Are you planning on taking a summer vacation this year? If you’ve got big travel plans but not a big travel budget, don’t worry. There are lots of ways you can save money on travel and still have a great trip.
Westport Federal Credit Union has some tips so you can save money on your summer vacation.
- Be Flexible: The best way to save money on travel is the ability to be flexible with your itinerary. Mostly, Fridays and Saturdays are the most expensive travel nights. By staying during the week you could save some money.
Compare flight prices on different days. This way you can see which days to fly are the cheapest.
Go online or call your preferred hotel ahead of time to see if they offer any specials for Monday through Thursday stays.
- Travel Rewards: First sign up for every free travel loyalty program you’re interested in, including hotel and car rental. And when booking, see if hotels (or airlines) offer any amenities, like a free shuttle or breakfast.
If you want to sign up for a travel rewards credit card, be sure to read the eligibility requirements and make sure your everyday, normal spending would meet the card’s required spend to get the signup bonus. If the amount fits within your normal budget and you don’t have to spend more than you normally would to get the points – applying for a travel credit card might help reduce the cost of a trip.
- Vacation Rental: If you are comfortable staying in someone else’s place, check out vacation rental sites as a comparison to hotels. Keep in mind, you can search for places to stay through vacation rental sites such as (Airbnb, VRBO, etc.) with or without “roommates.” Typically, you will spend more to have an entire place to yourself, whereas if you rent a room in someone’s house, you’ll pay much less. It all depends on your space limits and budget.
- Free Entertainment
Once you arrive at your destination, take a walk around the city or town. Look for local newspapers or pamphlets advertising free or cheaper entertainment.
Before you go on your vacation Google your destination and the word “free entertainment” to see what comes up. Skipping the touristy spots and vacationing like you live there will keep costs down.
But if you still don’t think using those tips will save you enough money for your summer vacation don’t be stressed! Westport Federal Credit Union has a travel loan so you can take the vacation you deserve. You can apply online, 24/7 from the comfort of your home here.
