See the World Without Breaking the Bank: One Traveler’s Smart Saving Secrets

A Russian travel blogger who explores the world on a modest salary has revealed his tried-and-tested strategies for keeping travel costs low. In his popular blog "Distant Stories" on the Dzen platform, he argues that a limited budget doesn't mean staying home – it just requires smarter choices.

His first piece of advice? Skip the all-inclusive package tours. "These bundles include hidden markups from hotels and transport companies," he writes. By planning your own trip, you can cut costs by 30 to 40 percent. Timing also matters. "In September, the Black Sea is still warm, but accommodation is a third cheaper," he points out. "In Greece, early October offers 25°C weather, far fewer crowds, and nearly half the cost of August. Same weather, better experience."

When it comes to food, he warns against tourist traps with multilingual menus and aggressive promoters. Instead, head to local markets, bus station cafeterias, and small family-run spots where residents eat. "I had lunch at a tourist place one day and a local spot the next – same quality, but the local meal cost less than half," he recalls. He also recommends checking currency rates via apps, agreeing on taxi fares before getting in, and buying souvenirs where locals shop.

"A small salary doesn't mean the end of travel," he concludes. "It reshapes your route, your pace, and how you plan. I stopped comparing my trips to glossy hotel photos. Now I value local food, hidden corners, and honest prices." His message: travel is about experiences, not expensive accommodations.