Taking a vacation doesn't require completely emptying your pocket book. While advance planning helps, you can often find last-minute deals. Flexibility is also key, as being tied to specific dates may curtail your ability to find bargains. Take a cheap vacation by being aware of current prices so that you can jump on a deal when you see it. Remember deals don't last for long -- use these tips to get the benefit of bargains when they're available.
Define your budget and identify what current pricing is for hotel, transportation and meals. If airfare is too costly, identify a vacation spot close to home to which you can drive.
Use credit card miles or points to pay for your accommodations or flights, if possible. Some credit cards allow you to turn points into gift cards that you can use on your trip.
Connect with a travel agent. Travel agents have access to deals, especially last-minute cruises, for example, that may stretch your budget further than if you are working on your own.
Book accommodations with a kitchen. With a kitchen, you avoid restaurant meals that often drive up your vacation costs to too high a level.
Look for coupons local to where you are headed. Many restaurants offer savings coupons from deal aggregators. Many spas may do this as well.
Call the accommodation to which you are thinking of heading and ask if they are offering any incentives to stay. Some rental facilities may offer free nights, upgraded accommodations or include gift certificates for staying.
Don't use your credit card to pay for your vacation; a high interest rate ends up costing you significantly. Look for for vacation packages that are roughly in your budget to avoid undue stress.
