Less Is More: Hot Tips For Heading Out To Hot Spots Without Burning A Hole In Your Wallet

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By Mia Bolaris-Forget

It’s that time of year. The weather is warming up (or is at least trying to), the kiddies are home from school, and everyone seems to have “cabin fever”. Yet, especially in these trying economic times, the “cure” can be quite costly, unless that is you know where to look and what to look for.

1. Like to fly, but not crazy about soaring airfare? The good news is that by holding off on booking, especially if you plan well in advance, you can possible find a better deal online by checking prices frequently. According to experts prices have been going down, and will continue to do so, if you are willing and able to play the waiting game.

2. Even if you’re traveling locally, think globally. Due to recent changes in the Open Skies agreement between Europe and the United States, many International airlines currently have flights between some U.S. and European cities. Check out availability on easyjet.com, jet4you.com or myair.com; you just may “luck out” and find one-way flights for as low as 22 Euros (or $28 U.S.)

3. Put the petal to the metal: While no one is suggesting that gas is cheap, it “can” often be cheaper than other modes of transport. Plus, you can take your time (if you’ve got it) and enjoy the sites along the way. You can even start with a particular theme, map out your journey and all the related hotspots along the way.

4. Think rental rather than resort: This can be particularly cost-conscientious if you are planning an extended getaway, and especially when it comes to large families or groups. In fact, if there more than one family that plans to enjoy the “excursion”, you can all chip in and share the cost. However, experts advice first having a meeting and discussion with the property owner and getting input on the exact terms and conditions, including specifics such as how close the beach is (exactly), what amenities are included with the rental, additional fees (if any), etc.

5. Downsize: Consider staying at a less haute hotel in favour of budget bedding. After all, how much time are you going to spend in your room anyway? According to travel aficionados, these popular independents are frequently cheaper and offer apartment-style suites replete with mini-kitchens and living rooms.

6. Consider Tracing Spaces: Is there someplace you’ve always wanted to visit/see? How about swapping homes with someone who has always wanted to pay your local area a vist? Believe it or not, a mere $100 fee allows you to list your home and view other homes worldwide that are interested in this type of vacation exchange. Just remember to check your home insurance and find out how guests are covered.

7. Look for bargains: Exotic doesn’t always have to mean expensive…and neither does vacation. Consider come more frugal destinations including Cape Cod, Cape May, Mexico, Canada, Slovenia, Hungary, Peru, Puerto Rico, etc.

8. Pick an off-peak destination: “My man” and I saved quite a nice sum of cash by taking our Hawaiin honeymoon in October, several months after our celebration.

9. Look beyond “hot spots”. Sure you may see want to see Rome, but that doesn’t mean you have to stay in the heart of the city. Instead consider staying on the “outskirts” and scoring a bargain and some peace and quiet while you’re at it.

10. Do your homework: Look up not only your destination location, but also the local activities that are both included and not included. Then factor in fees for these activities as well as dining out, spending on souvenirs, etc.

11. Take advantage of packages: More and more resorts, hotels, and destination hot spots are offering travelers all-inclusive deals that allow you to enjoy a stay that includes your room, some meals, and some recreation. While you still may have some “out-of-pocket” expenses, you can usually save more than you’d normally spend. Cruises are also ideal for a vacation that gives you lots of amenities for an often reasonable price.

12. The more the merrier: Consider containing costs by taking a group tour so that you can share the cost with others.