- Plan in advance to get the best deals on flights, accommodation, and transport.
- Look for hotel or Airbnb discounts and amenities like complimentary breakfast. And rent out just one room for your group.
- Utilize rewards programs and points when possible. You can redeem them for flights, hotel rooms, or rental cars.
- Consider the different transportation options available in your destination, such as ride-sharing services or car rentals.
- Save money on food by looking for restaurants outside city centers or cooking meals at your accommodation.
Do you love taking vacations but hate the hit your bank account takes afterward? Many people feel the same way, but that doesn’t mean you have to give up your annual (or semi-annual) getaway.
By implementing a few smart money-saving tricks, you can enjoy your vacation without breaking the bank. Here are practical tips you can follow to save money and still have an enjoyable and memorable experience.
Plan in Advance
Planning your vacation well ahead of time can save you a lot of money. When you leave planning until the last minute, you risk paying full price for your flights, hotel rooms, or rental cars. You can start by setting a vacation budget, then researching different destinations both domestically and internationally.
Doing this will give you an idea of what you can expect to pay for flights, accommodation, and transport, and you’ll be able to identify any off-peak vacation times when prices are lowest. You can also use travel deal websites to find the best offers.
Choose the Right Accommodation
Accommodation can be the most significant expense of any vacation. To save money, look for hotels or Airbnb that offer discounts and amenities like complimentary breakfast. And if you’re traveling with a group, consider renting out just one room that can accommodate everyone’s needs instead of having a separate room for every single person.
For example, instead of going to the traditional hotel, you can rent out a serviced apartment that can house everyone in the group and will provide you with the same amenities. This can help to cut your accommodation costs substantially. Not to mention serviced apartments are usually much better equipped than a typical hotel room.
Use Rewards Programs and Points
When was the last time you checked your credit card points or reward balances? Look for opportunities to convert your points to usable vacation expenses. This might include redeeming airlines’ reward programs for flights, using your hotel loyalty points for free or discounted room nights, or exchanging points for free car rentals. Keep an eye out for rewards programs that link up with your vacation goals, but make sure you understand any applicable fees and expiration dates.
Be Smart About Transportation
The cost and convenience of transportation varies dramatically by location. Sometimes it can be cheaper to rent a car instead of relying on public transport. Ride-sharing might be the way to go if you’re in an urban setting.
In a new and unfamiliar location, the thought of taking a cab, Uber, or Lyft might be intimidating, but these services can be cheaper and more convenient than renting, especially when you add up petrol costs or parking fees. Figure out the best transportation options in advance and be mindful of the time of day you’re traveling: some taxi or ride-share services hike up prices during peak times.
Eat Out Smartly
Eating out every meal can break the bank, especially in high-cost cities or resort towns. Fortunately, there are plenty of tips and tricks you can follow to save money on food while vacationing. Here are four examples:
Look for restaurants on the outskirts of town.
Restaurants on the outskirts of town tend to be cheaper and less crowded. They also offer unique cultural experiences and are often run by locals.
Bring snacks with you on trips or hikes.
Save money and time by bringing snacks with you on hikes or day trips. This will help keep your energy up and ward off those potentially expensive mid-day cravings.
Eat breakfast at the hotel or Airbnb.
Breakfast is typically included when you stay in a hotel or Airbnb, so make the most of it. You can also pack snacks or other light meals to enjoy in between meals.
Cook at least one meal per day.
If you’re staying in an Airbnb, why not save even more money by stocking up on groceries and cooking your own meals? This is a great way to sample local cuisine and get creative with your holiday meals.
Vacationing doesn’t have to be an expensive endeavor. With some planning and creativity, you can save money while still having the time of your life. Start by setting a budget for yourself so that you know what kind of vacation experience is within reach. Research different domestic and international destinations to find the best deals on flights, accommodation, and transport.
Look into loyalty programs or reward points offering discounts or other perks. Regarding transportation options such as ride-sharing services or car rentals, consider costs and convenience levels when making decisions. Finally, don’t forget about saving money on food; look for restaurants outside city centers or cook at least one meal per day during your stay! Following these tips, you’ll enjoy a fantastic trip without breaking the bank!
