Tourism and travel all over the world results in huge spending for consumers who love to visit all types of destinations. Did you know that in 2006 alone the travel industry received more than $725 Billion from international traveling consumers? That figure equates to about $2 Billion being spent each day.
Indeed, even though the price of fuel for automobiles and jets has risen in recent years, it seems as though the travel industry is not suffering all that much. If you plan on traveling to another country or a popular travel destination resort then you are one of the millions of consumers that will enjoy their vacation and have a relaxing time while doing it. There are many things to remember when traveling overseas, or domestically for that matter, that will keep you safe and also give you the best value for your money.
Travel Light When Flying: Even though you may be traveling abroad for several weeks to a month’s time, it’s always best to travel light if going through multiple airports just to get to your vacation destination. Tight security in United States’ airports and international airports as well makes for some long waiting times and even frustrates many consumers, especially if they are traveling with multiple items.
Furthermore, airline companies claim that they’re not making enough profit, which contributes to the fact why they’re charging even more money these days for single or extra bags that you may need to fly! This travel tip to remember is: watch out for those hidden flying costs, such as for multiple bags you’re traveling with, and travel light when possible!
Look for Package Deals!: Chances are that if you are traveling overseas or going to a vacation resort in a different country then you’ll also be staying in a nice hotel and possibly even need to rent an automobile. In addition, many people spend plenty of extra money by taking special trips to amusement parks, theme-land parks, zoos, aquariums, and plenty of other places that charge ticket fees or prices for admission. If you are set on doing this, though, one tip to remember is to look for the package deals that will save you the most money.
Some travel industry companies, such as AAA, will often educate consumers and offer these types of deals to consumers. Some package deals may include a whole resort and activity package, while other packages may include a specific number of nights at a hotel in exchange for deep savings at area restaurants, amusement parks, and even automobile rentals!
Another important idea that one may want to keep in mind when traveling is that staying farther away from a major metropolitan or activity area may yield terrific savings as well! For example, many people usually want to stay at the closest hotel that’s nearest their destination or amusement park they’re visiting. However, huge savings on hotel costs can result from simply booking a hotel that’s either five or ten miles down the road. This will result in very little increased gasoline expenditures, but will possibly save you one hundred dollars or more in accommodation costs.
All of these travel ideas are definitely great ways to save money on your next vacation. Whether you decide to travel abroad or stay somewhere not far from home, looking for some ways to make your money stretch further will allow you to enjoy more vacation activities in the end or allow you to simply put away the extra savings.
Posts Tagged ‘Money’
Money Saving Travel Tips to Remember
Sunday, August 22nd, 2010Budget Travel: Invest Your Time Now and Save Money Later
Sunday, June 13th, 2010When considering when, where, how, for how long and what type of vacation, trip or holiday venture to undertake, we all get caught up in the anticipation, excitement and exhilaration. Sometimes we let the more important financial side of things slip a little. After all, for most of us, taking a vacation may only happen once a year, for some, even more infrequently. We tend to indulge and forget about our pocket book a little.
There are many ways to save money, avoid unnecessary cost, ensure you take care of details end up a smart and perceptive traveler. Budget travel planning is easier that you might think. Here are a few handy travel tips for making your travel dollar go further!
• Cushion your budget – When considering a trip or planning budget travel, it is important to plan for the unexpected and consider the financial side of things early on. This ensures affordability, liquidity and having the resources to enjoy it to the fullest! Plan for the worst-case financial scenario and prepare for things to cost a little more than you expected. Allow up to 20% increase in cost to be on the safe side of things.
• Emergency money: Carrying some spare cash somewhere can also be a lifesaver. The rule of thumb seems to be around $50-$100 in small bills. This can be used for incidentals, ground-transportation like cab fare and/or your return home, tips and more.
• Set your priorities: Set some spending priorities and criteria in advance, like eating at a special restaurant or attending a concert, even if this means sacrificing a bit on lodgings or visa versa, depending on what is more important to you.
• Keep an eye on your credit cards: It is extremely easy these days to have access to your financial resources through ATM’s and credit cards. Just remember that it is just as easy to overspend because of it being so readily available. A little discipline will go a long way to protect your financial interest and help you stick to your travel budget.
• Maximize gas mileage and efficiency: If you’re planning a road trip, make sure that your car has been serviced at least a week before your trip. A well-maintained vehicle will go a long way to ensure carefree driving. If your budget allows, you may consider renting a vehicle to save wear and tear on your own. Small economy cars are better on gas and are much more comfortable than they used to be. Minivans and sport utility vehicles are practical only if you have to transport a large family with a lot of equipment or luggage.
• Gas fill-ups: For filling up your car en route, avoid pushing to the limit until the gas runs out. Gas will obviously be more expensive when filling up in remote locations. If you miscalculated and the light on the dashboard indicates that you are really in need, opt for filling just half a tank until you reach the next more densely or major populated destination, where gas might be a little cheaper.
• Pack-a-snack: Bring your own refreshments and snacks. Gas station prices on drinks and snack food are high. Avoid these during a pit stop, if you are counting your travel dollars. A cooler packed with lots of cool drinks, water and ice and/or a thermos of coffee or hot water for tea, some fruit, granola bars, or a sandwich, goes a long way to still the hunger and save you money by avoiding all high priced stops en route.
• Travel necessities: It is advisable to travel with basic necessities, like a cell phone and a first aid kit, since both can prove to be essential in emergencies. Most people have cell phones at their disposal, but in the event that you are not one of them, a prepaid cell phone may be the answer for your trip. The peace of mind it offers is worth the small investment. Cell phones can also save on hefty surcharges and higher long distance rates that hotels and resorts often charge.
Budget travel requires close attention to all things financial before and during your trip. Planning a trip or vacation can be a little time consuming but following these travel tips will hopefully save you a lot of headaches as well as some unnecessary interest charges on your credit card balances later! You will thank yourself for your fiscal restraint and spending discipline, upfront planning, foresight and forward thinking!