Expert Tips for Budget-Friendly Travel

With warmer weather on the horizon, many of us are itching to plan our next getaway. But with travel costs on the rise, finding ways to save has never been more crucial. According to a recent survey by Hopper, a staggering 90% of travelers are prioritizing affordability when it comes to planning their spring and summer trips in 2024. To help you stretch your travel budget further, Yahoo Finance Reporter Kerry Hannon recently shared her top tips for saving on travel expenses.

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The number one tip from Hannon’s playbook? Plan ahead. Whether you’re booking flights or accommodations, getting an early start can often lead to significant savings. Hannon recommends booking airfare at least a month in advance, with two months being even better. When it comes to hotels, snagging a great deal often requires booking 10 days to two weeks ahead of time. Additionally, being strategic about your travel dates can make a big difference. Consider flying midweek, as flights tend to be cheaper on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, or opt for a Monday return instead of the weekend.

Another savvy strategy for saving on travel expenses is to avoid peak travel times. Instead of jetting off during spring break or other peak periods, consider traveling during shoulder seasons like May or the period between Labor Day and Thanksgiving. During these times, you’re more likely to find discounted rates on accommodations and even score perks like free car rentals or upgrades.

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Harnessing the power of price tracking tools can also help you score the best deals. Many travel apps offer price tracking features that notify you when prices drop for flights or accommodations to your desired destination. By staying flexible and jumping on price dips, you can maximize your savings potential.

Packing light is another practical tip for saving money on travel. With airlines hiking up checked baggage fees, opting for carry-on luggage can help you avoid hefty fees and potential hassles like lost luggage. Plus, traveling light means you can hit the ground running at your destination without waiting for your bags to arrive.

Lastly, don’t forget to leverage your credit card points and loyalty rewards programs. Whether it’s using credit card points to offset travel expenses or cashing in on hotel rewards for free stays, these perks can add up to significant savings over time.

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With these expert tips in your arsenal, you can plan a spring or summer getaway that’s not only memorable but also budget-friendly. So go ahead, start dreaming up your next adventure knowing that you’ve got the tools to make it a reality without breaking the bank.