December 12th, 2011 
Tushar Mathur In this troubled economy, even after consolidating credit card debt and cutting down expenses there is still room for a vacation. Many people are discovering great budget friendly excursions whether in their hometowns, across the state or around the world. You just have to do a little research and know the secrets to budget travel.
The economy, it turns out, is having contrary impacts on tourism. While the economic uncertainty of recent years has left many people forgoing vacation travel and getting into a debt management plan, the corresponding vacancies has inspired everyone from resort and tour operators to restaurateurs to cut back their prices. For savvy travelers there are deals-a-plenty waiting.
When researching, focus on budget travel sites and blogs. They provide a wealth of information and frequently have direct links to operators offering specials and other discounts. Since it’s also helpful to know the areas where travelers can trim the most from their vacation budgets, we’ve compiled a list. Within it, you’ll find key suggestions for taming travel expenses.
The best ways to maximize your vacation budget no matter the destination:
Don’t book flights too soon or too late. Either will cost you more money in the long run. Booking about a month in advance will give you access to potential deals without incurring last minute booking rates. Also avoid flying on weekends when fares are highest.
Eat in neighborhood restaurants. You’ll know the good ones by asking locals. Try to avoid hotel clerks and others who may be compensated for steering tourists to certain establishments. Look for people with no obvious self-interest.
Many locations sponsor coupon books where visitors can pay a specific price for the book and receive numerous discounts from participating vendors. Another angle to this is booking activities at attractions that partner with others to provide discounted rates in bulk. Always inquire about group rates when traveling with multiple people.
Avoid taxis and similarly expensive modes of transportation. Take the subway if one is available or buses, streetcars and similar options which will not only be less expensive but will provide opportunities to engage with locals.
Stay somewhere other than a hotel. In general, hotels and resorts are the most expensive options for vacation lodging. Many people, however, don’t realize there are alternatives such as apartments for rent. Often times – particularly with groups – you can seize sizeable savings by staying in vacation rentals. Most also allow for in-house cooking and that adds to the savings.
If traveling outside the United States, also consider vacationing where the dollar has a higher value so that it stretches farther.
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