(Content by Destiny C)
It’s exciting to travel, but it can also be stressful. Even the most veteran travelers can get worn down between long lines, unexpected delays, and a pile of growing costs. But don’t worry, with just a few travel hacks, you can save yourself some time and money. There are five proven tips to make your trip less expensive and smoother.
Book Your Flights Early, but Not So Early
The majority of travelers believe that booking flight tickets as early as possible always results in the best deal. Yes, last-minute prices can be high, but booking too far in advance doesn’t ensure you’ll save money either. Experts say the best time to book is between two and three months before departure, and most airlines begin releasing their flight schedules about a year in advance. Airline discounts are more likely to sell seats at this time. You can also track fare trends. Apps and websites such as Skyscanner, Google Flights, or Hopper help you to be alerted when the price for a flight drops. These tools tell you when to book and when to let the prices drop. You can potentially save hundreds with just a few minutes on these apps.
Avoid Extra fees by Packing Smart.
One of the biggest mistakes travelers make is overpacking. It weighs you down, and it adds extra costs. Baggage weight is a strict thing for airlines, and many charge hefty fees for overweight luggage. Versatile clothes will help you avoid this. Use mix-and-match pieces that work well in any situation. For trips of a week or less, try to pack everything into a carry-on bag. Free carry-on bags are on many airlines, and it saves you from waiting at the baggage claim. You can also roll your clothes instead of folding them to get more space. It also helps prevent wrinkles!
Use Local Transportation or Ride Services.
Airport transfers can be very expensive. To get from the airport to your hotel, many travelers spend a lot on taxis or private cars. The best you can do is ride public transportation or use a ride-hailing service like Uber or Lyft, which will be cheaper. Some airports also provide shuttle buses, dropping passengers off in big hotels or famous spots for a fraction of what it costs to take a taxi. Hiring a car service to the Philadelphia airport or one in your area might be an excellent idea. Airport parking fees can be expensive, while prices for local car services are generally less and sometimes compete with prices for extended trips. And it’s easier than asking family or friends to pick you up.
Thinking Outside the Box to Save on Accommodation
Hotels can eat up a big chunk of a travel budget, and there are lots of alternatives. If you are traveling with a group or with family, you may be looking to book an Airbnb (or vacation rental). Another thing is that it is cheaper, and it has a kitchen. Eating out for each meal will save a lot of money but cooking a few meals too. House sitting is a great way to make some extra cash, and if you’re up for a little adventure, then it’s the perfect way. TrustedHousesitters is a site that brings travelers and homeowners together, happy to have someone stay in their home when they’re not. For looking after their property (and sometimes their pets) you get free accommodation. If you have no problem with responsibility and you’d prefer a more authentic experience, it’s a great option.
Enjoy Free Walking Tours and Local Discounts
Activities and sightseeing can soon pile up once you get to your destination. Luckily, a lot of cities have free walking tours. If you want to see the city, learn its history, and get insider tips from locals, these tours are just what you need. They are guides who work on tips, so all you pay for is what you feel the tour was worth. Discount passes are also available in some cities. Like New York City Pass or Paris Pass, these passes bundle several major attractions into one ticket for a lower price. A number even offer free or discounted transportation. Research these options before you go to see if they’re available at your destination and in your travel plans.
Conclusion
It doesn’t have to be expensive or leave you completely exhausted when traveling. If you plan a little and apply these simple hacks, you can travel without stress or drain your bank account. Booking flights at the right time, packing strategically, using local transport options, finding budget-friendly accommodation, and finding free or discounted activities can make a huge difference to your time and money. Next time you’re planning a trip, you’ll find these travel hacks useful. That will give you the freedom to relax and enjoy every moment without falling into the trap of common travel pitfalls.
