Question: What are some ways to mitigate summer travel costs?
Answer: If you know where you’re going, you need to shop for airfare. Check multiple search engines, start early and check them often, several times a week. I have been told the airfares change on Tuesdays, so it’s a good idea to check them midweek. Be ready to act if you find a good fare. We all know that some of the hidden costs are really punishing, especially if you’re traveling with a family — things like bag fees and food. So check those before you make your decision. Plan to travel light. Pack as few bags as necessary and remember that things like shampoo are sold wherever you’re going.
Q: What are some strategies to choose a destination for a budget-conscious family?
A: All of us know that one of the cheapest places to get to from Hawaii is Las Vegas. And Las Vegas is actually in the center of many scenic areas (the Grand Canyon, Bryce Canyon, etc.). If you’re traveling with children, those are very interesting places, and Las Vegas is an inexpensive destination and an inexpensive place to stay.
It’s a good idea to be flexible about your destination point if you can, considering Oakland versus San Francisco, for instance. Sometimes the less popular airports may offer less expensive fares. If there’s an airline starting a new route or promoting a particular destination, you may be able to get a special deal.
Q: What are some vacation activities families can do that won’t break the bank?
A: Our country has many incredible places to visit that are either free or very inexpensive. Check the national parks website because there’s always camping, beautiful scenic sites, etc. The other thing to think of is local festivals. Research the place you’re going — read the local newspaper or town website, look for local festivals, concerts or events. Summer events are very popular and often either free or extremely inexpensive.
Q: What are the most expensive costs of travel besides airfare?
A: The hotel. It pays to do comparison-shopping. Hotels.com, Expedia and other sites allow you to comparison-shop for good deals. Normally, you need a clean place to spend the night, but you don’t need luxury.
If you’re traveling by car, remember that buying food at a grocery store is often less expensive than a fast-food restaurant or eating out, and usually healthier.
Outdoor activities like hiking, swimming in lakes, bicycling, etc., are great family experiences. We often overlook the fun of just spending time together as a family.
Q: How far in advance should you start planning a summer vacation?
A: It’s nice to be spontaneous, but it’s often expensive because you lose that opportunity to comparison-shop and to get advance deals. If you are a youth traveling solo across the country, you can save tons of money. Young people can go to a youth hostel or sleep in the car, but you can’t do that with young children. You have to plan ahead to know that you will have a safe place to stay. If you can, start shopping at least six months early. It will help you identify what is possible and what is not.
Q: What are some alternatives if you still want a vacation but can’t afford to travel?
A: Remember we live in paradise. Other people pay a fortune to come here to vacation. We have the ability to sleep in our own beds and visit one of the most beautiful places on earth. For the cost of an inexpensive guidebook, you can enjoy paradise.
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Interviewed by Kristen Consillio
