Guest post by Jaimie
It is no secret that the economy is in shambles. This does not mean that we cannot travel and have a wonderful time doing it. We just need to be creative so that costs are minimal. Here are a few tips to help you out with your next trip!
1. Buying Tickets
Check to see if you have reward points on your credit or bank card. These points most of the time can be used toward airfare. Also avoid booking during the holidays or the summer. These are peak travel season and you’re less likely to receive the discounts you would see during off-peak seasons. If at all possible, shop at ticket-auction sites.
2. Booking Hotels
Once again, check your reward points because they can be useful here as well. Try to get a hotel that has free breakfast and is close to the attractions that you want to see (walking distance). This will allow you to save money on food, as well as transportation.
3. Packing
Pack things that could be expensive when you’re gone. It is always wise to include things like pain reliever and a first-aid kit. The price for these things can vary from place to place and become quite expensive.
4. Transportation
Always try to walk places. This is beneficial for you in many obvious ways. If this is not possible, look into renting bicycles for the day, which will be much cheaper than cab fare. There’s also the bus or subway, or you can split distances between walking and cab fare. Be sure to find out if cab fare is more expensive at night in your destination!
5. Food
Hopefully your breakfast is free with your hotel room, but if not, you can go to the grocery store and pick up simple things for breakfast. You may also want to pick up some things for lunch. For dinner, you can look for specials like “ladies night” or “all you can eat.” Try getting a large meal and splitting it with a friend, such as an appetizer sampler. This could easily only cost you $5 a person. If you’re walking everywhere, there’s less of a reason to feel guilty about it!
6. Activities
You can get a map FREE at a tourism office or perhaps even gas stations, so there is no reason to pay for one. Call each place that you intend on going and get times that admission may be discounted or even free. Skip the tour guides and just explore for yourself!
7. Souvenirs
If you bring your digital camera, there is no need for post cards. You can make postcards for free on websites (and perhaps even mail them for free) or on your computer. In terms of gifts, don’t be afraid to be creative! You can buy something cheap and turn it into something thoughtful, or buy something unique that isn’t the average t-shirt or pin you’d usually get someone.
8. Discounts
Never be afraid to ask for discounts. A lot of hotels and restaurants offer discounts based your employer. Make yourself aware of these things. Always conduct plenty of research to ensure that you are getting the best rate possible. There are several different airlines, as well as hotels, that offer price-matching. These things will probably not be advertised, so you must ask.
9. Theft
During a vacation, we often forget about the dangers around us. Protect yourself by remaining aware of theft as well as identity theft. Only carry minimal amounts of cash on your person. When using your credit or bank card remain attentive. There’s no point in saving tons of money if you’re thoughtless and find it gone when you reach for your wallet!
Jaimie Hoskins loves entertaining, traveling with her family, and writes for travelinsurance.org.
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