52 - Travel cost-cutting tips
Traveling Light - Keeping the Bills Down on the Road
from Consumer Credit Counseling Service of Greater Atlanta
Whether for business or vacation, Americans are a culture of travelers. And when you add up all the air fare, hotel rooms, car rental, and meals traveling can get fairly expensive. As usual, the best way to keep the costs down is to plan ahead and make informed decisions when making reservations.
One of the biggest single items that needs to be budgeted into the cost of a vacation or business trip is how you get to your destination. For large families on vacation, air fare can get pretty expensive, so you may want to drive. Think of it as a sight-seeing trip, especially if you pass through some interesting areas en route. You can find interesting places along the way through any state tourism department, or at AAA if you're a member.
If you fly, and decide not to go through a travel agent, at least call all the airlines that serve your nearest airport before accepting the first fare quoted. The difference between airlines can save you money right from the start. Also, if you can fly between 9 p.m. and 7 a.m., you'll find additional savings. Or, use smaller, newer airlines looking to drum up business if they serve your route.
Another issue you'll face if you're trying to save money is the "non-cancelable ticket" available for a significant discount. If you purchase these, be prepared to stick to that non-cancellation policy. Still, if you have to cancel your trip, a travel agent willing to go above and beyond the call of duty may be able to bail you out, especially if you cancel only a couple of days after purchasing the ticket. Remember though, they don't have to accommodate you if they don't want to.
For hotels and meals, the best way to save is to avoid the trendy places that are located specifically for tourists. In most cities, the most expensive hotels are built where the demand for lodging is highest - near the airport, close to attractions and theme parks, on a beach or lake, and near business districts and convention centers. By avoiding these areas, you'll find less expensive hotels and restaurants.
And by all means, if you're traveling on business, save every single receipt you get. Most companies will reimburse you immediately or simply give you an expense account. Even if they don't, most of your expenses are tax deductible.
Saving money on auto rental usually requires some comparison shopping. Ask your travel agent or the airline if there are any discount packages that include the rental car with the air fare. Also, many rental companies offer corporate discounts to business travelers.
Another great way to save on a rental car is to stick with smaller economy cars. And if the rental company puts you in a larger car because they don't have any compacts, make sure they don't charge you for the upgrade. After all, it isn't your fault that they didn't have enough cars in stock.
Finally, as you're leaving the rental agency, look for inexpensive gas stations not too far away. You'll likely have to return the car with a full tank, and if the drop-off point is near the airport, which is most likely the case, gas may be more expensive there than in other parts of town.
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