Thinking Money | Free Financial Advice and Tips

10 Ways to Cut Travel Costs

Posted on 16. May, 2009 in Saving money

In the current recessionary environment, vacations are taking a back seat for most people. However, if you do want to have a mini-break or a getaway, here are 10 ways to cut your travel costs. The amount you’re able to save in terms of travel costs may lead itself to more spending money for when you are there.

1. Travel during the off-season. Whether you are going to Paris, Rome or the Caribbean Islands, you can save by traveling when other travelers are not. Hotel rates are cheaper, entry into exhibits and parks is lower, and your pocketbook will have an all-around better time.

2. Take a camping trip. These days, one of the cheapest options for travel is to take a camping trip. You don’t have to go completely to the bare bones and sleep on the ground. Why not rent a caravan instead and take the family on a scenic tour of a nearby village or small town with natural beauty and parks to visit? Your family can make great memories, and you will save by not having to book hotels, eat out or pay for airline tickets.

3. Take advantage of online savings. Signing up to be part of your favorite airline or hotel’s mailing list can provide you with coupon codes, as well as the latest news regarding their sales. If you have flexible travel dates, you can find the best deals and discounts through these email lists.

4. Shop for food at local supermarkets. Wherever you decide to go on your trip, you should plan on stocking up on breads, meats and condiments for sandwiches. Also, get some breakfast munchies and sodas to keep in the hotel. If you eat food you purchase at the supermarket rather than eating out for every meal, you could save hundreds by the time you return home.

5. Take advantage of free days. When you travel, make sure you find out what days you can gain access to museums for free. Also, check the local newspapers and find out if there are outdoor concerts or festivals taking place. These are free and loads of fun.

6. Think about specialty lodging. Instead of booking reservations at an expensive hotel, think about renting a condominium or villa. These can be much cheaper, and if you travel in a group, you can save more.

7. Book hotel reservations directly on the hotel’s website. Many hotels are now offering deals and packages only available through their websites, as they don’t have to pay a commission to a booking website and agency. Booking directly can help you find some unexpected bargains.

8. Be flexible about your flight plans. If you are willing to fly on “off-days” like Wednesdays and Saturdays, for example, you will find that the rates are cheaper.

9. Use public transportation. Instead of taking taxis when you travel, use the busses or subways to help you save on these costs.

10. Plan a “staycation” this year. Instead of leaving home and spending money on a trip, stay at home and turn off the phones. Order a pizza. Rent many DVDs to watch. You will save so much money that next year when the recession is over, you can take a trip anywhere you want to go.

Tags: affordable travel, budget travel, Saving money, saving on travel, travel costs