Bucket List on the Budget

Bucket List on the Budget

Bucket List on the Budget | brokeGIRLrich

When you think of London, England, you don’t exactly think ‘Frugal Living opportunity’ because it’s long been associated with high costs and a ‘luxury holiday’ feels to it. However, about a month ago Britain decided to hold a vote to leave the EU, and since then the value of the Pound Sterling has taken a nosedive off the high board to a 30-year low against the Dollar. While it’s still not exactly rife with frugal opportunities, it does present those who had it on their bucket list with a chance to do it cheaper than before.

The cost of holidaying from the US to the UK is about $1000-$1500, including travel and accommodation, but thanks to the fallen pound, you can probably shave about $500 off in hotel discounts and sustenance on an average trip. However, that doesn’t really do much in terms of affordability, and unless you have recently made a fortune winning the lottery or playing the spread betting markets, you probably want that figure to drop an awful lot lower. So here are a few savvy tips to make that dream holiday a reality with the pound at its’ most favourable.

1)   Hotels aren’t the only way to go: While you probably won’t find a way to convince your parents to head out with you so you can enjoy more free rent, there are other options on the table. Sites like Airbnb and Housetrip help match you with people looking to rent out their homes or rooms and you can easily save 50% on an average Hotel bill.

2)   Just like Las Vegas, London has a great selection of performances and shows to watch. Rather than booking premium seats, check out local touts around Leicester Square or Last Minute deals which could save you over 70% on an average ticket. If you want to be extra frugal – just watch the street performers who are in Covent Garden most of the day (although you may have to give them a Pound or two in appreciation)

3)   If you want to dine out then expect to pay for it, but there is no reason that you should have to pay full price. There are a multitude of sites like OpenTable that feature Special Offers for some of the best dining locations that England has to offer.

4)  Travelling on the underground is not as cheap as some might expect. Be prepared to spend about £11 on a Day’s TravelCard with small savings if you book for a Week. However – areas like Central London are actually quite small and the train maps can be deceiving. Consider mapping your destination at one of the local free Wifi places since walking may be a quicker and cheaper option. (At worst there’s always Uber which isn’t too costly)

5)   Some of the greatest Tourism opportunities that London has to offer include free things. Buckingham Palace, Big Ben, Hyde Park and almost all Museums are free to peruse and certain months of the year offer more attractions like the Notting Hill Carnival.

So while you may not be able to enjoy London on a shoestring budget, you can certainly come close thanks to the tips above and the beneficial exchange rate now. Whatever you choose though, be sure to come back for more tips on frugal living right here at our blog.

12 thoughts on “Bucket List on the Budget

  1. You bet, London is calling! It’s certainly a lot cheaper to travel there as well as many places in the EU too considering the improved exchange rate with the euro. I don’t expect it to change much in the near term either. Hopefully my family can take advantage of the opportunity sometime soon, but we have no plans right now.
    The Green Swan recently posted…Why Bad Things Happen in ThreesMy Profile

    • I agree- just training yourself to double check for deals for the way you live your regular old life really starts to add up over time into some significant savings and it can change your overall mentality on spending too.

  2. I’m still a bit hung over from seeing our British neighbours leave, but one of my favorite cities did indeed become a lot cheaper because of it. Trying to look at it from the bright side 🙂

    The best times I’ve had in London were spent chilling on Trafalgar square, visiting the lovely Notting Hill and Portobello market, and just driving around on an all-day public transport pass. You can spend a lot of money if you want to, but it can be done on the cheap.
    Mrs. CTC recently posted…Can Anyone Become a Morning Person? – UpdateMy Profile

  3. Wow! I was just talking to someone today about how visiting London is one of the top places I want to visit once I pay off my debt. With Brexit happening, it seems like a great time to visit. The tips you provided are also helpful! Every dollar saved helps. I cannot wait to finally go there.

  4. I definitely always look up street maps (and some general crime info) to see if walking can happen. Then I pack the best shoes for that. Saves so much and you see random parts of the city you hadn’t planned for. I hope you enjoy your trip.
    ZJ Thorne recently posted…Net Worth Week 17My Profile

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