Holiday spirit is on the rise – but so is inflation, cost of living, and the pressure to follow through with holiday plans, whether it be a visit with family or a tropical getaway. Truth is, whether you plan to make the trip this holiday season or not, you’re probably still concerned with how inflation will impact your holiday plans.
We have some alternatives to help you save on travel this year so rising costs don’t drain your holiday spirit (or wallet):
Choose a flight based on price instead of convenience: It’s no secret that certain days of the week have much lower fares than others. This may entail you starting your trip a day earlier, a day later, or taking off at a less-than-ideal time. The savings, though, will probably make it all worth it. If your schedule isn’t flexible, consider giving up some luxuries and choose an airline that better fits your budget.
Choose a hotel based on price instead of amenities: Ask yourself, “Do I really need the hotel with a fitness center or a pool?” We suggest taking advantage of a hotel that offers free breakfast, though. If you’re visiting a big city, consider staying at a hotel more in the suburbs. Even better, ask your friends or family if you can stay with them instead.
Use your credit card points to cover expenses: If you’ve been racking up those airline miles, hotel points, or gas rewards on your credit card all year long, now is your chance to cash in and save on high flight fares and gas prices. Don’t have a travel credit card? Look into one and next year’s holiday travel could be essentially free.
Try to not use a checked bag: We know, packing light is easier said than done. But if you’re going to a warmer climate and only for a weekend visit, now’s the time to take on the challenge. If you were going to have to check a bag in order to bring gifts, consider opting for a gift card or shipping gifts directly to them instead.
Drive instead of flying (or fly instead of driving): With the constantly fluctuating gas and airline prices, who knows which could be cheapest at the time of your trip. Research which option would be most economical. If you’re traveling with a few people, hitting the road and splitting the price of gas may be your best bet.
Use a ride service instead of a rental car: If you’re visiting friends or family that have a car, or if everything you plan on doing is in reasonable distance of your hotel, consider cutting back on the luxury of a car rental. Utilize your ride service app and avoid high rental car prices and having to fill up the tank, too.
For travelers, this holiday season is shaping up to be a more frugal one than recent years. Use our tips to cut costs while following through with your travel plans. For more budgeting and savings tips, visit www.penncommunitybank.com.
