Last week we discussed the benefits of including travel as part of your monthly budget. The more time spent planning for your next great adventure not only results in a better experience, but it can also help alleviate the stress of paying for it. This week we will talk about getting all those little extras that make the trip more memorable, and at little to no extra cost.
Perks
When choosing an itinerary Ken will consider the number of hours in each port or the cost per day as an indication of value. I consider what I can find on sale or which itinerary offers the best perks or inclusions. Even after booking a tour or cruise be sure to keep an eye on it. The company may offer special perks at a later date, like on-board credits, shore excursion credits, free wi-fi or include the cost of extra sites or special meals. If that is the case call, or have your travel agent call, and ask to have that offer included in your booking. The worst they can do is say no, but I have found many companies will allow it as long as it is before the payment deadline.
If the price does go down after the payment deadline call to see if you can get a free room upgrade or spending credit to make up some of the difference.
Rewards
Take advantage of reward options to reduce your cost. I stated collecting air miles but found it takes too long to get to any kind of viable reward. Our credit card has a points system that translates to dollars which can be applied to travel. About every two years we get a sizable discount on our flights when we book through their travel rewards program.
Loyalty
Loyalty programs, such as those offered through cruise lines and major hotel chains are also good value investments. Whether you are saving for a free weekend away or getting free specialty dining, Wi-Fi hours or discounts on just about everything else, a loyalty program is the way to go. Most cruise lines register you automatically after your first cruise with them and start offering some rewards next time you book with them. Pay attention to bookings that offer double points in order to build your loyalty reward levels faster. As well, check to see if their loyalty programs are transferable between hotel chains or cruise lines owned by the same parent company.
Another good option is pre-booking and paying in advance for tours, excursions and entrance fees to major sites. Many companies offer an online discount, and allow you to skip the line at major sites. Loyalty pays here as well as private tour companies may offer discounts if you book more than one tour or excursion with them while in their country.
Other
When staying in bigger cities consider booking an efficiency apartment (one or two rooms with kitchen facilities) to reduce the cost of meals. Have breakfast and coffee in the room, pack a picnic lunch (from your trip to the local market) to eat while you are out for the day and then splurge on a good meal for supper. Many will also offer laundry facilities. If there is a university in the city check in that area for apartments as they tend to be more affordable. Also a university neighbourhood usually have some of the best value pubs and restaurants.
Careful planning and making the best use of our resources means we have been able to afford a major travel experience every year since we started doing this. Helpful since the more we travel the more we want to.