Summertime Secrets: Tips for Traveling on a Budget

The time for summer vacation planning is upon us, and traveling can be expensive if you don’t watch your pennies. Here are some tips to make your summer vacation both fun and affordable:

- When you get to your destination, stop at a local store to buy bottled water and snacks. This will help when you get the urge to raid the expensive mini-bar at 2 AM!

- If you’re using the ATM instead of traveler’s checks, try and limit the number of withdrawals you make, and be sure to use your own bank’s ATM. Withdrawal fees from another bank’s ATM pile up fast when you make three of four visits!

- If you’re a senior, veteran, or in active military service – check with your airline, hotel, and destination attractions to see if they offer discounts to these groups.

- Don’t accept the first price given to you by your travel agent. Shop around by surfing the web for deals and discounts.

- At your destination, inquire where the locals eat. These restaurants often have better quality meals and cost less than the “tourist traps.”

- If you belong to a frequent flier program, check your reward balance and try to make the most of your points/miles.