Tips for Backpacking Across New York on a Budget

New York City, which is found in the northeastern region of the United States is a dream destination to millions of tourists. It is called The City That Never Sleeps, and it is a place where high-rise buildings reach the clouds, cultures mix, and innovativeness is found on every street. Whether it is the palpitating lights of Times Square or the serene nature of Central Park, New York can not be compared to anything.

Nevertheless, there is one thing that cannot be underestimated, New York is expensive. However, there is good news, and not everyone needs to empty their pocket to explore the Big Apple. Through a little clever planning and inside advice, you can have the magic of New York City, at a budget price that does not make you miss the most classic views and experiences of the city.

Here are some tips to explore the city of New York by backpacking like a smart and low-budget traveler

1. Look out for Affordable accommodations

There are a myriad of choices of where to spend your money in New York when you know where to turn.

Hostels & Dormitories – Hostels are a great choice for individuals traveling alone or who are backpackers. They are clean, safe and social and they offer you the opportunity to meet other travelers at a significant saving. You can visit such neighborhoods as Williamsburg (Brooklyn), Long Island City (Queens), or Harlem, where you can find modern hostels with all the amenities (including free Wi-Fi and shared kitchens).

Airbnb or Budget Hotels – Airbnb booking in Manhattan can save you a half of accommodation out of Manhattan. Bushwick, Astoria or Jersey City (across the river) are the neighborhoods with low prices, where it is easy to stay and then use the subway to reach Manhattan. The rate of many of the Boutique hotels is also budget friendly when you book in advance and during weekdays.

Couchsurfing – If you want to get the local experience of the city, you can get a complementary stay with Couchsurfing, in which locals host international travelers. It is not only a money-saving tool, but a brilliant source of insider information about secret restaurants, cheap food, and places to hang around.

 Pro Tip: Early bookings are always the best bet–cheap hotels in NYC are snatched within a short period of time, particularly, when it is summer or during the holiday season.

Like a Local Take Public Transport.

No need for taxis, the New York public transport network is your new friend. It is dependable, cost-effective and effective.

2. Use Public Transport

Acquire a MetroCard – with $34, a 7-day unlimited MetroCard, you can ride as much as you can on subways and buses. It has the largest number of subway stations in the world (more than 472) and it serves everywhere between the Bronx and Coney Island.

Walk Everywhere – NYC has numerous landmarks that can be easily walked to. You can walk through Times Square to Central Park or Chinatown to Brooklyn Bridge in a simple walk. It is also worth walking to experience the vibrant street art, architecture and feel of the city.

No Taxis and Rideshares – Even though this option will be tempting, taxis, rideshares such as Uber, or yellow cabs can quickly start to drain your budget, particularly during rush hours.

3. Eat Like a Local

 Pro Tip: Use the Citymapper or NYC Subway to get around like a professional.

Eat Like a Local

The New York food scene is mythical, yet there is no need to eat in Michelin-starred restaurants to experience what this city tastes like.

Food Trucks and Street Vendors – The NYC street food is known all over the world, and it includes hot dogs, pretzels, tasty halal meals, and tacos. Eat on the go within such places as Bryant Park, Union Square or Midtown Manhattan and get a taste of a cheap meal.

Pizza Dollar Slices – Yep it is, what they say! You even can take a slice of cheese that costs you one dollar at restaurants such as 2 Bros Pizza or Joe Pizza. It is the ideal fast food when you are sightseeing.

Grocery Stores and Delis – Prepare snacks and fresh-cooked meals at Trader Joe, Aldi, or even at the local bodegas. Several delis are providing build-your-own-sandwiches, which are not only satisfying, but also cost-effective.

 Pro Tip: Have a New York bagel in the morning – it is cheap, typified and it is delicious.

4. Enjoy Free and Low-Cost Attractions

New York has free things, or free-almost things, that are the best.

Central Park – A visit to NYC cannot be complete without visiting Central Park. See such attractions as Bow Bridge, Bethesda Terrace, and The Mall, or simply sit down on the Great Lawn and read a book. During summer, it is also possible to attend free concerts or open air movie screenings.

Ferry Rides – Have an amazing ride on the Staten Island Ferry, again free of charge and see amazing views of the Statue of Liberty and the Manhattan skyline without any expensive tour.

Museums – New York has some of the finest museums that have pay what you wish hours. The Museum of Modern Art (MoMA), American Museum of Natural History, and the Metropolitan Museum of art (MET) frequently offer unpaid or donation based entry time.

Street Performances and Events – When in other areas such as Times Square, Washington Square Park, and Union Square you will find skilled musicians, dancers and performers who engage in free performances.

 Pro Tip: Visit nycgo.com and see a list of free events, festivals and exhibitions that take place weekly.

5. Save on Entertainment

The entertainment business in New York is one of the legendary sights and you are able to enjoy it without emptying your pockets.

Broadway on a Budget – We Love Lucy musicals? Use apps such as TodayTix to get discounted tickets or go to the TKTS booth in Times Square to get ticket deals of the day.

Free Shows and Festivals – NYC has parks and plazas which offer free concerts, movie nights and street fairs all year round. Go in summer when there is an event such as Shakespeare in the Park or SummerStage.

Comedy Clubs and Open Mics – Go to some cheap comedy clubs such as the creek and the cave or the Gotham comedy club where you can see upcoming comedians (you may even see a celebrity act).

 Pro Tip: In New York, there are a lot of events that have suggested donation tickets, you must always inquire with them before paying full price!

6. Be Smart About Sightseeing

There is no need to pay a lot of money in order to visit the best attractions of the city.

CityPASS or Explorer Pass – The passes will help you save as much as 40 per cent on the cost of entry to such iconic attractions as Empire State Building, Top of the Rock, and 9/11 Memorial Museum.

Self led Walking Tours – forego the expensive guided tours. You can download free walking tour maps or follow You Tube audio tours to discover such neighborhoods as Greenwich Village, Harlem, or DUMBO in your own time.

Free Sights – Don’t overlook the numerous free symbols of NYC, the Brooklyn Bridge, Grand Central Station, Rockefeller Center and Public Library are all essential attractions that are free of charge.

 Pro Tip: Check out some of the viewing areas like Brooklyn Bridge Park, or Top of the Rock, where you escape the crowds and high prices of the viewing areas.

Final Thoughts

There is no need to spend a lot of money to have a great time backpacking around New York, but it is still very satisfactory. The city has never-ending experiences be it the world-class art or the street shows, walk through Central Park or in Brooklyn, the sunset.

All you have to do is have an adventurous attitude, a MetroCard, and the feeling of curiosity. You will soon find out that the magic of New York does not lie in the amount of money you spend, but the experience you have.

Then grab your backpack, go out on the streets and prepare to explore New York City, the cheap way.