When most people think of vacations, especially traveling abroad, the first thing that comes to mind is their inability to afford a vacation. While it certainly makes sense to save up as much money as you can before jetting off, there are a few ways that you can lessen your expenses and enjoy your vacation without breaking your budget.

Saving on accommodation

While the thought of staying in top-class accommodation can be appealing, the reality is that you'll probably be doing little more than sleeping and showering there. It makes sense then to spend a little less on accommodation so you have more to spend on other things.

Group tours

Group tours are often equated with young people who end up spending more time in the local pubs than anywhere else. Don't underestimate them, though ? group tours (and there are many that don't require you to be young and single!) have a number of advantages.

-Meeting new people

-All-inclusive costs ? many tours include meals and hotel transfers, which is convenient as well as possibly saving money.

-Seeing attractions you otherwise wouldn't. Most group tours are geared towards fitting in as many sight-seeing opportunities as possible - which you may not have had time to see if you had to find your own way around, or may not have even known about!

Make use of public transport

As well as allowing you to become familiar with your surroundings and get your bearings, making use of public transport (even if it's just in and around the city centre) to go short distances is much cheaper than hiring a car or catching cabs.

Use travel guides

Any good bookshop will stock travel guides for many of the main countries and cities of the world. These often include details of free or cheap attractions, inexpensive accommodation and where to dine on a budget.

Don't underestimate discount tourist attractions

When it comes to tourist attractions, cheap (or even free!) doesn't have to equal boring. Options such as exploring botanical gardens, markets and landmarks can be a relaxing way to spend your ?down time?.

While there are many ways that you can trim your budget, the above tips are a good place to start. If you are sensible and open-minded, it really is possible to enjoy a decent overseas holiday without throwing your budget out the window.