I think just about everyone in this world loves to be chauffeured instead of trying to jump into the cluttered mess we call a freeway, right? Well I have a few great ideas for seeing the sights, having a girl's night out or a boy's night out or just trying to catch that plane.

A Limousine usually will cost you about $160.00 and hour with a 4 hour minimum, a taxi can be somewhat less but also creepy now days and shuttles are the most affordable, but my last experience with a shuttle through Washington DC was more thrilling than the world's fastest roller coaster! Why all this stress over transportation?

One neat idea is to "hire" a friend to be your chauffeur, just like you do when you have a designated driver except add a little flair to the occasion! Ask your friend to "dress the part" and offer them a little cash or tips for the night. You will be saving hundreds of dollars this way. Friends are also a big help when you need to get to the airport, same rule applies just offer to pay them for their time or gas, I would opt for their time rather than gas, have you seen gas prices lately? Either way you are still saving money big time.

If "role playing" is not your thing, then try to book through an agency that offers AAA member discounts or senior discounts. One thing I always forget to do it pull out my membership card, and you really can save a few dollars by using them. Your everyday junk mail is loaded with coupons and offers for rental cars, shuttle services and neighborhood caravan service. If you are going to be taking a long road trip and stopping in several places, try turning in your car at various locations for a new one. This takes a little research beforehand but the benefits will be worth it. Most Rental car dealerships charge by mileage and not so much by days rented, so by turning a car in at designated cities, your mileage will stay down and who knows the rates in Texas may be a lot cheaper than in California.

Definitely opt for the more fuel efficient cars available rather than the nice looking town car. Your comfort zone will be in knowing that you have some extra cash to spend on your trip and you can always stretch your legs at the hotel, poolside!

Learn more about this author, Erinn Soule.
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