Banner image courtesy of Gary Ellis
Just slow down. Easier said than done, right? However, for UK residents, it’s worth embracing the challenge when exploring new formats of domestic travel. Borrowed cars, affordable campsites, and scenic hikes from free car parks are all ways to embrace adventure on a budget. It’s absolutely possible to experience the best of the UK’s wilderness without splashing too much cash.
Staying away longer, embracing JOMO (the joy of missing out), and detour destinations are rising variations of the slow travel movement. But what about funding them? Here are the secrets to success: how to plan adventure travel on a budget.
Planning Scenic Routes with Minimal Costs
Get creative when planning scenic routes. For instance, you might drive the North Coast 500, wind through the Cotswolds, or brave the Lake District’s Hardknott Pass. Or if you’re reliant on public transport? Ride the St Ives Bay, East Coast Main, or Settle to Carlisle train lines. Think road trips and cheap-as-possible railway rides. The price of petrol or a train ticket should be the maximum expenditure goal.
Top Hiking Trails Across the Country
Lace up those hiking boots; you’re about to get free scenery. For summit trails, consider tackling Yr Wyddfa or Ben Nevis (both big-name peaks in the UK). Alternatively, test your nerves on ridge trails like Helvellyn or establish your grit on long-distance trails like the South West Coast Path or West Highland Way.
Affordable Campsites with Incredible Views
Dartmoor and Scotland really take the biscuit here. Both destinations widely permit wild camping, reducing overnight costs to a grand total of £0 — a budgeting job well done. However, outside of these two, another option is choosing budget-friendly campsites. Many businesses, including Wallace Lane Farm, Seatoller Farm, and Celtic Camping, have scenic spots for small tents at under £30 per night.
Not keen on compromising? Consider off or shoulder-season camping for snagging cheaper rates at premium sites. It just requires extra clothing and thermal gear.
Making the Most of a Short-Term Road Trip
On the surface level, it’s easy to think that short-term road trips contradict the whole premise of “slow travelling.” That’s not necessarily the case: your itinerary is the most important factor. Research the destination carefully, prioritising a light itinerary with a few in-depth activities or attractions. Embrace the few roots of the destination rather than rushing to look at all its leaves.
Gear and Essentials That Won’t Break the Bank
Embrace a little forward planning and tactically purchase gear and essentials. Always scope out bargains during sales (we’re looking at you, Black Friday) and out of season. A tent is likely cheaper to buy over winter than around the spring or summer holidays. Learn what makes equipment valuable, too, so you don’t waste money on overly-marketed products. For instance, the most important element of thermal clothes is merino.
Tips for Flexible, Low-Cost Travel
Staying flexible is the best way to embrace low-cost travel. That might be travelling in the off-season, being guided by deals rather than destinations, or considering temporary car insurance. The latter is especially important for road trips — rotating drivers can be a lifesaver and eliminate the likelihood of one person becoming exhausted.
Adventuring on a budget is entirely realistic, and the UK has so much in store for you.