Keep your valuables secure and be mindful of your surroundings. Share your travel itinerary with family or friends. Keep a copy of important documents (passport, ID, etc.) in case of loss or theft. Follow local customs and safety guidelines.

Most airlines and hotels allow date changes, but it may come with a fee. Always check the terms and conditions before booking, or opt for flexible tickets if possible.

It’s generally recommended to book your flight at least 6-8 weeks in advance to get the best deals. However, for peak travel seasons (holidays, summer), it’s wise to book even earlier.

I wish I could give you a more straightforward answer but I unfortunately can’t. As you already know, there is no such thing as a free lunch (or is there?) so you will have to work really hard to get an opportunity like that. As usual, it is easier to get discounted prices on your travel cost, like, a free night stay in a hotel or a free tour in the city you visit. If you’re trying to follow that path, you can take baby steps like volunteering abroad or being a travel writer but here are some other options you can look into.