Here are my best suggestions on how to save money on your trip.
Flexible travel dates & Off Season Travel
Try to be as flexible with your travel dates as possible. Flight prices can vary greatly from one day to the next. School breaks and holidays can cause prices to inflate. If you can travel in your destination's “off” season, you’ll likely find better rates on flights, accommodations, and less crowds!
Book accommodations that offer breakfast
Look for accommodations that also include breakfast. If you’re not booking a hotel or B&B that offers breakfast, look for a home rental or other accommodation that may include a kitchen or kitchenette where you can prepare small meals.
Hit up a grocery store for breakfast or lunch items to eat
If you’re looking to save a little money, consider shopping at a local grocery store. This can be a great spot to find cheaper snacks in between activities. If you have access to a kitchen or kitchenette it is also a great way to save some money by preparing meals on your own.
Traveling with a group? Inquire about group pricing or discounts!
It is worth it to ask your tour operators if they offer group discounts if you’ll be traveling with a family or large group. Not all operators will offer such discounts, but it can’t hurt to ask.
Limit souvenirs - don't bring home gifts for everyone you know
Make a list of the important people who you want to bring home a souvenir to. Then, decide how much you want to spend before you travel. I personally do not bring home souvenirs to family or friends. I like to bring home intentional souvenirs and look for pieces of artwork I could include in my home keepsake from my trip.
Avoid overpacking - don't get hit with baggage fees
Invest in a luggage scale before you leave so that you know exactly how much your luggage weighs. This will make check-in smoother when you drop off your baggage at the desk. I take my luggage scale with me so that I can weigh my luggage before I return home as well. I usually come home with a souvenir or two and always like to double check. Make sure you pay close attention to the size regulations of your airline. Not all airlines are the same. If you are traveling between multiple airlines, make sure you’re looking at the dimensions and weight requirements for each aircraft you’ll be traveling in.
Book flights in advance
Look at booking your flights in advance 6 to 8 weeks before your departure. This is a good sweet spot according to many in the industry. For international flights, you can even start looking up to three months in advance. If you’re looking at prices for budgeting purposes, flight times and prices will usually not be published by airlines until 10 months prior to the traveling date. Even then this far out, they are subject to change a few times until closer to the departure date.
Know what local scams to look out for
Do a quick search online to learn what local scams might look like in the area. Be street smart while traveling and do not give in to pushy vendors.
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