as the ISIC card, they’re valid in hostels, buses, trains and Internet cafes.

Before you run off and leave the country get yourself adequate insurance for your entire journey. This may seem like added expense, but it will cost you a lot more if you have an accident without insurance, so hope for the best but prepare for the worst.

Buying toiletries at your destination will save you money and valuable luggage space at the airport. Shampoo and conditioner etc are heavy and we could all do with a little extra weight allowance at check-in.

By arranging your tours and accommodation locally you’re likely to get better rates because you cut out the middle-man. Remember you can negotiate better deals face-to-face.

Organised tours are a great option when you are travelling alone and you don’t speak the language. However, don’t rely on them too much. You’ll fly through many places that you might want to spend more time and there will be certain people you will miss completely. Going at your own pace is a much better option that will save you cash and will ultimately be more rewarding if a little more challenging.

Use public transport whenever you can. Local busses may seem scary and rather unruly in some places but are usually by far the cheapest option and give you a real insight into the country you’re travelling in and its people.

However, certain transportation should be booked in advance such as train fares in Europe. If you know your dates around a month in advance (unlikely but possible) you can benefit from much bigger discounts than a few days prior to travel and definitely on buying tickets on the day of travel.

Don’t bother buying reading material once you’re on the road. Look out for hostels that have book exchanges where you can swap your well-read copy of the latest Paulo Cohelo with an equally well-worn Nick Hornby.

About The Author:
If your taking a gap year etravelinsurance.co.uk offer a specific gap year travel insurance policy which should cater to all your needs. If you are planning to go away for a shorter period of time, take a look at their policy.