Everyone loves to go on vacation, but a few smart changes of course can make all the difference in the world. Whether you’re thinking about booking a trip or just want to know what sorts of things you can do.
Here are five ways to save money on travel:
1. Research flight fares.
The cost of airfare is notoriously unpredictable, but fares can vary widely within the same type of flight. Cruise lines like Royal Caribbean and Carnival charge far more than your average airline – up to ten times as much on the same type of flight.
2. Book early and book direct.
Unless you’re willing to pay a premium for a ticket, it’s best to book not only earlier in the day but also directly with the airline or cruise line rather than through an intermediary. If you’re going for a cheaper fare, be aware that airline websites often aren’t as reliable as booking directly with the carrier – so check both sites before choosing which one to fly out on.
3. Call and ask to tweak the price.
If you’re searching for an airline ticket at the last minute and you’re willing to spend a few minutes on the phone, be sure to ask about any taxes or fees charged by your destination’s airport operator. You might discover that you can fly from your hometown airport for much less than you thought.
4. Pay in cash, not by credit card.
If an airline or cruise line offers a cheap fare by credit card, be wary – there’s a good chance it’s a bait-and-switch scam that charges you more for the flight than what it actually costs them (or worse).
5. Check back after you buy your tickets.
If you’re booking a round-trip flight, be sure to check out the airline’s website or customer service line after you buy your ticket – many airlines will alter their prices in the weeks before the flight if they expect the price of fuel to drop, or if they think they’ll soon be able to raise flyer taxes.
Conclusion:
If you use these five tips to save money on travel, you’ll be glad you did. The truth is that some things are worth spending money on. But if you make a few smart choices, you’ll find the trip of your dreams for a price that won’t break the bank.