Traveling can get pretty expensive, but it doesn’t have to be so expensive every time. There are some helpful tips and tricks you can adopt for your next vacation that will make sure you keep it on the affordable side.

Find the Cheap Times to Fly

Of course one of the best ways to save money on a vacation is making sure that you aren’t blowing all your money getting there. There are some websites that can help you track when the cheapest times to fly will be, which can ultimately save you a lot of money. Obviously flying in the off season is one way to do it, but so is flying on less busy days and times. Avoiding the weekends for example, can save you tons of money if you have a flexible travel schedule.

Be Flexible

If you can be flexible about your flights you can potentially save even more money. Choosing flights with stop overs as opposed to direct flights might extend your travel day, but they can also save you money.

But Pre Book Parking

If you are planning to park at the airport, try finding a parking garage that allows you to pre book, which can save you a lot of money versus driving around and being in need of a spot the day of. With travel there is the understand that certain things are necessary, and therefore can be priced higher since people will be in demand.

Don’t Pay Luggage Fees

The luggage fees on certain airlines can be ridiculous these days. Do what you can to pack light or to carry on some heavy items that might be weighing down your checked bag. If that’s not an option, maybe you should think about checking out flights on one of the airlines that doesn’t charge extra money for having multiple bags. When you can split out the weight from one bag into multiple bags sometimes this can help save some cash. If it’s on the way home that you’re going to have an issue, consider shipping some it instead which can save a considerable amount of cash.

Skip the Hotels

There are so many options for places to stay these days that save money when compared to hotels. Rented rooms and housing share services are just some of the options. Additionally, you might find it advantageous to be flexible about booking a hotel room and try just showing up at a hotel when you arrive. Often you can get cheaper rates by just walking in than by booking in advance, again because of the demand thing.

Eat Like a Local

Another great way to save money when you travel is to eat like a local would. Just like you don’t probably go to a fine dining establishment every day, neither do most locals in the towns you’re visiting! Local favorites are usually pretty reasonable in price and not to mention you will get an authentic experience, which is often what we’re looking for anyway.