Pound Stretching on a Round the World Trip

So, you've worked out roughly how much you'll need to keep on your route. You've got an idea what accommodation might cost. And you have enough to keep you ticking over with local grub.

But, however savvy you are, it's always good to keep some well-worn saving tips under your money belt. Why pay more if you don't have to? Save a bit here and there, and you'll have some cash to fall back on if and when you need it.We've compiled ten pound-stretching tips to help you on your way.1.

The cost of living We live in the most expensive continent in the world: Europe. And the rest of the West is not far behind too. If you really want to travel economically, why not look at places in Southeast Asia and Latin America?.2. Take interest in your credit card It's easy to forget about the interest rate on a credit card.

Find out what the regular interest rate is before you leave ? not just the introductory rate.3. Reading materials Take a traveller's guide to the area you're visiting. These can be invaluable in finding reasonable accommodation, food, internet cafes and the like. You'll also bump into people who've bought the same book ? good for making friends and comparing notes.4.

When not to take flight Think about the popular days for business travel (usually Friday, Sunday and Monday), and stay well clear. Mid-week flying is always a good rule of thumb. And, if you can, try to miss the busy holiday times.

5. When the sun goes down Think of your accommodation as a bed ? no more, no less. As long as the sheets are clean and the mattress is free of bugs (you're not sharing your bed with too many of them, at least), it serves a purpose.6.

Ask around There's always someone who's 'been there and done that'. If you bump into people who've been around for a while, why not ask them the going rate for things? It might mean you don't pay over the odds for the first couple of days at a destination.7.

Cash for trips When you're booking trips on the road, you can save a few percent on the cost by paying cash rather than by credit card.8. When the sun goes down (part II) Overnight train travel is a great way of leaving your days free, if you're short of time. You might find that the trains overnight are cheaper too.9. Send home by sea The cheapest way to send anything back home is to send it by sea.

It'll take a while ? two or three months even. But you don't always need souvenirs straight away, do you?.10. Don't be shy Don't think you're the only one looking for good deals and cheap ways of travelling. Chances are, you'll meet others who are doing the same trip on an even smaller budget. Don't be shy to save cash.

For more information visit Travel Nation.

By: Haydn Wrath