How To Budget Travel in Nigeria (Because the Naira is Not Smiling)

primaraldinternshi
Jun 13
3 min read

Updated: Jun 16

Japa is now a trend, and most people look forward to traveling abroad but sometimes the best adventures are right here in Naija...if you know how to travel smart without going broke.

With rising prices, and fuel wahala, traveling might seem like a luxury. But guess what? You can travel without emptying your bank account and explore the beauty of Naija on a budget. With just a few tricks, some street smarts and a little planning, your cravings for waterfalls in Ekiti, beach vibes in Lagos or even a cool weather in Jos can all be reality.

Let's get into the hacks!!!

Choose Affordable Transportation Options

Transportation can eat up your budget If you're not careful.

Flights aren't budget friendly in Naija but if you must, book early with airlines like Green
Africa, Dana Air, or Air Peace during promo periods. Get the best cheap prices here.
Use not so well known or popular transportation companies(buses). It's always cheaper (but you might compromise a little on comfort)
Use the train if there is one in location you're going (surprisingly comfy and always cheaper). Train travel is an experience on its own
Use halfway when commuting long distance (this is my best travel hack whenever I commute from Benin to Abuja). the pros know this
Public buses, okada/bike, Keke are always cheaper when commuting in the city.
Travel off season- Christmas is not the time for that adventure, fewer crowds- cheaper prices

Stay in Budget-friendly Accommodations or Lodges.

Hotels can chop your money even faster than Lagos traffic eats fuel.

Budget lodges or guest houses (always cheaper than hotels)
Go for hostels (not every city has this option but if they do go for it)
Family and friends _ don't be shy to reach out. Hospitality in Nigeria is real

Family and friends are always an option for me, free food, free accommodation and they can take you on the needed tour.

Eat like a local

You don't need fancy restaurants to enjoy Naija delicacies

Avoid restaurants, they charge double
Eat from buka, mama put joints, roadside vendor
Buy snacks or food from the local market rather than supermarket.
University canteens: if you are near a university, eat like a student.

While on the bus you can buy from the roadside vendors rather than the fast food where the bus halts.

Visit low cost or free attractions

Nigeria is full of beautiful places that do not cost much

Jabi Lake and Jabi Lake mall Abuja (Hangout spot for chilling and boat rides)
Magic Land (Abuja) fun spot for game lovers and lots of rides.
Olumo rock: bit of climbing and lots of history
Nike Art Gallery (Abuja/Lagos) photo worthy arts for the art lovers
Zuma Rock Abuja (admire this one from afar😂 loads of fun)

And many more sites you can plan for depending on your location.

Travel with friends or in a group

Spilt the bill with friends and have the fun and experience at a cheaper rate. This saves money. Spilt accommodation, food and other bills. Or you can just make friends on the road and split cost

6. Pack smart and avoid surprises

Bring your own toiletries, medicine, snacks or whatever you can't survive without to avoid overpriced goods (some cities upsell things and might just be far expensive than your city, but it could be vice versa too). Pro tip, if you're traveling from a small town to big cities like Abuja, you might want to buy your necessities from home

Avoid tourist traps

Some vendors and retailers hike prices because you look like a big boy or 'ajebo'

Ask locals for the real price
Negotiate like a pro
Feel proud to walk away when a price feels off

Traveling across Nigeria on a budget is 100% doable. No sugar daddy, no trust fund needed but with smart planning, local hacks and always street smart you can enjoy the rich culture, food and exotic and natural location our country has to offer.