Planning a trip to Sri Lanka? From tropical beaches to cultural wonders, this island paradise offers unforgettable experiences without breaking your budget — if you know a few smart travel tricks.
Whether you’re backpacking or traveling in style, here are 10 money-saving tips for international tourists, including a little-known way to claim VAT refunds on your shopping.
✅ 1. Travel During the Shoulder Season
Avoid peak tourist months (December–March and July–August). Instead, visit in May–June or September–October when flights and hotels are cheaper — and the weather is still great.
✅ 2. Use Local Ride-Hailing Apps
Instead of taxis, use PickMe or Uber Sri Lanka. These apps offer upfront pricing and are much cheaper than flagging a cab on the street — especially in Colombo or Kandy.
✅ 3. Eat Where the Locals Eat
Skip hotel restaurants and try local “hotels” (Sri Lankan term for small restaurants). A rice & curry meal costs less than $2 and is both authentic and delicious.
✅ 4. Stay in Boutique Guesthouses or Hostels
Instead of big-name hotels, check Booking.com or Agoda for family-run guesthouses, Airbnbs, or hostels. Many include breakfast and free Wi-Fi — saving you even more.
✅ 5. Take the Train (Especially in the Hill Country)
Sri Lanka’s train rides are scenic and dirt-cheap. The journey from Kandy to Ella is famous worldwide — and costs less than $2 in second-class!
✅ 6. Book Safaris and Day Tours Locally
Online prices are often inflated. Once you’re in Sri Lanka, book safaris, hikes, or whale-watching tours through your guesthouse or a local guide to save up to 50%.
✅ 7. Shop Smart — and Claim VAT Refunds!
🛍️ Did you know that international tourists can claim back VAT (Value Added Tax) on eligible purchases?
If you spend more than LKR 50,000 (~$150 USD) in VAT-registered stores, you can get 18% refunded at the airport before you leave. That’s a serious saving!
How to do it easily?
👉 Visit www.SriLankaVATRefund.com
We help tourists:
- Understand the VAT Refund rules
- Find eligible shops (fashion, gems, tea, electronics)
- Submit your refund claim at the airport hassle-free
- Save up to $100 or more depending on what you buy!
💼 Choose our Self-Guide plan (USD 5) or Full WhatsApp Support (USD 10) to get started.
✅ 8. Bring a Refillable Water Bottle
Avoid constantly buying plastic water bottles. Use refill stations at hostels and restaurants. Bonus: It’s eco-friendly and saves money!
✅ 9. Bargain — But Politely
At markets and with tuk-tuks, haggling is expected. Smile, be respectful, and you can often save 20–30%. Tip: Ask your hotel what a fair price is beforehand.
✅ 10. Use a Currency Exchange App
Avoid bad exchange rates at airports. Use apps like XE or Wise to monitor real-time rates. ATMs are widely available — and often cheaper than exchange counters.
💰 BONUS: VAT Refund in 3 Steps
- Shop at authorized retailers (look for the Tourist VAT Refund logo)
- Spend at least LKR 50,000 and get a TVRI (Tourist VAT Refund Invoice)
- Present your invoices + goods at BIA Airport departure counter before your flight
👉 Want help with the process?
Visit www.SriLankaVATRefund.com for fast, tourist-friendly service.
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