Getting the Most for Your Money on Your Next Vacation

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Vacations are a luxury, but that doesn’t necessarily mean that they have to be expensive. Believe it or not, there are a whole lot of areas where you can cut large sums from the overall price of your break, no matter where you’re going. So, if you’re planning on getting away for a week or two of relaxation, here are a few ways to save yourself a few dollars in the process!

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Being Flexible with Travel Dates

 

There are certain times throughout the year where travel becomes extortionate. You can find yourself paying double, or even three or four times the amount of one trip by taking it in a given time period. A common reason for a dramatic increase in the price of a holiday is school breaks. Kids can’t take time off during the school term, so families tend to have very limited slots of time when they can take a break. Travel companies hike the prices to take advantage of this. If you don’t have kids, you can save a small fortune by ensuring that you travel outside of school holidays.

Another reason for increases in travel price tags can be travelling in-season and out of season. In season tends to be a time when the location you’re in has the best weather. However, this will only make a big difference if you’re planning on having a beach vacation. If you’re taking a city break or don’t plan to spend hours lounging on the beach or around the pool, you can save a whole lot by booking your trip out of season.

One area to be careful when booking out of season should be countries or locations that have monsoon seasons or extreme weather conditions at given times of the year. You don’t want to get caught in a major storm or hurricane! It’s generally best to do in-depth research on specific places you intend to visit. This way you can find out about adverse conditions yourself.

 

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Going All Inclusive

 

Most package holidays offer the option of all-inclusive and half board options. All inclusive means that all of your meals, drinks, and snacks are covered. The half board option usually entails the provision of breakfast alone. Alternatively, you could opt for a package with no food and drink included.

Now, the last option might seem cheaper at first, as it will almost certainly have the lowest price tag. But generally speaking, it should be avoided. You’d be surprised how much food and drink you consume, and if you have to pay out each time, the cost will soon mount up. The half board choice might be a better option if you plan to spend the majority of your days off the complex you’re staying on. This way you can have a filling breakfast to set you off on the right foot, then pick up other bits and bobs on your excursions.

However, if you’re planning on spending most of your time on your holiday complex, you’re best off opting for all-inclusive. Not only does this make dining more convenient (meaning you don’t have to limit your treats or meals), but it will save you a whole lot in the long run. Think of how many drinks you consume alone! When the weather is hot, you want free access to drinks that will keep you cool and hydrated.

 

Professional Discounts

 

Many travel companies offer discounts to individuals who work within certain sectors and fields. Generally, these discounts are opened up to those who serve a public duty. Take a look at government cruise discounts. As you can see, federal employees working for the USA Department of State, the Department of the Treasury, USDA, US Aid, OPIC, the USA Department of Commerce, the Export-Income Bank, and the US Army Corps of Engineers all receive significant discounts on cruise packages. If you work in one of these kinds of roles, it’s always worth asking your travel agent or travel agency whether you could receive a lower rate.

 

 

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Exchange Rates

 

If you’re travelling to a country with a different currency to the type you use at home, you’re going to have to exchange some money, so that you can purchase food, day trips, souvenirs, or anything else that you might fancy throughout your journey. Different agencies will offer different rates, so make sure that you shop around to ensure that you get the best rate for your money. Sometimes it may be best to exchange with the travel company you’re travelling with, as they’re likely to offer you a favourable rate.

 

These are just a few different ways to save a few dollars here and there when planning your next vacation. They may seem small, but you’d be surprised how quickly the savings will mount up!