Whether you enjoy traveling domestically or internationally, you don’t have to spend your whole life savings on travel. Creating a travel budget that allows you to enjoy nicer hotels, better cuisines, and a few sightseeing activities are well within your budget reach. It takes a little time to research, plan, and create a budget that fits your needs. Let’s dive into how to make your travel budget stretch. Because your budget may look different than your bestie or travel buddies, it is best not to compare yourself.
Plan Ahead
The first task is deciding where you would like to travel. It’s a good idea to research the location thoroughly so that you won’t get your hopes up if it’s out of your budget’s comfort. When you’re in the research stage, be sure to include everything, and I mean everything, in your plans. From packing to sightseeing, airlines, meals, etc… EVERYTHING!
Airlines
When choosing the right airline, I tend to choose those airlines with minimum layovers, budget-friendly costs, and earliest arrival times. If you’re anything like me, you want to arrive at your destination as earliest as possible, right? Here is where you might want to add a few extra dollars to your airline budget so that you’re not spending your travel day in an airport.
For starters, be sure to create an account with those airlines that you frequently fly or want to fly with so that you’re the first to know about any upcoming deals before the general public; once you find a few faithful airlines, you can always unsubscribe to those you no longer find useful. Creating an account can earn points from previous travel trips to help you with future travel plans. Trust me; those points will help you.
Hotels
When researching hotels, be sure to choose those that offer complimentary snacks and/or meals. This is most important if you travel domestically and stay with a chain hotel. Like with airlines, you can create an account, become a member, receive points, late checkout time, and other awesome deals.
Hotels offering complimentary breakfast are great choices because they help you save money for meals. This is one advantage that I love when booking hotels. It’s important to keep the location of the hotel in mind. How far is this hotel from the airport? Is it safe to walk the area? What sightseeing activities are within walking distance? You don’t want to be in a faraway land where you spend more money hauling a cab or an uber.
Travel With A Group
Traveling with friends offers some of the best benefits. One benefit is that you can save money by splitting the cost amongst a group. Depending on how many people are in your group, you could save on tourist attractions if you book them as a group. By taking this route, stretching your travel budget is possible. However, the downfall of traveling with a group is that you may not agree on everything.
Airbnb
If you’re traveling with a group and decide that hotels aren’t your thing, you can always opt for an Airbnb. Airbnbs can be a great option for larger groups. I have never stayed in an Airbnb but I heard great stories about them. When selecting an Airbnb, make sure to not only check the ratings but make sure you are looking into the area as well. Safety is a priority.
Although choosing an Airbnb can be a budget-friendly option, it’s important to remember that you may have to rent a car, take a run to the grocery store for food, travel farther into the city, and many other things.
All-Inclusive
Traveling internationally is a little different when it comes to stretching your budget. This is the best option for those who like to sit back, relax, and not worry about any added expenses once you’ve reached your destination. Most all-inclusive resorts offer unlimited food and beverages, a great way to save money. Some all-inclusive resorts offer credits that can be used on attractions and classes at the resort.
Package Deals
Packaging your vacation will stretch your budget. Most package deals include hotel, flight, and rental car options. The more you add to your package, the more money you save. You can book travel plans through third-party websites like Expedia, Travelocity, and Cheap Tickets. Or you can book directly through airlines like Southwest and Delta. You are the travel agent by booking directly with the airlines, and these specific airlines offer deferred payment plans. Here is a secret I learned long ago: you don’t need to book a travel agent to save money.
Cash Back Websites & Credit Cards
Websites like Ebates offer cash-back options when you book through their website. Ebates is a website that provides a certain percentage of cashback money when you make online purchases. This is great for online shoppers. You can earn money based on the items you buy often, and the cash back you receive can be used on your future travel. When it comes to cash-back credit cards, this is my go-to source. I will say that you must have a certain credit score to have a cash-back credit card, and most people are skeptical of having a credit card, but I have found it very useful.
Carry On Luggage
If you want to cut the baggage fee that most airlines charge, utilizing the free carry-on option is your best bet. Here, it gets a little tricky for the ladies; so many women overpack their luggage with “what if” clothing that they must check their bags. To avoid checking your bag, pack smart and with the necessities. Many travelers choose to carry their luggage on board but are over the height and weight requirement. It’s embarrassing and time-consuming to force your bag into the overhead compartment. If you’re planning a weekend getaway, you can certainly get away with a carry-on but keep in mind TSA’s requirements of the items that are allowed in your carry-on.
Skip Meals
Wait, did I say that? Yes! This comes from a person who enjoys trying different foods wherever I go. But dining is one way to kill your budget. If you want to stretch your budget, skipping meals will help. Here is why I say this if you’re staying at a hotel that offers complimentary breakfast, you’ve already saved yourself one meal! Now imagine grabbing a light lunch that costs you less than $10 that will keep you satisfied so you can splurge a little more on dinner. If you’re anything like me, you’ve already grabbed a couple of muffins and yogurt from breakfast for later. If you refuse to skip meals, try splitting your meal and the cost with a friend. Trust me; this is an easy way to stretch your travel budget.
There you have it, friends! How to make your travel budget stretch. Tell me in the comments if you’ve ever tried these tips.
Interested in more travel content? Check out this blog post, How To Travel On a Budget
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