9 Top Tips for Travelling on a Budget post camp

Local Transportation

Opt for local transportation options such as buses, trains, or trams instead of taxis or private transfers. Research the most cost-effective ways to get around and consider purchasing multi-day or weekly passes for unlimited travel. Many cities and towns in Canada have public transport systems with one or more ways to get around.

For example, in Toronto, there is the TTC, which is the subway, street cars and buses. For these, you can get a Presto card at any of the subway stations and load money onto it to ride all of the public transport. You will just tap the card on the bus or at the subway gates.

Walk or Cycle

Explore your destination on foot or by renting a bicycle or scooter. Walking allows you to discover hidden gems, and cycling can be a fun and affordable way to get around while enjoying the local scenery.

For example, in Toronto, you can rent bikes from Bike Share Toronto + Tangerine and it is a very cost-effective way to explore the city. There are over 680 docking stations around the city so you are never far from a location.

Eat Like a Local

Avoid touristy restaurants and seek out local eateries, street food stalls, and markets. Not only will you experience authentic cuisine, but you'll also save money compared to dining in tourist hotspots.

See some of our recommendations for eating in Toronto in our YouTube video.

Take Advantage of Free Activities

Research and take advantage of free or low-cost activities. Many cities have free walking tours, public parks, museums with discounted or free entry days, and cultural events that offer a rich experience without breaking the bank.

Use Local Guides and Recommendations

Ask locals for recommendations on affordable places to eat, shop, and explore. They can provide valuable insights into budget-friendly options that might not be well-known to tourists.

If you are staying in Airbnbs the hosts often are locals and always happy to recommend hotspots to visit. You can easily message your host in the app or ask in person.

Explore Nature

Nature is often free to explore, and hiking, swimming, or simply enjoying the outdoors can provide a budget-friendly way to experience the beauty of your destination. Research local hiking trails, parks, or beaches that you can visit without incurring additional costs.

Stay in Budget Accommodations

If you haven't already booked your accommodation, consider switching to budget-friendly options like hostels or guesthouses. Look for last-minute deals or negotiate for lower rates if you're staying longer. Camp Canada participants get exclusive discounts on hostels in different cities across Canada, head to the Perks section in your profile.

Cook Your Own Meals

If you have access to a kitchen in your accommodation, consider cooking some of your meals. Visit local supermarkets or grocery stores to buy ingredients and prepare simple, budget-friendly dishes.

Consider Group Travel

If your camp friends are travelling after camp, consider travelling with them. Travelling as a group can often be cheaper as various expenses such as transport, food and accommodation can be split between the group members. Another thing to consider is The Coyote Trip, whilst excursions can be expensive, transport, accommodation and activities are included in the cost of these tours. You even get a tour guide to take you and other solo travelers around!

Remember, travelling post-camp on a budget requires a balance between saving money and enjoying your experience. Be open to exploring affordable alternatives, be mindful of your spending, and embrace the local culture and lifestyle to make the most of your budget-friendly travel adventure.

If you want to find out more information about places to visit in Canada with some budget-friendly recommendations, make sure to check out our travel series blogs. We have you covered in Toronto, Vancouver, Montreal and many more!