Wondering whether you should spend your hard-earned savings on travel this year? I can't tell you that, but I can give you a few easy tips on how to save yourself a few bucks.
FLIGHT:
- You don't have to skimp on major things, but remember the little things can add up.
- Try bringing your own headphones instead of spending $3 buying them.
- Make sure your carry-on is the right size and weight so you're not paying extra.
- Travel during non peak times. Wednesdays are the cheapest days to fly, whereas Fridays and Sundays are the most expensive.
HOTEL:
- Ask about and avoid the extra fees such as resort fees, early check ins/late check outs and internet charges.
- If you join the hotel's loyalty program, perks like a free newspaper or free local calls could be coming your way. Make sure you ask about them.
- Be flexible. As long as you don't care which hotel you are staying at, use the on-line bidding websites like Hotwire and Priceline. You can save hundreds of dollars on a weekend getaway.
- When paying the bill you'll often get the best exchange rate when you use your credit or debit card (make purchases or do ATM withdrawals). If you use cash or travellers cheques you often open yourself up to conversion fees (and you likely already paid a fee to get the cash or traveller's cheques in the first place).
OTHER:
- Embrace loyalty clubs. Use them and use them wisely. For example, when using your Aeroplan points, it is often better to cash them in for rental cars, attractions or hotel stays versus airplane tickets, which can often be significantly less value when you compare the dollar amounts required for your purchase.
- Have a budget in advance for your trip; plan it out and stick to it. Consolidated Credit Counselling can help you manage your debt and offers advice on how to budget for your vacation. http://www.consolidatedcredit.ca/personal-finances/money-management/travel/
