Oman is ranked among the Middle East's most vibrant holiday destinations, and a trip to this country is on the bucket list of nearly every traveller. Although the country is not one of the most budget-friendly vacation hotspots in the region, there are ways to cut costs and still enjoy a memorable getaway in this fascinating Arab nation. From dining like a local to taking advantage of local call and text rates, here are some guidelines on how to explore Oman without breaking the bank.

Before leaving your home country and heading out for a getaway in Oman, it is crucial to set up a VPN app on your phone or laptop. This is mainly to have access to sites and communication tools and apps that are banned in Oman including Skype. There's no need to worry about what social media outlet or application is banned in the country when you travel when your phone has a VPN service that can bypass these restrictions and allow you to stay in touch with friends and family. VPN apps are also great for cyber security during vacation time as it restricts access to your location and identity.

While Oman is home to some of the largest malls in the Middle East, budget shoppers will find that the best wares are on sale at local markets and traditional bazaars. In addition to the affordable price points, shopping in a conventional souq or Arabic bazaar such as the Nizwa Souq or Muskat's Muttrah Souq can be a cultural experience that you are unlikely to forget. Sprawled across a vast expanse, these ancient marketplaces have been retailing everything from perfumes, carpets and antiques to souvenirs and food items since time immemorial.

Those with an International Driver's Permit should seriously consider hiring a car for the duration of their stay in Oman as it is the most cost-effective way to get around. Although car rentals are too expensive to consider in most holiday hubs, this is not the case in Oman where vehicles for rent are competitively priced. With poor infrastructure and practically no public transport networks offering transfers around the country, it is necessary to secure your own set of wheels. Group tours are the other alternative open to those without driving skills or an international license but these excursions can be costly when compared to local fuel and car rental prices.

One of the best ways to save on food costs during a trip to Oman is to forgo the fine dining establishments and dine where most locals grab their meals. Oman is often described as a foodie's paradise, and Omani cuisine is a delicious mix of Persian, Arab, East African and South Asian culinary styles. Biriyanis are fantastic and filling rice dishes that are served in roadside cafes while majboos is another affordable rice dish infused with saffron and meat. One of the most popular and beloved street food options is the shawarma and kebab, which are known for their mouth-watering flavors and irresistible aromas. The Turkish, Indian and Pakistani eateries in Oman offer the cheapest grub and the largest portions while lunchtime set menus will also help you save money. Those based at Hotel Sur Plaza or any similar well-situated hotel in Sur, Oman, will have easy access to these food hotspots.

Oman is also a great destination for avid campers according to travel resources. Some of the best campsites include beach areas where one can enjoy a host of beach activities for kids while spending the night in a tent under the stars. There are only a few areas of the country where camping is not allowed as in Ras Al Jinz's famed turtle habitat. Airbnbs are also popular in cities such as Nizwa and Muscat where homes have been converted into mini rest houses for budget travellers.