Traveling during the summer can be expensive, but with a few simple strategies in place you can still make that magical trip happen as the season draws to a close. These basic tips are not only useful for summer travel, but are year-round, solid travel tactics that only require a measure of planning. So, try some of these summer travel savings tips and end the season on a memorable note.
5 Great Ways to Save
Utilize the power of the internet and look for free activities available in the destination city you plan to visit. Review community calendars for a list of events taking place while you’re there. Often, museums offer a “pay what you can” day every week or feature discount admissions after a certain time each day.
When you book your accommodations using your Travel Set Go membership, look for a centrally-located hotel. Transportation costs add up fast so staying in a central location where you can walk to cultural sites and restaurants works best and saves money. And, when you’re staying in a large city, determine how close you will be to bus stops and subways.
When setting out to see the sites on your vacation, carry ample amounts of snacks and water. Kids need fuel to keep their energy up and, bottled water can be expensive at many tourist sites. With the money you save, you can enjoy local treats that can only be found in that area.
Tourism cards are worth the money in many cases. Travelers get free entry at top attractions, discounts at retail shops and restaurants, free public transportation, free guidebooks and maps, and help you avoid long lines at busy attractions.
Consider camping if you’re dealing with a tight budget. This money-saving vacation tradition has been saving travelers money for years and can take you to beaches, mountains, or lakes this summer if you’re willing to opt for this travel mode rather than paying the cost of hotels or vacation rentals. Camping spots can start as low as $5 per night and, there are plenty of free camping sites at state parks. To secure a great, free camping site, it’s important to make your reservations early as these sites are offered on a first-come, first-serve basis. Enjoy activities like cooking your food on an open fire, hiking and swimming to save even more money.