Looking to Save Money on Your Next Vacation?
If so, you’re in luck! Several simple money saving holiday hacks can help you slash your travel costs without sacrificing any of the fun. In this post, we’ll cover eight of the best tips for saving money on your next trip. So read on and get ready to start planning your dream vacation on a budget!
1. Start Planning Your Holiday Budget Early.
Many people wait until the last minute to start planning their holiday budget, but this can be a costly mistake. Not only will you be more likely to pay inflated prices for travel and accommodation, but you may also end up making impulse purchases that blow your budget. To avoid overspending, it’s best to start planning your holiday budget early.
Try looking at likely temperatures and weather patterns for your destination, as this can help you to make informed decisions about what to pack. You should also research the costs of popular activities and attractions so that you can save money on your holiday.
By taking the time to plan ahead, you can ensure that you have a great time without breaking the bank.
2. Look for Travel Deals and Discounts Online.
Many people believe that the only way to save money on holiday is to either travel during the off-season or to book everything in advance. However, there are actually a number of ways to save money on holiday, even if you’re not willing to do either of those things.
One way to save money on holiday is to look for travel deals and discounts online. There are a number of websites that offer discounts on hotels, flights, and car rentals, and it’s definitely worth taking the time to look for deals before you book anything. Another way to save money on holiday is to make use of alerts for better deals.
Many travel websites offer the ability to set up alerts for specific destinations or dates, and you can usually choose to receive these alerts via email or text message. This means that you’ll be one of the first people to know about any last-minute deals or special offers, which can save you a lot of money.
So if you’re looking for ways to save money on holiday, make sure to keep these tips in mind.
3. Pack Light to Avoid Excess Baggage Fees.
Anyone who has ever travelled by airplane has likely been faced with the dreaded excess baggage fee. These fees can add a significant amount to the cost of travel, and are often avoidable if travelers pack light.
For example, many airlines have weight restrictions for carry-on luggage, and travelers who exceed these limits will be charged an extra fee.
In addition, it is important to be aware of airline policies regarding items such as sports equipment or musical instruments, as these may also incur additional charges.
By packing lightly and avoiding hidden extras, travelers can save themselves a considerable amount of money on their holiday.
4. Bring Your Own Food and Drinks.
One of the best ways to save money is to bring your own food and drinks when there is the oppertunity to do so. This can be a great way to save money on meals, as well as snacks and drinks throughout your trip.
This is especially true while traveling in more rural destinations where there are fewer convenient options. By bringing your own food (pack lunch), you can save yourself a great deal of money on meals and snacks during your trip.
A thermos can also keep your drinks cold or hot which can be another great way to save money.
5. Avoid Airport Currency Exchange Booths or ATMs.
Many people mistakenly believe that airport currency exchange booths and ATMs offer the best rates for foreign currency.
However, these outlets typically charge high fees and offer poor exchange rates. As a result, you can save a significant amount of money by avoiding them entirely.
Instead, plan ahead and order your foreign currency from a bank or online before your trip. This way, you’ll get the most value for your money and avoid being overcharged.
6. Book Hotels and Flights Well in Advance.
When it comes to booking your holiday travel, it pays to plan ahead. Booking flights, hotels and shuttles well in advance can save you money and help to avoid last-minute scrambling. It also gives you a chance to take advantage of early bird discounts and special promotions.
When it comes to choosing your hotel, be sure to read the reviews carefully and compare prices. And don’t forget to factor in the cost of transportation to and from the airport.
By taking the time to plan ahead, you can make your holiday travel less stressful and more affordable.
7. Use Credit Cards with Travel Rewards.
If you’re looking to save money on your next holiday, using a credit card with travel rewards can be a great way to do it.
However, it’s important to keep an eye out for foreign transaction fees. These fees can vary depending on the card issuer, but they typically range from 1-3%. That may not sound like much, but it can add up if you’re making a lot of purchases while abroad. To avoid these fees, look for a credit card that doesn’t charge them or that offers a waiver for certain types of transactions.
Another thing to keep in mind is that some foreign stores charge additional fees for using credit cards. It is always worth taking more cash than you had originally planned. Just make sure you double-check the customs cash limits before traveling.
8. Travel Apps for Booking Activities and Attractions.
When planning a holiday, it can be difficult to know where to start. There are so many different places to visit and things to do, and it can be hard to find the best deals. However, there are a few tools that can help save money on activities and attractions.
One of the most popular is Getyourguide, which offers discounts on a range of different activities.
Viator is another great option, offering both group and private tours at a variety of different price points.
For those looking for something truly unique, Civitatis and Tigets offer access to a range of special events and cultural experiences.
Finally, Ticketbar is a great option for those looking for discounts on tickets to popular tourist attractions. By using one or more of these apps, it is possible to save money on holiday activities and attractions.
In Conclusion.
A well-planned holiday doesn’t have to break the bank. In fact, there are a number of ways to save money on your next trip. By avoiding hidden fees, booking flights and hotels in advance, using a credit card with travel rewards and taking advantage of discount apps, you can make your holiday more affordable without sacrificing any of the fun.
So what are you waiting for? Start planning your dream holiday today.
Sources: THX News, Out of Your Comfort Zone & Bankrate.