#1 Know All The Details
Apply that familiar expression “the devil is in the details” to your travel planning. Even as you’re hunting for big savings, don’t overlook the incidentals. They can add up to a lot of money at the end of a trip, especially an extended one. Choose hotels that include gratis such costly extras as breakfast, parking and Wi-Fi. Don’t assume that the fitness or business center is free of charge and ask what’s included in the resort fee, if you’re paying one.
#2 Bargain Hunt
You probably know some ways to watch for deals on airfare and hotels. Make sure you’re also on every possible list for printable coupons and discount codes by signing up for alerts from all your preferred airlines, hotels and rental car agencies and following them on Facebook and Twitter. Always update them when your home or email address changes.
#3 Be Flexible
The ability to be adaptable is a boomer’s great strength when it comes to beating high prices. If your travel plans include perennially pricey destinations, try to go during slow periods, take cruises in the fall or head to bucket list destinations like Disney, Prague or Tahiti during the ‘dead weeks’ just before and just after the Christmas and New Years’ rush. The ultimate in flexibility is being able to wait for last-minute deals.
#4 Be Creative
Nine times out of 10, the downtown or center-city hotel rate is far more expensive than accommodations in outer districts or even suburbia. If you’re planning to be out and about most of the day, skimp a bit on the room to free up more money for fun. If you’re traveling on a weekend, find a business hotel that’s hungry to fill beds — you’re likely to get an even more attractive rate.
#5 Monitor Trends
One of the best ways for “civilians” to save money on travel is by monitoring experts such as popular travel bloggers. Sign up for their mailing lists and newsletters and follow them on Twitter and Facebook. That way you’ll be among the first to know when a special deal or rate is offered.
