Tips to Save Money on Summer Travel

Summer vacations can be expensive, and the current economy doesn’t make it any easier. There are ways, however, to make traveling more affordable. Here are a few simple things you can do to help you get away. 1. Plan Smart & Save Smart When it comes to vacations, good planning leads to good outcomes. Good vacation planning includes good budgeting habits well in advance of the actual event. There are a number of ways you can save money by making a few minor adjustments to your lifestyle. For example, replace your old thermostat with one that is programmable. Set it to reduce the AC or heat you use when you are not at home. Unplugging most appliances around the house when they are not in use will reduce passive electricity use – plus it will protect your electronics from power surges. Every penny you save by making minor changes at home can be used to fund your next vacation. 2. Stay Closer to Home Long distance trips can be fun, but remember that the farther away you go the more you will likely spend. Consider a destination within a day's drive, or enjoy a "staycation." Check out your state's website for vacation ideas, and keep in mind that many in-state tourist attractions offer resident and seasonal discounts. 3. Limit How Often You Eat at Restaurants When you make your reservations, get a room with at least a microwave and mini-fridge. This will give you the option to reheat restaurant leftovers or prepare a few simple meals in your room. Also try to stay at hotels that offer free breakfasts and “kids eat free” specials. If possible, pack lunches and snacks for your day trips and keep a cooler handy for drinks. 4. Use Travel Reward Credit Cards Most credit cards these days offer some type of rewards program. There are a variety of credit cards offering travel rewards. The American Express Gold Delta SkyMiles Card, for example, offers 10,000 miles after your first purchase (good for $100 towards qualified airfare), double SkyMiles on all Delta purchases, and one SkyMile for every dollar charged to the card. The annual fee for the first year is waived, and cardholders get one free companion ticket each year. 5. Save on Airfare If your trip requires that you fly, plan ahead. Typically the farther in advance you book your flights, the less you will have to pay for your tickets. In no event should you book your flight less than two weeks in advance. Remember that flying on a Tuesday or Wednesday costs less than flying on a Friday. Purchase your tickets on Monday or Tuesday, and avoid booking on the weekends since most airline discounts end on Thursdays. Your summer vacation is a time to get away and stop thinking about day-to-day life. The last thing you want is to return home from a relaxing vacation to mountains of debt, so plan wisely and spend carefully. To help you plan for your next vacation, here are a few ways for you to save: Apple Vacations • Save money on Apple’s “Deals of the Week” specials • Save money on Apple’s “Best of Summer” deals from $599 all inclusive Southwest Airlines Vacations • Internet Exclusive: “Last Minute” discounted deals • Save up to $250 on a Walt Disney World® Resort Vacation with code (expires 7/12/12) • Save 50% on 2-Day Kids' Disneyland Park Hopper® Tickets with code (expires 7/5/12) Avis • 15% OFF weekly rentals • MasterCard users to save up to 20% on rentals plus get a FREE upgrade Best Western • AARP members and seniors get at least a 10% DISCOUNT • AAA members get up to 20% OFF lowest available rates

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