The travel industry is a complex landscape filled with insider knowledge that can significantly impact your experience and costs. The industry faces unprecedented challenges today, including rising fuel prices and ongoing security concerns. These pressures often increase prices, which are inevitably passed on to travelers.
To navigate this industry affordably, consumers must understand its policies, practices, and weaknesses. Those who are informed and persistent will reap the most savings.
1. Discounts Are Out There, But Not Always The Best: While online deals are plentiful, they might only sometimes offer the lowest prices. It is essential to shop around and compare. Some websites include volume discount fees that can inflate ticket prices. Also, pay attention to traditional sources like the Sunday newspaper’s travel section for special offers.
2. Flying Vs. Driving – Do The Math: Despite rising gas prices, flying can still be more cost-effective and faster than driving, especially for long distances. Consider the total cost of driving, including fuel, meals, and potential overnight stays. Calculating these expenses might reveal that flying is the better option.
3. Consider Alternate Airports: Many major cities have multiple airports, and flying into or out of a secondary airport can result in significant savings. In smaller cities, it might be worth driving a little farther – sometimes even up to 100 miles – to a different airport. Not only can this save you money, but smaller airports often have more affordable or even free parking and are generally more user-friendly.
4. Two Round-Trip Tickets Might Be Cheaper Than One: Buying two round-trip tickets and using just the legs you need – one for the outbound flight and one for the return – can save money. This practice, known as back-to-back ticketing, is not popular with airlines but is usually legal. Be sure to check the legality and potential savings before trying this method.
5. Where You Book Affects Your Room: The price you pay for your hotel room can influence its quality and location within the hotel. Discounted bookings might land you in a less desirable room near the ice machine or elevator. Hotels will not admit this, but consider booking directly through the hotel’s website to avoid it.
6. Skip The Car Rental Insurance: Car rental insurance is often unnecessary. Before traveling, check if your current auto insurance covers rental cars. Many credit cards also provide coverage when you charge the rental to the card. Be aware that rental employees earn commissions on insurance sales, so ensure you are not paying for coverage you do not need.
7. Last-Minute Deals Can Save You Big, But Be Flexible: Airlines and hotels often offer discounts on last-minute bookings to fill empty seats or vacant rooms. You must be flexible with your travel plans to take advantage of these deals. Sign up for e-newsletters or search the web to keep track of these offers.
In today’s travel environment, complimentary services are rare. The more you know and can handle independently, the more you will save.