Cheap Holidays = More Holidays

Ian and Maude-Ann were two of my cabin mates on the Navimag - they're a wonderful couple from Shrewsbury, UK.

I think it’s a pretty safe assumption that if you’re reading Solo Traveler, you love to travel!

Yes, you love it so much that you’re not willing to wait around for a travel partner and you’re not keen on compromising your interests to those of a companion. So how do you travel more? By traveling on the cheap – when it makes sense.

You can only spend a dollar once.
In my previous life as a project manager I learned very well to spend time and money wisely because you only have one chance with each. I now choose my travel destinations carefully and when I’m there, I save money when I can. This trip to Chile is a perfect case in point.

A low budget cruise.
The prospect of traveling the fjords of Patagonia was beyond tempting. I could have taken a fancy ship but I chose the more modest Navimag. And then, choices again. A private cabin is $1600 while a bunk in the common area is $400. I opted for a shared cabin for four at a price of $600 though, after seeing the situation, I could easily have lived the cheaper.

Noemie packing up tent in the morning.

Surprise – I go camping..
On the Navimag I met Naomie. We decided to hike Torres del Paine park together and this allowed me to really save money. Rather than stay at Refugios we rented a tent and I rented a sleeping bag and we  camped. The equipment was perfect and it took the cost of accommodation in the park from about $250 to $90. I should mention that I love camping – I know, it’s not for everyone.

Erratic Rock common room - free wifi in corner, world map for inspiration, comfy couches for socializing.

Rediscovering hostels.
Once out of the park I needed accommodation again and went to a hostel. I have not stayed at a hostel since my twenties (a long time ago) so I wasn’t sure what I would think. It was great — at least the first one was great. For the equivalent of $18, I stayed at Erratic Rock I in a dorm with two other women, had a hot shower and a great breakfast. What a fabulous deal.

The next night in Punta Arenas was a little different. I learned what was too cheap. With an event going on in the city accommodation was scarce so when I found a room with a roof, I accepted it. Get this: private room with private bathroom with shower plus breakfast all for the equivalent of $12. You can imagine, it wasn’t great in terms of quality. I wouldn’t recommend Hostal Macarena.

The energy of travel on the cheap.
In addition to saving money, I find that traveling inexpensively offers something more. It offers the energy of youth and the enthusiasm of those who venture beyond beige hotel rooms. There were many times on this trip that I sat back to take in the scene and notice how truly happy I was. And, by saving money, by taking cheap holidays, I have the opportunity for more holidays.

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