Ways to Save on Summer Travel

Summer is here just as travel is on the table again. That means it’s time to take the trip you swore you would while you were stuck at home. But just because you’re ready for a vacation doesn’t mean your bank account is. No matter what type of trip you are planning, traveling on a budget is always an option. And it may be easier than you think. Here are 10 ways to save on summer travel and still get the most out of your long-awaited vacation:

1. Choose a lesser-known location
   Pick your dream destination, then do some research on similar but less popular spots. Instead of California wine country, explore Washington state’s Walla Walla valley. Or enjoy the Mediterranean coast in Slovenia or Croatia instead of Italy. These off-the-beaten path destinations will not only be cheaper but less crowded. If you’re budgeting for travel internationally, check currency exchange rates to find out where your money will go the farthest.

2. Bundle all your travel expenses
   Picking a vacation package often cuts down on costs compared to arranging it piecemeal. It’s also undoubtedly more convenient. Sites like Priceline and Expedia that bundle air, hotel and transportation can often secure better prices and may offer an option to pay in installments over time. Last-minute deals on vacation package sites like Travelzoo will serve up the greatest savings of all if you are open to spontaneous travel.
   
   If you decide to buy flights and lodging individually, make sure to use any rewards or miles you’ve accumulated. Some companies are even offering special promotions to incentivize tourism after a tough year.

3. Find an all-inclusive resort
   If you find a deal at an all-inclusive resort and you’ve done your research, it may be a great opportunity to save money. Many all-inclusive resorts offer one flat price for the most expensive parts of travel: lodging, food, drinks (alcohol included) and entertainment. Some packages even incorporate airfare and local activities. Knowing the set price for each person makes it a lot easier to budget. Once you get your wristband at the resort, you know the basics are covered.

4. Consider driving instead of flying
   If your destination is within driving distance, you could save money by hitting the road. Peak travel times like summer bring higher flight prices, so it may be an ideal time for a road trip. If you know the fuel economy (miles per gallon) of your vehicle, you should be able estimate what your fuel costs would be roundtrip. Here are a few more reasons to love road trips:

   • Spend more time with family and friends
   • Take detours, see the sights and soak up the landscape
   • Save money on car rentals or ride services at your destination
   If you decide to drive, read our article on how to save money on a road trip.

5. Compare hotel, home rental and alternative lodging
   The further you stray from traditional hotel accommodations, the more potential you’ll find for cutting costs. When traveling on a budget, consider these alternative housing options:

   • Home rentals tend to be more affordable per night (though not always) and allow you to split costs with your travel companions. You will also save money by cooking meals yourself. Learn more about hotels vs. home rentals.
   
   
   • Farm stays let you enjoy a rural setting while potentially spending less. These accommodations range from a pastoral B&B to a functioning farm where you’ll be expected to work for your dinner. While farm stays are more popular in Europe, Australia and New Zealand, America has a network of organic farms called WWOOF that offer free room and board in exchange for labor. This option often appeals to younger people, but it can also be an enriching family vacation on a budget.
   
   
   • Hostels are significantly cheaper than even low-budget hotels. They have a reputation for being social and full of young people, but all ages are welcome. The most affordable option would be a bed in a shared room, but private rooms are also widely available and extremely budget friendly.
   
   
   • Camping and other rustic accommodations are money-saving options that will get you outside and out of your everyday. If you are not open to a multi-day camping trip, opt for just a couple of days to add some variety to your trip and cut costs. Established campsites charge a nominal fee while camping is free on any national forest land, unless otherwise noted. Rustic forest service cabins are another affordable option that will offer a beautiful setting for as little as $10 a night.
   Need a little extra cash for your getaway? A vacation loan from OneMain can help.

6. Book a rental with a full kitchen
   Eating at restaurants for breakfast, lunch and dinner adds up quickly. A simple way to travel on a budget is to cook your own food in a home rental or a hotel suite with a full kitchen. That way, when you do go out, you can splurge on what the local cuisine has to offer without feeling guilty.

7. Be flexible with your summer travel dates
   The more flexible you are with your travel dates, the more likely you will be to find a deal. Early and late summer may bring lower rates for flights and lodging. Leaving and returning during the week should also be slightly cheaper than traveling during the weekend. To get the most for your money, plan your vacation first, then book it for the dates that are the most affordable.

8. Take advantage of free entertainment
   If this is your first time traveling to the area, research and ask around for cheap or free entertainment ideas. Museums, art galleries, markets and street festivals are great ways to connect with local culture without spending a lot of money. If all else fails, head out for a walk and tour the area on your own.

9. Don’t forget about cell phone fees
   Keep in mind that you won’t always be connected to the internet, so you may need to conserve data. International data particularly is not cheap if you go over your limit. Check to see if your provider has an international plan, or communicate through apps like What’s App where you can chat and send messages for free.

10. Create an itinerary and set a daily budget
    Winging it can lead to a lot of unnecessary spending. Determine at least a loose itinerary for each day, then set a daily budget. That way, even if you do plan an expensive dinner or excursion, you can compensate by being thrifty the rest of the day. Leaving the hotel with a set amount of spending dollars will help you be more thoughtful about your purchases.

Happy and safe summer travels

Traveling on a budget can be just as fun and rewarding as an expensive, extravagant trip. Because travel should be about experience and adventure — not just comfort and convenience. Thoughtful planning and research will help you leave money stress behind, so you can truly take advantage of your time away.