Traveling is one of life’s greatest joys, but it can also be one of life’s greatest expenses. Luckily, there are plenty of great ways to save on travel without sacrificing safety or fun. Here are a few ideas for cheap trips you can enjoy with friends, family, or alone.
Road Trips
Looking for a cheap way to see the world? Get behind the wheel of your car and hit the road. Vehicle travel saves on the cost of airlines and lets you enjoy a flexible travel schedule. Fewer people are taking road trips these days because the cost of gas is high, but it can still be much cheaper to travel by car than plane or train. Before you leave for a road trip, have your mechanic check over your car to ensure safe travel.
Take Advantage of Business Trips
You might have to travel to a destination for business purposes, but you can extend the trip for leisure purposes. The best part of turning a business trip into a vacation is the travel savings. Your airline ticket will be a business expense and you will only have to pay out-of-pocket for leisure activities, and your meals and hotel room once the business part of your trip is over.
Budget Vacations
Traditional vacations are typically the most expensive type of travel, but there are ways to enjoy cheap trips. Choose unorthodox destinations or travel during the off-season. This can save you money and it exposes you to things the average traveler does not get to experience. If everyone else is headed somewhere tropical for vacation, consider a rustic destination or some kind of adventure travel experience.
Tips for Planning Cheap Trips
Plan your trip well in advance. Though spontaneity can be exciting, it can also cost you a great deal more than a planned trip. Having time to conduct research and evaluate bargains will save you big.
Work with a travel agent if you are traveling internationally. Most travel agents offer free services to travelers (airlines, hotels, and other businesses pay a finders’ fee). Even if you choose not to book cheap trips through a travel agent, the can still provide information about your destination.
Plan trips with friends and family. One of the best ways to save on travel is to share travel expenses. Instead of renting a standard hotel room for two people, book a suite or condo for eight or ten people. The overall cost is more expensive, but sharing the cost makes it cheaper for everyone.
Look for ways to cut costs while traveling. Stay in accommodations with kitchen facilities. Search for coupons before you arrive in your destination. Participate in free activities while traveling that still allow you to enjoy your destination.
Pack light. Most airlines are charging extra for bags. The cost might not seem like much, but baggage fees add up quickly. Two travelers each checking a bag can add up to $100 in additional round-trip expenses.
Take advantage of online travel sites. These include Cruise.com, Cheaptripscom, Vacationstogo.com, Tripadvisor.com, and Bookingwiz.com.
