Tip One: Do your research & establish your budget

Before you even start working with a travel agent, do your research. This includes exploring the costs of flights, accommodations, and activities, as well as identifying the must-see and must-do experiences. By gathering this information, you'll have a better understanding of what to expect in terms of costs so you can establish a preliminary budget for your trip. Once you have a budget range in mind, communicate your expectations and desired activities to your travel agent. This will enable them to provide you with a more accurate quote and tailor the trip to your specific needs and budget.

Tip Two: Be flexible with your travel dates

Being flexible with your travel dates can save you a lot of money. Traveling during the off-season or during the week instead of on weekends can often result in lower prices for flights and hotels.

Tip Three : Consider alternative destinations

If your dream destination is out of your budget, consider alternative destinations that offer similar experiences at a lower cost. For example, instead of visiting Paris, you could visit a smaller French city like Bordeaux or Montpelier.

Tip Four: Inquire about package deals

Travel agents have established relationships and contracts with airlines, hotels, and tour operators, which allows them to access special rates and deals that are not available to the general public. They also have access to inventory and specials that may not be listed on public websites. This is particularly true for package deals, which include flights, hotels, and activities. Because travel agents can bundle these components together, they are able to negotiate better rates with suppliers than if you were to book them separately.

Tip Five: Take advantage of credit card rewards, loyalty, and membership programs

Many credit cards and membership programs like AAA offer rewards and discounts that can be used on flights, hotels, and activities. Be sure to check with your travel agent to see if you can benefit from any rewards, memberships, or loyalty programs to save money on your trip.

Tip Six: Consider staying in an apartment

Vacation rentals, such as apartments, often have lower nightly rates than hotels, especially for longer stays. Further, most apartments come equipped with a kitchen, which allows you to save money by cooking your own meals instead of eating out for every meal. Another perk is that apartment rentals typically offer more living space and can often accommodate more people than hotel rooms. This can be especially helpful if you're traveling with a group and sharing the costs. Keep in mind that, as with all things, it's best to compare prices and see what options are available before making a final decision.



Tip Seven: Book your activities in advance

Dining out and partaking in activities spontaneously can be a fun way to discover new and unexpected places on vacation, but it can also mean having to wait for service at a busy times and settling for less desirable and more expensive options. Making reservations in advance can help ensure that you avoid disappointments like long wait times and peak demand pricing. And if you are a fan of flexibility, make sure to book cancellable reservations so that you can accommodate changes to your schedule.

In conclusion, planning a vacation can be overwhelming and costly, but with the right approach, you can make it a budget-friendly experience. By following the tips outlined above, you'll be better equipped to save money and make the most of your international travel experience. Get in touch today to find out more about how Olé World Travel can help you plan an affordable vacation abroad.

Happy travelling,

Liz

Owner and Travel Specialist at Olé World Travel