Saving for vacation (a real one!)
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Saving for vacation (a real one!)
| Thu, 11-03-2005 - 1:59pm |
Hi, everyone. Well, DH wants to go on vacation. A real one. Not a weekend excursion or visiting relatives, but a family thing. My best friend is also planning a trip to Europe next yr, and has invited me to go along. (she is budget minded). Any ideas on planning lengthy trips? We usually go on internet and book car rental, but does anyone have other ideas? It seems our biggest expense is food and hotels. (We have airline points). Thanks. WHiz.

I think the number one rule for saving money on vacations is to stay away from hotels. Perhaps you could look into renting a house or condo, especially if you will be going with other people! That way you also get a kitchen - you can buy groceries and prepare your own meals, potentially saving hundreds in restaurant bills. At worst, try to get a hotel or motel room with a kitchenette.
Other tips:
- book your flight early, but not too early - in my experience, the best seat-sales can be found about 3-4 months before your flight. Check often (literally every day) until the flight you want goes on sale (because it will - they always do).
- brown bag lunches during day-trips and sight-seeing excursions as much as possible.
- plan ahead - make sure you bring all necessary toiletries, medications, clothing, film, sunscreen, etc, with you so you don't have to buy it during your trip and pay over-inflated tourist prices.
- don't rent a car - European gas prices are ridiculous, and the traffic is a nightmare (so I've heard - I've never been). Take local transit and/or rent bikes.
- buy postcards as souvenirs for friends. T-shirts, baseball caps, mugs, and shot glasses for every Tom, Dick, and Harry you know add up very, very quickly (and take up a LOT of space in your luggage!)
Hope that helped a little. I'm sure some other folks will have some ideas for you too.
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All my best,
Danni
All my best,
Danni