If it's time for a getaway in the south-of-the-border way, you have a lot of options. One thing you won't need is an overflowing wallet. You can explore this magnificent continent without parting with many dollar bills.
Travelers from the U.S. or Canada won't have to worry about jet lag. You can make the most out of every day of your trek without needing much time to recover. Keep these nine tips in mind if the wanderlust bug bites you when your billfold is empty of all but moths.
1. Consider Going Backpacking
If you opt to make your trek a backpacking excursion, you can save considerable money. Depending on the region you visit, you can get away for as little as $35 per day if you select your food and activities wisely.
Many South American countries feature hostels where you can find inexpensive lodging. You can cook your meals on a hot plate to save money over dining out. Since you'll carry most of what you need on your back, you won't need to spring for luggage fees.
2. Book the Right Flight
You can fly out in the morning on a Friday for a weekend getaway. However, you'll probably pay premium fares if you do. Airlines price their tickets based on the desirability of the flight.
If you're on a tight budget, choose to fly when you usually sleep to save money. The red-eye flights are the cheapest available, especially if you opt to head out during the traditional workweek.
3. Pick the Best Dates
Seasons in the Southern Hemisphere run opposite of those here in the North. However, the tradition of summer vacation remains strong. If you opt to travel to many South American destinations during the winter, you'll face steeper prices and higher tourist traffic.
For the best time to visit places like Brazil, opt for the spring or autumn months. In the spring, the rainforest has had a full summer, and you'll marvel at the lush growth. In the fall, you can catch spring fever, at least temporarily, and enjoy temperature climates before things become get too overwhelmingly hot.
4. Eat Locally
Eating locally offers a ton of advantages. You get better nutrition, as plants start to lose their vitamins and minerals soon after harvest. The closer to the source they are, the more of the good stuff you get.
You also discover new flavors. You can explore tastes like llapingachos, which are cheesy fried potato patties typically served with eggs and avocados. Enjoy a bowl of ceviche, a treat similar to a finely chopped shrimp cocktail.
5. Eat Two Meals Instead of Three
One way to save even more money on dining is to eat two meals instead of three, with snacks in between. This practice might sound stringent, but chances are, you won't miss the extra meal — or the tab for it. If you're busy exploring Macchu Picchu at sunrise, for example, you'll hardly miss your morning chorizo and eggs.
For snacks, take along a healthy trail mix of nuts and dried fruits. You can also nosh on granola bars while you trek.
6. Take Public Transportation
How do you get from point A to point B? If you typically hail a cab or book an Uber, you're spending too much. Before you head to your destination, go online and study the local bus routes. Some cities have subway or light rail systems as well. Plan your adventures in advance, and find the lowest-cost way to reach each point of interest.
Also, don't overlook the magic of walking. This mode of transportation enables you to discover hidden shops and restaurants you might otherwise miss. You also get your heart pumping and benefit your overall health.
7. Explore Natural Wonders
Do you know the best part about Mother Nature? Spending time with her is generally free. You can marvel at creatures like white-cheeked pintails and flamingos along many South American beaches. You will have to pay to scuba dive with the dolphins — but you can watch them leap out of the water from the beach without spending a dime. When you vacation, make it your goal to climb every mountain and ford every stream — while keeping your credit card in your wallet.
8. Try Inexpensive Activities
Some excursions are worth paying a little bit more to experience. Who wouldn't want to chatter with a Capuchin monkey in the wild, for example? You can do so without spending as much as you think.
Seek inexpensive excursions to museums and other tourist hotspots. If you travel during the off-peak season, you should find tickets at significant discounts.
9. Volunteer
Consider taking a volunteering vacation. Even though you will need to spend a little money, some organizations allow you to raise funds through sponsorship to fund your trek. Others offer lodging or food stipends.
Book Your South America Trip Without Breaking Your Budget
Even if you're low on funds, you can afford to get away to South America – especially with one of Acanela’s inexpensive excursions. Bid the Northern Hemisphere winter adieu and put on your traveling shoes.
About the Author
Alyssa Abel is an education and study abroad blogger with a passion for travel. Follow her @alyssaabelblog on Twitter.