Most of us would often beg to travel, if asked by friends to join, reasoning that times are hard and we can not afford to fit the bill. Unknown to us, there are a lot of ways to minimize spending on travel and to maximize enjoyment while at it. These days, traveling on a budget is a buzzword and can still suggest a pleasure trip – quality time, comfortable agenda and significant immersion. The secret to all these is planning early on (even if we really do not intend to travel).

1. If possible, allocate a budget for the traveling category even if you have no plans to do so. By doing this, you avoid spending money on travel that is otherwise allotted for some other spending category. So as not to upset your budget, you can amortize over 12 months the annual budget you are willing to pay for a vacation.

2. Avoid package tours that have a lot of inclusions you can do without. Research on your potential destinations, buy a map of that place and study the lines of commute from one destination to another. And remember, when in Rome, do as the Romans do. So if the locals travel on foot, on a three-wheeled vehicle, or on some other weird vehicle, do so and pay for it cheaply. For food, eat where the locals eat, just do not forget to bring anti-diarrheal medicines. Just kidding.

3. If you already know your destination, avail of early bird discounts given by airlines, cruises, hotels and resorts. Consider also online reservations that offer extra discounts. Also, use reward points collected via credit cards which provide corresponding free miles for airlines, or free rooms for hotels.

4. For accommodations, think of local hotels or transient homes that are way more affordable than hotel chains. An added bonus is you can feel the local flavor by staying in these homes.

Christian Castillo wrote this on July 29th, 2008 and filed it under Single Life |