Living and working in Lagos can get a little overwhelming with the traffic and the hustle. Sometimes, you just need to get away! But here’s the thing — if you’re not careful, that trip can have you running out of funds before you even land back at Murtala Muhammed Airport. So, let’s talk about how to budget for that escape without coming back broke.
Know Your Destination
Ok, so you want to travel out of Lagos, but where to? Cape Town? Accra? Or maybe Abuja? Wherever it is, you need to do a little research. Some places might seem affordable until you factor in food, transport, and fun things to do.
Compare hotel prices and local costs of things like eating out and transportation. Also, the currency exchange rate is your friend and enemy at the same time — be sure to check it!
Book Flights Early
Now, here’s the thing about flights. They can be super tricky. You’ll hear all sorts of advice: “book on a weekday,” “book at midnight,” or “use incognito mode.” Honestly, just keep checking! Sometimes, booking early does help, but other times, last-minute deals can surprise you.
Also, don’t forget local airlines if you’re travelling around Africa. They tend to be more budget-friendly, see the Weekender’s Guide.
Accommodation
Hotels are nice and all, but let’s be real: those extra coins could be better spent on experiences! We love a good Airbnb because you can find affordable, stylish spots and even save on food by cooking your own meals.
And hey, if you’ve got friends in the city, don’t be shy to hit them up for a few nights. Just bring them some drinks and snacks as a thank you!
Tours & Activities
You want to jet ski, go on a safari, visit the museum, and dance at the hottest clubs. But here’s a little hack: look for free activities. Parks, local markets, walking tours, and beach hangouts are sometimes just as fun, if not more. You don’t need to break the bank to have a great time. Plus, many cities offer discounted tickets for museums and attractions if you book in advance. Check out all the deals before you go.
Keep A Little “Emergency Stash”
Always, always have a little extra cash on hand for unexpected things — missed flights, extra baggage fees, or, you know, finding that perfect pair of shoes you just have to buy. Having a backup stash saves you from stressing or using credit cards with crazy foreign transaction fees.
So, who’s ready to escape the hustle and bustle for a while? Whether it’s a quick trip to Ghana, or a trip to Abuja, budgeting properly means you’ll come back with memories and some money left in your account.
