## How Much Money to Travel South America for 6 Months
Introduction
South America is a vast and diverse continent, with a rich culture, stunning natural scenery, and vibrant cities. It’s a popular destination for backpackers and long-term travelers alike. But how much money do you need to travel South America for 6 months?
The answer depends on several factors, including your travel style, the time of year you travel, and the countries you visit. However, as a general guide, you can expect to spend between $1,500 and $2,500 per month.
Budget Breakdown
Here’s a breakdown of the average monthly expenses for a 6-month trip to South America:
Accommodation: $250-$500
Food: $200-$400
Transportation: $200-$400
Activities: $100-$200
Other expenses: $100-$200
Accommodation
The cost of accommodation will vary depending on the type of accommodation you prefer. Hostels are typically the most affordable option, with dorm beds starting at around $10 per night. Private rooms in hostels start at around $20 per night.
If you prefer to stay in hotels, expect to pay more. Budget hotels start at around $30 per night, while mid-range hotels start at around $50 per night.
Food
Eating out in South America is relatively inexpensive. You can expect to pay around $5-$10 for a meal at a budget-friendly restaurant. If you’re on a tight budget, you can save money by cooking your meals. Groceries are also relatively inexpensive in South America.
Transportation
Transportation costs will vary depending on the countries you visit and the distances you travel. Buses are the most common form of transportation in South America, and they’re relatively inexpensive. You can expect to pay around $10-$20 for a bus ticket between major cities.
If you’re looking to save money on transportation, consider taking overnight buses. They’re usually cheaper than daytime buses, and they’ll save you the cost of a night’s accommodation.
Activities
There are plenty of activities to keep you busy in South America, from hiking and trekking to visiting historical sites and museums. The cost of activities will vary depending on the activity you choose. However, you can expect to pay around $10-$50 for most activities.
Other Expenses
Other expenses to consider include laundry, visas, and travel insurance. Laundry costs will vary depending on where you go, but you can expect to pay around $5-$10 per load. Visas are required for some countries in South America, so be sure to check the visa requirements for the countries you’re planning to visit. Travel insurance is also a good idea, as it will protect you against unexpected events such as lost baggage or medical emergencies.
Additional Tips for Saving Money
Here are some additional tips for saving money on your trip to South America:
Travel during the off-season. The off-season in South America is typically from April to October. During this time, you’ll find lower prices on accommodation and transportation.
Negotiate with vendors. Don’t be afraid to negotiate with vendors for discounts on tours, activities, and souvenirs.
Cook your meals. Eating out can be expensive, so save money by cooking your meals.
Take advantage of free activities. There are plenty of free activities to enjoy in South America, such as hiking, swimming, and visiting museums.
Travel with a group. Traveling with a group can help you save money on accommodation and transportation.
Conclusion
With careful planning and budgeting, you can easily travel South America for 6 months on a shoestring budget. Just be sure to do your research and be prepared to make some sacrifices along the way.