People ask me all the time, what is the best approach to finding traveling deals or saving money while traveling? Seems like a fair question right? Everyone wants to travel the world, experience other cultures, and eat great food. However, unless you are multi-millionaire or your business reimburses you for work, traveling can be expensive. So, what’s the big tip….
Flexibility.
You may ask what does flexibility have to do with saving money on travel. Well, it actually has everything to do with travel. In this post I will describe the 2 ways not being flexibility can cost you (Pun intended).
Loyal to a Flight/Hotel Program
Many people earn loads of points and miles from various flight and hotel programs and ALWAYS focus on the program their the most familiar with. See, most people love traveling domestically on Southwest or Delta because of their miles. Some love staying at Marriot or Hyatt’s (yes, I’m guilty). However, the psychological aspect of being loyal to one or two specific travel programs prevents you from researching or trying other programs which may save you money; or miles/points if you choose to use them.
Flight Example
One can fly nonstop, 1-way BNA – LAX on Southwest for $169:
However, American Airlines you can fly BNA – LAX 1-way for as low as $105 or $140 with checked bag in Main Cabin:
In full disclosure, Southwest has the best baggage policy in the industry. However, if you a looking for a quick getaway and know how to pack light, other airlines might be an option. Southwest may not always be the most cost effective option. Shop around, spend 30 minutes comparing other airlines or use Google Flights. Note: Southwest Airlines won’t show on Google Flights website.
Trip Travel Dates
The other way being flexible can save you money is the dates you travel. A substanial savings can be had by either flying during your destinations non peak dates, not flying on Friday or weekends, and avoiding holiday travel. In reality, I understand this is difficult. We all have busy lives with careers, children, and more. It can be difficult to research and find the right dates to travel.
Looking at the same BNA-LAX 1-way flight; but considering a peak travel time in June. Summer travel can be expensive, but it is when most families travel and kids are not in school. As you can see below, the June travel is almost $100 more expensive than the April travel. Keep in mind that is just one leg of the trip and doesn’t include the hotel costs.
Conclusion
Above are just two examples of how you should be open to all airlines and dates of travel to your destination if possible. You may have to fly an Asian airline to Europe or US based airline to the Caribbean, deals are to be found everywhere. Don’t limit yourself. Sure, loyalty will earn you status and status is great, but sometimes you can find better options.
Admittedly, it will take time to research the best options for your unique scenario. That’s where I come in. Contact a travel advisor that has the experience and ability to work with your budget, and save you the stress of researching your own trip.