Smart Travel Ideas

These days, everyone is seeking ways to save money: clipping coupons, dining at home more often and cutting out a few luxuries. With these 10 budget travel tips, vacation will seem more like the treat it once was and less like an added expense.
1. Pick your destination, then prepare a budget. Break it down by how much – or little – to spend on transportation, dining, sightseeing, shopping and other activities. Then stick to the plan!

2. Bundling is best. Through websites such as orbitz.com, hotels.com or travelocity.com, booking your flight, hotel (and sometimes car rentals and tickets for attractions) is cheaper than booking each separately.

3. If renting a car, choose a compact or sedan. You most likely don’t need the extra space in larger cars, and you’re sure to save on gas.

4. Visit the websites of the activities/attractions that interest you and check for special discounts or coupons. You may even stumble upon some freebies.

5. Pack light when taking to the skies. Many airlines now charge luggage fees, so try to fit your belongings in your carry-on. Review the regulations on how to properly pack liquids.

6. Renting a condo or a hotel with a kitchen? Take advantage of the luxury and cook for yourself. You’ll save a ton on dining expenses.

7. If you don’t mind a few extra miles, consider booking a hotel outside of your primary destination. Typically, accommodations in adjacent towns have cheaper rates.

8. Off-season travel will save a few bucks. Ski trips in spring or beach getaways during the off season almost guarantee discounted rates.

9. If an attraction is far away, get there via public transportation or car. But take a walk to the activities close to your accommodations. You’ll save on transportation costs and have the added bonus of enjoying the sites along the way.

10. Discounts are common for group travel. Gather up your friends and family for a fun – and cheaper – trip. *

* Many parks and recreation departments in our coverage area offer trips for adults. Day trips, overnight stays and local travels are often available. Check with the parks and recreation department in your area for a list of trips and costs.

A Hop, Skip and a Jump

Air travel can sometimes be a hassle. Delays, cancellations and layovers can eat into your precious vacation days. Here are five fun getaways within a five-hour driving range, giving you more time to enjoy your destination.

Virginia Beach – Sandy beaches; a boardwalk complete with shops, restaurants and other attractions; and numerous hotels to choose from, make this shoreline location a hot spot for travelers.

Asheville, N.C. – Pair gorgeous mountain vistas with a thriving downtown, art scene and dining options and that just brushes the surface of what makes Asheville a great escape.

Williamsburg – Must do’s in this history-rich town: Colonial Williamsburg, outlet mall shopping, Busch Gardens and indulging at local restaurants.

Gatlinburg, Tenn. – Big-city amenities meet small-town charm in Gatlinburg. Attractions include the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Ripley’s Aquarium, specialty shops and outlet malls.

Greenville, S.C. – Mountain scenery and the Reedy River draw visitors to Greenville. Not to mention the waterfront restaurants, The Little Theatre and Greenville Museum of Art.