So…I’ve just been on holidays and we thought you should have one too! I’ve partnered with the lovely folks over at Webjet to deliver this post and we have a $150 voucher to give away to the person who shares the best travel tip in the comments below.
But first, here are my top 8 ways to save on travel!
Travel out of peak season
This can’t always be avoided, as sometimes work determines when you take your holidays, but where ever you can, travel out of peak season. The Ginger Hunk and I often take holidays on the shoulder season, so in February, after Christmas Holidays, or November, just before school breaks up. Recently, we took a chance going to Vietnam in the ‘rainy’ season. Not only were our rooms upgraded, but the hotel was very quiet, and we were fussed over like celebrities. Yes it rained a little, but it never stopped us from doing anything, and we saved a fortune!
Compare, compare and compare your flights
It’s never been easier to take matters into your own hand and be your own travel agent. Booking and comparing flights yourself directly will save you a tonne of money, and your itinerary does not have to be determined by affiliated airlines. Using a site such as Zuji, can allow you to search and compare flights and be your own boss. If the timing is right, you can save yourself a little extra dosh by looking out for specials. For example, if you book in the next four days, Zuji is offering an extra $25 off flights to NZ.
Be flexible with your dates
If you’re flexible with dates, this will may save you as well. Most people book their holidays over a weekend, leaving on Friday and returning on Saturday or Sunday, which pushes the price up for everyone over these times. Look for the cheapest flights over a month, travel mid-week if you can, and if you’re really keen to save, pick a flight leaving at an ungodly hour of the night (you’ll also save this way on accommodation by crashing out on the plane.)
Use alternative airports and carriers
If you have extra time, adding a stop over or travelling a little out-of-the-way on the way to your final destination can save you heaps of money (and you might add a little adventure in too). Let’s compare. I’m a frequent traveller to Koh Tao, a small island in the Gulf of Thailand. Travel agents will tell you that the most convenient way to get there is to fly via Bangkok to Koh Samui, or directly with a short stop over. Don’t listen to them! With a quick search on Webjet by looking for alternative airports in Thailand you can save almost $1000 for two people for by flying to Surat Thani via Kuala Lumper with AirAsia (and enjoy a stop over to see the fabulous night markets). Don’t be scared either to use alternative carriers on each way. This has saved us a lot at times and given us more choice.
Research new hotels and packages
I’m not usually a fan of packages, but sometimes they just can’t be beaten for value and convenience. There are times when you can get great specials, perhaps when there is a new hotel or flight route being promoted. Another is when there is a set tour or cruise and spaces must be filled at the last-minute. If you’re the lazy kind of traveller who wants everything organised in one hit, then a package is the way to go. Webjet has some amazing specials on everything from going on safari in Sri Lanka to cruising the Pacific.
Use local sim cards
Avoid getting massively overcharged by your phone provider by replacing your sim with a local one as soon as you arrive. In most places these days, you will be met by phone people at the airport. Don’t be afraid to give them your phone and let them replace it with a local sim. In Vietnam recently I paid around $14 for 3GB of data which lasted me for two weeks!
Change your money locally
I don’t bother with travellers cheques or debit cards. I have found the best way to get the best exchange rate and avoid hefty bank fees is to turn up with a wad of AUD and change it with local money changers. The further away you get from the airport, the better the rate you get.
Travel with carry on luggage
I’m yet to master this tactic, but I know that people do it. On a recent trip to Bali I watched with envy as the couple sitting next to me on the plane travelled with carry on luggage. They exited the plane, avoided baggage fees, whisked through immigration and straight into the taxi en route to begin their holiday…while I was still waiting for my bags…so many bags.
What are your top travel tips?
Share them with us and win a $150 voucher!
All you need to do is 1) share this post on your social networks and 2) comment below (in 30 words or less) telling us your best travel savings tip, or a story where you have nabbed a great deal by persistence or chance! The Ginger Hunk (who knows nothing about my friends from blogging land) will pick the best entry. Entries close on Wednesday September 28th at Midnight and will be announced on My Meow on October 1st. The winner will receive $150 to spend on their next Webjet adventure.
Voucher terms here.
Linking up with Kylie for #IBOT
Happy Travels!
Love Ashleigh XXX
