FlexTrades might be considered one of the top travel agents in the United States based upon all the flights, road trips, and hotels we book and advise on year after year for our technicians. As a result, we know the tips and tricks for making travel easier and cheaper, and we’re sharing that list with you.
Tips & Tricks for Travel
Cheap Flights
- Don’t choose a destination, then your travel dates, and then find a flight. Rather, first find low-cost flights (from your departure airport) and then decide the destination that intrigues you the most on the dates that work well.
- If the above doesn’t work for you, then book your flights with strategy. There are windows of time that seem to work best depending upon whether your flying domestically or internationally.
- It used to be said that there were specific days of the week that were better than others when booking a flight but that’s now considered a myth. However, there are days considered cheaper to fly thanks to business travelers.
- Google Flights is considered by many as the best way to find flights and there are best practices for using Google Flights too (find them here). But it’s not necessarily the best way to book flights. Always try to book flights directly with the airline.
- Finally, if you’re not against credit cards, using an airline credit card can score you additional dollar savings with perks like free checked luggage or complimentary Wi-Fi in addition to lower cost or free flights if you secure enough points or miles.
Cheap Road Trips
- First and foremost, if you’re driving by car, try not to travel on peak traffic days or during peak traffic hours. Peak traffic days like holidays (or even weekends) often bring higher fuel costs (and lodgings costs).
- Gas can be one of the biggest costs when traveling by car, but it can also be the easiest way to save money. Google Maps will not only help you plan your route, but you can also view all the gas stations along the way and their current fuel price.
- If that’s not your thing, consider a fuel rewards app like Gas Buddy, which helps you not only save money but also earn rewards. And, if it’s helpful, Gas Buddy will calculate an estimate of the cost of fuel for the entire ride, too.
- Focus on fuel efficiency. You can do this by driving at the speed at which your vehicle gets the greatest fuel economy (typically around 55 mpg) or by getting a tune up on your vehicle prior to travel.
- Whether you have a personal vehicle or not, public transportation is a great alternative to traveling in your car. Whether you do it for your entire trip (Amtrak here we come!) or you do it once you’re at your final destination, you’ll likely find costs are lower than they would be with a vehicle. Public transportation avoids parking fees, fuel costs, and wear & tear on your vehicle. Another plus to public transportation? Seeing everything that’s around you as a passenger, rather than a driver.
- Last but not least, save money on food. Here’s some tips and tricks on how to not only eat within budget but also eat well while road tripping.
Cheap Lodging
No matter what type of lodging you prefer, you can always find a good deal on it. There is no need to sleep in your car to save money or blow your budget somewhere to lay your head. Below are some options to stay within budget but remember, it’s not just about budget it’s also about traveling safely and securely.
- Hotels are, of course, great places to stay. Here’s some tips & tricks for finding hotels within your budget and remember to use these best practices when booking a hotel. And don’t forget to earn rewards with hotel chains by signing up for their loyalty programs.
- Airbnb or VRBO
- Some may say these aren’t cost efficient but if you’re real about what you need vs. don’t need and/or where you stay, you can find some budget friendly options!
- Hospitality Exchanges
- This “exchange” allows a traveler to stay in the home of a local either for free or very minimal reimbursement of out-of-pocket expenses. As someone using this option, you too, must be willing to host when others need a place to stay.
- Couch Surfing
- BeWelcome
- Hostels
- Just like any other lodging, hostels vary in terms of cleanliness, available amenities, and quality. However, they can still be a very budget-friendly lodging option.
- Home Exchange
- Is a great place for this. Additionally, with websites like mindmyhouse.com, housecareers.com, and luxuryhousesitting.com, you can match with homeowners who need house sitters. For watching over their home, pets, and minor cleaning, you can secure a free place to stay at your intended destination.
- Stay on a Farm or at a Monastery
- Staying at a farm or monastery is definitely a unique approach to lodging but it’s one type of lodging that allows for a lot of learning!
The proof is in the pudding. You don’t have to save money for years on end to travel, rather you can save money while traveling and still get the adventure you’re looking for!
