In this week's Travel Tuesday Interview Series, I chat with budget travel expert Lucas Peterson, the Frugal Traveler! Since assuming the column a year and a half ago, he has shared incredible insights on affordable journeys, favorite culinary destinations, and his unique travel philosophy.
Lucas Peterson, based in Los Angeles, took over the Frugal Traveler column in 2016. Photo courtesy of Lucas Peterson.
Name: Lucas Peterson
Hometown: Oak Park, Illinois
Current home: Los Angeles, California
Countries visited: At least 30
Website: nytimes.com/frugaltraveler
Twitter: Lucas Peterson, Frugal Traveler
Instagram: StaleTwizzlers
[This interview was conducted over the phone, transcribed and edited for clarity.]
1. How did you begin your travel journey?
I had the privilege of traveling often as a child since my parents worked in roles that required travel. I accompanied them on several trips, including ones to Egypt and China, which sparked my passion for exploration. At 16, I became an exchange student in the Netherlands, and at 19, I lived in China for a year while working at a hotel. After college, I joined the Peace Corps in Central America, which fueled my love for travel further.
2. What's a typical workday like for the Frugal Traveler?
My daily routine varies greatly. If I'm traveling, my schedule is packed as I strive to maximize my time and experiences. I take extensive notes while exploring, which keeps me busy. Since I live in L.A., I often combine trips for multiple stories, filing reports from the road. When I'm home, I still write weekly, balancing freelance obligations and a video series for another site.
Europe is more accessible for budget travelers. Flights tend to be the biggest expense. Photo credit: Lucas Peterson
3. What's your daily travel budget?
I don't adhere to a strict budget. Many publications avoid setting a budget because they want to trust that I manage costs effectively. I'm skilled at finding great deals, so no specific budget is necessary.
If you were traveling personally, would your budget change?
My tastes aren't extravagant, so it wouldn't be a major concern. I tend to view $1,000 as a rough guideline for roundtrip flights but wouldn't let it dictate my choices. I prioritize value over fixed numbers when traveling.
4. Share two tips for budget-friendly travel.
Everyone has unique travel needs. I enjoy using Google Flights to explore destinations within my travel timeframe. By leaving the destination blank, I can see where I can go and at what cost. This approach helps gauge options based on seasons, as costs vary greatly.
I also recommend using bidding sites like Priceline and taking advantage of discounts, such as purchasing gift cards at reduced prices. Street food is another favorite—it's both affordable and allows you to connect with local culture.
Ultimately, there's no single trick for super cheap travel. Monitoring airfare is essential, but sometimes it's better to focus on what you'll do once you arrive.
The Frugal Traveler loves the ceviche in Lima, Peru. Photo credit: Lucas Peterson
5. Which food cities top your list?
China is unbeatable for food, with experiences in Hong Kong, Shanghai, and Beijing. Paris is delightful for those who appreciate dairy and pastries. Recently, I enjoyed the cuisine in Southern Spain and Portugal, where the food is not only delicious but also affordable. Lima, with its fantastic ceviche, is another favorite.
If I had to choose, I'd highlight China, Southern Spain, Portugal, and Paris. And of course, Lima—so good!
Europe is budget-friendly, especially with good airfare. Photo credit: Lucas Peterson
6. What are some of the best budget destinations?
Europe is quite accessible, but it's all about finding affordable flights. I recently returned from Peru and highly recommend it. The diverse geography, from Lima to the Amazon, makes travel easy with local airlines. I also loved the ceviche and even took a surfing lesson!
Interestingly, Iceland seems to be the opposite—cheap flights but high costs once you're there.
7. What's a memorable travel highlight for you?
During college, I spent a month in Syria and Jordan, which were breathtaking. I'll always cherish my time in Petra and the desert nights. Damascus and Aleppo are among the most beautiful cities I've visited, filled with kind people and fantastic food. It's heartbreaking to see what has happened there, but I'm grateful for those memories.
Peterson attributes his love for street food to his ability to travel economically. Photo credit: Lucas Peterson
8. What's a common myth about budget travel?
A prevalent myth is that budget travel has to be uncomfortable. Many envision trekking with heavy backpacks or sleeping on the floor. While some enjoy that, it's not for everyone. You can travel affordably while still enjoying comfort. Sometimes, cutting too many corners can lead to a frustrating experience.
For many, it's about valuing time. Yes, you can travel cheaper, but what's the cost of your experience?
Ultimately, the myth is that budget travel must be uncomfortable or that it's a race to spend the least. I find that sacrificing comfort for cost often diminishes enjoyment.
9. List three essentials you always pack for a trip.
- A portable phone charger—it's a lifesaver.
- A belt with a plastic buckle to streamline airport security.
- Plug adapters.
- A LifeStraw water filter, depending on the destination.
10. What's your next travel plan?
I'm still figuring it out, but I'm leaning towards sub-Saharan Africa—possibly an African safari or exploring regions like Mozambique, Zimbabwe, or Botswana. It's all still in the works.
For more on Lucas Peterson's adventures and tips, visit his Frugal Traveler column.
