We’d all love to be hanging out on that beach right now, but let’s face it – vacations are expensive. While this post isn’t going to tell you how to travel for cheap, we do have a few ways you can save some of that hard-earned cash.
1. Shop around for the best deal on lodging.
We almost always book our hotels through Expedia.com. They sometimes have discounted rates for booking through their site. You can also check out Hotwire.com and Hotels.com if you don’t mind booking with less information about the hotel available. For extended stays of a week or more, we recommend checking out a site called VRBO.com. They offer owner-rented condos, cottages, town homes, and a variety of other options all over the country. You can often find something no matter what your price range is.
2. Look for deals on restaurants.
Before you leave, make sure to visit Restaurant.com, where gift certificates are offered for many different dining options, usually at half their value. Small cities tend to have a limited selection however. Groupon.com also has deals on restaurants occasionally, so sign up for deals in your destination well in advance.
3. Find free or inexpensive entertainment.
Check your destination’s website for a calendar of events. You might be able to catch a free concert or festival. We were able to catch a movie at an old-fashioned theater one year and paid less than $5 a ticket. Sometimes dinner-and-show companies will offer discounts, so make sure to join their newsletter mailings well in advance.
4. Prepare your own meals.
If you are lodging where you have access to a kitchen, preparing a few of your own meals can save a lot of money. If you are heading to a popular tourist destination where prices are higher, consider taking some of your own ingredients to save even more money.
5. Check for free breakfasts.
Many hotels offer a complimentary breakfast for guests, so always see if it’s available before booking because you might find a better deal elsewhere.
6. Search for hotels near airports.
Downtown hotels often have higher prices, in addition to having limited parking for which you have to pay. If you are taking your own car, check the prices of hotels close to the airport. They are usually lower and often offer free parking.
What tips have you implemented to save money on your vacations?
16:10 Consulting 