5 Trip Tips

1. Plan your trip carefully and save big:
   • Where are you going?

   • Why?

   • What is the best way to reach your destination (car, plane, boat, train, bicycle)?

   • What is the best way to return home?

   • What is the most cost effective way to travel? (see Timing Is Everything below)

   • Who is going with you?

   • How long will you stay?

   • Where is the best place to stay?

   • What should you take with you? (see Travel Light below)

   • Have you taken safety precautions? How will they affect your trip?

   • Have you planned for the weather (blankets, de-icer, shovel, salt, water)?

   • What will you wear?

   Fortunately, even last minute planning can lead to savings and a more pleasant and safer trip

   
   

2. Assess different modes of transportation, times of departure, routes to get you there and prices then select the best choice
   • Hotwire, Priceline, TripAdvisor, Orbitz, Travelocity, Expedia, Travelzoo, etc.

   • Drivers gas up for less

   
   

3. Don’t invite problems!
   • Drivers and passengers make sure your car is fine tuned and ready to go before you begin your journey

   • Before you go, find out where you can get gas, food, lodging and help (consider joining an auto club) along the way, especially on Sundays

   • Drive safely

   
   

4. Travel light:
   • Leave all nonessential items at home. Take only what you need. Fewer items mean better gas mileage, less to keep track of and more flexibility and freedom

   • But be sure to take everything you need

   • Warning: Packing weapons, knives or threatening objects for air travel (commercial travel too) is a big NO-NO

   
   

5. Timing is everything:
   • If you leave and return at the right time you may save 25% or more

   • Compare the cost of travel at different times and dates then adjust your travel accordingly

   • Compare the cost of airlines, cruises, hotels and rental cars

   • Use the Internet and save money

   • Check the price of gas (see #12)

   Why pay more? Drive the savings home.

   Be a frugal traveler and save money – look for more ways to be frugal

   There are many routes to each destination. Plan yours carefully. Enjoy the ride. Better safe than sorry, so drive safely.

   Happy trails!

© Copyright by Arthur A. Hawkins II. All rights reserved.