5 Easy Ways to Cut Vacation Expenses in Half

1. Plan Ahead

Obvious, yes, but too often overlooked,  building a vacation in advance cuts costs significantly and allows them to be applied in stages. Your complete itinerary doesn't have to be worked out to get these benefits either. Booking an international flight early is an immediate way to minimize expenses while other savings opportunities can be applied later. Committing to certain investments early will not only save money but creates opportunities to customize the trip around your budget.

2. Off-Peak Travel

It doesn't mean going to the beach in December. Off-peak means different things to different destinations. Sometimes a few days deviation can create huge bargains. Peak season isn't exclusively weather related either, it can also be centered around school schedules or other factors. Planning your vacation during the week, rather than weekends can create big savings in some cases, or increase costs in others. With the right knowledge and research, you don't have to sacrifice much to cut costs and often you'll have the added benefit of reduced crowds.

3. Travel In Groups

Maybe group travel is not the ideal getaway you're hoping for. A hard earned vacation can be diminished or even ruined by the wrong travel companions, so chemistry is a big consideration, but splitting costs with others can yield great savings. It could mean recruiting a couple fellow travelers or finding preplanned group trips. Lodging prices in particular, can be greatly reduced while actually increasing comfort level and amenities, especially in the current home sharing climate. This also allows for additional cost cutting measures, such as...

4. BYO-Food

Energy food is essential for any adventure, not only a bag of trail mix, but teas, candy, sardines, or any other food you enjoy that's easy to store will undoubtedly be cherished during bus rides, layovers or anytime the alternative includes airport sushi. Bring  granola as an occasional breakfast option. It not only saves money but creates room for gifts and souvenirs as the vacation continues.
You want to experience the local cuisine of your destination. It may even be one of the primary reasons you're traveling. Every meal you prepare yourself creates significant savings and with accessorized lodging, the potential is limitless. A local grocery or market is usually one of our first stops on our trip. Breakfast is practically free and creates extra time for sightseeing. Lunch at a local restaurant provides local flavor often at reduced prices, while dinner might be an opportunity to utilize local produce and unleash your inner-gourmet. You can still enjoy dining out, but every meal can be a savings opportunity if you've prepared for it.

5. Discount and Promotional Packages

There are countless promo packages available to travelers if you're willing to dig around. Of course it does mean modeling a vacation around what's available and what's available could come with...baggage. With the right amount of research and flexibility you might find something that fits your needs. A dedicated agent has a lot of advantages in this area, having multiple resources and exposure to a litany of discounted rates and promos. In this way, agents can help sculpt the vacation you really want by picking and choosing promos that fit within your specifications. 

There are many advantages an agent can provide beyond just research and experience. The industry provides incentives and leveraging throughout the process that can be navigated to build discounts. Negotiations are bolstered by agency backing. Through networking, affiliations and industry an agent builds relationships and advantages that create benefits which are passed on to customers. The real benefit comes from the dedication of the agent and their understanding of your agenda. Something to consider when trying to find the best value in your next vacation!