There is nothing like breaking away from the monotony of daily life and exploring what the world has to offer. If everyone’s bank account and boss would allow it, most would be out at the drop of a hat, laying on a beach in Mexico, tasting chocolate in Switzerland or exploring the streets of China. The time to travel is now, and if money is the only thing holding you back, it’s time we tackle that hurdle.
The U.S. Travel Association reports that the cost to travel has been on the rise since 2010 and is projected to continue that steady climb through 2016. Travel spending in 2014 alone totaled 927.9 billion dollars. The biggest expenditures being foodservices at 220 billion, lodging at 181 billion and public and auto transportation combining for a whopping 337 billion.
The spending isn’t going to slow down, and neither will the number of travelers. Join the masses and start planning your next vacation using these thrifty, trendy, money saving travel tips!
These Boots Were Made for Walking
Taxis, rental cars and chauffeurs can get expensive in a hurry! Pack a good pair of shoes and get your walk on! Not only is it cheaper than any other alternative, but it’s the best way to take in the sites. If walking isn’t in the cards, don’t be afraid to utilize the public transit systems available - it’s much cheaper than renting a car. It is also gives you the chance to meet and talk with the locals. Ask them about all of the cool, off the beaten path type stuff to do and try.
To help out on the walking game, look into booking centrally located accommodations. It may cost more right out of the gate, but will be cheaper in the long run when you use your own two feet, a train or subway to get around.
Ruminate on When and Where for Flights
Flying into or out of a major city can cost a lot more than an outlying airport. A lot of major cities both here and abroad are served by alternate airports, some of which have low-cost airlines or at the very least, cheaper tickets. Check out airports a few hours away from of your destination or point of departure. It might take more time, but the time and money spent getting there could end up being cheaper than the airline ticket from a major hub.
Living in Seattle, I have flown out of Bellingham numerous times because the difference in ticket prices outweighed the gas and travel time spent driving a few hours north.
There is no solid evidence available to name the cheapest time to buy your tickets or the cheapest times of day to fly. The debate on the cheapest days to fly has however been settled and points to the middle of the week, resting on Tuesday and Wednesday.
Pay Attention to the Prices
Prices are constantly in flux; not just flights, but hotels, activities and bundled packages too. It requires some patience and forethought, but can pay huge dividends down the road if you score on a big sale or discount. Use tools like airfarewatchdog to track prices and notify you when prices fluctuate.
Stray Away from Hotels in Favor of Something Better
Staying in a vacation home or apartment versus a hotel of comparable quality can cut your accommodations bill in half. A lot of times you will be able to work directly with the owner, allowing for further savings if you can bargain them down.
This is just the upfront costs too! When you stay in a hotel you have a mini fridge at best. In a rented home or apartment you have access to a full kitchen where you can prepare the meals you don’t want to go out for, saving a bundle in overall food costs. You also get to experience a lot of the local shops, markets and stores gathering the ingredients, giving you a perspective of your destination that you wouldn’t otherwise have.
A lot of apartments or rental homes will have in house laundry facilities as well, helping to cut down on both money and time spent searching for a Laundromat. This tip alone will allow you to potentially pack a bit lighter as you can wash and re-wear clothing.
Knowledge is Power and Often Savings
Just like with anything else in the world, the more you know, the better off you are. Knowing when to go, where to shop, where to eat and where you want to visit will help you plan and save you money. Utilize online communities like the TripAdvisor community forums to learn all you can about your destination. The savings are out there, you just need to spend the time finding them.
Save your cash for splurging! Use these tips to stretch your dollar and send you farther!
If you’re looking to really save, check out the BizX Travel Department. Fill out a BizX Travel Request and let BizX do the work of finding accommodations.
