At Granite Bank, we’re all about helping you make wise financial decisions, and that includes your summer travels. No mater what your summer vacation plans are, we have some tips for you that may save you money. So pack your bags, and let’s go!
1. Use points and miles to save on flights, hotels, and car rentals
Some credit card companies let you accumulate and use points to book flights, hotels, and rental cars directly and offer a discount for doing so. You’ll want to check with your credit card company to see if they offer this. Additionally, you may have accumulated airline miles that you can redeem–check with your airline.
2. Be flexible about when (or even where) you go
Go during the shoulder season. If you book your vacation at the very beginning or very end of summer (late May and earlier or mid-August and later), you may find lower rates on hotels and flights as well as fewer crowds.
Fly on a Wednesday or Saturday. Statistically speaking, these are the cheapest days of the week to fly.
Have flexible dates. Even just one day’s difference may make a difference in flight prices.
Have a flexible destination. This one’s for the adventurers! Check resources like Skyscanner‘s “Explore Everywhere” feature and compare rates for different destinations.
3. Use discount sites and apps
For flights: try apps like Hopper, Skyscanner, and Google Flights to find deals.
For activities, check Groupon, GetYourGuide, and Airbnb Experiences.
4. Consider a road trip
This may be a cheaper option than flying, especially if you are traveling with your family. Additionally, you can make as many stops as you’d like, and you won’t have to stick to a strict itinerary. You may be able to see more sights by taking a road trip!
Some American road trip ideas:
- Miami to Key West
- Denver to Telluride
- Pacific Coast Highway
- Blue Ridge Parkway
- Historic Route 66
5. Set a budget
Use a budgeting app and decide how much you want to spend on transportation, lodging, activities, and food. Set a limit for each category and stick to it.
6. Check your destination for free and low-cost activities
- Search “Free things to do in (destination city).”
- Check sites like Eventbrite for fun events or festivals that are free or low cost.
- Check the websites of museums and art galleries you want to visit. Some may offer discounted days or hours.
7. Take public transit
Rather than spending money on rideshare apps or rental cars to get from one place to another, look up the local bus and train schedule.
An alternative could be a hop on, hop off bus tour. Many major cities have these tours, and you can usually get to most of the places you want to see. Plus, you get a fun tour!
8. Travel light
Avoid checked bagged fees by traveling with one small bag or suitcase. Pack items that dry quickly so that you can wash them as you go.
9. Reduce food costs
Bring your own snacks and water bottle. For a day of sightseeing, consider packing your own refillable water bottle and snacks and save your money for a nice dinner.
Try local markets. This can be an adventure in and of itself! Shop like a local and get snacks from a local market rather than overpaying at your hotel or cafes.
10. Travel with friends and family
It may be cheaper to rent a vacation home and split the cost between a big group. Additionally, vacation homes usually have full kitchens, so you may be able to save even more money by cooking your own meals.
Bon Voyage!
No matter where you summer travels take you, we hope you have a safe, fun summer!
