Today with the economy the way it is, budget travel is becoming more and more of a necessity and more merchants are offering great deals to those that can accommodate the restrictions. Aside from travel deals, you can also do some things to keep your costs low and save on the overall trip.
First off, you need to prepare a travel budget. This means deciding what is important to you and where you can cut back a bit. For instance, some travelers are comfortable spending a bit more for a better class of hotel, while others prefer to save money by using budget accommodations and spend the money they saved on sightseeing or a special meal for the family.
Next, figure out a budget for the various aspects of your vacation, such as hotel, airfare, rental cars, sightseeing, gasoline, etc. Once you have a good idea of what each element of the vacation should cost, it is time to start shopping around for the best deals.
Once you have figured out what is most important to you, it is time to start finding out how to get the best deals. Often, admission deals on area attractions are the easiest to come by, since many theme parks, museums and other destinations run specials to attract out of town guests.
To get big discounts on area attractions, the best place to start is the web site of the attraction itself. Be sure to check the web site for any specials, such as two for one deals, free admission for children, special reduced admission days, etc.
Certain orgainzations such as the military, AAA and senior citizens groups offer discounts on lodging, attractions and travel. Most AAA offices sell discount admission tickets to theme parks, museums and other popular attractions within driving distance, and most AAA offices sell discounted admissions to popular attractions like Walt Disney World as well. The key to making your travel budget stretch farther is to ask about, and take advantage of, all discounts that may be available.
If you are driving on your vacation, make sure you get your car serviced and that it is in peak condition. This can really save you some money as things like under inflated tires and worn spark plugs can cause your gas mileage to go down thus costing you more in gas money.
A good map can also be a money saver, since it will keep you from driving around in circles and wasting gas. Finding your way easily to and from the hotel and the surrounding area will make your vacation more pleasant and less costly.
Finding good deals on your vacation travel and destinations can be a bit of work but it will be worth it in the long run with more enjoyable and more frequent vacations.
- Stay close to home. Instead of a family vacation to Disney World, why not scout out a fun location closer to where you live? There are plenty of other theme parks to consider that won't require airfare and staying in some of the country's more expensive hotels.
- Do your research. Start looking online for travel deals at least three months ahead of time if possible. That's how you find special deals. Also, booking ahead saves you money since airlines and hotels charge premium rates for last minute travelers. You can often find deals for entrance tickets to places like Disney World and other popular attractions online.
- Be flexible and book extra time off are two very good travel tips. If you don't necessarily have to go to Acapulco, why not check out airfare to other parts of Mexico? Also, being flexible with travel dates is ideal since certain days tend to be cheaper to fly on (like Tuesdays).
- Eat in travel tips: Find a hotel that includes breakfast and you save at least $6-15 per person on food a day! If you are traveling near home, try packing your own food. Or ask for a kitchenette and hit the local supermarket once you arrive. Preparing meals in your hotel room can drastically cut costs.
- To save money, follow these travel tips. If you are driving across the country, why not check out that free opal museum in Arizona or the World's Largest Ball of String? These sights are free, but they are still interesting and can provide topics of conversation on the long drive to the real destination!
- Look online for coupons for anything. There are coupons for just about everything if you really look. Print some out for shows in Las Vegas or to get 2 for 1 entry to a museum. You can also find travel tips online.
- Don't rent a car. If you are going somewhere like New York, just ask your hotel desk clerk about the subways or buses. And if you happen to be in California, check that the hotel you are thinking of booking offers a free shuttle to Disneyland or anywhere else. Most hotels offer free or cheap shuttle service to and from the airport as well.
- Some good food travel tips: when eating out, eat a big meal for lunch and go small for dinner. Lunch menus tend to be just as filling as dinner, but far cheaper in most restaurants. Look for a menu of the day, as well. These can be special offers that include an entire meal, soup, entree, drink and dessert for a set price. For supper, split an entree between two people or just order appetizers as your meal. Asking for just water is a good way to knock about $5-6 off each person's tab!
You can travel on the cheap, and it is worth a try, even if you do have a bit of cash to spend. Just follow the travel tips above!
Both Lee Dobbins & Joseph Jordan are contributors for EditorialToday. The above articles have been edited for relevancy and timeliness. All write-ups, reviews, tips and guides published by EditorialToday.com and its partners or affiliates are for informational purposes only. They should not be used for any legal or any other type of advice. We do not endorse any author, contributor, writer or article posted by our team.
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