Is your OOO on Yet? Keep These Travel Budget Friendly Tips in Mind
Summer is here, and for many Americans, it’s vacation season.
It’s also one of the most expensive times of the year to travel. With warm weather, school breaks, and lighter work schedules encouraging many to hit the road or book flights, prices for airfare, hotels, and popular destinations often peak — which can put a damper on your dream vacation plans.
If you’re hoping to get away and make the most of your time off, these tips and tricks can help make seeing the world — or even just the U.S. — a bit more affordable.
Start saving & take advantage of travel perks
Planning your vacation can begin anytime simply by setting aside money for travel expenses. Take a close look at your current spending and see if there are items you can cut, such as unused subscriptions, entertainment, or dining out.
Don’t underestimate the power of credit card points — they can make travel more rewarding and help offset costs. Explore the travel rewards your credit card offers. Travel cards often allow you to build up miles or reward points for everyday purchases, which you can later use for flights, hotel stays, or rental cars.
Timing is everything
If your schedule is flexible, consider traveling during the off-season for lower prices. Think about visiting a destination a month or two before or after peak season, when crowds are smaller and costs drop.
No matter when you travel, try to book plane tickets about two months in advance. Start monitoring fares as early as possible to lock in the lowest prices.
Sign up for airline price alerts, and follow carriers via email newsletters and social media to stay on top of deals. Look for package offers, too — airlines and hotels often bundle flights and accommodations at a discount to avoid empty seats and rooms.
When planning your itinerary, search for destination discounts. Many museums offer free entry on certain days or at specific times. Some attractions provide special rates for educators, health care workers, or members of the military. In many cities, museum passes let you visit multiple sites for one flat fee.
Know what to skip
At your destination, think twice about splurging on expensive guided tours or private transit like taxis and rideshares. Instead, create your own city tour, join a free walking tour, or use public transportation to explore.
When visiting popular monuments or iconic streets, skip the “tourist trap” shops and restaurants. Just a few blocks away, you’ll often find more authentic — and more affordable — dining and shopping options.
Broaden your horizons
Sometimes smaller towns offer a richer experience at a fraction of the cost of big cities. Opting for lesser-known destinations can help you save on hotels and dining while giving you a unique travel experience.
If you do want access to a larger city, consider staying just outside the main urban area. Hotels are usually cheaper, and you’ll still be close enough to enjoy the attractions without overspending on accommodations.
Plan a staycation
If a big trip still isn’t in your budget, that’s OK. You can enjoy a refreshing break without going far.
Plan a day trip to a nearby town, or take a longer road trip within your state. You’ll still experience new places and stay in different hotels. If you’re visiting friends or relatives, add a fun outing to explore a local landmark while you’re there.
Don’t forget about the U.S.’s extensive state and national park systems. Entrance fees are typically affordable per vehicle, and you can save even more by bringing a picnic.
The bottom line
Travel enriches our lives, and with some creativity, you can enjoy memorable adventures without overspending. By using budget-friendly strategies, you can add excitement to your summer without breaking the bank.
Have fun finding smart ways to cut costs while still enjoying a fulfilling trip.
For more financial health tips, visit chase.com/financialgoals.
