Summer is the peak season for travelling, as schools are out and nice weather is. Unfortunately, companies take advantage of rising costs, making travelling much more expensive. Here are a few save money for travel to make travelling more affordable.
1. Consider other places to stay
Hotel costs vary. However, generally speaking, they make up a significant portion of travel expenses. Hotel rooms tend to be more expensive when the hotel is located within the city, so look for other options in surrounding towns—travelling back and forth between the city and hotel will be worth the money for travel.
Alternatively, consider staying at a hostel, especially on a road trip. Hostels are inexpensive and provide both lodging and food. Meanwhile, if you plan to stay in the same location for an extended period, renting an apartment or home will be the superior option. Airbnb is an increasingly popular site that allows travellers to rent homes according to their needs and budgets.
2. Be flexible about transportation
Transportation makes up another significant portion of travel expenses, especially when flying. Flights from international airports tend to be much more expensive; look into flights from regional airports to find cheaper alternatives.
It’s also worth considering a road trip that allows you to stop at more locations and save on aeroplane costs. Once you’re at your destination, live like a local by taking public transportation or renting a bike. Find locations that provide hourly car rentals if you plan on making a quick trip to another location.
3. Talk to others
Use your own experience, but also draw on the experiences of others. Ask family and friends to help you make the best of your tie and money by avoiding tacky tourist traps and discovering hidden attractions. To ensure a quality investment, you can even read online reviews on attractions, products, airlines, and restaurants.
4. Avoid excess fees
Extraneous costs may arise, and it’s important to do research ahead of time to avoid them. For example, driving on major highways on the East Coast guarantees tolls. Purchasing or borrowing an E-Z Pass may save money for travel, depending on how far and how often you drive. Research ticket packages, especially if you plan to go to an attraction for more than one day.
The National Parks offer an annual pass for $80 while access for one day costs about $30. A road trip to three parks, such as Zion, Grand Canyon, and Bryce Canyon (all located in the same proximity), will cost less using a seasonal pass. Another way to avoid miscellaneous costs is to avoid in-room amenities at hotels. The minibar, pay per view, and room service is not always necessary and cost exorbitant amounts.
5. Travel with others
Splitting costs on meals/room fees and sharing products (such as a GPS) are additional benefits of travelling with family or friends. In addition to saving gas costs, carpooling at certain attractions save ticket costs. Passes to the National Parks are based on each car; carpooling will decrease the cost for everyone and split the cost among several people. Also, take advantage of group discounts with attractions or tour companies.
6. Plan meals
Planning meals are crucial when travelling. Read reviews of restaurants to find out which ones to splurge on and what to order. Additionally, talk to locals for recommendations; locals will know where to get authentic, inexpensive meals worth experiencing.
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Avoid Western or American brand-name restaurants in other countries, as they are typically more expensive than their equivalents in America. If you have the opportunity, go grocery shopping and cook a few meals or buy snacks. You will be more likely to eat healthily and save money for travel.
7. Take advantage of discounts and rewards
Plan by booking hotels or tickets using discount search engines like Expedia and Priceline. You may even find coupons for attractions and restaurants online or in travel brochures. Finally, don’t forget to take advantage of your age, use your student ID to get discounted tickets, and utilize credit card and airline mileage points to get free hotel stays. You may be able to avoid spending any save money for travel on lodging if you use your points wisely.
