Some people have given up on the idea of taking to traveling this year. They have put their vacation plans on hold due to a poor economy. Is there a way to stretch your travel budget so you can still go on vacation? We think traveling is good for you. By taking vacations you get away from work for a little while and are able to unwind and escape the stressors in your life. Nothing wrong with that, but how can you afford it? ![]()
If you watch the hotels and motels that you choose to stay in you will be able to stretch your money out a little further. This could be enough to let you take a vacation this year. Instead of staying in four and five star hotels try staying in a bed and breakfast. There is great service that is helpful and polite. Breakfast is served every morning before you head off each day. Usually bed and breakfasts are located close to a town so getting to town is simple. It may require a ten minute walk to get to the middle of the town. The friendly atmosphere means getting useful information is easy. Find out the best places to dine, where the food is good and is also inexpensive.
If you cannot find a bed and breakfast near you try going to a hotel with a lower star rating. You would be surprised how nice some of the two star hotels actually are. Many times it is just a matter of the hotel not having a restaurant or an elevator that brings the star rating down.
If your travels are taking you to a city for a week or longer, it will pay off to rent an apartment for that week. This will give you a kitchen so you can prepare your own meals. You will have fun shopping in the local markets and you will save a ton of money on restaurant bills and you will still have the option of eating out if you want to.
Don’t be afraid to negotiate prices with the hotel. This is another thing that may surprise you. Oftentimes you can offer a certain price and the hotel will accept that price. Many times if you just show up at a hotel without reservations, you will be able to book a room for a day or two at a reduced rate. The hotel likes to get filled and by offering you a discount they have a better chance of you taking the room.
Besides room rates, you can get off cheaper eating as well. Find a nice local restaurant to eat at instead of eating at the hotels you stay at. This will give you a chance to enjoy the locals as well. Another way to save is to not use the minibar for food and drinks. It is better to go out on the town than to eat and drink from the minibar.
With these methods you can make your traveling less expensive but still enjoy yourself. Don’t put off your vacation time any longer. Head to a new and exciting destination and save money.


