Flying to South Korea on a Tight Budget

Ever dreamed of getting on a plane to the land of Kpop and Kdrama? That was my exact fascination 5 years 

ago. It wasn't long until I was able to visit the land of the morning calm almost every year after my

first visit. For those coming from Southeast Asia, Korea can be very expensive with their food prices almost

3 times or 4 times our local price tag. The cost of accommodation can be bewildering too!

 

So, how did I get by on such a small budget?

 

Here are the tips:

 

1. Plan your trip...down to the smallest details!

Know the places you will visit. Be familiar with the entrance fees. Check for sales online.

Everland and Lotte World often give discounts if you purchase tickets online. Also take advantage of the weekdays

because going there on weekends would mean longer queues. Learn how to take the subway. Buy your flight ticket on a seat sale!

 

2. Book your accommodation near the city center

Why? Because taking a cab can be very expensive...Take advantage of the subway system and get some exercise

I experienced walking 2 kilometers to a destination and another going back. Everyone walks in Korea. That's how they maintain their slim bodyframe.

 

3. Take your water bottles with you!

It can spell a difference in your budget. Refill your water bottles in your accommodation or fill it with your

favorite beverage. A cup of coffee can be steep in Korea. Prepare it yourself and save some cash.

 

4. Cook and buy groceries.

This is the secret to stretching your budget. This is healthier and at the same time fun. You can also pack up some snacks and try some Korean noodles from the grocery store. You can also eat out once a day in a good restaurant. I experienced eating out every meal on one of my trips and I felt sluggish after 4 days.  

 

5. When eating out, avoid touristy areas.

The food prices can be way higher if you eat near tourist spots. You can find good restaurants near universities

because prices tend to be student friendly. Prices should not go higher than 10,000 won or around 10 dollars per meal. You can also try Lotteria, a Korean fastfood chain which can range from 4-8 dollars per meal.

 

6. Pack your toiletries.

I remembered not taking my toothbrush and shampoo with me one time. The price of toothbrush is 5 times higher than what I can get in my country. Pack up some moisturizer and lip balm becasue the weather can get too cold.

 

7. Pack the right clothes and the right shoes.

Nothing can be more devastating than  wearing thin sweaters on a frosty morning or feeling the cold crawling through your toes. Clothes and shoes are way more expensive in South Korea than in other Southeast Asia countries. Pack up and choose your clothes well.