12.12.2009

17 Ways to Save on Your Winter Vacation

As cool fall weather sets in, our thoughts turn to winter vacation. At least, it should, if you want to get great deals over the winter holidays. (Side Note: Here is a free report with even more cheap travel tips: Globe Cheap's free report ; Grab it and see how much you can save from your next winter getaway.)

Whether you are dreaming of a winter skiing destination, or would rather escape to a warm paradise, these tips will help you save big on your next winter vacation.

1. Make a vacation budget and stick to it

How much can you afford, exactly? Find out now, or else have a plan to have a specific amount saved up by the time winter rolls in.

2. Plan well in advance

When it comes to budget travel, time is one of your most important tools. You need time to make advance reservations and to research the best deals.

3. Shop around

Now is the time to go comparison-shopping for travel options, accommodations, and major attractions.

4. Compare different modes of travel

Depending on where you would like to go, various means of traveling will have different costs. Also, consider how many people are traveling. If you are a family, it is usually cheaper to drive than to fly. If you are traveling solo, you may have more options - including carpooling with friends or family.

5. Ask for discounts

Sometimes you just have to ask, to receive discounts. At the hotel or airline, for example, ask free upgrades on your room or flight. Ask your credit card provider about travel options they offer to clients at reduced rates, such as travel insurance coverage, etc. Do not forget to ask hotel/hostel owners and tour operators for discount coupons, such as to the nearest attractions.

6. Share a vacation rental

If you are traveling in a group, or can find family and friends to vacation with, sharing a rental house for a flat fee can be very economical.

7. Try a hostel

Hostels go for, as low as $20/night, so they are a budget option you should consider.

8. Cook your own meals

Eating out can be very expensive. Stay in hotels or rentals where you can cook your own meals. On the other hand, pack your meals in a cooler, if you are traveling by car.

9. Get as many discounts as you can

If you are a student or traveling with a student, make sure to bring student ID cards or International Student Cards. This is free report from Globe Cheap; lists other discounts you or a family member may be eligible for. Also, explore discount passes when buying online or by certain dates.

10. Borrow equipment

If you are going skiing, bring your own or borrowed equipment rather than renting them at the resort. If you plan to go skiing often, it is probably cheaper to buy our own equipment in the end, instead of renting every time.

11. Explore discount packages

Hotels and travel agencies usually offer packages that include travel, accommodation, meals, and entrance to various attractions. These usually cost less than if you paid for each one individually. They usually also offer discounts for early booking.

12. Travel off-season

The peak season for traveling in winter is around Christmas and New Year. If you do not mind traveling around those dates, you will find everything cheaper. It is also usually cheaper to travel on weekdays or midweek rather than on weekends.

13. Consider warm-weather destinations

Looking to escape from the cold? Consider places where the US dollar goes farther, such as small Caribbean islands, Mexico, and parts of Central America and Asia. Some destinations within the United States are also cheaper in the cold season.

14. Don't touch the minibar

Bring everything you need so you will not have to open the water bottle in the hotel, or get snacks from the minibar. You will pay ridiculous prices for these! Some hotels also charge extra if you request additional towels and toothbrushes. If you must, buy extra supplies at the nearest grocery store, not from the hotel. In addition, do not forget to pack those over-the-counter medications you usually use!

15. Stay out of the way

Consider staying a little farther from major attraction. You will save tons on accommodation - as long as you will not pay excessively for public transportation or parking.

16. Camp out

If you are going to a warm destination, plan to go camping. It is a very cheap traveling alternative. If you are driving, find the cheapest places to get gas.

17. Look free attractions

Entrance fees to tourist attractions can also add up very quickly. Do some research to find free attractions at your destination? These could include malls, national parks and historic streets or towns. Find out when museums are open to the public free.

More Cheap Travel Tips

You can get even more FREE tips for budget traveling from Globe Cheap's free report.; Grab it and see how much you can save from your next winter getaway.

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