Vacation’s a time to reconnect with your loved ones, explore new cultures, and relax. But the cost of paying for a vacation can sometimes cancel out that relaxation and cause stress of its own. The good news is that you don’t have to spend a small fortune to enjoy your time away – check out these ways to save on dining out, activities, transportation, and accommodations on your trip:
3 Ways to Save on Dining Out
There’s no question that food and drink bills add up quickly. But if you put these tips to work, you can sample your destination’s best cuisine without bursting your budget:
- Rethink breakfast and lunch. If you’re dying to try your destination’s top fine-dining restaurants, check them out during earlier meals of the day. You can soak in the aromas and ambiance of the must-do restaurants on your list during a time when prices are typically lower. Or, if you want to save up for a big dinner out, limit spending on earlier meals by choosing one meal a day to make and eat in your hotel. Stock your hotel fridge with drinks, milk, cereal, bread, fruit, cold cuts, and snacks. Not a fan of cooking? Take out can be a money-smart alternative to dining out at a restaurant, too.
- Have dessert someplace less expensive. If you’re treating yourself to a fancy dinner out, plan to enjoy dessert somewhere less expensive. Local ice cream shops, for example, often have artisanal flavors not available at bigger restaurants. Not only will you be able to save money this way, but you’ll also get to see more of your destination’s local food spots.
- Consider an all-inclusive option. Check out what food and accommodation bundles hotels or resorts in your destination offer. Choosing an all-inclusive option or opting into a dining plan may save you more money than booking everything separately.
3 Ways to Save on Activities
When you travel, you probably want to spend time exploring beaches, amusement parks, museums, zoos, and historical sites - in short, places that often charge entrance fees. When choosing attractions, you can save money with these tips:
- Check attraction websites. Buying advance tickets online and visiting at unusual times can help you see the same sights for less money. Many attractions also offer senior or student discounts. If you or anyone going with you is a student, make sure to check the website for discount information and bring your student ID.
- Look for free events. Many destinations advertise free community events such as concerts, markets, and exhibitions open to the public, especially during peak tourist times.
- Take advantage of free travel guides and reduced-price tourist cards. Popular destinations often have a travel center that offers reduced-price, multi-event tickets for famous attractions. Look for tourist guides in your hotel, too, as you might discover something interesting just outside the city limits.
3 Ways to Save on Transportation
Transportation is another area where you can find ways to save. Flexibility on timing and a sense of adventure go a long way toward saving more on getting to your destination.
- Book midweek or early morning flights. The days nearest the weekend are typically the most expensive travel times. Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Saturdays are often the cheapest days to fly. When you decide which day to fly, check flight prices for the entire day, too, as there’s often a big difference between morning, afternoon, evening, and overnight flights.
- Use mass or eco-friendly transit. Subways, trains, bikes, scooters, and buses are a great way to get to know the city you’re visiting. They’re also often inexpensive, reliable, and typically available 24 hours a day.
- Visit in the off-season. During the off-season, you’ll save on both accommodations and transportation. Avoid traveling around peak times such as the holidays and spring break.
3 Ways to Save on Accommodations
Whether you’re staying in a hotel or renting a private home, accommodations make up a big portion of your travel budget. A little creativity can help you save!
- Reconsider your location. Do you need to be in the center of the action? If a city is your destination, consider renting a house and a car in the suburbs or a less popular neighborhood. If you’re skiing or going to the beach, stay off the mountain or farther away from the ocean. Not only will you save money, but you may save time by staying near and visiting stores and restaurants that are off the main strip.
- Think about fun alternatives. Consider dividing your trip into two vacations. For example, you can go camping or book inexpensive lodging for four nights, and upgrade to a fancy hotel for a night or two.
- Stay at a brand new or recently renovated hotel. If you’re flexible about your destination, ask a travel agent about newly opened or renovated hotels. You may be able to get a low rate by visiting a resort that hasn’t had time to build up reviews, and therefore has less demand (and lower prices!)
When it comes to vacations, you don’t want the expense of your getaway to be the only thing you remember.
In addition to using these vacation savings strategies when planning your next adventure, you can earn 2%* or 1.5% cash rewards on every purchase you make on your trip when you pay with our Founder’s Rewards Card. Apply today!
*You can earn 1.5% cash rewards on purchases. You can earn 2% cash rewards on purchases if you maintain a PSECU checking account and qualifying monthly direct deposit(s) of at least $500. Some exclusions may apply. See the Visa® Founder's Card and Visa® Alumni Rewards Card Rewards Program Terms and Conditions for full details.