by Todd Pheifer

Created on: December 11, 2008   Last Updated: December 15, 2008

Many people enjoy getting together with family and friends over the holidays. However, the travel itself can sometimes be less than fun. In addition, there is the expense of travel, which can be astronomical depending on the current price of fuel. Therefore, people are often looking for ways to cut their travel costs. Here are a few techniques.

Flexible on days

The first way to save money on travel is to be flexible on travel days. This is particularly pertinent with air travel. Granted, some people are very limited on their vacation and they can only travel on certain days. But, if people can be a bit flexible they can save serious money. Oftentimes people like to travel on the weekends, but those are often the most expensive days. If they can travel in the middle of the week, they may cut some costs.

Multiple stops

Another way to cut costs is to make multiple stops. Again, this pertains mostly to air travel. Granted, stopping adds time and hassle, which can be oppressive to families with small children. But, if cost cutting is a must, then people may have to endure a little bit of hassle.

Web deals

Increasingly, people are turning to the Internet for their travel booking. Air, rail, and bus travel can easily be booked online. Oftentimes, travel companies will post special deals that are only available online. Granted, they might not be at the most convenient times or the ideal destination, but they are something to consider. If you are flexible, watching for a web deal might be a good solution. The key is to keep tabs on the websites so you don't miss the latest deal. Travelers can check individual airline sites (Alaska, Northwest, American Airlines, Southwest, Jet Blue, United, Midwest Express, etc.) or they can check "discount" or brokerages sites (Expedia, Orbitz, Travelocity, Priceline, etc.). People just have to keep in mind that the airlines run some of these sites, so discounts are not always guaranteed.

Pack less

Most, if not all, airlines are now charging money for first or second checked suitcases. These fees can range from $15 to $50 per bag. As frustrating as this can be for travellers, airlines seem firm on this strategy for the foreseeable future. Therefore, saving money on travel is all about packing lighter. If people pack less, they will need fewer suitcases and fees can be saved. Granted, people still have to be careful that they do not overload their first bag, because they may incur a fee for an overweight bag.

Don't go

Of course, there is always the cheapest solution, which is choosing to stay home or deciding to go somewhere every other year. This is less fun and it may break with tradition, but sometimes budget constraints are very real and people have to make tough choices.

Alternative modes of transportation

Finally, people can save money by going with alternate modes of transportation. The most expensive way to travel is typically by air. It is also the most convenient and the quickest in most cases, which is why people choose it. However, there are other ways to get places, such as by train, bus, or car. They may take more time, but they can also be cheaper. Overall, people have to take some time, examine all parameters or travel, and make a decision. People are more prone to save money if they plan ahead and keep their options open.

Learn more about this author, Todd Pheifer.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.