Travel is expensive. Air fares, gasoline, tolls, hotels, restaurant meals, admission fees, car rental, concert tickets, bus and subway fares, tips, and many other expenses all add up. There are ways to trim, however, and to avoid some needless costs. The fun of your trip is not directly proportional to its cost! And if you save on today's trip, you will be able to afford your next trip sooner.
Here are some ideas to conserve your funds.
Idea #1
Buy an EZ Pass.
You will save money on tolls AND be able to use your credit card to pay them. If your credit card earns frequent flyer miles, you will be earning miles on those tolls! Not only that, you will not have to carry change with you for the tolls and you will speed quickly and easily through the toll collection plazas.
Idea #2
Book your flights through the website of the airline.
Find that low fare by using fare comparison sites such as Expedia and Travelocity, but do your booking on the airline website to get the best fare and avoid any transaction fees. You will also ensure that you are eligible for that airline's frequent flyer program. Another benefit is that you will be able to make changes to your reservation on line.
Idea #3
When overseas, always obtain cash from ATM machines rather than commercial currency exchange booths.
Withdrawing money from your home bank account at an ATM will get you a better exchange rate and lower fees than a commercial money exchanger.
Idea #4
If your travel dates are at all flexible, always use the flexible date option on the airline website to optimize your fare.
Flying a day later or earlier can sometimes save hundreds of dollars. Airfares are mysterious. Make sure you get your best deal.
Idea #5
Be aware of low, high, and "shoulder" seasons for your vacation destinations.
Rates for hotels, flat rentals, cottages, and other accommodations can vary a lot from week to week and even more from season to season. Traveling during the "low" season can allow you to save a bundle.
Idea #6
Avoid eating all your meals in restaurants.
Find grocery stores and food markets wherever you are. Have picnic lunches, try to have a refrigerator in your room so you can have milk and orange juice for breakfast. A steady diet of restaurant meals will cost a lot!
Idea #7
All students should apply for an ISIC (International Student Identity Card).
This widely accepted student ID costs just $22 for one year and can help save money on admissions, hostels, and meals. Any full-time student age 12 and up can qualify. Learn more about this here.
Idea #8
If your trip is relatively brief, take all your gear in a carry-on bag.
Most airlines are now charging $25-$35 per checked bag on domestic flights. By packing light and planning carefully, you may be able to avoid checking a bag. You also reduce the probability of the airline losing your bag to zero.
Idea #9
Identify fun free activities in your destination city by doing research before you travel.
Parks, outdoor concerts, public museums, gardens, festivals, walking tours can be just as much fun as expensive events and activities. If you plan ahead, you can take full advantage of available opportunities.
Idea #10
Don't lose your stuff!
If you lose your camera, passport, or purse, you will not only be inconvenienced, but will also have to spend money to replace these items.
These suggestions are but the tip of the iceberg. Look for other ways to keep costs down when you travel.
