Holiday travel can be exciting but also expensive. Between airfare, gas, and lodging, costs add up fast. The good news? With a little planning, you can keep your holiday travel budget in check without sacrificing the joy of the season.
Book Early (But Smart)
Airfare and hotel prices spike as the holidays approach. Lock in your plans early but use fare comparison tools to make sure you’re getting the best deal. Flexible dates can save hundreds.
Pro Tip: Set up fare alerts on multiple platforms (Google Flights, Hopper, Skyscanner, to name a few) and track trends for at least two weeks before booking. Prices often dip midweek – Tuesday and Wednesday are historically cheaper for flights.
Consider Alternative Airports & Routes
Flying into or out of a smaller airport or driving a little farther can mean big savings. Bonus: Less crowded terminals make for a smoother travel experience.
Pro Tip: Search for flights using the “Nearby Airports” option and compare driving costs versus airfare savings. Sometimes flying into a smaller airport and renting a car for the last leg can save hundreds.
Use Rewards & Points
If you have credit card or credit union rewards, now’s the time to cash them in. Points can cover flights, hotels, or even rental cars, stretching your holiday budget further.
Pro Tip: Check your rewards balance and redeem points for travel expenses like flights, hotels, or rental cars. If you’re short on points, combine them with cash for partial payment. Many rewards programs allow this.
Pack Smart to Avoid Fees
Checked bag fees add up quickly. Stick to carry-ons when possible and review airline baggage policies before you book.
Pro Tip: Roll clothes instead of folding to maximize space and use compression bags for bulky items. If you’re traveling with family, split essentials across bags so one lost suitcase doesn’t derail your trip.
Share Costs Where You Can
Traveling with family or friends? Split lodging or car rental costs. Group travel can make holiday trips more affordable and fun.
Pro Tip: Use apps like Splitwise to track shared expenses easily. If you’re booking lodging, consider Airbnb or VRBO for group stays. They can often cost less per person than multiple hotel rooms.
Budget for Extras
Parking, snacks, and last-minute gifts can sneak up on you. Build a cushion into your travel budget so you’re prepared for surprises.
Pro Tip: Create a “travel buffer” of 10–15% in your holiday budget for unexpected costs like parking, snacks, or last-minute gifts. Use a prepaid debit card to keep spending in check.
Holiday travel doesn’t have to drain your wallet. With smart planning and the right financial tools, you can keep costs under control and enjoy the season stress-free. If you’re booking flights, hotels, or rental cars, consider using our Founder’s Rewards Card. You’ll earn unlimited cash rewards on every purchase*, helping you to offset travel expenses and to make the most of your holiday budget.
* 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.
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