Money Sense Tips

How do you save money on travel during the holidays? This can be a big challenge. It’s no secret you will spend more during the peak season. However, you do not have to. There are many strategies to avoid paying top dollar. Here are four of the best:

#1) Stay at hostels

This may not be as nice as a hotel, but it will save you a lot of money. Of course you do not want to stay in a dump, but you can save some serious cash using this method. The truth is, hostels are nicer than they used to be, and you can have an enjoyable stay at one.

In many instances the rooms are $30-$50, compared with $100 or more for a decent hotel. Just about every big city has a number of hostels to choose from. If you are unsure of which to go with, just read reviews of the one you are considering.

#2) Use the Lonely Planet Magazine

This will often help you find better prices. In many instances you can locate great hotels for real bargains. These are generally little-known gems that are off the beaten path, and therefore are still high quality but without the premium pricing. In many instances they are just as nice as hotels that cost two to three times the price.  

#3) Do a home exchange

This is one of the best strategies for saving money, and many people do not even know about it. How does it work? You allow someone to say at your house while you stay at theirs.

Both parties will be going to the others’ city. You do not even need the same priced house. You might end up staying in a 2000 square foot home, even though you only gave up a 1000 square footer. As long as both parties are happy, that’s all that matters.

Where do you find home exchanges? There are plenty of online sites that will connect you with other travelers looking to come to your city. This is one of the simplest but most effective strategies for massive savings during the holidays.

#4) Book early

This is no big secret. The earlier you book, the more choices you will have. For instance, if you are going somewhere on Christmas break, do not wait until December 18 to start looking for hotels. Do so months in advance. The choices will be much greater, and since there are more options, you will save money.

The bottom line is, you do not have to pay top dollar when travelling during the holidays. Hopefully these tips will help you enjoy a great trip while saving a lot of money.