10 Ways To Save Money on Your Summer Travel

Look at the map for cities around your town — or, if you’re flying somewhere and renting from a rental company, look at the area around your destination. Plan out a mini-trip that will only use one tank of gas, total. You’ll save money by not having to fill up, your short travel time means you’ll spend less, and you could get to explore an area you’ve been wanting to see.

Look for mom and pop hotels or private vacation rentals and speak directly to the owners to negotiate. You’re unlikely to have any luck negotiating the cost of a major chain hotel, but if you speak to the owner of a small vacation rental, you might be able to get a good deal. If you’re traveling during the week or at an off-peak time, the owners may be willing to come down in price.

This seems like such a simple tip, but it really can save you quite a bit of money. Fill your cooler with ice, chop veggies, wash fruit and make sandwiches. If you’re flying, portion snacks into sandwich bags and pack them in your carryon bag. Airport food is incredibly expensive, and each bag of gas station chips you buy cuts a little bit more into your travel budget.

Instead of getting a standard hotel room, get a kitchenette — or better yet, rent a private condo or studio that has a full kitchen. That way you can cook some of your meals and save money. Visit a local deli and grab sandwiches for picnics in the park. Keep fruit and bagels in your hotel room for an easy breakfast. Save your cash for a special splurge at a nice restaurant and eat on the cheap for the rest of your trip.

Look at deal sites to see if they have any specials in your destination city. You may be able to eat at restaurants, enjoy fun tourist activities or even visit a day spa for half the cost of what you’d typically pay. If you’re going to a major city, check the deal sites a few days before you depart.

This is the ultimate way to save — invite your friends and family members to come to you! Clean out your spare bedroom and stock it with amenities like toiletries, bottled water and your WiFi password. Print out suggestions of local things to do and see. Look into getting a fuel-efficient rental so that you can all drive places together. Split the days between eating in restaurants and eating at home.

GasBuddy is a great one, but there are many more that can help you find the best deals on fuel, food and accommodations while on the road.

When booking air travel, search airline sites individually. Comparison sites are wonderful for price comparisons, but usually airlines reserve their best fares for their own sites.

Book at hotels that offer complimentary breakfast, free parking, a fitness center and free WiFi — whatever amenities you think you’ll use. These extras can save you a significant amount over the course of your stay.

Use Car Rental Express to compare independent, rated car rental agencies. More often than not, these companies offer the best rates — plus, every rating is by a person who has completed a rental, so you can book with confidence.