I've been to 19 countries in just one year – here are my best money-saving tips | The Sun

A MAN who has visited 19 countries already this year has revealed his best tips to save money while travelling.

Sam O'Connor, 33, quit his corporate job in March this year to jet set around the world.

In the last seven months, Sam has done multiple boat cruises in Europe, jet-skied in Thailand and overlooked Turkey from a hot-air balloon.

He's also partied at an electronic music festival in Croatia, ventured off-road trails on a bike in Vietnam, seen the glory of Ibiza and gone horse riding in Cambodia.

With real estate investments and an online business funding his travels, Sam's documenting his adventures on social media as he leaves no stone unturned.

He told The Sun Online: "I have a goal to visit all 197 countries in the world."

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Like so many others, Sam, originally from Whangarei in New Zealand, missed getting on an airplane to take adventures.

When it looked like in international travel was reopening, he left the home he'd made during lockdown in Sydney, Australia, and jumped on a plane to head to South East Asia in March.

Since then, he hasn't looked back, but getting around for as little as possible has been one of Sam's top priorities.

Here he reveals the tips he's learned along the way to keep his spending as low as possible.

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TRAVEL DURING SHOULDER SEASON

If you have flexibility in your travel schedule, Sam recommends flying during shoulder season.

This is the period between high and low season.

He says: "You’ll find better rates on flights and hotels and will also enjoy less crowds."

EXTRA COMFORT

Sam says one extra special trick he's picked up is how to get more space on an airplane.

He said: "I learned is to be the last person to board the plane and as you’re walking down the aisle if you see three spare seats then just sit there.

"No one minds since they are empty seats and it means you get three seats to yourself."

TRAVEL LIGHT

If you can travel with carry-on luggage only, Sam says it makes everything a lot easier.

He explains: "It saves a lot of time at airports and you don't have the risk of losing your bags which happens a lot more than you would think.

"The extra fees airlines charge can add up."

INVEST IN A LOUNGE PASS

No one loves having to hang around at airports between flights.

If you're embarking on a big trip, it's likely you'll spend hours at airports.

Sam says: "I invested in a lounge pass which gives you unlimited access to most of the airport lounges around the world for one year for a yearly price which includes free unlimited drinks, food and WIFI."

GETTING AROUND

Transport is reasonably easy as most countries have ride sharing apps but it's always good to get a handle on where you are staying.

Sam says: "Always do a quick search to see the market rate per kilometre is as some taxi company's tamper the meters.

"With the internet it is reasonably easy to find bus and train information which in a majority of countries works well.

"Almost all main cities offer free walking tours. This saves a lot of time on having to do your own research of where to go and the local guide always knows the best spots.

"They accept donations at the end of the walking trip which I almost always do as they give such a great experience."

USING CASH

Withdrawing cash overseas from ATM’s and booking online can involve some hefty fees.

Sam says to figure out what banks offer great deals where they charge no ATM or foreign transaction fees.

He said: "This can save you hundreds as some countries can charge up to $15 per ATM withdrawal.

"A big mistake is people withdrawing from an ATM using their own country’s conversion.

"It’s always best to withdraw in the local currency."

EAT CHEAP

While roaming about at his destinations, finding food has never really been a problem – but it's worth keeping one tip in mind.

He said: "I have always been a fan of eating where the locals eat so if you see a busy restaurant filled with locals then it’s for a reason and you normally get to taste quality local food at low prices."

STAYING HYDRATED

Bottled water can be expensive, especially in parts Europe.

Sam suggests being prepared by taking a bottle and filling it up while out and about.

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He said: "I always bring my own water bottle and fill up for free at the many free water taps over the place.

"There are bottles that have built-in filters to ensure your water is always clean and safe."

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