Just in time for your kick-off trip of the season, we’ve rounded up budget-friendly summer travel tips. Save hundreds on a fabulous getaway with great times that won’t break the bank
Buy In Bulk
Purchasing in large quantity not only cut costs for your groceries, but your travel plans as well. Search online for packages that combine airfare and hotel to save money – which means more cash for frozen daiquiris and souvenirs.
Play House
When looking for a place to stay, consider renting a house or an apartment in your destination city, versus a traditional hotel. You can save hundreds and also get a more authentic feel of the area. Search sites like homexchange.com, homeforswap.com and even Craigslist.com.
Pack Light (and in Solids)
Take singer’s Erykah Badu’s advice and pack tight and light this summer. Grab the bare essentials, as airlines charge per bag for baggage check, with costs increasing per piece. A few solid tops and dresses can easily go from day to night by trading your flats for espadrilles and adding some funky accessories.
DIY Toiletries
Thousands of expensive bottles of perfume, lotion, body wash and more are discarded in airports because of new carry-on liquid regulation. Reuse small bottles and plastic bags to create airline-friendly portions of your must-have beauty products.
Park It
To have more money for room service, try parking your car yourself. Valet parking is higher than guest self-parking, and a nearby garage could offer even better rates.
Smile Bright
Before you pay for an upgrade, try your winning smile for airline and hotel bumps. It doesn’t hurt to ask, especially if it’s a special occasion.
Search Wide
When researching flight, check into smaller airports in the town you are going. Less-crowded hubs are more likely to cater to low-cost airlines.
Branch Out
Book your hotel on the outskirts of the city. Staying in the suburbs rather than in the downtown often means lower rates and makes for a great scenic drive.
Hit the City
Also, fly into the biggest city nearby. In-demand destinations that have a lot of flights are cheaper than small, quaint, out-of-the-way locations.
Bargain Shop Souvenirs
We promise grandmom won’t know the difference if you get her a fabulous handmade gift for $5 or $50. Have more money to put towards gas and snacks by bypassing airport or hotel lobby shops and checking out the local grocery store for souvenirs.
Have these tips or others worked for you? Share your thoughts below.
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