Just about everyone loves to take a trip somewhere new. They love to see the sights, have an interesting experience somewhere exotic, and break up the natural tone of their life. What no one likes is the bill that can often come along with it. In todays economic climate, people are tightening up their belts more and putting travel lower on their list of priorities. However, there are a number of tips for getting free perks while on vacation that a budget-conscious traveler can still use to their advantage.
Air travel can often be seen as the biggest limiting expense of travel for some people. Many people that travel often rack up a bunch of frequent flier miles, but there are other ways to get these free miles. If you are looking to open a credit card account, shop around a little more before you dive in. Many credit card companies will offer upwards of 25,000 to 50,000 flying miles for signing up with them. Where you use the credit card also impacts further mileage bonuses. For example, purchasing through the online marketplace of the airline you wish to travel through will often net you some more miles. As will staying at certain hotels. Make sure you ask around to see where the miles are. To get the most out of your miles, make sure to plan your trip carefully and take as many direct flights as possible.
When it comes to getting around town at your destination, there are a number of ways to travel absolutely free. For example, most larger hotels offer free shuttle service from the airport. If you want to stay in that hotel, then great. If not, then it’s a free ride into town as far as the hotel. If there is a major attraction in the area that you want to visit, bear in mind that most larger hotels will also offer a free shuttle service to the attraction as a courtesy. Public transportation takes a little time to learn the pertinent maps, but it will save you loads of money on taxis and rental cars. Also, keep in mind that most rental car agencies will allow you to trade in a certain number of your free air miles for a rental car.
For lodging, some hotels will allow you to trade in your frequent flier miles for a room. There are a number of companies online that put homeowners in touch with travelers to rent entire homes for cheaper than a hotel room. Travelers can also use these sites to “exchange” their home with another homeowner free of charge. This way you get a free place to stay, and often will be allowed use of the vehicles and bikes of the people you’ve exchanged with.
Food is easy enough to work your way around. Most hotels will offer free complimentary breakfasts. Some will even offer free happy hour drinks and finger foods to their guests. Also, a growing trend has been volunteering on an organic farm during your stay. These farms offer the opportunity to trade work for free meals and lodging.
When you’re looking for something to do in your destination city, a lot of attractions can end up costing a ton of money. Do searches online for “free museum days” and free festivals to perk up your stay.
Nicole Rodgers has been traveling her whole life; she uses Savings.com to find great deals online and can usually been seen in a funny t-shirt while traveling.
