Traveling on a Budget

June 18th, 2009 → by Erica Johansson

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988596 959284151 Traveling on a Budget

Written by: NWA WorldVacations

When it comes to traveling on a budget, the most important rule to remember is:
Do your homework and plan ahead.

Savvy-travelers know that with a bit of forward planning, a little budget can go a long way.

Here are our Top 10 Tips to help you save some money on your next vacation.

1. Don’t wait for a deal to find you. Subscribe to ‘hot deals’ announcements and newsletters. Also, if you know the destination you want to visit, tell your travel agent and give them your budget range — when a deal comes along they will notify you and take care of the rest!

2. Travel in the middle of the week. There is less demand on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, so airfares will be lower. Leisure destinations and resort areas will be cheaper during the week. However, hotels in major cities are cheaper on weekends when business travelers are gone.

3. Be a ‘Travel Opportunist.’ Select “My Dates Are Flexible,” and try searching several date ranges. Also, search for different places you haven’t been before or that are similar to the type of destination you are seeking.

4. Book a vacation package. When you book your flight, hotel and/or car together, instead of paying each rate separately, you will see one combined, low price. This allows the airlines, hotels and car rental companies to give you their lowest rates and move inventory, without diminishing your perception of the quality of their brand and products. Also, hotels frequently offer a 4th or 5th night free (this is prevalent in Hawaii and Mexico right now!)

5. Stay at an all-inclusive. Because you’re not whipping out your wallet for every beverage, snack or meal, it will reduce total in destination costs. Often times they have plenty of perks that add to the value of your stay. (e.g. Many all-inclusives offer use of water-sports equipment, free shuttle services etc.)

6. Buy Before. Buy convenience items — sunscreen, lotions, shampoo, etc. — before your trip. Toss some snacks into your bag to stave off expensive vending machine treats or airport food.

7. Pack smart. Make sure your bags adhere to the airline’s size and weight requirements, and know that if you check extra bags, you’ll probably have to pay for them.

8. Eat in your room! Go cheap for one meal a day, and it can really cut down costs. Stop by a convenience store and purchase items to make picnic lunches, then bring them along on your daily excursions. Make sure your room has a microwave and/or fridge so you can prepare your meals and treats. Even brewing coffee in your room can save you $5.

9. Watch out for extras at your hotel. Check on the costs of services when you arrive — like telephones, mini-bars, and fitness centers. Use cell phones or pay phones instead of your hotel phone.

10. Double-check your bills and receipts. Always read the room-service bill before tipping the delivery person (the tip may already be included) and your hotel bill at the end of your stay.

What are some of your best travel tips to try and save money?

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