Vacationing on a budget couldn’t be easier! - Travel Tales by Vacation Express

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Vacationing on a budget couldn’t be easier!
Posted by Claire Kennard, 8 January 2010, 15:44
in Hot Topics
“Help! I need an affordable dream vacation that matches my budget.” It’s a request often asked by travelers keen to make the most of their precious vacation time and dollars. And while a budget-blowing break would be on the top of many people’s wish lists, the reality is often a little more restrained…
So, how do you book a dream vacation that doesn’t turn your bank statement into a nightmare? Simply follow these useful tips to get the best value for your money without compromising on your well-deserved break:
1) Set the budget before you book. Think about what you can afford to spend both for the entire trip and per day, as this will give you realistic parameters when planning your vacation.
2) Be flexible. Allowing some flexibility with your dates and selecting a destination during its off season will normally mean cheaper flights and hotels rates. If you can, avoid school holidays and peak travel times to secure lower prices. Sometimes selecting one or two days earlier or later than planned can dramatically reduce the price.
3) Book early to secure the best hotel rates and airfares. Many of the best rates are to be found by early bookers, so plan ahead and try to avoid booking last minute.
4) Take advantage of our hotel and resort deals. Check our Hot Deals webpage www.vacationexpress.com/hot-deals/, where we bring you the best offers and promotions at our resorts. Deals range from early bird specials and free kids places to air credits and savings. Many resorts are currently promoting winter sales and there are plenty of bargains to be found!
5) Book flights wisely. Remember that booking early and staying flexible are the best ways to lock in low rates. If you are willing to take early or late flights with at least one connection you can cut ticket prices by up to 50%. Choosing to fly on certain days of the week can also mean cheaper fares, with mid-week rates often being better value. If you are booking your flights directly with the airline, you should know that most airlines typically release fare sales on Tuesdays, and major airlines subsequently match each other’s prices. Tuesday afternoons and evenings are the best times to check airfares.
6) Go all-inclusive. This is a great option for travelers on a budget as everything is included in the price. You know your exact costs in advance and it is often less expensive than booking each item separately. You'll find value and convenience knowing the price generally includes almost everything up front including all meals and snacks, all beverages including domestic alcoholic drinks (some resorts include premium brands), daytime activities and nighttime entertainment ... plus hotel taxes and gratuities.
7) Join airline frequent flyer programs. Earn points each time you fly and you could earn enough for a free flight.
8) And don’t forget the extras. Airport parking, resort transfers, and your optional tours can all be booked in advance to get the best rates and help with your budget. Shared transfers are the best value and are easily booked with our Reservations department. Try to avoid exchanging currency at the airport, where the rates are often higher. And do a little research about using the local transportation instead of expensive taxis – many times this can be very easy, quite convenient, extremely inexpensive and a lot more fun!
Got any tips to share? We’d love to hear how you vacation to the tropics on a budget.
URL Vacationing on a budget couldn’t be easier!

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- I have been on two trips with Vacation Express - one to the Princess resort in Punta Cana and one to Dreams in Puerto Vallarta (in addition to a FAM trip to Punta Cana) and I have to say that all-inclusive is the way to go if you want to keep to a budget. It is so great to have everything paid for before you leave for your trip. It's also fun to have your liquor paid for, even if you just like a few frozen daquiris on the beach!
- kentuckygal53
- 8 January 2010, 19:28

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