Traveling abroad is a dream for many people. Whether they are tracing their ancestries to a foreign country or simply enjoying the thrill of exploring the cultures of other nations, international travelers tend to look back on such excursions as life-changing events.

As memorable as international trips can be, they also can be quite expensive. Fortunately, there are many ways that savvy travelers can save money when traveling abroad.

• Look for locals when dining out. Restaurants filled with your fellow tourists may boast great food, but such eateries also tend to cater to tourists and therefore charge more money. When dining out, look for restaurants visited primarily by locals, as such locales tend to offer authentic local cuisine at lower prices than restaurants that rely on tourists for the bulk of their business.
• Consider traveling off-season. Every destination, be it domestic or international, has a tourist season and an offseason. If you are willing to travel abroad during the offseason, then you can save a substantial amount of money on lodging and airfare. An added benefit of traveling off-season is that you won't be joined by as many fellow tourists.
• Contact relatives in advance. If you are traveling abroad to research your ancestry, then chances are you still have some relatives who can show you around town and even put you up for a night. Locals will know where you can get the best meals or gifts without going broke, and connecting with an overseas relative can be a great way to learn about your family history.
• Embrace mass transportation. When traveling in regions of the world where mass transportation is how locals get around, utilize this method of getting from point A to point B. Mass transportation is less expensive than taxis or car rentals, and you will get a chance to experience an authentic taste of local life.
• Travel in a group. Traveling in a group is another way to save money when traveling abroad. Travel with another couple or family so you can split the cost of a hotel suite or rental car. Travelers who travel in groups may also be eligible for group discounts that make it even more advantageous to travel as more than just one or two people.
• Avoid overtipping. Whether you're grabbing a quick drink or sitting down to a big meal, tips are already included on the tab in many foreign countries. Confirm if this is the case in the country you will be visiting. If so, don't feel bad about not adding a tip when you sign for the bill.

Traveling overseas is a worthwhile yet costly excursion. But travelers with an eye on their budgets can take several steps to save money when visiting foreign countries.