Financial management is critical to your current wellness and future success. It all starts with education and information on managing your finances, and Altra Federal Credit Union can help.
Question: How can I save money on my summer vacation?
Answer: Whether you’re planning to spend a week at a national park, hanging at a beach-side resort, traveling overseas for a bucket-list adventure, or simply taking a staycation, these seven tips can help you save on your summer vacation.
1. Travel off-peak: Take advantage of off-peak travel periods and weekdays when prices are often lower to help you secure better deals on flights and accommodations. Try to book a couple of months in advance for international flights and at least a month in advance for domestic flights. Generally, it’s cheaper to travel during the middle of the week on Tuesday or Wednesday; weekend flights are more expensive. Before your trip, research the activities you plan to do to see whether an advance booking is required. Bonus: Many attractions offer discounted admission rates during the off-peak season or specific weekdays with reduced entry fees. Plus, you may experience fewer crowds!
2. Be flexible with your destination: Lesser-known or up-and-coming destinations can offer unique experiences for both kids and adults without shelling out a ton on airfare and lodging. No matter what corner of the globe you look at, there are plenty of overlooked vacation spots just waiting to be explored. And the savings you may discover may open doors to activities that may not have been in your budget otherwise.
3. Book lodging in advance: Reservation options may decrease, and costs may increase the closer you get to your trip, especially during peak season. Check online booking comparison sites for pricing, then compare the price if you booked directly through the hotel/vacation rental website itself. Think outside the box for alternative accommodations a little outside of your desired destination area, you may find some unique options you never knew existed!
4. Save on meals: If possible, opt for accommodations with kitchen facilities or access to a shared kitchen. Then check out a local market. It’s an excellent way to learn about the local culture and new and different foods. Ask the vendor about cooking techniques. Chances are, they’ll be happy to explain or recommend different ingredients. Then, pick up items to prepare some of your own meals and snacks.
5. Find free things to do: Wherever you’re traveling, there is always something free to do. Book a free walking tour of the city, have a picnic in a park or city plaza and people watch, visit a free museum, or browse a local art gallery. One of the best ways to learn about free activities and events in the area is to ask a local!
6. Use a credit card with travel insurance benefits: Check with your financial institution for options. They may offer no annual fee credit card rewards programs with travel rewards, cash-back options, and a low introductory APR for credit card balance transfers with travel insurance benefits. Types of travel insurance may include trip cancellation, trip interruption, car rental loss and damage insurance when you use your card to pay for flights, rental cars, and other travel expenses (terms may apply).
7. Use travel rewards and discounts: Leverage those travel rewards programs, credit card points, and loyalty programs to your advantage. Research discount codes, coupons, and promotions when booking accommodations, flights and attractions.
Altra Federal Credit Union offers an array of financial tools and information to help you manage your money. For more, visit them online, visit one of their Clarksville locations – 1600 Madison St. or 2625 Wilma Rudolph Blvd. – or call 800-755-0055.
Brian Selph is the Retail Market president for Altra Federal Credit Union. Content is for informational purposes only and is not intended as legal, tax or financial advice.