What are some tips for planning an affordable vacation?

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   Shariceyposted 11 years ago

   What are some tips for planning an affordable vacation?
   
   I was just wondering if anyone has any special tips or methods for vacationing on a budget. I would love to hear what others are doing to save money but still enjoy traveling.

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2. 74

   lburmasterposted 11 years ago

   Do research! Lots of it. And just type into google "cheap cruises", tons of links pop up. But also try to find half priced air plane tickets, it's difficult but can be done. Try out Hotwire or one of those websites that compares and finds the best prices. These might not help you in different countries much, but they are entirely handy for use in the states. Also, talk to your friends. My mother discovered her friend had a condo in Florida that she offered at 20% off since she's a friend. This way my mother might even enjoy her vacation this year.

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      Shariceyposted 11 years agoin reply to this

      I didn't think about a cruise but thats a good idea! Yes I think a lot of research is in order. Thanks for sharing!

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3. 79

   dashingscorpioposted 11 years ago

   I think it helps to sign up with some of the travel alert websites to recieve deals. Travelzoo and Apple Vacations  are really popular ones. You also have to be willing to do as lburmaster stated, (research) travel opportunities online. "Last minute" deals are great if you can easily make arrangements. Check out "all inclusive" resorts for (3-5 day) specials during off season. Cruises can also be a bargin since they include your meals and take you to various island desinations. My favorite are Royal Caribbean  Oais and Allure ships.
   Sometimes all you need to spice up things is a nice weekend getaway. A drive along the coast if you live near one can be nice. Odds are there is a bed and breakfast or hotel near the water. You can also visit the nearest major city from the point of view of a "tourist". Get a hotel, pick up sight seeing tour information, ride the tour buses, and enjoy what your  major city has to offer. We tend to forget that people actually come to our own towns for vacations!
   There are some bank credit cards that have points/rewards programs. Every time you use their card you accumulate points which can be applied towards trips or hotels. Join one or two hotel rewards programs (Starwood, Hyatt, Hilton, Marriott..etc) all have them. Each time you stay in their hotel you accumulate points which can lead to having a "free" night from time to time.

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      Shariceyposted 11 years agoin reply to this

      Great tips, I will keep all of these in mind. Thanks :-)

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   kohuetherposted 11 years ago

   Depends where you would like to go. I use a site called Travelzoo which publicizes deals on airfare and also on last minute deals. Sometimes cruises and other vacation packages knock the price down as the time approaches if they aren't getting the bookings. Off peak travel is another secret. Good months to take a vacation are April, May, September, and October because the weather is still nice but the prices go down after the summer rush.

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      Shariceyposted 11 years agoin reply to this

      I haven't heard of TravelZoo but I will check it out. I will keep these tips in mind. Thanks for sharing!

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   lilian_sgposted 11 years ago

   For cheap flights, either plan in advance so that you can look out for deals or be flexible with dates. For food, eat where the local eats and avoid touristy areas. For transport, depending on the country you are visiting, public transport is a good way to save money.

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