Ways to Save Money when Traveling

With gas prices at all-time highs, everyone is feeling the pinch, especially when it comes to traveling. So for many people that means finding ways to save money while vacationing. Here are some ideas and tips to help you have a great vacation, but still keep some money in the bank.

Finding Cheap Airline Tickets

· There are many sites that help you search for the lowest air fare. Any of these are a good option when searching for tickets on the cheap, but some airlines, like Southwest, do not allow their tickets to be posted on outside sites, so it is beneficial to check airline websites as well.

· Be sure to check smaller airlines. With smaller airlines a greater number of the seats are sold at a cheaper rate so you are more likely to find a great deal. Some smaller airline companies are; Air Tran Airways, JetBlue, North American Airlines, Shuttle Airlines, Skybus Airlines, Spirit Airlines, Sun Country Airlines, and Transmeridian Airlines. There are many others and it is always a good idea to do some research in your area to find out if there are any low-cost airlines based near your home.

· Travel on off-peak days. Usually mid-week days like Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday offer better deals.

Discount Lodging

• Call the hotel you will be staying in directly, not just the nationwide number. Usually the agents at the nationwide number are not aware of specific discounts or specials that may be going on at the hotel you plan on staying in.
• If you own a small business or work as a freelancer you qualify for corporate rates that can save you as much as twenty percent off the regular price.
• If it's off season try at least negotiating the price down. Hotel owners would rather have someone in a room at a discounted rate than have the room empty.
• Check out alternatives to hotels. College dormitories are often rented out to travelers during the summer. You most likely won't have a bathroom in your room, but it will save you a ton of money. Other options are hostels, religious retreats, and B & B's (outside of the U.S.).

Rental Car Savings

• Watch for coupons in the mail. Coupons for rental cars are prevalent and you can get a great deal with them.
• Rent the cheapest car they have. Usually this is the most popular rental and they often will not be available and the company will upgrade you for free.
• Check with your insurance company before getting insurance for the rental often times you are already paying for this and getting insurance with the rental company is simply a waste of money.