In today’s world, it is important to be as economical as possible. Anytime you travel, you need to find things to cut in order to save a few bucks. However, many families feel that taking a vacation is still important, because vacations provide an opportunity to spend quality time together and traveling to foreign countries is such an educational experience for children. It IS possible to take an affordable vacation that will not put you in a financial bind though. If you are going on a trip soon, here are the top ten ways to save money on this excursion!
1. Be Flexible
Many airlines offer lower fares if you travel within a certain time frame. If you fly during the off-peak hours or dates, you can get a cheaper airfare. You might need to fly in the middle of the night or during the middle of the week. You could also take a flight with a couple of stops along the way. You just need to be flexible, and you can save money. Also, fly to bigger airports and consider traveling over land to a nearby location, if you need to get there.
2. Compare Prices
So many companies offer airfare, hotels, car rentals and any other thing that you need while traveling. Look for discounts and compare prices. You can save money just by shopping around for the best deals available.
3. Take an All-Inclusive Vacation
All-inclusive vacation packages include the hotel, dining and some of the entertainment. Cruises are normally all-inclusive, or you could find a resort. Airline tickets are not included in the package, so you will need to purchase those separately.
4. Travel by Car
Another way to help your budget is to travel by car instead of an airplane. You can still take a fabulous vacation within driving distance. You could also save time and stress by avoiding airports because security is tight, and traveling by plane is becoming a hassle.
5. Visit Free Attractions
Most cities have numerous attractions that are completely free. You can visit parks, some museums and neighborhoods for free. The beach is usually free too. Before you take the vacation, search online to see which attractions offer free admission.
6. Ask Around
You can save on entertainment just by asking for possible discounts. Some attractions offer student discounts, military discounts, senior citizens discounts and much more. You could even receive a discount for paying cash instead of using a credit card. Before you venture out into the city, look online for places that offer deals. If you're in Europe, this will DEFINITELY pay off.
7. Pack Light
It seems like airlines keep finding ways to charge fees. You are now being charged for each bag that you check in at the airport. If you can pack light enough to carry on your bags, you will save money. If that is not possible, make sure you pack light enough to get all of your belongings in one bag.
8. Credit Card Miles
If you have built up credit card miles or frequent flyer miles, you could save a significant amount of money on hotels or airfare. Therefore, make sure you check with your credit card company to see if you have enough miles to cash in.
9. Save on Dining
If you stay in a hotel that has a kitchen, you could cook your own meals, which would save you money. If you do eat out, research the restaurants in the area. You can find many excellent dining facilities that are affordable.
10. Public Transit
Buses and subways are cheaper that taxis. You also could get to your destination with your own two feet. Trains are cheaper than flights or renting a car. You should look for hotels that are close to major attractions, and then you can walk!! In many countries, renting a bike is common, cheap and atmospheric (Denmark, anyone?).
Jeanie White likes to save money by visiting websites like www.creditreport.org.
