How to Have a Fun and Frugal Weekend Getaway –Henry Moore with Fitwelltraveler.com
Traveling may not be the least expensive hobby out there, but it’s one that has numerous benefits. Not only do you get to see new sights and sounds, but you also have an opportunity to step away from work and personal responsibilities, which can help you tackle these more efficiently upon your return. Keep reading for helpful tips and advice on how to enjoy a few days away without putting your adventures on credit.
Be Your Own Travel Agent
While it typically costs you nothing to utilize the services of a travel agent, they are going to steer you in the direction of less-than-budget-friendly accommodations and airfare since they get a kickback of 10 percent or more. For example, if you’re willing to do your own research, you can find great deals and promo codes for sites like Enterprise, which help save you money on car rentals. And if you don’t mind waiting until the last minute to book a room and you’re willing to compromise on room type, you can get luxury hotel rooms for budget motel prices, according to Money contributor Paul Schrodt. Another trick is to book multiple hotel rooms at different hotels using their flexible booking option. Often, these are not prepaid and may be canceled up to the day of arrival. Keep an eye on your bookings, and when something lowers in price, call the hotel and they will usually honor the lower rental fee.
Master the Art of Couponing
Coupons are typically synonymous with grocery store penny pinchers. While there’s no shame in getting an extra $.50 off your toothpaste, you can also use promotions and online coupons for websites like Hotels.com when you’re booking reservations. However, don’t stop online, and don’t be ashamed to use coupons to visit events and attractions or to enjoy a meal with your traveling companions. Contact your local school system to see if any schools are selling coupon books for their fall fundraiser. SaveAround is one of the most popular, with more than a dozen location-specific books throughout Florida. These coupon books typically cost between $20 and $25, but they can save you $100 or more over the course of a long weekend.
Follow the Deals
The great thing about leisure travel is that it’s flexible. If you’re road tripping, look for locations within five hours of home that might be interesting and head in whichever direction won’t impact your ability to pay the light bill. You can also take advantage of packages and cashback deals for travel sites such as Priceline. However, if your heart is set on one specific location, you can still get a good price on accommodations if you’re willing to stay a few miles away from your destination. Suburban hotels are often cheaper than their metropolitan counterparts. A few minutes of minor convenience may save you hundreds of dollars.
Grab Your Gear Ahead of Time
You know you have to pack clothes, shoes, and toiletries, but forgetting even a few necessities can cost you big time. Keep a travel bag packed with items such as shampoo, conditioner, dental floss, over-the-counter medicines, bandages, contact solution, earplugs, and other items you typically find yourself needing when you travel. You will also want to pre-purchase items specific to your trip. For example, if you’re taking the kids to the beach, purchase sand buckets and shovels at your local dollar store. A mountain hiking excursion will require bug spray that’s twice the price at the trailhead. Looking ahead will ensure you stay within budget. SnagShout.com is a good place to look for camping and outdoor gear and other travel accessories that you can purchase on Amazon at a discounted price.
Getting away doesn’t have to break the bank as long as you’re willing to do research. Use coupons and maintain some flexibility and you’ll be living it up without going for broke.
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