How to Ditch the Travel Itch When You’re Too Broke to Book a Flight

There’s nothing more exhilarating than the rush of booking a flight — the more spontaneous, the better. But as with most great things in life, they don’t come cheap. So if your funds are reaching a dangerously low point but you’re starting to feel the symptoms of travel fever, try out a couple of these budget-friendly ideas. They’ll keep your restless feet going while making sure your bank account stays intact!

1. Hike a nearby mountain

I always contest that trekking a mountain is never a bad idea. You get the feeling of being away from the noise and chaos of the city, but you don’t have to travel very far. Especially if you bring packed lunches, mountaineering is virtually free, so you never have to spend exorbitant amounts.

If you’re getting tired of day hikes, challenge yourself by going camping! You may not be in a lavish hotel or a cosy Airbnb. But camping gives you the feeling of reconnecting with nature and being isolated from the rest of civilisation. If that’s your kind of thing, get ready to pitch a tent! Best part: It’s easy on the wallet!

Also read: 12 Mountains in the Philippines to Add to Your Bucket List

2. Go on a cheap road trip with friends over the weekend

Drop everything you’re doing, hastily pack your bags, and gather a couple of your most happy-go-lucky friends for a spontaneous road trip. Book a simple Airbnb somewhere that’s not too far from home yet far enough to get you excited about going on a trip. Sometimes, all you need is a quick vacay to break the monotony of your daily routine and quench your thirst for travel.

Also read: Road Trips Made Easier: Barkada Trips You Can Take Aboard This Premium Bus!

3. Chill at an easily accessible beach

The beach is a happy place for most people. Luckily, there are usually beaches not too far away from most cities. Even if they aren’t world-class — perhaps the shoreline is more stone than powdery soft sand — but just being away from the stress and listening to the waves lap against the shore should be enough of an escape from the daily grind.

Also read: 10 Idyllic Beachfront Rentals Near Manila for a Private Slice of the Beach

4. Visit the landmarks around your own town

I often find that whatever attraction is nearest to me is last on the priority list of things to see. Even within the city, there are usually great landmarks that are worth checking out. Go to your local museum with interesting exhibits you’ve been hearing so much about; head downtown and try out the hippest eateries; take a stroll at a nearby park and have a relaxing picnic with friends. De-stressing and taking a break doesn’t mean having to drive miles away from town or flying out of the country. You can have your own fun, quick, and affordable vacation without ever having to leave the city.

Also read: 5 Reasons Why You Should Visit Philippine Museums

5. Go on a gastronomical adventure with your foodie buddies

If you can’t splurge on a flight, at least splurge on food! Going on a food trip is an exciting and delicious way to have some fun (and it’s way more affordable than airfare!). If you miss the thrill of making travel itineraries, it’s time to whip up a tasty plan to hit all the hottest restaurants in town.

Also read: 5 Reasons Why I’d Rather Not Travel If I Can’t Afford a Good Time

We all deserve a vacation every now and then, but by no means does it have to empty out our bank accounts! So next time you feel the call to travel again but don’t have much to spare, try out a few things from this list. And always remember: You may be broke, but there are always ways to make every occasion feel like a vacation.

Featured image credit: shevytsovy via Canva Pro