Left: VW Beetle in Oaxaca, Mexico. Right: Aerial view of Mexico City.
Utilize Public Transport
Most urban areas feature affordable train or bus systems linking airports to city centers. Even Delhi boasts an efficient air-conditioned metro. Opt for a local bus over a taxi to reach transport hubs at a fraction of the cost. Daily and weekly passes can be great for frequent travelers—always grab the 7-day pass in NYC!
In various regions, pickup trucks with seating act like buses, dropping passengers off for minimal fares. In Thailand, these are known as songthaews, and they’re a fantastic budget option.
Consider Night Buses and Trains
Night buses and trains are my top choices for long distances. They save both time and accommodation expenses. Many overnight trains offer sleeping arrangements. Sleeper trains in Thailand, Spain, and India are comfortable and economical, allowing you to avoid wasting a day on travel. Night transport is generally safe, with few exceptions in Central and South America.
A favorite street photography moment at a train station near Delhi, India.
Rail Pass Options
England, mainland Europe, Australia, and Japan offer excellent rail pass deals for travelers and students. Compare individual ticket prices to see if a pass is worthwhile for your itinerary. Don’t forget to plan ahead, as many passes must be acquired before leaving your home country. Students can score significant discounts on passes, so make use of that!
Local Bus Services
VIP tourist buses can be overpriced and draw unwanted attention. Many countries provide more affordable and comfortable local bus options at half the price. In Thailand, I prefer second-class buses, which feature spacious seats, air conditioning, and complimentary refreshments. There are even cheaper open-air “chicken” buses, which are suitable for shorter journeys but can be less comfortable for longer trips. While these are safe in Southeast Asia, solo female travelers should exercise caution in other regions.
Left: La Piedra in Guatape, Colombia. Right: Agra, India.
Taxis and Tuk Tuks
Always agree on a fare beforehand or request to use the meter. Consult locals about the standard fare for your route so you can negotiate effectively.
Prices vary widely. Tuk tuks can be economical in India but can cost a fortune in Thailand. A metered taxi with air conditioning is typically a quarter of the fare in Bangkok. Be aware that taxi prices can surge during peak hours, nighttime, or when heading to airports. Sometimes, it’s best to negotiate a taxi to a nearby public transport station instead of your final stop, then switch to a bus or train.
In destinations with safety concerns, research reliable taxi services. For instance, I only use Meru in India or hotel-provided taxis. In Bogota, I prefer the Tappsi app for secure rides.
Flight Savings
– Look into local budget airlines, which may not appear on major travel search engines. I’ve found Kayak and Skyscanner offer the best deals and options. Whenever possible, book directly with the airline, as some don’t accept foreign credit cards. For airlines like Indigo in India, use sites like Cheaptrip.com.
– Consider flying into the nearest major city to your destination, then utilize public transport or a budget airline. I often take a bus/train combo to Southern Thailand from Bangkok to save on flight costs.
– Be mindful of luggage fees and pay them in advance, as some budget airlines charge hefty fees for excess baggage on the day of travel. Print your boarding pass beforehand, as some airlines may impose charges for not doing so.
– If a city has multiple airports, factor in transportation costs from each. Budget airlines may land at smaller airports that have fewer transport options.
– Pay attention to arrival times. Is there affordable and safe transport available at 3 a.m.? Sometimes it’s wiser to sleep at the airport and take the first train into town rather than splurging on a late-night taxi. This approach also helps save on accommodation. If the transport costs are high during the night, consider paying a bit more to arrive at a better time.
– Keep track of your frequent flyer miles. Sign up for loyalty programs with major airlines in your region. Many major airlines participate in global alliances, enabling you to earn miles even on partner flights. I manage to fly at least once a year using miles. (Stay tuned for a guide on frequent flyer miles.)
– Government-run airlines in developing countries can be unreliable and may have questionable safety records. Always conduct thorough research. Foreign-owned airlines are often more reliable and comfortable. My top choice in India is Indigo, and Interjet is fantastic in Mexico and Central America.
Wooden long-tail boats in Koh Phi Phi, Thailand.
General Transportation Advice
1. Purchase Tickets Early
Buy tickets directly at stations to avoid commission charges from travel agencies or hostels. Prices can be significantly lower when booked in advance, and you can select your preferred seats, especially if you’re sensitive to motion sickness. If you arrive at a station, consider getting your return ticket before leaving.
2. Document Changes
If you need to alter a ticket, always do so in person and request written confirmation. Always obtain a printed copy of your ticket; if you only receive a receipt, ensure you have the contact information of the person who sold it in case any issues arise.
3. Evaluate Your Transport Options
When weighing different modes of transport, consider both the cost and the ease of getting from the airport or station to your destination. Your arrival time should be a key factor. Look at the total expense of reaching your accommodation, not just the city fare.
4. Carpooling
Share rides with fellow travelers to airports or border crossings. Make new friends and inquire about their final destinations. Local travel agents can help find available carpooling options, which may be more economical than taxi fares.
5. Avoid Airport Taxi Fees
Catch a taxi from the departures area to sidestep the extra airport taxi charges at arrivals. I often ask drivers if I can take a ride as soon as someone exits a taxi. This strategy has saved me plenty of time, especially at Bangkok's Suvarnabhumi Airport.
6. Utilize Ferries
Ferries are a reliable and cost-effective transport alternative to flying. For instance, I recently traveled by ferry from Panama to Colombia due to a lack of land crossings. The flight from Panama City to Cartagena was nearly $370 for just one hour, while the 18-hour ferry cost $150 for a private cabin and $100 for a seat. I opted for the cabin. Saving $200 was worth the time spent, plus I accomplished a lot of work and reading. I also made incredible new friends!
In coastal towns, water taxis and boats often provide the fastest transport. Negotiating prices is essential, so ask others at the port if they're headed to the same area to lower costs.
7. Leverage Free Ride Promotions
Register with mobile taxi services like Uber and Lyft. Your first ride is often free, and you can earn free rides for each person you refer. Invite anyone traveling with you to maximize your free ride benefits. You’ll be amazed at how many cities offer these services!
Got any tips for saving on transportation? We'd love to hear them!
