Traveling can be a costly endeavor, but there are ways to make travel more affordable and fun. Achieve your financial goals and still have an enjoyable vacation by utilizing some of these valuable budget-friendly travel savings tips and hacks.
Do Some Research
While it can be fun to be spontaneous and planning can be tedious, one of the best ways to save money is by researching and comparing accommodation options and other necessary travel expenses beforehand. If it's an option, consider staying with friends or family, or somewhere close enough to but not in the touristy part of your travel destination.
Utilize Rewards
Take advantage of loyalty programs, travel rewards, and credit card rewards points to maximize savings while you plan your travels. With the Members First Credit Union of Florida credit card rewards program you can earn 1 rewards point for every $1 spent on purchases that you can redeem for travel rewards like hotel stays, airfare, car rentals, cruises, and more. You can also use your rewards points to save on all your fuel purchases by using your Members First credit card at the pump at participating gas stations.
Be Flexible with Travel Dates
You can save money on travel by being flexible with your travel dates. Avoid traveling during the peak seasons or on the weekends. Airlines and hotels tend to increase their prices during popular holiday periods and weekends because of high demand. While booking ahead is typically your best option, you may also be able to save money by trying to secure a last-minute booking from an airline or hotel trying to fill up empty seats or rooms. This strategy, however, may not work for everyone most especially if you have specific dates you're traveling or if you're traveling with a large group or small children.
Pack Light
When packing for your travels take a moment to plan and be strategic about what you bring with you. By being smart about what you pack and packing light, you can save money on baggage fees and enjoy the added bonus of making your travel experience more convenient and less stressful. Avoid last-minute packing. Start by creating a packing list, considering the weather and activities you've planned for your trip.
Plan Your Meals Wisely
One of the great joys of traveling is tasting the local cuisine, but eating out can be costly. However, you can save money and splurge a bit at the same time if you do a little planning. Consider cooking a few of your own meals while you're on vacation or picking up sandwiches at a convenience store if cooking isn't an option. You'll still be able to enjoy a few meals sampling the local dishes, while making your travels more affordable.
Consider the Value of Photographs, Memories, and Souvenirs
Souvenirs are great, but they can easily burn a hole in your wallet and typically offer less value over time when compared to the experiences and memories that you make during your travels. When shopping for gifts or keepsakes, be smart about what you purchase by considering the cost of each item, whether it can be found elsewhere for a better price or even purchased online, and how much use you’ll get out of it. While not every item has to serve a purpose, trinkets from your travels can end up costing you by taking up much needed space in your luggage or gathering dust and bound for a landfill years later. Often, the best things to bring back with you from your travels are photographs and memories.
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