Here are some ways that I have set myself up for a traveling lifestyle. The majority of the time I travel solo, meaning no friends and no groups, here is how I do it without spending $$$…

1. Free walking tours are a great way to get an introduction to a new city. Check on GuruWalk.
2. Hostelworld.com and Booking.com are my friends.  Often I opt for a more authentic experience. Hostels can be amazing and so inexpensive. Check out my post on Hostels. If stay in a hotel I will look for a local or inexpensive boutique hotel.
3. Skyscanner and Google flights are amazing tools to find the cheapest flights and also which airlines fly to a particular place (which comes in handy when you are trying to get to an off the beaten path local).
4. I love food and eating local is key for saving money and learning about the culture. Search for cool places to eat, explore local food markets and definately try street food. Avoid tourist traps.
5. Skip tours if possible. Often tours are more expensive and not necessary. Generally I will pass on large groups because the experience of being shuffled around ruins my vibe. #notouristzone! It can take a lot more footwork to figure out how to get to where you want to go but the adventures along the way can be worth it. 
6. Public transportation is a yes! Tuk tuks, buses, trams, trains should be your friend when you travel on a budget. Most countries have a very organized, inexpensive and efficient system.
7. Pick Wisely. There are almost 200 countries to visit on this planet so choose affordable places.  London expensive.  Albania not so much. When trying to plan a trip off the beaten path places are often more affordable so you can travel longer and immerse yourself. Luckily there are so many inexpensive, safe and incredible countries to see.
8. Trying to save money on flights and hotels allows me to spend more on experiences like diving, taking kiteboarding lessons or visiting a special place for a once in a lifetime experience i.e. Elephant Nature Park or an African safari.
9. Pick up a part time job in the airline industry for free and heavily discounted flights. I recommend anyone with a travel addiction to try working for an airline. The trade off is that the pay is low and the travel is standby but if you can figure it out every corner of the world becomes accessible!
10. Pack light. A carry on is sufficient and easy to maneuver when you are on the move.