Traveling can be a fun, exciting adventure where you learn more about different cultures, relax on a white, sandy beach or try new cuisines. For the average person, trips, whether in their native country or visiting a foreign land, can stretch the budget. There are a few tips, however, so that a trip can be fun and enjoyable while not emptying the wallet.
Lower Priced Hotels
There was a time when choosing a lower-priced chain hotel meant sacrificing comfort. Today, some of the budget hotels actually offer amenities that were previously unheard of in lower cost hotels.. Some chains now offer full kitchens so that meals can be cooked in the room. This can save a family considerable money as they do not have to eat out as often. Some chains even offer free breakfast while others have a nightly reception that includes dinner. Some even have a cocktail hour that accompanies dinner.
Avoid Hidden Hotel Fees
Often, hotels add fees to the cost of the room that can raise the price significantly. Some of these fees you can avoid so that a room originally considered a deal doesn’t end up costing more than luxury Dubai hotels. Although some fees are required, such as sales tax and occupancy fees, others can be removed. If the hotel offers a newspaper delivered to the room, check to be sure they do not actually charge for that service. If they do, decline the fee. Never use the hotel room phone. Instead, bring a cell phone or a pre-paid calling card and use the lobby phones. Hotels often charge a fee to use the room phone, even for local calls.
Use a Regional Airport
Some discount airlines, such as Spirit or JetBlue, only fly out of regional airports. Although a regional airport may be a bit farther from home, the savings of flying one of these lower-priced airlines often provides savings that are far higher than the extra gas to get to the airport. Even some larger airlines offer lower priced flights in and out of regional airports, so be sure to check different airports in the area to see if a lower price is available. Keep in mind that there may be fewer non-stop flights in and out of regional airports, but the savings could be worth a layover in another city.
Watch Airline Fees
Keep in mind that some discount airlines charge additional fees for choosing a specific seat and checking bags while some also charge for carry-on luggage that will must go in the overhead bin. The added fees can significantly raise the price of a ticket that initially appears to be a good deal. Choosing a particular seat is not always necessary, especially when flying alone and condensing luggage so that everything fits in a small bag under the seat can also save carry-on fees.
A vacation that breaks the budget may be fun, but the stress of added credit card charges or constantly telling children “no” when they ask for things can take the fun and relaxation out of the trip. These money saving tips can help you relax and enjoy your vacation without worrying about the cost.
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