I always see plenty of advice, online, about saving on airfare. But there are other ways to save, and enjoy yourself along the way. You will meet more people than the standard tour. My “do it yourself” tours always yield some great stories, and new friendships.
Overnights I do not spend the night in airports at my age. I did once upon a time. But a cheap alternative is a first class seat on an airplane or train. Meals and brinks included!
Gym Always ask if the hotel has a gym or access to a gym club nearby. Often both are free.
Food Breakfast is getting more common these days, just don’t get ripped off like I did in Munich a few years back. $22 Euro was a very mediocre breakfast! Happy hours inside the hotel are often free or at a reduced price. If oyu upgrade to the Club Floor, both breakfast, and evening happy hour are usually included, and done quite well!
Taxi and Uber Needless to say, skip the taxi and go with Uber.
Walk This is a great alternative, unless you have too much baggage, which leads to my next money saver.
Baggage Carry on is usually free or cheaper. Mostly, just limit yourself to ONE bag, one that you can handle without help!!!
Public transportation I always choose this alternative if I can. It is usually cheaper, and often saves time as well. I rarely rent a car anymore on my trips both in the US, and over the oceans. Hawaii might be the only place now where I rent a car for a week!!
Low cost airlines Before you decline this option, I have used EasyJet, Ryanair, and soon, Air Asia. They have convenient flights, though often at “alternate” airports, like Gatwick, instead of Heathrow.
Hostels Again, I am getting too old to climb up a bunk and share a room with 10 people. But hostels do sometimes have private rooms with bathroom. I stayed in one while in Dublin, in a great location. It was walking distance to Templebar!!!!
Alcohol The easiest solution is to go to happy hours. If you have not already figured that out, well, too bad for you!
Snacks I bring along a few basics, like my own home made trail mix, and maybe an energy bar or two.
Baggage Do the carry on for trips that are shorter, or where bag charges are ridiculous. I hate waiting for my bag, even when there is no charge!
Tips I always carry about 50 or so one dollar bills whenever I go overseas. And about twenty $5 bills. You will never forget a tip, and you will never be in danger of over tipping!!!
Music and Theater Mostly it depends on what you want, but matinees are always cheaper. Buying in advance, online can also save time and money.
City Tours Find the “free” tours done by locals and students. They are much better than the commercial tours, and they force you to walk!!! Just remember to tip after, based on how good the tour was. You will also garner some great local information, like where to eat, drink, or party.
Care Rentals Forget about it, this has become the biggest increased expense in travel. I say, ue Uber, cab or walk!!!
Hint: Always ask for the senior discount!!!!
I am sure you have your own little insights into this topic. Feel free to share them!
