More Budget Travel Tips
If you are a frequent traveller, there are some travel tips that will help you maximize your trip while helping you save more. Some of these tips include:
- Tourist Spots May Not be That Hot – Many countries have tourist spots that aren’t really the most interesting places to go to, not to mention that everything is more expensive in that area. If you’ve been to that place already, there’s no point seeing it again and again. Instead, go to local areas and see life. It might just spice up your vacation.
- Walk Around – If your destination isn’t that far away, consider asking the locals directions and walking there. It’s a great chance for you to see the city and take pictures.
- Enjoy the Local Version – Many consumables are less expensive when it’s made in the country you are visiting. Consider trying their local beer, coffee or food. You might be surprised at how great and cheap it really is.
- Be a Little Flexible with Travel Days – Many prices are based on supply and demand, so sometimes it’s much cheaper to leave the day before (or after) instead. Look at the dates of your travel plans and see if spending an extra day is worth it. This makes a difference, especially around major holidays.
- Book a Bundle – There are many package deals that save you money if you book hotels and flights together. Basically, the more business you can give them, the better discount they can give you.
- Go Off Season – Everyone wants to ski or go to Hawaii in the winter. Consider this type of vacations in off-peak times (going skiing in the springtime for example). It’s cheaper and less crowded.
- Travel Around Home – Overseas travel might be your dream vacation but there are actually many places close by that is very interesting as well. Check out those lesser known places and the local experience might very well be great.
- Try Booking at Different Times – Online sites like Wakanow sometimes have rates based on the time and day of the week you book. Try different combinations and see if you can get a better deal.
- Discount Everything – Some countries have discount stores (I’ve seen one in Japan) where they sell all kinds of tickets at a discount. In that store, I’ve even seen gift cards for department stores so if you are buying something anyway, those stores will give you an instant deal.
- Don’t Give Up Looking for Deals – Even if you have your plans set, keep trying to look for deals. Reservations can often be canceled with a full refund so if you find a last-minute deal that fits into your plans, take advantage of it. (I went to Las Vegas recently and saved have my hotel cost since the last-minute deal happened to fit my itinerary so it really works)
- Reward Points – Even if you aren’t a frequent traveler, sign up for those reward programs since you might qualify eventually. It’s all free anyway and if you finally get enough points, you can get always get something free.
- Go to the Grocery Store – Even if you are away from home, chances are high that there are grocery stores where you are traveling to. It’s worth it to take a trip there and get snacks, water, and everything you need for your trip since hotels overcharge.
- Age, Student and Membership Discounts – Many attractions like theme parks, museums and others have discounts for senior, children or students. If you are traveling, remember to take your ID and membership cards with you that might qualify you for these.
- Group Discounts – We all know there are group discounts everywhere. To take advantage, team up with a few friends and go to the same destinations together. You can even set it up so there are no obligations to be everywhere together.
- Talk to the Locals – Be friendly and chat with them. Sometimes, they will tell you where to eat and some may even offer you to stay over (works best in small towns).
- Mini Tours – I’m not talking about bus tours that take days but one day tours that take you to many places within the city. Not only will they take you to places you probably want to visit anyway, the bus driver is usually quite entertaining and informative as well.