How to save on holiday expenses

Planning a holiday

The majority of tourists used to be dependent on travel agents when it comes to planning their holidays particularly for international trips. With more travel websites and tools provided in the Internet, however, it is now easier to do research, comparison and booking on travel services, giving more flexibility to the traveler and thus providing significant savings on travel expenses. It definitely requires time and effort on one’s part but the costs are considerably lower compared to getting the services of travel and tour companies which usually add service charges to the total holiday package.

Choosing from various holiday service providers on hotel and accommodation, car rental, travel insurance, airlines and other services affords more freedom and flexibility for one to decide on the details.

Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul at Vysehrad Castle, Prague

Airline and transportation expenses

The growing number of low cost air lines offering no-frills options enabled travel planning to be more flexible to meet one’s trip budget. Pay attention for travel deals offered online and in the news, particularly during commemorative or special events, e.g. Philippine Airlines had an Independence Day promo. Off-peak days and months are also the best travel period for the budget-conscious. Book for services as early as possible. For instance, reservation for parking at  Manchester Airport or a Dublin Airport parking space are usually discounted when done ahead, although some travel services offer last minute deals.

Will it be road trip or via air? Sometimes the best option does not only count travel costs from one’s home until he arrives at the destination, do consider transportation costs during your holiday within that town or city. For instance, we decided to bring our trusty van on a road trip to Cebu via interisland vessel or barge instead of getting Cebu Pacific air tickets. We considered the comfort and convenience of being able to go around the city on our own vehicle than having to rely on jeepneys and taxis.

Hotel and accommodation expenses

Finding a place to stay is the most important as it is usually the biggest expense for travelers. Fortunately, hotel and accommodation booking is now made easier with online reservation sites that provide comparison of price and amenities. One can also book directly with the owner, particularly for vacation unit rentals which offer various pricing for few days stay to monthly accommodations. The price is relatively lower with this scheme as the owners deal directly with the clients without additional travel agent’s charges. Some small travel companies do provide cheaper options with less overhead costs and are even thoroughly knowledgeable about accommodation and tourist attractions within their area.

Travel insurance expenses

Don’t make an effort to save funds by totally disregarding travel insurance, otherwise it could spell an expensive mistake should you need to cancel your trip, get sick or be hospitalized abroad or had a vehicle breakdown. Try to look for a separate deal instead of the policy recommended by an agent. You can always shop around and compare travel insurance deals from many sources using online comparison sites. Frequent travelers can even save more if they purchase extended travel insurance deals which provides coverage within a specified period regardless of how often one travels.

Be flexible if possible

You can be definite about going to a dream destination at your chosen travel period but you can also try to be flexible with your travel plans especially when some good deals do come up such as Gatwick airport parking deals or KLM Europe holiday promos. For instance, an expensive trip to Boracay can be ditched in favor of a family holiday promo in Palawan, or you can change from costly hotel rooms to self catering cottages or condo rentals which relatively offer more savings especially for long term holidays or for families and small groups. Consider travel deals for students, senior citizens, group and other special discounts when choosing an accommodation or service.