Save hundreds on your next vacation
Planning a last-minute summer getaway for the family? Good for you! Studies show that spending on experiences is likely to make you happier than spending on stuff. But that doesn’t mean you should pay full price. Here are three simple ways to save the next time you travel:
Remember the rule of 3’s.
To get a deal, be prepared to try 3 different approaches. After all, you may not get a “yes” on the first try. For example, when booking a hotel, first ask: Can you give me a lower rate? Even $25 off would amount to nearly $200 in savings over a week. If that’s a no, ask about free breakfast or transportation to the airport. A small negotiation is still a win.
Ditch those baggage fees.
Airlines make big money on your bags. For a family of four, $25 a bag means an extra $200 round-trip. Look for airlines that don’t charge. If a no-fee airline isn’t doable, don’t check luggage. Pack only one bag per person that can fit in the overhead bin.
Say “no thanks” to rental car insurance.
If you own or lease a car, or pay for the rental with a credit card, you might already have collision coverage (sometimes called “collision damage waiver”) and theft protection on rentals. Call your auto insurance provider or your credit company to find out. It could save you as much as $35 every day. For a weeklong vacation, that’s almost $250.
