You are probably second-guessing your vacation plans this year because of the bad economy. Read further to discover some ways which can help you keep that vacation without breaking the bank.
Before travelling, make sure you check the projected weather for your destination. You don’t want to be stuck with nothing but winter clothes during a heat wave or only shorts and tank-tops during a blizzard. Purchasing new clothing while on vacation may not only be expensive, but you might not have room in your luggage to take everything home with you!
Take a good book with you to read when traveling. If you always have something interesting to do, you will be less likely to get frustrated or bored during layovers and other time delays that are beyond your control. Buy a new title that you have been wanting to read so that you have something to look forward to.
If you enjoy alcohol, there’s no better way when traveling, to get to know a new city than with a pub crawl. Visiting multiple establishments in the same night, will give an interesting cross-section of the city that you wouldn’t gain any other way. Plus, you’ll make some new friends.
If you are going to be traveling abroad you may want to consider staying in a hotel which offers you a place to cook your own food. Unlike in America dining out in Europe can be rather pricey, and if you’re money minded, it would behoove you to go grocery shopping and prepare your own meals. This may even help you get a better feel for the culture of the country you travel to.
Give a copy of your travel itinerary to a loved one. Someone is sure to know your whereabouts at all times. Stay in contact to be safe. If they know where you are and hear from you on a regular basis, there will be no need for concern.
Are you traveling with your pet? Make sure their immunizations are up to date and you have the papers proving it! Also, don’t forget the essentials like food, water, leash and bedding. Tucking in a favorite toy or two always helps ease the boredom and helps keep them quite when you really don’t want them disturbing the occupants in the next room.
America offers many natural parks, with many options for the adventure of your choosing. When deciding what park is right for you, first decide how you want to play. America’s natural parks offer an endless range of activities. You will find everything from volcanoes to white river rafting to a quiet stroll through the wilderness.
When you’re packing your luggage, put anything you might need before you get to your destination, on top. This will help keep you from digging through your entire suitcase to find a hair brush or a book. Not only can it save you some time and frustration, but you won’t have to worry about things falling out while you’re looking and end up getting lost.
Knowing what is and is not allowed on an airplane can save you a hassle at the airport. Many people do not realize that simple everyday items such as hand lotion, sunscreen, etc., are considered spreads and either need to be in a clear plastic bag, or in your checked luggage. It is best to check with the TSA website before you leave for your trip to ensure smooth sailing at the airport.
Do some research online that covers all of the additional fees that you may be charged by individual airlines. These fees include baggage fees, snacks, entertainment, wifi and seat section. You will then be able to add up what everything is going to cost you including the price of the ticket itself.
Do not carry all of your credit cards with you when you travel. Only take the ones that you know you are going to need while you are gone. The same goes for jewelry. The fewer valuables that you take along with you, the less likely you are to have a thief take them or hurt you while trying to take them.
Bring a ruck sack with you when you are traveling on an airplane. Since many airlines are charging fees to check luggage, a lot of travelers are choosing to stick with carry-on bags instead. These bags are typically small, so to ensure that you have enough room for all of your stuff, take a ruck sack. It will fit into the overhead compartment and has a lot of space in it.
When you travel, take a look at the train schedules that are available to the destination to which you want to go. This is a great idea to avoid the high fares that you would pay if you go by airplane. Alternative forms of transportation can save you a lot of money.
A great travel tip is to always scrutinize your hotel bill whenever you leave. A lot of the time hotels will tack on hidden charges to your bill. If you catch these charges in time you might be able to dispute them. It pays to look closely at your hotel bill.
Do not bring Social Security cards with you on your vacation! Not only are they unnecessary, but you do not want them to get lost or be taken, if your purse is stolen. If, for whatever reason, you want to keep your Social Security number handy while on a trip, write it on a piece of paper, and put it in your luggage.
When looking into travel by bus, figure out your itinerary, and ask about specials or discounts. There are usually special bus fares for students, seniors, and groups. Advance ticket purchase is typically cheaper than last minute purchase. Travel by bus offers a low stress alternative to other methods of travel.
You don’t have to forget about your vacation just because money is tight. If you use the advice contained in this article, you will have no problem getting that next vacation set up.
