10 Ways to Cut Travel Expenses

With the traveling season upon us, I wanted to share a handful of great hacks that help us to save a couple dollars when on the road (or in the air). Traveling expenses can add up quickly, so I hope these tips lend a hand when booking your next trip! For those of you who want to manage your money all year round, Personal Capital's financial tools are a great way to help with that! L and I travel consistently throughout the year, many of our trips being trips out to Ohio to visit his family, and others being to Myrtle Beach, skiing in Vermont, and other short trips around New England. Throughout the past couple of years, I think that it is safe to say that we have slowly figured out what works and doesn't work for us. 

TRAVEL REWARDS CARD

• A travel rewards credit card is a great way to put your everyday charges towards points that can be used for flight miles and accommodations. Each card offers a unique collection of benefits, however it is rare to find one card that suits everyone. Every traveler is looking for a different travel experience making it simple to narrow down the rewards card that works best for you!

FLIGHT FLEXIBILITY

• We have had the most luck booking our flights midweek, usually on Wednesdays. While it is rare that airlines get cheaper the closer you are to your departure date, air flights do drop drastically some days so it is possible, and if you like to gamble you might luck out! For us, it is most beneficial and cost saving to book our flights as far out in advance as possible, and to also fly midweek. 

DON'T PAY TO CHECK A BAG

• Checking a bag can easily add an additional $25 to $50 onto any trip! Not many airlines allow one free checked bag anymore, so be aware of that charge! If you're able to, stick to your travel sized toiletries and pack everything into a carry on! This will also save you time when checking in, AND you won't have to wait for baggage claim. I also live in fear of my checked luggage getting lost, so that's another thing I don't have to worry about!

TRAVEL DURING THE OFF SEASON

• We LOVE to travel during the off season! Prices are bound to be lower, destinations are much less crowded, and you have a better opportunity to meet and get to know the locals. Feeling rushed, crowded and robbed blind are never good feelings... so travel during the off season!

STAY AT SMALLER, PRIVATELY OWNED HOTELS

• I do like staying at chains because I know what to expect, however they are always top dollar. Venture outside of your comfort zone and check out small, privately owned hotels, boutiques and bed and breakfast's. Not only will they more than likely be a little bit easier on your wallet, they usually provide a more interactive and personable experience for their guests. 

NEGOTIATE YOUR ROOM RATE WHEN YOU ARRIVE

• Yes. This works. Go in knowing that you are the paying customer and there are other options. I'm not saying to ask for an unreasonable amount off, but do ask what the best price available is, and compare what they are offering to what a third party may offer (Trivago, Travelocity, etc.). They will more than likely adjust the price a little bit which is certainly better than nothing!

DON'T FORGET ABOUT MEMBER DISCOUNTS

• When you go to check into a hotel or buy a travel ticket, always ask if they offer any member discounts (AAA, AARP, etc.). We always forget about this one, but it can almost always save you a dollar or two. Just the other night, L and I got a significant amount off of our stay because I am a member of AAA. Score!

VISIT HIDDEN GEMS

• Avoid visiting the popular and very expensive destinations that tend to attract tourists. Try to find the less saturated spots that may be located a little bit farther outside of the city. These places sometimes end up being the best part of the trip!

SIGHTSEEING - IT CAN BE FREE

• Every destination usually offers a free cities index which can provide you with an inexpensive day of adventure at local parks, beaches and informative tours. Take a day to explore the areas that you may have looked over in your vacation planning and indulge in some freebies!

PACK A LUNCH

• Airports, resorts and other vacation hot spots often hike up their food costs to bleed you dry. A simple lunch out could end up being two or three times the price to catch the unprepared tourist who has limited options. Go to a grocery store at the beginning of your trip and buy sandwich supplies to pack yourself and family some brown bags.

Feeling like we're 16 and in high school again -- exploring beautiful NH together in L's car from high school! Nostalgic!

P.S. Check out my travel lust list here!