Travel smartly while keeping affordability in mind

A recent study by an online travel agency found that Gen Z and Millennials prefer budget-friendly travel, keeping accommodation costs below USD 50 (approx ₹4,300) per person per night. Gen Z is more likely to do this (56%) compared to Millennials (44%). According to the study, travellers now focus on affordable travel while still seeking meaningful experiences.
Experts say travellers are now smarter about spending. “Flexible dates, off-season bookings, and loyalty rewards help cut costs. Budget airlines, no-frills stays, hostels, and home rentals are popular choices. There’s also a shift towards experiential travel, where unique local experiences matter more than expensive hotels,” says Jyoti Mayal, a tourism industry expert.
LOW-COST EXPERIENCE
Travelling on a budget doesn’t mean sacrificing comfort — at least, that’s what I discovered on my recent trip with Milo, my dog. Private cabs from Delhi to Shangarh cost upwards of ₹10,000, which was way out of budget. Instead, I took a non-AC public bus to Aut for just ₹2,300. From there, a taxi to Shangarh struck the perfect balance between cost and convenience.
For accommodation, I chose a pet-friendly homestay. Home-cooked meals, at just ₹150-₹200 per dish, kept costs low while offering an authentic taste of Himachali cuisine. One evening, my host even taught me how to make Siddu! Luxury came in simple ways — scenic picnics by bubbling streams, serene walks through pine forests, and avoiding peak season for a peaceful retreat. Using travel rewards for my bus ticket was another smart hack.
- Delhi-based Mahima shares her cost-conscious travel to Himachal Pradesh
SMART WAYS TO PLAN YOUR TRIP
‘Flexible travel dates and early reservations lead to significant savings’
Booking in advance is important for cost-conscious travel plans. Hardi Patel, who specialises in luxury and experiential travel, shares, “I have often secured the best deals on flights and accommodations by planning well in advance and booking during the off-season when demand is low. Airlines and hotels offer competitive prices when bookings for a destination are fresh, making it the ideal time to lock in discounts. Flexible travel dates and early reservations can lead to significant savings, ensuring a cost-effective and hassle-free trip.”
Budget stays
Delhi-based traveller Yamini Gola shares, “I always cross-check with local tour and travel agencies to understand what a fair price should be. When it comes to accommodations, I make sure to compare prices from different sources and call them directly to get a rate that doesn’t include any brokerage fees.”
Saving on transport
Talking to local drivers and trustworthy local booking agents is a great way to save on transportation costs. “One can opt for public transport instead of taxis, explore free attractions, and maximise travel credit cards and rewards programmes to reduce costs,” adds Jyoti Mayal.
Eat like a local
“Stay with the locals. Visiting only tourist spots won’t give you a true cultural experience. To immerse yourself in a place’s culture, explore local markets and dine at local eateries — they offer authentic flavours at a budget-friendly price,” says Niharika Jain, a travel influencer.
“I always save on food and transport by choosing local delicacies over expensive meals and using public transport instead of private vehicles. This not only lowers costs but also offers a more authentic travel experience,” adds Patel, who has travelled to 94 countries.
COMMON TRAVEL MISTAKES TO AVOID
- Don’t book popular travel packages without reviewing the itinerary
- Avoid blindly following online or hand-me-down itineraries, as they may lack local charm and unique experiences
- Carry pet essentials. Pack food, a leash, and other basics to avoid last-minute costly or unavailable purchases
- Be budget-smart, as overpriced and poorly planned trips can lead to an underwhelming experience. Prioritise quality over quantity in your itinerary
(as suggested by travellers)