Discover the best strategies for saving money on travel expenses with our ultimate guide, packed with budget-friendly tips and tricks for your next adventure.
Introduction
The demand for travel has been steadily increasing despite the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic, with the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) screening over 18 million passengers in the first nine days of August. This surge in travel has led to a lack of airline seats, hotel rooms, and overwhelmed staff. However, there are plenty of deals to be had for savvy travelers who know where to look. In this article, we will explore six strategies to save real money on travel expenses, including timely offers from our partners.
1. Use flight search aggregators and deal websites
Start your flight searches on search aggregators such as Google Flights or Momondo, which bring together a list of flights that match your itinerary. Additionally, consider subscribing to flight deal websites that send alerts when good deals are live.
2. Explore alternative options for rental cars
Instead of booking directly with large rental car operators, consider using resources like Costco’s rental car website, Autoslash, or peer-to-peer marketplace Turo to find the best rental car deals.
3. Consider Airbnb as an alternative to hotels
While both hotels and Airbnb offer places to stay during your travels, they provide different experiences and amenities. Depending on your preferences and group size, choosing an Airbnb over a hotel could result in cost savings and added convenience.
4. Use airline credit cards to save on baggage fees
Consider applying for an airline credit card that offers benefits such as waived checked bag fees for cardholders and companions traveling on the same itinerary. Alternatively, if you prefer a carry-on bag, opt for a smaller bag to save on fees.
5. Depart from a different airport
If possible, consider departing from a different airport than your usual choice, as this could result in significant cost savings on flights.
6. Earn points and miles for rewards
Don’t forget to earn valuable points and miles for your flights and hotel stays, as this can significantly reduce your out-of-pocket costs for travel. Consider applying for a travel credit card with a generous welcome offer to jumpstart your rewards earning.
By implementing these strategies, travelers can save money on their upcoming travel expenses and make the most of the current competitive travel market.
Planning Your Trip
When planning your trip, it’s important to consider all the options available to save money and make the most of your travel experience. Here are some strategies and tips to help you plan your trip effectively:
Use Flight Search Aggregators and Deal Websites
Start your flight searches on search aggregators like Google Flights or Momondo to get a sense of airfare costs and find additional options. Consider subscribing to flight deal websites or following social media accounts that post flight deals regularly.
Explore Alternative Rental Car Options
Instead of booking directly with large rental car operators, consider using resources like Costco’s rental car website or Autoslash, which aggregates the best rental car deals. You can also explore peer-to-peer car rental marketplaces like Turo for more affordable options.
Consider Airbnb for Accommodations
While hotels offer certain amenities and rewards, Airbnb can provide a different experience with potentially lower costs, especially for larger groups. Airbnb properties often come with fully stocked kitchens, saving you money on dining out.
Use Airline Credit Cards to Save on Baggage Fees
Consider getting an airline credit card that offers benefits like waived checked bag fees for cardholders and companions. If you prefer a carry-on bag, choose a smaller bag to avoid additional fees.
Explore Departing from Different Airports
If possible, consider departing from a different airport than usual to find cheaper flight options. A short road trip to a nearby airport could save you significant money on your ticket.
Don’t Forget About Points and Miles
Earning points and miles through travel rewards credit cards can significantly reduce your out-of-pocket costs for flights and accommodations. Look for credit card welcome offers and take advantage of rewards to save money on your travels.
By utilizing these strategies and tips, you can effectively plan your trip while saving money on travel expenses. Remember to stay flexible and explore all available options to make the most of your travel budget.
Budget-Friendly Accommodations
When it comes to finding budget-friendly accommodations for your travels, there are several options to consider. From traditional hotels to alternative lodging options, there are ways to save money without sacrificing comfort and convenience.
Hotels
Hotels can be a cost-effective option for budget-conscious travelers, especially if you take advantage of deals and discounts. Many hotel chains offer loyalty programs that provide perks such as discounted rates, free nights, and complimentary upgrades. Additionally, booking directly through the hotel’s website or calling the hotel directly can sometimes result in lower prices compared to third-party booking sites.
Airbnb and Vacation Rentals
For a more unique and affordable lodging experience, consider booking an Airbnb or vacation rental. These options often provide more space and amenities compared to traditional hotels, and can be a great choice for families or larger groups. Plus, you may have access to a kitchen, allowing you to save money on dining out by preparing your own meals.
Hostels and Guesthouses
If you’re open to a more communal and social experience, hostels and guesthouses are budget-friendly options for accommodations. While they may not offer the same level of privacy as a hotel or vacation rental, they often come with a lower price tag and the opportunity to meet fellow travelers.
By exploring these different accommodation options and being flexible with your choices, you can find budget-friendly lodging that meets your needs without breaking the bank.
Transportation Savings
The demand for travel has steadily increased over the last year, even though the Covid-19 pandemic is far from being over. Through the first nine days of August, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) screened over 18 million passengers, nearly three times more than the same time last year. While still 20% lower than the traffic seen in 2019, the roaring comeback of travel has lead to a lack of airline seats, hotel rooms and overwhelmed staff. However, competition is as fierce as ever to get consumers back on the road and there are plenty of deals to be had if you look in the right place.
Use flight search aggregators and deal websites
You should always start your flight searches on a search aggregator such as Google Flights or Momondo. These websites bring together a list of flights that match the needs of your itinerary, and will send you to an external website like the airline’s website or an online travel agency to complete the booking process. This is a great place to get a sense of what your airfare will cost, and give you additional options and booking ideas if you are flexible on dates and times. However, if you are the type of traveler that is always looking for a bargain, there are several flight deal websites that will send you alerts when a particularly good deal is live. Some have a recurring subscription cost.
– Google Flights
– Momondo
– The Flight Deal
– Scott’s Cheap Flights
– Airfarewatchdog
Explore alternative options for rental cars
The car market has been on tilt since the start of the pandemic. Prices for renting and purchasing vehicles have been at record highs in recent months, leaving travelers with few affordable options. Instead of booking directly with one of the large rental car operators, consider these options as additional resources before reserving a rental car the old fashioned way.
– Costco Rental Car
– Autoslash
– Turo
Consider alternative accommodations
This is a debate among many travelers. Yes, they each provide a place to rest during your travels, but the amenities and experience they provide are quite different. Yes, a hotel has housekeeping, amenities and other services attached to it. Also, staying at a hotel allows you to earn hotel rewards that can later be redeemed for free hotel nights, and pairing it with a hotel credit card can make it an even more enjoyable experience because of elite status perks. Airbnb provides a much different experience as there is no check-in desk or dedicated staff at every property. You’re mostly on your own once your at the property, but you can still get assistance prior to or during your stay by communicating with your Airbnb host. While one is not automatically cheaper than the other, having more options can help reduce your costs if you are flexible with where you stay. Generally, if you are traveling with a large group, it will be much more cost efficient to go with an Airbnb. In addition, an Airbnb home will likely come with a fully stocked kitchen, so you can prepare meals at your Airbnb rather than going out to eat every night. And unlike many hotels, you will not be on the hook for things like resort fees or parking fees.
Eating and Entertainment on a Budget
When it comes to eating and entertainment on a budget, there are several strategies you can use to save money while still enjoying yourself. One option is to look for happy hour specials at local restaurants and bars, where you can often find discounted food and drinks. Another idea is to pack your own snacks and drinks when you’re out and about, so you’re not tempted to overspend on expensive options. Additionally, consider looking for free or low-cost entertainment options, such as outdoor concerts, movie nights in the park, or museum free days.
Ways to Save on Eating and Entertainment
– Look for happy hour specials at local restaurants and bars
– Pack your own snacks and drinks when you’re out and about
– Seek out free or low-cost entertainment options like outdoor concerts and movie nights in the park
By being mindful of your spending and seeking out budget-friendly options, you can still enjoy eating out and entertainment without breaking the bank.
In conclusion, finding ways to save money on travel expenses is essential for budget-conscious travelers. By utilizing these money-saving tips and strategies, individuals can enjoy their travels without breaking the bank. Planning ahead, being flexible, and taking advantage of discounts can significantly reduce travel costs and make the journey more affordable and enjoyable.