Escaping The Non-Essential Costs Of Vacationing

Summer travel season is just around the corner and it’s only becoming more and more expensive to see the world. If budget is important to your family, try saving some major bucks with these considerations. Remember, your wallet deserves a break as well.

Airport parking fees

     Airports can be some of the most expensive destinations you’ll visit on vacation. Airline baggage fees, excessive foods costs, and insanely high parking rates. It’s like you’re already breaking the bank before you even leave town.

On average, on-site airport parking hovers around $20 per day. It’s time to get resourceful in finding a cheaper alternative to parking on site. Many hotels offer free parking with one night’s stay, so search around for some great deals.

Many people will just find a ride to the airport and leave your car at home. Car services like Uber and Lyft can be very convenient for situations like this. You can always ask a friend for a ride – calling in a favor is a great way to save money.

If parking at the airport is your only option then search for discount lots around the airport that will generally be half the price of on-site lots. 

Baggage Fees

     Airlines now charge insanely high baggage fees and even higher penalties for overweight bags. It’s good practice to weigh your bags before you go to the airport. Make note of the baggage restrictions and see how much a bag can weigh before they charge you an overweight fee. Generally, the limit is between 50-60 pounds per bag. Most airlines charge between $30-50 per bag, so it usually saves you money to carry on more than you check. Reputable airlines offer two free carry-ons for free, so take advantage of their generosity. Some budget airlines charge for every add-on…

Hotel Fees

     Hotels are picking up on this ala carte style of charging guests so get ready for tons of hidden fees next time you stay at a hotel or resort. Of course, the mini-bar is where they get you, steer clear of in-room dining in general. Hotels are now charging for early check-ins, holding luggage at the front desk and late checkouts, so be aware that they will try and squeeze every cent out of you.

Eating Out Constantly

     Eating out on vacation is where a good portion of money ends up being wasted. Try cooking or preparing one meal a day and see how much you save overall. Maybe you will be swayed to eat two meals a day on the cheap and one nice restaurant meal.

Rental Car Expenses

     Rental cars often end up being huge wastes of money. If you are going to be at a resort the entire time, why rent a car? Most resorts offer a free shuttle service and cabs are usually so cheap.

If you must rent a car, make sure you aren’t wasting money on expenses that are not needed. Your insurance should cover your car, so avoid the rental car insurance; it’s a scam. Pay with a credit card, as they will insure most purchases and services.

Peak Travel times

     The best way to save big on summer vacations is avoiding the busiest times. Try and fly out on a Tuesday and return on a Tuesday, Wednesday or a Saturday. Avoid holidays like the plague; they are the most expensive time to travel and often the busiest.