Please note-there are some photos from Brazil with the typical beach bikini
Booking a budget vacation or avoiding unnecessary expense is an important part of organizing annual rest and relaxation. Let us take a look at some ideas to save money, whether traveling independently or booking a package deal.
https://www.flickr.com/photos/francisco_osorio/8963708861
Flexibility
Last minute holidays can represent considerable savings when booking a getaway. These can be found online, but also talk to your travel agent or favorite vacation company – they might have special savings at short notice and for only a limited period.
Flexibility with travel date and times reduces costs. Monday to Thursday is often cheaper; Fridays cost more, being popular with business travelers. Vacations at the end of summer are often cheaper than peak periods in July. Early flights or night flights are often priced lower – if you do not mind the early start and sleep loss!
When to book?
Last minute flights are not always cheaper. Some experts consider it is typically cheapest to book the ‘average’ flight about six weeks before the intended date of travel. Booking flights less than a week or two before (and in some cases more than two or three months before) often costs more than average.
Some airline fare comparison websites offer price alerts by email, so you can keep an eye on changes and decide when to book. Cheapest is not always best, so consider the number of connections, traveling time, possible fatigue and the effect on your own relaxation and the overall experience.
Hotels, meals and baggage
When flying, it is cheaper to travel with only carry-on baggage. Remember the weight limits and travel light. For domestic destinations, driving or train or bus travel may be cheaper than flying.
Be prepared to shop around for accommodations. Some companies offer discounts for ‘secret hotels’ or allocation on arrival in the resort, if you are prepared to accept this ‘surprise factor’. Remember the cost of meals including breakfast.
Don’t be tempted to skimp on insurance; peace of mind is better in the event of a possible emergency.
Last but certainly not least: enjoy your vacation!
Image by Francisco Osorio, used under the Creative Commons license.
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