How to Travel on a Budget Without Sacrificing Comfort

Let's face it, traveling on a budget sounds great...until you're sharing a room with 8 snoring strangers and using a towel that could double as sandpaper. But here are the good news: You don't have to choose between budget and keeping your sanity. As a travel agent (and someone who refuses to accept lower travel standards) I have cracked the code on affordable travel. 

1. Consult with a travel agent. Most travel agents, like myself, don't cost you a dime extra, as our commissions are already included in the price quoted by the travel vendor (airline, hotels, attractions....) Travel agents also have the hands in this magical cookie jar with extra low prices only available to licensed travel agents. (I will discuss other advantages of consulting with a travel agent in a later blog).

2. Timing: Travel during shoulder seasons (in between months). Say goodbye to sky-high prices and sardine packed attractions and take advantage of lower airfare and hotel rates, as well as having better chances at room upgrades and, definitely, fewer crowds and shorter lines at attractions. 

3.  Flights: Book Smart, Not Expensive: If you already know you will be traveling in advance, book your flight early. Same goes for accommodations. Use tools like Google Flights or Skyscanner to track price trends and Hopper to predict the best time to buy. Be flexible with your travel dates and airport selections. typically, mid-week flights are cheaper, and flying into a neighboring city,  instead of a major hub can also save you some major bucks.

4. Upgrade Your Accomodations - Without Paying Extra: Look for Boutique (more stylish & personal) or extended stay hotels (extra perks like laundry facilities, mini kitchens or inclusive breakfasts. Or check out Airbnbs/VRBOs and home exchanges. Home exchange is where somebody wants to vacation in your area and you want to vacation in theirs, and both parties are willing to swap homes while on vacation (make sure you have a nice home, if you decide to go that route).

5. Eat Well on a Budget: Limit yourself to one or two splurge meals, look for breakfast, lunch and early bird dinner specials. Eat and shop where the locals do. Not only will that save you money, but it'll also enhance your cultural experience.

6. Commute Like a Local: Instead of a car rental, opt for airport transport to/from your hotel. And to get around town, walk, rent a bike, use public transit like buses, metros or trains and trams. A lot of times the municipalities offer city travel passes that include unlimited transport and even attraction discounts.

7. Sign up for Travel Rewards and travel reward credit cards with good sign up bonuses. Join hotel and airline loyalty programs. And if you DIY use booking platforms that offer cash back or future discounts. ALWAYS ask if other discounts like military, EMS, AAA, AARP/AMAC are offered by the booking site/vendor.

Budget travel is all about strategizing, not doing without. Prioritize comfort where it matters most (a safe place, a comfortable bed and a clean space). Choose low-cost or free experiences like hiking, biking, walking tours or beach days. Stay longer in fewer places to avoid additional transport cost. Pack smart. You won't need your whole closet. Bring only your essentials and you won't be sentenced to pay for extra baggage at the airline counter. And if you have to check your bags, do it at the kiosk or in advance to save a few dollars.