Whether it is summer time fun or winter time bliss, autumn enjoyment or spring flinging, vacations are supposed to be exciting and memorable. However, vacationing costs money and depending on your vacation and the time of year you go, you could end up spending more money than you intended to. There is no fun in vacationing if you end up penny-less when the trip is over. But, you can breathe a sigh of relief because there are ways to save money for the vacation and during the vacation. Keep reading for some vacation savings tips and be able to enjoy your vacation by not going broke.
Before You Travel…
The best vacations are ones that are planned out financially. Knowing what you are going to do before you leave prepares you for all finances that will be involved. Here are a few tips to help you prepare for the vacation before you pack your bags and leave.
· Research Different Vacation Options
There are a plethora of options when it comes to vacationing. You may even already have you and your family’s favorite spots in mind. However, other options may be cheaper and even more fun than you would have thought. One great vacation savings tip is to research different options before settling on one particular choice. You may find that other vacations will yield the same activities, but at a lesser cost. Research can be done on the internet or by contacting traveling agencies for help.
· Take Advantage of Deals and Discounts
Who does not enjoy a good deal or awesome discounts? Another great vacation savings tip is to take advantage of the deals and discounts that are typically offered on vacations. These deals can be found in magazines or newspapers. Of course, coupons can be found online as well. Also, check with the airline that you are using if you are flying. You may be eligible for discounted airfare or even deals on hotels.
· Weigh All of Your Options
It is very possible for frequent vacationers to choose an airline or hotel that they are familiar with. However, another great vacation savings tip is to shop around for hotels and airlines because you may discover that another choice will save you money. Also, shopping around online for airplane tickets and hotels on site like Expedia.com or Priceline.com will offer you discounted prices as well. Put your shopping skills to use by looking for the best offers and deals.
· Triple A Is the Cheapest Way
For less costly trips that occur close to home or in a nearby state, you may choose to travel by car instead of plane or train. This will require a vehicle that properly works. However, it is hard to predict what a car will do once on the road. Another great vacation savings tip is to invest in “Triple A” car service. “Triple A” is a discounted roadside assistance that is available 24/7 for car tows, repairs, and other car matters. Triple A also offers discounts on a variety of vacationing aspects as well.
· Travel During Off Seasons
Summer and spring vacations are the most popular. The weather is warm and people are able to enjoy the outdoors more. However, another great vacation savings tip is to travel during off seasons, or the times of the year where people travel the least. You are guaranteed great deals on flights, hotels, and vacationing activities by taking advantage of trips during the off season. They off season could also include times of the year not surrounding holidays or times of days that people decide not to travel much.
While you’re vacationing…
· Currency Exchanges
If you desire a vacation in another country, you must remember that currency exchange must be done. Another great vacation savings tip is to consider currency rates when traveling to other countries. This task could be a bit expensive to do, but it must be done. The recommended time to exchange currency is to do it in the country you want to vacation. Doing it at the airport is really expensive. Also be aware of your credit card’s exchange rates.
· Don’t Rush Your Vacation
You may find that some vacation spots and hotels offer a discounted price depending on the length of time you will stay. Another great vacation savings tip is to take advantage of discounts for staying longer than you intended. In other words, you may be able to save money if you stay at the beach for a whole week instead of for three days. Not only will you save money, but you will also spend more time enjoying your relaxation.
· Summer Camps Aren’t Just For Kids
When you hear summer camps, you automatically think of a place for children to enjoy their summer. Yes, that would definitely be true, summer camps are for kids but adults can enjoy them as well. Another great vacation savings tip is to send your kids to camp and use the chance to enjoy a nice vacation at home. Make sure to register early for the cheapest prices.
Vacations are meant to be enjoyable, not meant to break your pockets in the process of having fun. There are a variety of ways to save money before and during your vacation, but you have to be determined to do it. Adhere to the listed tips and enjoy your vacation.