Ah, traveling, who doesn't love to do it? It's a great way to make tons of awesome memories, but not so great on the bank. So here are some tips and tricks to get the most out of your vacation.
1. If you're going to fly, don't fly on the weekend!
Flights generally tend to be more expensive on weekends. Since people typically want to start their trip later in the week, airlines bump the prices of flights earlier in the week so that they'll fill up. So try and avoid flying on weekends, if you can!
2. Don't use travel agencies.
They tend to be more costly than just booking the trip on your own. This happens because they are charging you a fee for booking through them. Find cheaper flights by doing it the old fashioned way and go to each airlines sites.
3. Check for cheap travel dates.
Airlines usually have a calendar up on their websites that will show what days they are running cheap flights. Saving money on the flights means you can splurge on something else!
4. Don't book your trip around your hotel reservation.
Unless you got a good deal on your hotel, the reservation can always be changed! Try and line up your tickets first instead of the hotel.
5. When packing, roll instead of fold.
I found that this saves much more space than folding. Also, it allows you to stack your items easier!
6. Get creative on packing!
We have all seen the videos. Make sure that you waste little to no space when heading out for your vacation. Remember, it's a vacation, not a move, you don't need everything!
7. Pack food!!!!!
Pack your own food, it will save you tons of money! Especially, if you're doing a road trip. Having to buy something every time you make a stop is going to add up quickly! Get a cooler and fill it up with drinks and maybe some sandwiches. Plus, if you make your own they are guaranteed to be healthy!
8. If you're traveling with lots of family, try finding airlines that have the best luggage rates.
A cheap flight may be great but not if you're spending tons of extra money on luggage. Southwest has a pretty cool deal of allowing you two checked bags for free! I know I need that since the words "traveling light" are not in my dictionary.
9. Drive instead of flying!
Only if it's the smarter option! Most likely though, it is. It's a lot cheaper to spend $100 on gas than $300 on an airplane ticket. But be prepared to make the long drive -- also for the cranky attitudes of your passengers or the good (pray for the good)!
Regardless of what way you choose to travel, make sure it's the smartest. Make budgets or don't! Just remember to enjoy your vacation and not focus on the little things once you're already there. I hope that some of these travel tips and tricks will help you get the most bang for your buck!
