Anyone dreaming of a stunning holiday could consider Switzerland for their next travel destination. Although small, the country has ultimate packages for adventures, relaxation, and romance. However, Switzerland is relatively expensive compared to other first-world countries. Try looking into these travel hacks to make your trip more cost-efficient yet memorable and fun.
1. Book Ahead of Time
Avoid peak season and get everything booked in advance because Switzerland is a popular travel destination. Choose which attractions to visit and what transportation to use. Hence, a lower chance of getting over budget. Don’t forget to find promo discounts and best deals from various vendors.
2. Consider Travel Passes
The Switzerland Travel Pass allows foreign guests to travel unlimitedly using public transport. It also provides free admission and discounts to many museums, mountain excursions, and shops. For budget travel, maybe you can plan your itinerary around all the benefits this card offers.
3. Use Swiss Francs Instead of Euros
While the Euro is acceptable in most places, you might find several that only accept Swiss francs. Furthermore, the places that accept the Euro usually have a rather high conversion rate, which means you would spend more money. As a country with an advanced banking system, you can also get a travel credit card to manage your transactions more effortlessly.
4. Research Your Choices of Activities
Every type of activity has several options in ranging budgets. For example, a day ski in Zermatt or Verbier is expensive, but you can get a similar experience on a much lower budget in Grimentz-Zinal in the Val d’Anniviers or Leukerbad in the Valais. Check the deals offered by your Travel Pass to explore more of your options.
5. Be Deliberate When Getting Foods
Food can be pricey in Switzerland, but there are many ways to decrease your spending without starving yourself. Buying ingredients from a farmer’s market and preparing your foods is the most cost-efficient way. But if you fancy a traditional culinary adventure, you can opt for cafeteria-style eateries instead of famous restaurants.
6. Consider Sleeping in Nature
Camping on free natural sites is much more affordable and memorable than staying in a city hotel. Several agrotourism packages include a stay in holiday cabins on a farm or in rural areas. If you want a comfy hotel or hostel, try finding one from nearby towns that you can easily access with public transport.
7. Bring Some Gifts Back Home
Never come home empty-handed when Switzerland has plenty of good things to gift your friends and family. Cheese and chocolate are the most favorite, things that Switzerland is most famous for. If you want something from non-food categories, your best options are Swiss army knives, blankets, and watches. Conduct more in-depth research to find the best deals on these goods to help with your tight budget.
Bonus Tips; MySecondLine is Much Cheaper than SIM Cards
MySecondLine offers a more economical alternative for getting a Switzerland mobile and local number. After activating your number by uploading your ID, you can use your Switzerland mobile number for texting and your Switzerland local number for calling anyone in the country. The rates are much lower than conventional SIM cards, allowing you endless communication with your new local friends.