The word "shoestring" refers to a thin string or lace used to fasten a shoe. It is often used idiomatically to describe a small or limited amount of money or resources. Full definition
«Smaller groups that are on shoestring budgets in the middle of a bad economy are being hurt,» he admitted. (timesunion.com)
Marc and Chris operate on shoestring budgets compared to the climate - industrial complex, yet still get their mugs up on the streets of Paris. (powerlineblog.com)
Well I'm a guy who solo traveled for 6 years straight and have been solo traveling on the tightest of shoestring budgets since 2010. (foreverroamingtheworld.com)