5 Simple Hacks to Slash Your International Travel Costs—Without Missing a Thing
“If you’re twenty-two, physically fit, hungry to learn and be better, I urge you to travel—as far and as widely as possible. Sleep on floors if you have to. Find out how other people live and eat and cook. Learn from them—wherever you go.” —Anthony Bourdain
5 Simple Travel Tricks That Let You Explore the World—Without Shrinking Your Budget
Anthony Bourdain never believed travel was about ticking boxes. It was about immersion—the kind where you end up elbow-deep in a bowl of noodles at a night market or sipping something strong and suss in a stranger’s kitchen. He also knew that experiencing the world doesn’t have to cost a fortune.
Here are five international travel tips to explore the world the Bourdain way: with curiosity, humility, and a budget that lets you keep wandering.
1. Eat Where the Locals Eat
Bourdain famously avoided polished “must-visit” restaurants in favor of street food stalls, open-air markets, and unpretentious cafés. Follow his lead. Skip the laminated tourist menus in four-plus languages and let the city’s heartbeat guide you. You’ll find authentic local cuisine with richer flavors, lighter prices, and unforgettable stories.
2. Let Free Meals Be Your Secret Weapon
Even in economy class, you’ll often get a complimentary meal—take advantage. Better yet, airport lounge access from certain travel credit cards can mean buffets, snacks, and espresso at no extra cost. Many hotels throw in free breakfasts or evening bites for loyalty members. Like Bourdain, who would happily eat anywhere from a beach shack to a five-star kitchen, take the wins where you find them.
3. Embrace the Charm of Simpler Stays
Bourdain slept in everything from hammocks to boutique hotels, but the common thread was authenticity. International hotel chains can feel safe (and I’m the first to admit I use them when I’m exhausted or have points), but smaller local guesthouses, B&Bs, and family-run inns are often half the price—and twice the soul. For budget-conscious travelers who are a bit past their hostel days, they’re one of the best cheap ways to travel abroad without missing out.
4. Hold On to Your Cash—Literally
Bourdain wasn’t the type to overpay for a taxi or a beer, and neither should you. Currency exchange counters—especially at airports—can skim 10% or more in commissions and inflated rates. Bring a small amount of US dollars or Euros for emergencies, but use a no-fee ATM card for market-rate withdrawals. Many banks now offer these cards, and the savings add up fast. That’s money better spent on memorable meals or spur-of-the-moment side trips.
5. Make Real Connections Abroad
Bourdain built entire episodes of his shows—and lasting friendships—by sitting down with locals, listening, and saying yes. Not yes to every sales pitch, but yes to an invitation to someone’s home, a community event, or even a wedding with hundreds of guests.
One of my favorite authentic local experiences happened in Nigeria. I was visiting a friend who was working there, and the next thing I knew, I was at a massive, colorful Nigerian wedding—hundreds of guests, music spilling into the warm night air, women in brilliant gele headwraps, and tables groaning under the weight of food and bottles. I barely knew anyone beyond the guy who invited me, but by the end of the night I was laughing, dancing, and knocking back wine with new friends. It cost me nothing but an open mind and a willingness to say “yes”—and it’s one of the richest memories I own.
Your Turn!
Bourdain reminded us that travel is about human connection as much as geography. What’s your favorite budget-friendly travel hack that still delivers a true taste of a place?
Learn the local transport! Metros, buses, motos/boda bodas, ferries, local rideshare apps, shared taxis. I'll usually splurge on the arrival taxi, get my bearings, then use cheaper options as I learn the ropes of a city/country.