8 Simple Money-Saving Hacks All Travelling Teachers Should Know

Living abroad is amazing, but let’s be real. One minute you’re just browsing cute souvenirs and the next your suitcase is bursting with stuff you don’t need. It’s way too easy to blow through your budget (assuming you have one!). 

You might be one step ahead of us and are already thinking how you can handle your money smartly. You might have heard of the 30-day rule, the 50-30-20 rule or the 30-30-30-10 rule – but that’s already confusing!

But don’t panic! Saving money doesn’t mean missing out on the fun. With a few clever, simple hacks, you can live your best life abroad while keeping your bank account happy.

Ready to transform into a budget-savvy guru? Read these simple money-saving hacks to help you live your best life abroad.

Affordable destinations 

A high salary doesn’t always translate into more savings. Countries like Turkey, Vietnam, Thailand and Cambodia allow you to enjoy a comfortable lifestyle because of the low cost of living.  For example, you can rent a one-bedroom apartment for around $300 in Cambodia, whereas the same would cost around $750 in Japan.

TTA alumna Lisa has this to say about living in Cambodia:

“I currently live near one of the World Heritage Sites: Angkor Wat, and often cycle to see the sun set behind the temples. The cheap living and hot climate make it even more inviting here. My partner and I have been all over Cambodia thanks to their high number of national holidays. We have seen the coastal islands, gone for treks in the wild jungles of Rattanakiri, and seen amazing wildlife spectacles in nearby National Parks.”

Read more: 5 Cheapest Places To Teach English Abroad

Free housing and flights

When scanning job boards, keep an eye out for housing and flight perks. These big-ticket benefits can help you save more. You may pay upfront, but keep a paper trail as many employers will reimburse you for these costs later.

If a free flight isn’t on the table, grab an early bird deal or go for the less popular flights with long layovers or odd hours to cash in. 

Countries like South Korea, China, the UAE, Vietnam, and Saudi Arabia typically provide free housing. 

Even if accommodation isn’t included, some places, like Japan, offer housing support through estate agents or by covering upfront rental costs like security deposits and brokerage fees. 

Every little bit helps!

 Read more: Teach English in the Middle East and Teach English in Asia

If you’re left without housing allowance or financial assistance, you could always team up with another expat or two and share housing costs. 

Alternatively, homestay TEFL jobs are perfect for fresh grads who want to broaden their horizons without breaking the bank. Host families offer a place to crash and provide meals in exchange for language lessons, all while soaking up the local culture and watching your savings grow!

Master the art of budgeting

A budget is required if you’re going to take control of your spending. Track your expenses to get a clear picture of where your money is going. You’ll be surprised how quickly takeouts and lattes drain your wallet!

Spend with intention and keep away from plastic passports to avoid debt. We’re talking about credit cards. Real money lets you see your hard-earned money disappearing, so you’re more likely to stick to your budget. 

Adopt a local lifestyle

You made the brave move abroad so trying to replicate your home menu is not only senseless but expensive. Try the local cuisine. It will be cheaper and tastier. 

You can also head on down to the local supermarket and make homecooked meals. Try the street food when you’re out and about. 

If the school lunch is free, dig in!

Go green

The measures you have to take to save on your energy bill are similar to what you’d do in your home country. 

General tips: 

• Turn lights off when you leave a room.
• Unplug electronics when not in use. 
• Make sure the fridge is closed properly.
• Use LED light bulbs. 

During cooler months:

• Adjust your thermostat to save on the heating bill. 
• Keep your blinds or shades open and let the sunlight heat up your room naturally during the day. 

During warmer months:

• Use shades and curtains to block sunlight from entering rooms. 
• Use a fan.
• If safe, open windows at night for cool air. 
• Don’t go overboard with the aircon.

Cash in on the side

You can tutor extra English classes on top of your salaried job for a financial boost. If you’re not sure whether your employer would frown upon this, offer to work overtime – paid of course. 

As an additional measure, set up an automatic transfer to a savings account and watch the cash pile up. 

Read more: The Best Side Hustles For Teachers

Slash unnecessary spending

Plan your purchases before a shopping trip to curb impulse buying. If you’re travelling nearby, walk or use a bicycle instead of a taxi. 

Use the DIY approach to add a personal touch to your living space, classroom or gifting others.  

 Be thrifty when kitting out your new apartment. It’s temporary after all. 

Tap into online resources for reading material and entertainment. 

 Swap your skills

Don’t underestimate the value of your native tongue abroad. Use it to negotiate free English lessons for discounts. Maybe your local barista will hook you up with free Starbucks coffees in exchange for a few English tips! 

If babies don’t phase you, try offering babysitting services in exchange for local language lessons. You could also put your pet-sitting or handyman skills to work. 

Read more: 15 Genius Teaching Tips And Travel Hacks For TEFL Teachers

With these game-changing tips you no longer have to sit on the sidelines or pass up an Insta-worthy vacation. 

Armed with the know-how to stack that paper, sign up for a TEFL course and secure your future with one of The TEFL Academy’s accredited TEFL courses.