CHILE TIPS FOR BUDGET TRAVELERS
Chile is one of the more expensive countries in South America and although it will take more effort to keep your bank balance in check, this impressive country still has a lot to offer the budget traveler. Take tips from the locals; eat where they eat (but always keep in mind your own health and safety), buy groceries where they shop. Avoid expensive beach or ski resorts. Make friends to share with and just enjoy the simpler things in life.


CHILE SECURITY TIPS FOR BUDGET TRAVELERS
If you are staying in hostels and shared dorm rooms make sure you take your own padlocks, either for securing your backpack or your assigned locker. You could even take a chain and lock to fasten your bag to your bed, in case there are no safe storage. Watch out for pickpockets on busy buses and, for long distance journeys, always take your bag on to the bus if you can.


CHILE TOURS TIPS FOR BUDGET TRAVELERS
Traveling on your own can bump up the cost of everything, so try to link up with other travelers, and take advantage of group discounts. A good place to get free tour information is from Sernatur (URL: www.sernatur.cl) the country's official tourist office. You can pick up free booklets, in English and Spanish, with info on accommodation, restaurants, activities and also maps.
south-america/chile/chile-hotels

CHILE LODGING TIPS FOR BUDGET TRAVELERS
Hospedajes or residenciales are the cheapest sleeping options. Camping is also available, especially inside the national parks, but campsite prices vary depending on the facilities so always check. Dorms rooms in hostels are handy, especially if you're traveling alone. Before booking, ask if there is free internet, a washing machine, space to hanging hand-washing and a common room for meeting other travelers. If you do end up staying in a hotel, opt for shared bath and make sure breakfast is included, to minimize the cost.
south-america/chile/chile-overview/food-and-drink-in-chile

CHILE FOOD TIPS FOR BUDGET TRAVELERS
Try out the food at street stalls or stop by the mercado central, an all round great place to stock up on fresh fruit, have a cheap meal and take in the market atmosphere. You can fill up on tasty but cheap empanadas (savory filled pastries) or humitas (savory or sweet steamed corn wrapped in corn husks) and go for the almuerzo (set lunch). Pisco (a type of grape brandy), a staple of bars in Chile is cheaper and better than the beer.


CHILE TRANSPORT TIPS FOR BUDGET TRAVELERS
Local buses, known as micros, although often packed-full, will take you right across town for next to nothing. Also, getting yourself a good map and walking is a great way to save money and see more. Overnight buses are a cheap way to travel a long distance and good way to save on a night's lodging. But, remember your supplies: warm clothing/blanket (to combat the air-con); ear plugs; eye-mask; snacks and toilet paper! You might also check on last minute flight deals and so avoid the backache.