How to explore Scotland on a budget this year

Scotland is one of the most scenic and interesting countries to experience in the UK and Europe as a whole. It can be difficult to travel around and see everything you want without breaking the bank. It can be done though. A holiday in Scotland doesn’t have to cost the earth. You can enjoy hotels in Scotland without having to spend too much. 

Whether you’re visiting Scotland for a few days or longer, these money saving tips on Scottish hotels, transport and everything else will save you money in the long run.  There are so many ways to save money, thus enabling you to enjoy your trip to the fullest.

From finding fantastic hotel deals in Scotland, how to save on entrance fees, eating out at restaurants and much more.

Booking hotel deals in Scotland

When looking at hotels to stay in Scotland it can be one of the most expensive parts of the trip but we’ve put together some fantastic ways to save when looking book accommodation in Scotland. 

One of the first ways to save is to look for deals on hotels. This can be through an OTA (online travel agent) where they will have different kinds of deals such as bed & breakfast and other dinner packages; depending on how many nights you book. Other hotel offers can be spa weekends, adventure breaks and walking holidays. 

Try Hostels in Scotland

Some hotels are lovely. There are certain traveller hostels with their own rooms for those wanting a little bit of privacy. There are many with private bathroom facilities as well. There is high quality hostel accommodation all around Scotland; not just the big cities. Hostels are also the cheapest way to rest your head. You’ll be surprised that most hostels are aimed at more mature travellers, not students looking to party the night away.

AirBnB in Scotland

AirBnB is another cost effective way of accommodation in Scotland. More so if you’re visiting longer term such as 10 days or 2 weeks. It also means you can live like a local and find out more about the population – which is an added bonus. Make sure to book with a rated host who is local.

Pick up and drop off your rental car at the same place when looking to save on transport

Doing this can save money. One way car rentals have extra and even hidden costs that can add quite a lot on. Renting a car in general can add quite a chunk of budget when exploring Scotland.

Book rail tickets in advance

Booking your tickets far in advance makes sense. Whether you’re coming from another part of the UK such as London or looking to travel between Glasgow and Edinburgh.  It’s cheaper doing that than paying for a train ticket on the day of departure. 

Off-peak train departures

Using trains at off-peak times can save quite a bit of money. Using them on weekends and after 9.00 am on weekdays.

Bus and Train passes for travelling around Scotland

If you are travelling around Scotland a lot during your visit then a travel pass is another way to save and spend on other things you want. Whether you book a travel pass for the bus, train or ferry; it will save you money compared to buying tickets every day.

Bus over train when visiting Scotland

Exploring Glasgow then Edinburgh is much cheaper by bus than train. Book in advance for better travel deals with the likes of Megabus or Stagecoach. 

Save on food by booking self-catering accommodation in Scotland

This is a great way to save as you won’t need to eat out as much and can cook meals you want. Preparing meals can save a lot as it all adds up.

Explore restaurant vouchers for discounts

Use online vendors, similar to OTA who offer special deals at cool bars and restaurants. These are available through Scotland.

Shop smart with a meal deal or a takeaway

Explore a traditional fish and chips restaurant and enjoy a typical British chippy. It can be cheaper than sitting in a restaurant. Also look at meal deals in supermarkets. You can get a sandwich, drink and savoury snack for a few pounds. Excellent for on the go.

Drink tap water and use a reusable cup

Tap water in Scotland is famous for being fresh, cold and just great. Means you don’t have to buy bottled water. Using a reusable cup saves as well. It’s also ecofriendly as less plastic.

Choose local in pubs when visiting Scotland

Local beer in Scotland is cheaper than imported beer, spirts or wine. Tennents is a favourite Scottish tipple. Anyway – you’re travelling to Scotland so try something new! There is cheap imported version too such as Amstel.  If you want to try whisky – many pubs have special offers on drams each month. 

Short breaks in Scotland on a budget

These are just some of the best ways to save money on hotels in Scotland, food and drink as well as transport. Sticking by these rules mean you can spend more on what you want. This could be experienced at Scottish attractions, nights out or a special night in a hotel.

Don’t forget to check out the best things to do in Edinburgh!