12 Smart Ways to Trim Vacation Costs Without Sacrificing Fun
Vacation allows us time to escape the daily grind, recharge, and explore new horizons. However, the cost of travel can often dampen our plans. But fear not! With a little creativity and planning, you can enjoy unforgettable vacations without breaking the bank.
CNBC highlights that 36% of Americans intend to travel on credit during the summer. Let’s make sure you’re not one of them! Here are 12 smart ways to keep your wallet happy and your vacation even happier.
Travel During the Off-Season
Off-peak months are the times to skip the crowds and save up to 30% off flights and accommodations. For instance, visiting Europe in the fall or spring can be just as magical as in summer, minus the inflated prices and tourist overload. You’ll still experience beautiful weather, cultural festivals, and reasonable rates on everything from hotels to activities.
Book Flights in Advance (But Not Too Far Ahead!)
We’ve all heard that booking early gets you the best deals, but did you know that the best time to book is one to three months in advance? Booking your flight 56 days in advance of your trip can result in savings of up to 10 percent compared to booking it at the last minute. Watch for price drop alerts from apps like Hopper or Google Flights!
Consider Alternative Accommodations
Hotels are good, but many good affordable accommodation websites exist, such as Airbnb, Couchsurfing, and Vrbo. On average, you could save 36% on a stay on Airbnb versus a hotel, especially in large cities. Do you want to save even more money? House-swapping is an option, and some travelers are turning to unique options like farm stays or tiny homes to keep things fun yet affordable!
Leverage Loyalty Programs and Credit Card Points
If you travel frequently, enroll in loyalty programs or use point-accumulating travel credit cards. You might receive free flights, hotel stays, or car rentals. Companies like Wells Fargo and Expedia have launched travel credit cards with bonuses of up to $600, which helps travelers save even more, according to CNBC. Combine that with hotel loyalty programs to save even more on accommodation.
Pack Snacks and Meals for the Road
Your budget can disappear faster than you imagine if you eat out every meal. My personal experience has shown that you can save at least $20 to $30 per person per day by cooking a few meals on your own. Think picnics, road trip snacks, or even quick breakfasts. Choose a vacation rental with a kitchen, or search for hotels providing coffee makers or kitchenettes. Local grocery shopping can be an adventure in itself!
Use Public Transportation
Don’t use a rental car! One way to save hundreds of dollars during a vacation is using public transportation. Many cities, such as New York City’s MetroCard and London’s Oyster Card, offer first-rate and affordable public transportation services. It also gives your trip a touch of the local charm.
Go for Free or Discounted Attractions
Not every adventure needs to be expensive. Seek out complimentary days at museums, national parks, and additional sites; alternatively, use city passes such as the New York Pass, which provides up to 50% off of numerous tourist attractions. Free walking tours, street shows, and community gatherings can all add equally as much magic to your travels at many locations!
Be Flexible with Your Travel Dates
Adjusting your vacation even a day or two can sometimes result in significant cost savings. Midweek flights, on Tuesdays or Wednesdays, are typically less expensive. Additionally, keep an eye out for days that can enable you to save even more. Travelers can save up to 15% by booking their flights on Sundays rather than Fridays, according to a 2024 Expedia report.
Use Budget Airlines (And Pack Light!)
For short-haul travel, low-cost airlines like Southwest, Frontier, or Ryanair are great options because they can save you up to 50% over major airlines. Just be aware of the costs associated with checking bags—you can save anywhere from $25 to $100 for each flight! Your greatest friends are a travel-sized toiletry kit and a capsule wardrobe here.
Embrace Staycations or Nearby Getaways
It’s easy to miss the beauty that’s right outside our door. By choosing a staycation or exploring a nearby city, you can cut back on transportation expenses and use the money you save for unique local experiences or luxurious accommodations. According to a 2020 Statista survey, 65% of Americans turned to staycations during the pandemic, finding joy in discovering hidden gems close to home.
Set a Daily Budget for Activities
Before going, make a budget and plan your day out. Perhaps give in to a single life-changing event, but offset it with more affordable pursuits like swimming, hiking, or market exploring. When you set a spending limit, you will avoid financial regrets after your vacation!
Travel with Friends and Split Costs
How far your money stretches can make a real difference when you travel with a group. Group travel helps you save up to 30-40% on shared expenses, from splitting accommodations to buying groceries and car rentals. On top of that, traveling with friends means more fun and a built-in crew for adventures!
Vacationing on a budget doesn’t mean sacrificing fun. With a little planning, creativity, and flexibility, you can still have the time of your life without worrying about your bank account. You could be headed to the beaches of Bali or the streets of Barcelona, and these tips will help you make the most of your trip while keeping costs down.
Disclaimer- This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.
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