Although purchasing cheap fares, whether cheap airplane tickets and discount hotel rooms or cheap vacation packages is a smart way to plan for a trip there are additional ways to save even more money when traveling.
The following are other suggestions:
Airfares tend to be most expensive on weekends. The cheapest day to purchase tickets is usually Tuesday because many sales begin Monday night and competitors usually match them by Tuesday morning.
A day pass to an island resort often is cheaper than paying ala carte for activities on a Caribbean island. If going on a cruise, reserve your own excursions before you sail to avoid more expensive outings offered onboard.
If you are a senior, save on ski passes by checking with clubs such as the Over the Hill Gang International and the 70+ Ski Club. The Internet can help you find senior ski clubs.
Many cafes and restaurants in Europe give patrons the choice of sitting at a table or standing at a counter. Often the savings are substantial if you are willing to stand.
If you are interested in renting a car one way, be aware that in late spring rental car companies move a portion of their fleets north from Florida and in late fall they move a portion south. During these time periods one way rates are slashed. Last April Hertz charged $5 a day, plus taxes, to rent a compact from Jacksonville to Washington Dulles Airport, with no drop off fees.
Avoid foreign currency exchange kiosks when traveling abroad. ATMs often offer better rates. You can avoid some ATM fees by using machines affiliated with your banks global network.
Most U.S. credit cards add on foreign transaction fees that range from 2 to 3 percent for overseas charges. You can find cards that do not charge foreign transaction fees at websites like CreditCards and CardHub.
Avoid rental car damage charges by taking pictures of your rental car before taking it off the lot and after you return it.
Seaside thrift stores often offer reasonably priced local souvenirs and sometimes even bikes. If priced right, you can donate the bike back at the end of your trip.
Avoid renting a car at the airport where additional fees and taxes may add as much as 10 percent and instead rent in town traveling there by shuttle or public transit. www.cheapfares.com