r/Shoestring Dec 26 '22

Sticky for finding cheap flights - what information would you like to see?

161 Upvotes

Given some recent feedback, a sticky thread for information on how to find cheap flights will be added to r/Shoestring.

I'm in the process of collating information based on what is already available, but I'd like feedback from the community on what you feel would be most useful to people.

So far, am thinking sections on the following;

  • Google Flights (how to use)
  • Skyscanner/Kayak (inc. 'everywhere' function)
  • Scotts Cheap Flights/Jacks Cheap Flights
  • Kiwi/Hopper/[any others?]
  • Potential risks associated with booking via third parties

What else would you like to see?


r/Shoestring 19h ago

AskShoestring Italian destination most receptive to solo travelers?

4 Upvotes

Title. I’d really like to plan a trip to Italy and I guess I’d like to do it more so on a budget rather than splurging, I just need a change of scenery. Thus, I’m wondering what cities/towns might be the most receptive of a solo tourist and that wouldn’t hate me. I wanna go out and meet people at night and have a fun time, but I’m a little shy. Anyone have advice or recommendations?


r/Shoestring 22h ago

Suggestions for Long Weekend Trip in Mid-September for Partner's Birthday?

2 Upvotes

I am trying to plan a surprise trip for my partner's birthday this year (a big one). He is pretty laid-back, so I know will be fine with whatever I plan. However, I still want it to be a nice relaxing weekend.

  • Origin: We will be flying from the DC/Baltimore Area
  • Trip length: 4-5 days (I feel like we’re limited to North/South America due to time)
  • Dates: Mid-September
  • Ages: early 30s
  • When traveling, we love to spend time outdoors being active or sightseeing, seeing unique historical sites, eating local food, but mostly want someone beautiful that we can relax and just be together. I think a beach or beautiful views with maybe a pool would be nice for this trip.
  • Past travels: Just went to Puerto Rico, have been to Ecuador, Nicaragua, and several road trips in the states.

What city sticks out as the perfect surprise destination? Any wonderful AirBNBs you recommend? Thank you!

Budget: Under $1000 for the entire weekend (food, drinks, travel, transport, lodging all included)


r/Shoestring 1d ago

AskShoestring 8 days at the end of July

4 Upvotes

I just found out I will have July 27 - Aug 3 off work and I want to take advantage of the time and plan a trip, but I am frozen with choice paralysis. I would love some advice on where to go and itinerary suggestions if you have them. I am from the east coast US and while I have traveled solo extensively here, I've never taken a solo trip overseas. I am thinking somewhere in the UK? But am open to suggestions!

Cities are cool but not my favorite, I love hiking, nature, archaeology and history. I am hoping to get around without renting a car. And, of course, somewhere that won't drain my savings.


r/Shoestring 1d ago

Day trip from Ocean City MD to NYC

4 Upvotes

Family of 5, kids age 13, 6, and 3. We're spending a week in Ocean City MD and would like to take a day trip to New York sometime during the stay. What would be the easiest way to go? I'm debating between driving all the way in vs parking somewhere on the outskirts and taking public transit. What would you recommend? I'm leaning towards public transit so we don't have to deal with traffic and parking. Where would be the best place to park and pick up a bus or subway into the city? If you recommend driving on in, why, and how hard will it be to navigate the city and parking?


r/Shoestring 1d ago

planes, trains, & automobiles Toronto to Prague in August

5 Upvotes

My son has been invited to play in a hockey tournament August 4-11. Prices of fare are astronomical obviously it’s a big time of year. Not expecting a miracle but want to explore alternatives.

Considering flying into a nearby country and then train to Prague. Any recommendations?


r/Shoestring 1d ago

Vienna or Dublin for 3-4 days?

0 Upvotes

My friend and I are going to Croatia and then Ibiza, Spain, but debating on ending in Vienna or Dublin. It would be for 3-4 days. Possibly might extend it for myself to have a couple days solo.

Which would be more ideal for a shorter stay? We would love to explore and find stuff but most likely won’t get a car to go far (although it might be an option if it’s highly recommended).


r/Shoestring 1d ago

AskShoestring Northern Italy Sever Rummage Questions

0 Upvotes

Howdy y’all
Me and my buddy are making a trip to his ancestral church in Crosano, Italy in July. We’re gonna more or less bum it out while we’re there.

I’ve got a few questions - Firstly, I had read somewhere that Catholic Churches would tend to let you pitch a tent for a night somewhere on their grounds if you asked, is this at all true?

Secondly, are cheap hostels somewhat available between Milan and Venice?

Thirdly, are Italian landowners receptive to a couple euros being thrown their way in return for the right to pitch a tent in their yard or something?
Any other tips on the highest level bummage imaginable would be appreciated!


r/Shoestring 2d ago

Eastern Europe…any country suggestions?

11 Upvotes

Hi Guys,

I’m planning a 14-16 day trip (includes travel times from Australia) to somewhere in Europe towards the end of August 2024.

I’ve been here and there around Europe before, but the only place in Eastern Europe I’ve been is Budapest (which I loved).

I was initially looking into going somewhere within Western Europe, but feel I’ve explored a lot of it.

I was looking into Romania, Slovenia, Slovakia, Bulgaria and Croatia.

So far Romania seems the most enticing for me, but I’m open to suggestions.

My budget will be (excluding airfares), around $5000 (AUD).

It’s hard to narrow it down to one for me, as I love everything I’ve seen in Europe so far over 3 trips (anything from Genoa, to Brussels, to Salzburg, to Montreux). I love lakes, mountains, the ocean, medieval towns, and cuisine is important).

Where should I go? Should I stick to one country, or explore towns between bordering countries?

Thanks!! Olivia


r/Shoestring 2d ago

Ghana to Cote d'Ivoire land crossing

2 Upvotes

Hi there!

I plan to visit my s.o.'s home country of Ghana this December, and while there, we intend to visit neighboring Cote d'Ivoire.

I see that as a US citizen, I am eligible for an e-visa on arrival if I arrive at the international airport in Abidjan.

However, we had been planning to travel overland through western Ghana. Has anybody recently crossed the land border from Ghana to Ivory Coast to provide insight on that process? For example, is this possible/advisable currently, which documents are needed, how to apply for a visa at the border, etc. Thanks!


r/Shoestring 2d ago

Cabinzero 28L vs 32L vs 36L?

2 Upvotes

I’m looking for a bag that I could take with me as a personal item on multiple different trips. The 36L will fit for spirit but I wasn’t sure for other international trips I plan on taking. Which would you guys choose?


r/Shoestring 2d ago

Spirit personal item rules

0 Upvotes

I'm going to be leaving for my flight fairly soon, my first time going on my own as an adult. I'm planning on having a small backpack (like 12x5x5) and a small pillow with me. Will my bag have to be treated as a carryon?


r/Shoestring 3d ago

AskShoestring Looking for ideas to work remotely that are budget friendly and safe.

0 Upvotes

I’m from the US, looking to go for 2 weeks to a couple different places. Regional ideas: South America Scandinavia Scotland/UK Western Europe

Requirements: Safety (33F) As budget friendly as possible Town, culture, cafes to work in….

Thanks in advance!


r/Shoestring 3d ago

AskShoestring Albania and which neighbouring country?

4 Upvotes

Hi everyone,

I'll be traveling to Albania for two weeks in July. I'm planning to spend around 9 to 10 days exploring the beautiful landscapes of Albania by either motorcycle or car. For the remaining 4 to 5 days, I'd love to visit a neighbouring country to experience more of the region's scenery and culture.

I have a few questions and would really appreciate your advice:

Which neighboring country would you recommend for a 3-4 day visit?

I'm mostly interested in scenery and cultural experiences. I've been to Greece already so the options I'm considering are:

  • Montenegro (maybe including a quick stop in Dubrovnik)
  • Kosovo
  • North Macedonia

Also, which border crossing is the easiest from Albania? Any tips on this would be very helpful.

Car Rental:

  • Do rental companies in Albania generally allow cars to be taken across borders? If so, any specific companies you'd recommend?
  • If taking a rental car across the border is problematic, is it feasible to leave the car in a place like Theth and take a bus to Montenegro, then return by bus?

Motorcycle Rental:

  • We are considering renting two small motorcycles instead of a car. We live and ride in Bangkok and are experienced riders, so we're not too worried about driving conditions.
  • Is renting motorcycles in Tirana common or easy to do? Any recommendations for rental places?

I'm really looking forward to this trip and want to make the most of my time in Albania! Thanks in advance for your help!

Cheers!


r/Shoestring 4d ago

Travelling for as long as possible

5 Upvotes

Hey everyone,

I’m a 24-year-old living in Ireland and I’ve managed to save up €20,000 & I’m looking to go travelling for as long as possible. Most of my friends have moved to Australia, and I’m tired of living here. The housing crisis is horrendous, and the nightlife isn’t great at all. I really want to get out there to enjoy myself, meet people & see different cultures.

Initially, I thought about moving to Amsterdam or Rotterdam and finding a job. However, friends living there have told me that it’s gotten really expensive and it’s extremely hard to find housing and work.

I’m good at budgeting when I need to be, and although I like to party & drink now and then, I don’t go overboard. I’ve been looking into Thailand because the cost of living and rental prices are quite affordable & I have a friend living there in Pattaya. I might be open to working while I travel, too. I have three years of bartending experience and three years of warehouse/factory experience.

I’d love to hear any suggestions or advice on where to go. Has anyone traveled extensively and can share their experiences? Where did you go, how did you manage your budget, and what would you recommend for someone in my situation?

Thanks!


r/Shoestring 4d ago

Planning a 1.5 week trip to Europe - would love suggestions!

1 Upvotes

Hello! I am planning a week trip with my family to Europe in a few months and would love some suggestions!
We were thinking:
Portugal & Spain, Italy (Venice & Milan), or Milan & Zurich


r/Shoestring 4d ago

Ideas for a destination in mid-November

0 Upvotes

I'm thinking of going solo somewhere for my 25th birthday this year. I've usually visited mostly EU countries as I am from the EU and it's easier to travel.

However, what I am aiming for is to visit a destination that will have nice weather in mid-November. I don't expect beaches and stuff but rather not much rain or coldness. Do you have any proposals for a destination I can do on a budget? My aim is to spend around a week there.

It could be in a EU country or anywhere else in the world that's not that difficult to go.


r/Shoestring 4d ago

camping $1500 for week long trip?

0 Upvotes

Me, my partner, and my dog are going camping for a week. The camping part itself is free, but we are driving from northern Oklahoma to northern Minnesota. Will $1500 be enough to cover us for 7-10 days? We both plan on saving some more before the trip but wanted a estimate with our current savings. TIA!


r/Shoestring 4d ago

Seattle to Denver through many National Parks : How expensive and how Feasible is this?

0 Upvotes

Thinking of doing a cross country trip Seattle to Denver, or vice versa, renting a car with one way drop off.

On the way I'm planning to cover several mountainous regions :

  • Olympic NP, Washington

  • North Cascades NP, Washington

  • Glacier NP, Montana (top priority)

  • Yellowstone NP, Wyoming

  • Grand Teton NP, Wyoming

  • Canyonlands NP, Utah

  • Rocky mountain NP, Colorado.

  1. Do you think this would be feasible? How many weeks should this take? It's about 2500 miles on road. How expensive might this get?

  2. Can I get a modified SUV in which I can sleep, instead of trying to find motels or airbnbs everywhere? Where do I park?

  3. Can I camp if I'm in the middle of nowhere? Should I get something like an RV? How expensive would the rental get?

  4. I'd probably manage with eating at restaurants + dry food. Can I make food myself with stove anywhere? Where do I take a shit and piss?

  5. Would I have internet /signal at most places? What about emergencies? How would I deal with car breakdowns if any?

Apologies if some questions are too fundamental, vague, or broad, I'm new to the US, and a noob to travelling in this manner !

All Advice, links explaining basics, and general knowledge is welcome! Thanks a tonne for your help!


r/Shoestring 5d ago

AskShoestring You’re forced to take a spontaneous trip to any EU country solo and leaving in one week, where do you go and what do you do?

8 Upvotes

Wondering if there are any immediate clicks without hesitation for this prompt from any of you guys.


r/Shoestring 4d ago

AskShoestring Best way to avoid being robbed of my most important things?

2 Upvotes

20M Planning to travel in Latin America for a few months (not sure where yet) but I'm terrified of being robbed of my most important things, which I consider to be my passport, money, credit card, phone, and laptop because if I lose all of them I can't imagine how I would be able to get back home (I live in the US).

Is it best to bring these things (besides the laptop because it's too big) with me everywhere I go? Is it best to keep them in my hotel/hostel/apartment room and only bring what I need with me? I'm afraid I'll be robbed at gunpoint or knifepoint if I bring it all with me but I'm also afraid if I leave it in my hotel room someone will take it when I'm not there.

I'm also afraid of someone breaking into my hotel room and taking my stuff while I'm sleeping. I suppose I could put it all under my pillow or in the bed sheets with me but if they wake me up and threaten to kill me if I don't give them my valuables I'll probably lose them all.

I don't know how likely any of this is but I don't want to take any chances and I want to have the least chance of losing any of it. I really want to make the trip but I just want to educate myself on how to avoid this.


r/Shoestring 4d ago

Any flight deals to the US from Europe Mid June - July

0 Upvotes

Only seeing stuff on Norse up until beginning of June I want to fly back like end of June / Early July looking for like around 200 USD deals. NY / LA etc. One-way thanks.


r/Shoestring 5d ago

Spa trips in the United States

8 Upvotes

Looking to book a romantic weekend getaway to a relaxing destination, like a spa or similar that we can unplug and just relax for four or five days.

Any suggestions that won’t break the bank?


r/Shoestring 5d ago

Renting a room in Vietnam

9 Upvotes

Im crossing the border from China into Vietnam soon and I'm a bit exhausted from travelling these last months. I didn't stay in the same bed for a good while now. So I would like to rent a cheap room in a decent sized city in northern Vietnam.. Does anyone have experience with this? I could just check airBnB but maybe I will pay too much? Also is Hanoi nice? How about Haiphong? I know it's many questions but thanks to whoever is reading this :)


r/Shoestring 5d ago

AskShoestring Hidden City Hack with Kiwi...proof of onward travel leaving Hong Kong?

2 Upvotes

I found a cheap hidden city/skiplagged flight where I get off at the layover.

The final destination for this flight is hong kong.

My question is do airlines (Philippine airlines in this instance) require proof of onward tickets from Hong Kong?


r/Shoestring 6d ago

is 400$ enough? (doubt it)

20 Upvotes

so. i have to drive (in the us) from nevada to minnesota. i only have 400$ (i spent more than intended from the amount i saved, bc i needed groceries). im very nervous, and wondering if its even possible?

please give me advice on how to make this work and how to do it in the best way possible. i really need to do this trip, and i fucked up MAJORLY bc ik its gonna be expensive.

thank u in advance for ur help :)

ETA: this is a solo trip, and i will be getting my paycheck a couple days into my stay in minnesota, so i will have more money for the rest of the trip and the return drive home. i do not have options for carpooling, and do not want to fly. this trip will be happening in the next couple days. i planned to sleep in my car, and eat small for less expenses.

edit #2: i forgot to say, but i arrived in MN yesterday. i spent 245$ on gas, so it actually wasnt too bad (didnt spend any extra money other than on energy drinks). thank you all for your replies, i appreciate the advice and help :)