Unknown Travel Hacks That Can Save You Money & Time

We might have many differences with each other as humans, but one thing that unites everyone in the world is travel. In my opinion, it's a universally loved activity!

Do you know anyone who doesn't enjoy travelling?I have not met anyone so different yet for sure.

When it comes to travelling, a trip can either be a fantastic adventure or a bit of a headache. So, why not make your next journey more enjoyable with these handy travel tips? With these easy tricks, you can book great flights, score hotel upgrades, make the most of your cruise, choose the perfect spots to visit, skip long lines, and so much more!

1. Flight Ticket Hacks

Here are some tricks for flight travel hacks.

• Check with the Airline Directly: Did you know that only 52% of available flight bookings show up online? So, if you see a flight as 'full' online, don't lose hope. Give the airline a call and talk to a real person. Chances are, they can get you a ticket quickly.
• Clear Your Cookies: Before you book, always clear your cookies and search history or use a different computer. Why? When you start searching for flights, the websites notice your interest and might hike up prices. Clearing cookies or changing computers can save you some money.
• Best Booking Time: Want the cheapest tickets? Aim for 3:00 PM on Tuesdays, about six weeks before your flight. And here's a tip: avoid flying on Sundays; it's usually the most expensive day of the week.
• Alternate Airports: Sometimes, it pays to check out neighbouring airports. Many cities have multiple airports, and prices can vary significantly between them. It's worth considering if you're looking for a deal.
• Ask for Seat Upgrades: Airlines often keep around 30% of their seats hidden. So, don't hesitate to ask for a better seat when you check in. You'd be surprised how often you can avoid the dreaded middle seat near the restrooms. If you book an economy ticket with a Y or B booking code, your chances of an upgrade are even better.

2. Hotel Booking Hacks

Some straightforward tips for saving on accommodations:

• Book Last-Minute Cancelled rooms: Several websites list accommodations that become available due to late cancellations. One in five rooms booked online are cancelled before the arrival. The cancellation of bookings not only directly impacts hotel revenues, but also negatively impacts their marketing efforts. Travel agencies keep track of cancellations made by hotels and drop their ratings when a cancellation occurs. You can often grab these rooms at a reduced price. Keep an eye out for these opportunities in the area you are planning to travel next.
• Hunt for Coupons: Check out coupon websites like couponswala.com for hotel deals, especially if you prefer a more upscale experience. You might just find a great discount that suits your style.
• Use Airline Rewards: Don't forget that your airline rewards or miles can be used for more than just flights. Consider using them when booking your next hotel stay to save some cash.
• Explore Credit Card Points: Many credit cards offer substantial bonus points just for signing up or spending a certain amount within a specific timeframe (like the Chase Sapphire Preferred). These points can often be used to book hotel rooms. Contact your bank to discover which credit cards they recommend for scoring the best bonuses.
• Join Travel Organizations: Becoming a member of travel organizations can lead to significant discounts. Joining AAA can get you deals on hotels (and car rentals too). If you're under 35, consider getting an International Student Identity Card (ISIC) for accommodation savings worldwide.
• Contact Hotels Directly: Before booking online, try reaching out to the hotel via phone or email (or find a specific person if you can). Politely inquire if they have any special deals to offer. At the very least, they might match the deals you saw online. In the best-case scenario, you might score a free room upgrade or a price reduction. This approach is particularly effective if you're planning an extended stay (a week or more) as hotels are often eager to offer deals for longer visits. It never hurts to ask!

3. Cruise Vacation Hacks

Cruise related tips you must use: 

• Choose a "Guaranteed Stateroom": If you're more concerned about the price than the specific location on the ship, consider requesting a "guaranteed stateroom." This option allows you to stay in a cabin (interior, exterior, balcony, suite) that's equal to or better than your choice at the lowest price available.
• Pre-book Dining and Entertainment: To secure your preferred dining and entertainment options onboard, make sure to pre-book them as early as possible. Waiting might mean missing out on your top options.
• Consider booking through a Travel Agent: Booking directly with the cruise line doesn't always guarantee the best deal. In many cases, you can get added bonuses and special discounts by booking through a travel agent.
• Try Nice Restaurants on the First Night: Kick off your cruise in style by dining at the upscale restaurants on the first night. They often offer fantastic specials because most passengers opt for the buffet or general dining area initially.
• Avoid High ATM Fees: Don't get hit by exorbitant onboard ATM fees. Instead, purchase gambling chips at the casino using your credit or debit card, and then cash them out a few minutes later. While there may be a minimum withdrawal and a small card fee, it's usually far less expensive than using an onboard ATM.
• Download the Cruise Line's App: Before setting sail, download the cruise line's app. It comes in handy for getting updates, navigating the ship, and even affordable messaging and calling with fellow passengers during your journey.

Closing Thoughts

Enjoy free Wi-Fi by sitting just outside airport lounges. If you're limited to one hour, extend your time by setting your device's clock back when your hour is nearly over. Avoid the taxi line at arrivals; instead, head to departures to grab a cab more quickly.

Avoid airport currency exchange if possible. Rates there are often the worst due to high overhead costs. For better deals, exchange money at a city bank or reputable bureau. If you must use the airport, exchange only what you need. Or, consider using a fee-free credit/debit card for cost-effective currency access while travelling.

Pack your travel essentials carefully, and you are all set to go!