Top Budget Travel Mistakes
We all have probably second guessed our budget travel decisions.
As I often travel for business by myself, I sometimes will sacrifice
amenities for price more easily than I do when my family travels.
Below are a sampling of the "top 10" budget travel errors that
everyone should try to avoid.
- Trading Safety or Cleanliness for low price
In the news, you will hear examples of locations that take your
cleanliness for granted. Sleeping with bed bugs is hardly
worth saving a few dollars. Staying in a cheap place is
also no comfort if you become a victim of crime.
- Overpacking and overpaying for bulky bags
One of the first pieces of advice for travelers should be to
take half of what they think they will need. With most
airlines charging for the first piece of luggage and overweight
pieces, save some money and your muscles by taking only what you
need. Check out our
packing suggestions.
- Failing to check airfares from nearby airports
Many of us try to stretch every possible second out of our days.
We prefer to fly from the closest airport. But if you are
willing to drive just a little further to save money, would you?
We had a client who saved over $500 for his family of three by
driving an extra hour to a different airport. I wish I
could five other ways to save $500 an hour!
- Expecting to win at the casinos
We have several friends ask about Vegas and bus tours
to the casinos. These destinations lure millions of people
each year with their flashy lights, shows and excitement.
An infamous person said, "Vegas was built on winners".
While Vegas is a wonderful destination, don't go with the
expectations of beating the odds - go responsibly.
- Don't be lured for Airlines' Frequent Flyer Credit
Cards
Airlines have found a multitude of ways to encourage
you to collect their "valuable" frequent flyer miles besides
flying the friendly skies. You may even have one of their
credit cards which earns you miles while shopping in little ole
Greensburg, Kentucky. Check you interest rates and annual
fees as these are usually the highest in the industry.
Budget Trivia
- Do you know which three domestic airlines do not currently
charge for the first checked bag?
Answer
Bonus: Which airline doesn't
charge for the second bag either?
- How many commercial airports are within a three drive of
you?
Bonus: Which of these airports have
low cost airlines?
- Who pays for the airline's frequent flyer programs?
H-i-n-t....y-o-u
- How can traveling during economic bad times be a smart
thing?
- How can you protect your travel investment if you become
sick?