Partying while you’re traveling abroad isn’t just about having a good time, it’s also a great way to get to know locals or other travelers. Some of the most fascinating people abroad can be the person sitting next to you at a pub or dancing in front of you at a concert. But it’s no secret that living it up night after night can get expensive no matter what continent you’re on. That’s why we’ve come up with some suggestions for having fun without going broke.

Find Out Where the Locals Go

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Restaurants, bars, and nightclubs that cater to tourists tend to be more expensive than places where the locals go. Ask around to see where the best local spots are. They’ll typically be off the beaten path (in less touristy areas), which will also give you the chance to check out a different part of the city. As you’re raising a glass with your new friends, be sure to ask them about other spots to go (so that you don’t get bored).

Go to a Wine/Beer/Whiskey Tasting

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Depending on where you are, a tasting of the local liquor is a great way to get the party started on the cheap (and sometimes for free). Check out local vineyards, breweries, and distilleries to see what tours and events are going on while you’re in town. You’ll often have the chance to buy bottles at a discounted price at the end of the tour. You should take advantage of this (read on for why).

BYOB

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Instead of paying for bottle service at an expensive club, bring your own bottle of something to share at a beach or park (check to make sure that drinking in public is allowed in these locations). Even some restaurants allow you to bring your own bottle of wine, which is usually much cheaper than ordering off the menu.

Look for Free Events

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Check out social media and ask around to see if there are any free events (concerts, festivals, etc.) where you can mingle without spending too much money. Combine this idea with the BYOB above and you’ve got yourself a super cheap night of fun.

Split the Cost with Friends

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Be sure to share the cost of transportation to and from your party spot (cabs, etc.) and other activities (an evening boat ride, perhaps?) with friends. Splitting the cost of food, like for a pizza before you go out for the night, is also a good way to save a few bucks.

Make It a House Party

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A great way to party on the cheap is to do it at somebody’s house (or where you’re staying – IF that’s allowed). This cuts out any transportation costs and is way cheaper than buying food and drinks while you’re out. Stock up on provisions at a local market and bottle shop. Ask everyone who comes to throw some money your way to help cover the cost, and settle in for a cheap night of fun.

[perfectpullquote align=”full” cite=”” link=”” color=”” class=”” size=””]Have any tips of your own for partying on a budget? Let us know in the comments section![/perfectpullquote]

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About The Author

An insatiable foodie, art collector, and international literature aficionado, I have traveled throughout Europe, Asia, the U.S. and Canada. For the past fifteen years, I have written about my adventures for various travel and literary publications. I am the owner of Lucidité Writing (www.luciditewriting.com) and Bouchard Design Co.