For the longest time, I couldn’t figure out how to describe my mindset/style when it comes to a travel budget. On one hand, I’m definitely not a budget traveler. You won’t find me staying in a hostel or scouring the internet for the best flight deal on a budget airline. But I don’t necessarily feel like a luxury traveler either. Staying in a 5 star hotel room seems like a waste of money when you’re mainly just there to sleep, and as much as I’d love to only fly business or first class its just not in the cards for me financially.

So what kind of traveler am I? A quick google search wasn’t much help. Unfortunately, it seems like travel blogs generally fall into only one of two categories: budget friendly or luxury. But what about those of us kind of in the middle? While doing a bit more of a deep dive, I stumbled upon Traveling the World Solo’s post, Budget or Luxury Travel: Why Not Do Both?. It finally clicked: I’m a mixed budget traveler! Someone who splurges on the things that are important to them (which in my case would be cocktails and great dining experiences) while keeping a stricter budget for other less crucial aspects of the trip.

What Mixed Budget Travel Means to Me

– Spend a bit more on high quality travel accessories up front, and then use them until they break. Its so tempting to buy the newest trendy thing, but do you really need to a replacement for a year old bag?

– Stick to cheaper breakfasts and lunches and then go all out on drinks or fancy dinners.

– For the most part stick to cheap little souvenirs, because pictures make just as good memories. But you can occasionally be convinced to splurge on the perfect thing. (I’ll wear it so many times, it’s practically free! #girlmath)

– Walk or take public transportation instead of calling cabs/ubers and use the money saved on long haul flight/train upgrades.

– Spend a little more on the hotel room than you would for a hostel (for the privacy), but less than at a luxury hotel because all you really need is a comfortable bed!

– Before the trip, do a bunch of research on whatever tourist attractions you’re going to visit. Skip spending the extra money for a guide/audio tour – be your own guide!

What’s your travel style: Budget, Mixed, or Luxury? What do you prioritize in your travel budget? Let me know in the comments!