Daydreaming about your next vacation? Don’t worry, soon enough, we’ll be able to reach the holiday season. To give you a little boost, why don’t you plan that vacation this holiday after work? Yes, you should plan it as early as possible, especially if you don’t want to drain your bank account and pile up bills on your credit card. Today, we’ll be giving you the list of 11 travel tricks to help you save money this holiday season.
11. Master the Art of “Destination Dupes”
Did you know that you can get the same vibe of your dream vacation for only a fraction of the cost? Instead of heading over to those popular spots, consider their most affordable “dupes” that fit what you have right now. Maybe you can swap Paris for the charming Montreal or switch from the vineyards of Napa Valley for the Finger Lakes region in New York. A simple search on the internet will give you some “dupe” places.
10. Embrace the Layover
In your rush to get to your destination, you prioritize non-stop flights. But a little patience goes a long (and affordable) way. On average, choosing flights with layovers can be 22% cheaper than non-stop ones. Just think of it as an adventure within your trip. You can walk around, grab a bite, or even do a quick souvenir shopping to experience their culture within the walls of their airport.
9. Fly on Off-Peak Days and Times
Avoid the rush when deciding on the schedule of your trip for bigger savings. Even flying on weekdays is much affordable than on weekends. Also consider flying on the holiday itself, like Thanksgiving or Christmas Day, where everyone’s already at the destination. You’ll be less likely to encounter huge crowds, which is a win for your wallet and sanity.
8. Book with Flexibility
Worried about prices dropping after you book? Try booking accommodations and flights with free cancellation policies. This will allow you to lock in a price but still keep an eye out for much better deals. Once you find a cheaper option, cancel your original booking and rebook for a lower price. This will give you peace of mind.
7. Pack Light, Save Big
This is probably one of the basic tips that people struggle with. Checked bag fees can add a heavy sum to your travel expenses. Fit everything in your carry-on by only packing your essentials that you’ll need for the trip. You’ll also be less tempted by shopping for items you don’t have space for, which would add to your savings.
6. Become a “Shoulder Season” Traveler
Remember, everyone travels during the peak holiday season, making it expensive for most of us. Plan traveling during the shoulder season, which is weeks just before or after the peak. By shifting your travel dates, you get to find good deals both on flights and accommodations. You’ll also get to enjoy the holiday decorations and spirit without the crowds and costs.
5. Unlock the Power of Loyalty Programs
If you’re someone who travels annually (or daily), consider being a member of hotel and airline loyalty programs. These programs often offer you free nights, upgrades, and exclusive member-only rates for you to avail. Some loyalty programs go as far as to offer a fourth or fifth night free once you redeem points. Once you reach the elite status with one program, then you’re likely to match with another for even more perks.
4. Leverage Credit Card Superpowers
Your credit card is a powerful tool that can help you save money on travel. Many credit cards offer benefits such as points and miles that are redeemable for free flights and hotels. You’ll also get complimentary access to airport lounges and even travel insurance that can save you from unexpected cancellation fees. Some cards even feature a reimbursement for your application fee for TSA PreCheck or Global Entry to get you through airport security faster.
3. Bundle Your Bookings for Big Savings
Booking your flight, hotel, and car rental separately can be pricey and a hassle. Try bundling your bookings into a package deal that can help you save. Search for travel websites and airlines that offer these packages. This will make it easier for you to book your entire trip in one go while saving money.
2. Think Outside the Main Airport
When searching for flights, the default will always be a major international airport that’s closest to your destination. But here’s a pro tip: choose smaller alternative airports that can be your best bet for cheap flights. Why? They have much lower fees, which means lower fares just for you. While it may mean a slightly longer drive to your destination, the savings are worth it.
1. Set It and Forget It with Price Tracking Alerts
Instead of constantly checking for the best deals on flights and hotels, let technology do the work. Some tools, like Google Flights and Hopper, will let you set up price tracking alerts on your chosen itinerary. It works by keeping you notified when prices drop, so you can immediately book them.