Ultimate Guide: How to Visit Expensive Countries on a Budget
Traveling to pricey destinations doesn't have to drain your savings. With smart strategies, even budget-conscious adventurers can explore iconic spots in costly countries like England, Switzerland, and beyond.
We've curated proven money-saving tips based on real traveler experiences, helping you enjoy stunning landscapes, cities, and attractions without overspending.
Traveling England on a Budget
England boasts Europe's most captivating cities and scenery, yet many highlights are free. Visit Big Ben, the Changing of the Guard, Abbey Road, and Britain's national museums at no cost. London's SkyGarden offers free panoramic views (book ahead), and Greenwich Park provides sweeping Central London vistas.
When to Fly: Opt for winter (November–March) to save $300–$400 on average, or book early with budget European airlines for round trips as low as $500. For instance, a US summer flight booked six months ahead might cost $1,150, versus $499 for an autumn flight booked 10 months in advance.
Where to Stay: Choose B&Bs or small hotels with breakfast included, like the Clarendon Hotel at $122/night versus the Sanctuary House Hotel at $245/night. Airbnbs are excellent too.
Where to Eat: Stick to fish & chips, pub fare, or Indian cuisine. An express lunch at Jar Kitchen costs $20, versus $5.50 for a burger at The Rocket pub.
When to Splurge: Thames Rocket speedboat tour—zoom past landmarks for an exhilarating ride.
Read more: How to Travel Britain Cheap After Brexit
Traveling Switzerland on a Budget
Often ranked among the world's priciest destinations, Switzerland offers free or low-cost gems like cheese/chocolate tours, historic cathedrals, folk markets, and national parks in the Alps.
When to Fly: Winter months, before April price surges.
Where to Stay: Modest city-center spots like Hotel St. Gervais at $119/night versus Hotel Montbrillant at $211/night.
Where to Eat: Supermarket cafeterias (Migros, Denner, Coop) offer meals for $10–$15, saving $20+ per meal versus traditional spots like Zeughauskeller ($35–$45). Tipping is included.
When to Splurge: Ski the Alps in winter at lower resorts like Grimentz or Villars-sur-Ollon for fresh snow and fewer crowds.
Read more: Escape the Crowds: 10 Places to Visit in Europe This Summer
Traveling Australia on a Budget
Australia's summer (December–February) is peak season; visit May–September for cooler weather and deals. Enjoy whale watching, safaris, or Great Barrier Reef dives year-round.
When to Fly: May–September. US round trips average $1,050 in June versus $2,425 in December.
Where to Stay: Housesit via Housecarers.com ($0) versus hotels like Causeway 353 at $127/night.
Where to Eat: Grocery shop or picnic; skip expensive restaurant alcohol—buy at stores.
When to Splurge: Snorkel the Great Barrier Reef (~$200/person).
Read more: How to Take a Road Trip in Australia
Traveling New Zealand on a Budget
Year-round beauty includes fall foliage, wildlife, and Southern Lights. Book buses early or rent campervans to avoid costly inter-city flights.
When to Fly: May–September (like Australia pricing).
Where to Stay: Hostels like Nomads Auckland Backpackers ($74/night) versus SKYCITY Grand ($230/night).
Where to Eat: Chicken roll at Bird On A Wire ($10) versus Depot Eatery ($30). No tipping customary.
When to Splurge: Hop-On Hop-Off pass in Auckland (~$32)—hits Museum, Sky City, waterfront every 30 minutes.
Traveling Austria on a Budget
Vienna's summer free concerts, Ringstrasse sites, Lainzer Tiergarten zoo, and Donauinsel are budget-friendly.
When to Fly: April–May ($1,071 RT) before summer hikes ($1,271).
Where to Stay: Motel One (~$90/night) versus independents ($200+).
Where to Eat: Picnics or early bird dinners—prices akin to US/Canada.
When to Splurge: Spanish Riding School performance ($55–$155).
Traveling Sweden on a Budget
Offset high costs with free views from Katarinahissen, Stadsbiblioteket library, and timed museum discounts.
When to Fly: Late August–September ($810 RT) versus July ($1,339).
Where to Stay: Airbnbs (<$100/night) versus Victory Hotel ($227).
Where to Eat: Food trucks ($10) over restaurants ($40+ entrees); skip pricey alcohol. Try ethnic markets.
When to Splurge: Drottningholm Palace or food tour (both under $70 total).
Read more: 7 Things You Should Know Before You Visit Sweden
Traveling Iceland on a Budget
Winter offers Northern Lights, nightlife, glacier hikes, Mount Esja, or free City Walk tours.
When to Fly: Budget carriers like WOW air successors: $740 (June), under $500 (Oct/Nov).
Where to Stay: Safe Airbnbs versus hotels ($250+; e.g., Hlemmur Square $239).
Where to Eat: Kebabs/falafel/soup (<$10) over steak/seafood ($35+).
When to Splurge: Blue Lagoon ($54 off-season) or snowmobiling ($200–$300).
Photo Credits: Kosala Bandara, Ian Brodie, Moyan Brenn
