Frugal Family: Save Money While Traveling

School’s out for summer, (or almost out, in some places) and for many, that means vacation. But gas prices are still high, airfare is high, and we’re still in a recession. So now, more than ever, people are looking for ways to save, even while on vacation.  Here are a few tips on how to save when you’re away from home:

1. Do your research!  If you’re traveling to a new city, browse sites like TripAdvisor.com, where you can chat with other travelers or locals. This is a great way to get recommendations for reasonably priced good restaurants and activities.
2. Price out different options. With gas prices as high as they are, you may be able to snag an airfare deal that would be cheaper than driving, depending on your dates and destination. With Atlanta being the major hub of both Delta and Air Tran, the two airlines often provide the best deals, but if you’re traveling far enough away, you could consider driving to the Greenville Spartanburg Airport (GSP), which is now a Southwest hub. This airline is constantly running specials, and they still offer two free checked bags per passenger.  GSP is about a two-hour drive from our end of Atlanta. Also, keep in mind that airfare sales are typically launched on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, with prices inching back up starting on Thursday and Friday. Don’t forget the train option, as well. Train travel is definitely slower than car or plane, but it is an experience in itself.
3. Be flexible on your travel dates! Sometimes shifting your dates by just a day or two can save money on flights and hotels. Weekends and holidays are always more expensive. 
4. Decide what you want to spend your money on, and don’t get caught blowing your budget on things that you need but don’t want. Take snacks and basic medications (pain reliever, band aids, etc) along with you, because the prices are always inflated at resorts and attractions. Larry Weiner, a columnist for “Living a Better Life” magazine, makes a good point. “Much as I am willing to pay for attractions on vacation, I do try to cut out overhead,” he says. By that he means spending money on things you really want to do, but don’t overspend on insignificant things. (Tip: many theme parks have taken up Disney’s practice of providing cups of iced water to guests free of charge if asked. Bottled water can add up fast, so if you’re willing to go the tap water route, you could save a bundle while staying hydrated.)
5. Don’t be afraid to ask if discounts or free upgrades are available. Many places offer discounts to military, students, government employees, servicemen and women, AAA members, etc. Often, though, it’s not advertised. It never hurts to ask, and you’ll often find that you’re pleasantly surprised.
6. Consider bundled discounts (this works for “staycations,” too). In most major cities, attractions have teamed up to offer discounts on combination tickets. Right here in Atlanta, for example, the Georgia Aquarium and Zoo Atlanta have teamed up to offer a discounted combined ticket.CityPass is another great option. For one deeply discounted price, patrons can experience several attractions in cities throughout the country. (The Atlanta CityPass grants admission to five attractions for $69, and you have nine days to use all the tickets).
7. Finally, check the deal sites. Living Social, Half Off Depot, Restaurant.com, and Groupon are all the rage right now, but don’t limit them to your home city. If you know you’ll be traveling, check for discount coupons in the city you’ll be visiting to save on dining, spa services, golf, and more.