Thursday, June 26, 2008

Preparation - Mind and Time



How does one travel efficiently, travel to the vast corners of the globe without spending a penny. Many sites talk about cheap/free travel but very few are helpful. This blog contains all the tips about free travel. Things that I have read/know about. (Comments are welcome)

In the next few lines you'll figure out the different ways to travel the world for free(really). At least you'll save your 12 month's salary if you follow these tips.

  • Plan your trip in advance. A proper planning is essential for a successful cheap trip. Sit and prepare your schedule...apply for leaves(if working). And make sure you have a buffer period, just in case you arrive a little late back home.
  • Prepare your mind. The most important factor for a good trip. A cheap travel is not about luxury , quality cuisine etc. Be prepared to face the cultures , climate , foods of different countries. Learn to adapt.
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Before take off


  • There is one important formula for cheap traveling.[Slower you travel] = [Cheaper the price]. In sense, taking a flight will be a lot more expensive than jumping on a ship.
  • Check the season you are traveling in...off-seasons will be much more cheaper for accommodation. Try to reach your destination just before the season starts.
  • Your needs for the travel should be minimal. You should not have unwanted/irrelevant objects with you. Carry just what you need.

How to move ?

  • Become a courier for a courier company. They will fund your trip, all you have to so is deliver their package. Get in touch with a courier firm for more details. Drawback : Be flexible with your timings...Notice can be for just 2 days. And you will not be able to carry a huge luggage.
  • Disaster relief. Many organizations around the globe send volunteers to disaster hit areas. Like the Pakistan earthquake, Indonesia Tsunami etc. You can volunteer for these causes and go around.
  • Get out from the major cities and look for near-by towns, from where the travel ticket will be much more cheaper.It works.
  • Planning for a roadtrip ? Jump into someone else's car. There are many people who like to move their vehicles to other towns but do not want to drive the whole distance. You might land up getting paid for it.
  • Students can try for discounted tickets on sites like:- www.statravel.com . There are many sites like these out there. Look out for them.
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Complete free stay


  • Do a little research and figure out all your far off relatives around the globe. A good chance to go and meet your own blood types and also acquire accommodation. Not to forget, free food.
  • You can request the local people to let you place your tent/sleeping bag in their lawns etc. Most of them will usually allow you inside.
  • Take up residence in someone else's house. Become a caretaker but do a good research before landing in any home. Site like www.caretaker.org will help.
  • Home swapping is another way to stay for free. Offer your home to another traveler and you can stay in their homes...for free. This mode of accommodation is gaining popularity.
  • Many sites like www.hospitalityclub.org helps travelers around the world to get together.A must visit site.
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How to earn while traveling


  • If you know a skill or a craft you can easily get a job in another countries. Ex: If you know how to cook, you can get a job in a restaurant.
  • Teaching. One of the best way to earn as a traveler. Ex: One can teach English in Asian countries.
  • Look out for job sites of the country to which you will travel. One can apply to a job for a temporary time period. Many sites are out there. Google will help.
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Important safety tips


  • Do not accept any package from a stranger.
  • Report any unattended items in the airport or aircraft to the nearest airport or airline personnel.
  • Hold your luggage tight. When placed on the floor keep one leg between the straps of the bag.
  • When you check into your hotel, ask the reception to give you a card with the hotel's name address and telephone number. This will come in handy if you get lost or forget the name of your hotel.
  • Carry all the important papers with you. Make sure you also have the photo copies of them.
  • Do not list your home address on your luggage label. If visiting a friend you can list their address.If on a busines visit , place your company name and number.
  • Women in particular never accept a drink from a stranger. Keep an eye on your drink at all times.
  • Do not discuss your travel plans, room number or any other personal information in public.
  • Never show your money in public.
  • Carry only one/two credit cards.