FrugalMonkey Discount Travel News

Tag: cheap travel

  • A Beginner’s Guide to Ride Sharing

    Most of us have car pooled to the office, or hitched a ride with friends after a big night out. However when we vacation, most of us tend to travel solo or with our nearest and dearest. But why not embrace carpooling practices when you’re abroad? Ride sharing is a great way to cut costs, minimize your carbon footprint, and make some new friends.

    Ride sharing is a relatively new concept, but backpackers have been doing it for years. The message boards of hostels around the world are full of signs advertising for willing travel companions.

    In Europe and North America, ride sharing has well and truly joined the digital age. Websites like Eurostop and Hitchhikers in Europe help match up travelers needing transport with drivers looking to fill their vehicles. In North America there’s the similar eRideShare and Ridester. If you’re traveling outside these continents, Digihitch is worth a look. This forum helps travelers and drivers from all over the world connect with one another. Other drivers advertise in the Services: Travel/Vacation section of Craigslist. As ride sharing is a growing practice, new sites are popping up all the time. Search the internet and you’re sure to find one serving your intended destination.

    Drivers typically ask their guests to share in the cost of petrol and tolls. If drivers are traveling in their own vehicle, they may also add a small wear and tear fee. And of course there are some generous souls simply happy to share in your company, without asking anything in return.

    As with any travel experience which sees strangers meeting, safety is the greatest concern. Modern ride sharing practices are much safer than the old methods of standing by the road with your thumb in the air, but it’s still important to rely on your own instincts. Make sure you chat with your driver, and the rest of your travel group if you can, either online or in person. Ensure they have the same attitude to traveling, and that they don’t set off any red flags. Also make sure to travel light, and with just a little cash on your person, to minimize the risk of theft.

    car near waterIf you’re feeling uneasy about your ride sharing arrangements, it’s best to dig a little deeper into your pocket and splurge on public transport or your own hire car. While ride sharing can be a wonderful budget-friendly experience with the right companions, you can’t put a value on your own peace of mind.

  • Getting There on the Cheap: Tips for Stretching Your Travel Dollars

    A large part of traveling frugally is making your dollars stretch further and identifying alternative modes of travel that allow you to get where you want to go at reasonable rates.

    Here are some suggestions for ways to wisely spend your hard-earned dollars to get the most out of your travel. By following just a few basic guidelines, savvy frugal travelers are often able to go on trips they never dreamed they could afford. Credit Card Miles/Airline Fidelity Programs There are many benefits to having an airline credit card (you can typically check luggage for free and you accumulate miles with every purchase). I suggest really committing to one airline instead of putting your eggs in multiple baskets (it’s harder to accumulate enough miles for a flight this way). Be sure to do some research before committing to one program. Important aspects to research include: ease of redeeming frequent flyer miles, miles needed to travel to various destinations (that you are interested in traveling to), frequency of blackout dates, frequency of flights offered by that airline to destinations you are actually interested in visiting (or at least flights into cities that will get you close to that location), and the details of the credit card itself (annual percentage rate, payment terms, spending limit, etc.). After you find a program you like, use the airline credit card for as much as you possibly can. Paying off the balance in full at the end of each month will ensure that you aren’t paying for your miles (though interest). Courier Flights [caption id="attachment_4881" align="alignright" width="300" caption="Repositioning cruises can be a great way to get where you want to go on the cheap."]cheap cruises photo[/caption] Discounted airfares for air couriers have been around for quite a while, yet few people take advantage of this method of frugal travel. Here’s the gist of how it works: businesses and individuals will often employ a courier to transport a package or document to a certain destination to ensure that it gets there safely and in a timely manner. Large courier shipments travel in the hold of the plane, and the courier keeps the documents to get them through customs with him or her in the plane. Most of the time, the courier’s only task is to deliver these documents to a company representative waiting when he/she disembarks from the flight (typically the courier does not have to deal with customs). To save money, most companies do not hire someone to do this. Rather, they subsidize the cost of the flight for someone who is interested in traveling to the destination of the shipment. To find out more about being a courier, check out this site: http://www.aircourierinternational.com/ Repositioning Cruises Repositioning cruises are a great way to get from one side of the world to another on the cheap. Twice a year, cruise lines move their fleets from locations like the Mediterranean, Asia, Alaska, Europe to the Continental U.S. (and vice versa).  The prices for these cruises are greatly reduced, which presents a unique opportunity for travelers on a budget. For more information on repositioning cruises coming up in 2100, see: http://cruises.about.com/od/cruisedestinations/a/repositioning_3.htm Round-the-World/Multiple Destination Tickets Though round- the- world tickets can take a bit of effort to research and book, they make travel to multiple international destinations more financially viable. These work great if your travel schedule is flexible. There are several airline families that offer these types of trips. For more information on traveling with a round-the-world ticket, see: http://www.roundtheworldticket.com/

  • How to Avoid Spending Money on Airline “Extras”

    If you’re a regular traveler, it will come as no shock whatsoever that what used come standard for the price of airfare (from in-flight meals to checked bags), is now considered “extra.”

    Even though paying $30 (or more) for a checked bag may not seem like a big deal when you’re just trying to get to your destination, these costs can add up over time (especially if you’re traveling with a family). Here are some tips for reducing your airline “extras” fees without sacrificing comfort and convenience. The “Great Luggage Debacle” To check or not to check? That is the question for many airline passengers these days.  If the airline assesses a fee for checked baggage, my general advice is don’t do it. However, there are some ways to get around this fee. Delta card holders receive one free checked bag for each person on the reservation. For example, last year my mother booked a flight for herself, my sister and me. Even though my sister and I were not Delta card members, we were allowed to check our bags for free as well. If you do decide to check a bag, make sure it is under the maximum weight limit (typically 44 pounds) so that you are not assessed extra fees. Of course, the easiest way to get around the luggage fees is to pack everything you need in a carry-on. You are allowed to bring both a carry-on and a personal item (purse, laptop, etc.) on most major carriers. The standard carry-on maximum size is 45", in the form of a 22" x 14" x 9" bag.  Some airlines allow up to as much as 55" (this is rare). For weight and size restrinctions, always check with your specific carrier before you begin packing. Afraid you can’t fit all you need in a carry-on? Follow these simple guidelines for packing light (and “security friendly”) and you’ll be good to go. 1.     Plan out what you will wear each day to avoid overpacking on clothes. Remember that you can rewear most things. Also, check to see if there will be laundry facilities where you are staying (this way, you can pack half as much and do laundry half-way through the trip). Be realistic about shoes. One comfy pair and one nice pair is typically all you’ll need. 2.     Make sure to put all liquid in 3 oz. (or less) containers. This will both allow you to get through security with no issues and will force you to pack lighter. 3.     Remember that sharp objects may cause problems when you go through security. Keep in mind that if you buy bulky souvenirs on your trip, it’s a good idea to have them shipped back home (which often ends up being cheaper and safer than bringing them to the airport). Bon Appétit! Let’s face it, airline food is not exactly synonymous with fine dining, so why are paying for food you won’t even enjoy that much? Instead for forking out your vacation money on in-flight meals, plan ahead. Most major airports have a variety of dining and food-to-go options. Either eat a good meal before you get on the plane, or grab a sandwich and beverage (after you go through security, of course) to enjoy mid-flight. And don’t forget about the snacks. Young travelers in particular stay happier with healthy snacks like dried fruit and trail mix to munch on during the flight. Follow these simple words of advice and you could end up saving hundreds of dollars by not purchasing airline "extras" throughout the 2011 traveling year.

  • China on the Cheap – Affordable Travel in Asia

    China can be one of the world’s most expensive countries to visit, or one of the cheapest. Your experience all depends on the areas you visit, and what you do with your yuan when you get there.

    Chinese money is called renminbi, of which the most popular unit is the yuan. Western travelers might equate this with a dollar, pound, or euro.


    In some parts of China, the yuan goes by the name of kuai, jiao, or mao. You'll need a lot of yuan if you hope to visit China's most popular tourist centers, including Beijing, Hong Kong, and Shanghai. There are ways to cut costs in these locations, such as staying in hostels and eating from the street stalls, but you'll pay for any luxuries. They key to traveling frugally in these places is to live as the locals do. Vendors in the markets are open to haggling, while prices are fixed when shopping in the large malls. Traveling by bus or bicycle can require careful planning, but it's much cheaper than getting around by taxi. Experiencing these cities in this way, you might expect to pay Y140 for you accommodation, and another Y140 for other daily expenses. If you prefer to live it up, look to regional areas like Yunnan, Guangxi, Sichuan, Gansu, and even Tibet. Family run homestays and guesthouses offer rural hospitality for affordable prices. If you don't have far to go, it’s worth traveling "hard seat." It will make your bus or train ticket much cheaper, although it does get uncomfortable on very long journeys. Meals in these areas are generally reasonably priced, and you'll find some unexpectedly delicious dishes in the hole in the wall eateries. It's easy toinexpensive china trip photo spend less than Y25 on food in some of China's most remote locations, while your food bills may rise to between Y40 and Y70 a day in the more populated areas. You can save cash anywhere by remembering that tipping is not expected anywhere in China. Many mid to top end eateries will sneakily get around this by adding a hefty service charge to your bill, but you shouldn’t have such a problem at more modest eateries. Most travelers would not want to miss the excitement of China's big cities, and nor should they. But with many key attractions like The Great Wall of China and the historic Leshan Dafo Buddha lying further afield, it's certainly worth saving cash and spending some time out of China's big smoke.

  • 8 Tips for Frugal Travel

    Even if you have set a budget ahead of time, it is easy to end up spending way more money than you would have ever imagined on your vacation, especially if you’re traveling abroad.


    Here are some tried and true frugal travel tips to help you enjoy your next trip without breaking the bank. Be realistic with local currency. As soon as you exchange your money, it’s easy to feel like you have a stack of monopoly money in your hands. In addition to reminding aware that you are spending actual money, be sure to come up with a quick way to calculate the exchange rate into your currency (for example, if the exchange rate is 1.345, round that up to 1.5 and multiply every purchase by time and a half). On a related note, before you leave, research what kind of fees your bank or credit card charge for getting cash out of foreign ATMs or for foreign purchases and plan accordingly. Travel with friends. Traveling with friends (or another couple) is a great way to cut down on lodging and other costs. Sharing a large discounted vacation rental (condo or house) with a group of friends can end up being much cheaper than booking a hotel room alone. If you’re your rental has cooking facilities, all of you can go grocery shopping at the beginning of the trip and cook at the house most (or all) nights instead of spending money in a restaurant. And remember, it can be much more fun to travel with another couple or a group of friends! Book a hotel with a continental breakfast (or at least a coffee machine in the room). Most hotels that offer continental breakfasts are not more expensive than their counterparts (i.e. other two-star hotels) that do not. If you have a coffee machine in your room but there is no continental breakfast, scope out the surrounding areas for options. Not having to pay for breakfast and coffee for you and your tribe can really help stretch your dollar (or allow you to spend more on meals out). For meals and shopping, avoid “touristy” areas. Many local businesses prey on tourists’ impulses and, sadly, their confusion by hiking up prices and positioning themselves next to main tourist sites or area. So, even though that crêpe or mini Eiffel Tower may look great, resist the temptation to hand over your euros on the spot. Instead, head to a less touristy area to eat and/or shop there. Not only will it be less expensive, the products and experience will be much more authentic. Remember, picnic lunches are also an inexpensive (and fun) alternative to eating lunch in a restaurant each day. Read out post about eating cheaply in Paris. [caption id="attachment_4411" align="alignright" width="225" caption="Using public transportation is a great way spend less money while traveling."][/caption] Rethink the value of souvenirs. How many times have you purchased an expensive souvenir on a trip and got it home only to think “what I am going to do with this?” That’s the funny thing about being on vacation, we see things we think we “need” to buy that we would never even consider purchasing if we saw it back home. Truth is, many souvenirs are either very expensive (not a great value) or useless (or both). Instead take home local canned goods like jellies or jams, teas and coffees. Each time you enjoy your “souvenir,” it will bring back memories of your trip (and you are sure to use it). Start thinking of your photos and your travel journal as your souvenirs. Chances are, these are the things that will be most meaningful to you years after your trip. Also, don’t feel like everyone at the office or every member of your family needs a “remembrance” of your trip to another country. They’ll be happy just seeing your pictures and hearing your stories. Carry a water bottle and light snacks. Having sustenance on you at all times will help you avoid buying expensive snacks and sodas because your blood sugar is low and you are “desperate.” For health reasons, it’s good to stay hydrated while you’re traveling, especially if you’re doing a lot of walking. Know your cell phone plan. I know many friends who have accrued some major charged on their cell phone bills as a result of making calls or texting from abroad. To avoid these unexpected expenses, read through your cell phone contract or contact your carrier before hopping on the plane so that you understand what the financial implications of calling or texting from abroad will be. Use public transportation as much as possible. Be sure to research the public transportation options in the place you’ll be staying, including reduced rate multi-day/week travel cards. If you know about and feel comfortable with your public transportation options from day one, you’ll feel less tempted to take a cab everywhere you need to go.

  • Lowest Flights Ever and Cheap Travel To Hawaii

    Rock bottom prices and a decrease in tourism means that travelers can visit one of the most sought after vacation locations in the world, at some of the lowest prices ever. Traveling to Hawaii is now significantly more affordable then it has ever been, and as a result, travelers are gobbling up flights at amazing discounted prices.

    Recently published material on the cheap airfares to Hawaii lists prices from the west coast at only about $350 per person.


    A significant drop from the $600 a Seattle family paid last year for the exact same flight. These low prices mean that a trip this summer for a family of four is about $1,000 cheaper then it was last year, starting only with airfare. The good news for travelers is that since Hawaii has seen a 12% decrease in tourism over the last year, its first ever decrease in tourism since the Great Depression, hotel deals and vacation packages are also at an all time low. This is a prefect reflection that while the tourism industry is suffering, travelers are still able to benefit by booking cheap flights and vacation packages. For a state like Hawaii however, where tourism is the main artery of its economy, the decrease in visitors and in spending is likely to hit hard. This is especially true for the smaller islands and more remote locations where travel is already less than on the big islands where most visitors spend their time.

    While this is disconcerting for the Hawaiian economy it does means cheap airfare and cheaper vacations to one of the most visited tropical landscapes in the United States. As such, prices are so low you almost can’t ignore them. It’s hard not to picture yourself sun tanning on a white sand beach at half of what it might have cost you last year. Delta, American, United and other airline carriers are all offering these low prices and travel auction sites are offering incredible vacation deals and what might be considered a steal.

    Take the trip to Hawaii this year. As FareCompare CEO Rick Seaney said, “You won’t see prices to Hawaii like this again in your lifetime. It might be worth it to take that once-in-a-lifetime trip.”

  • Tips For World Travelers

    If you’ve ever thought about traveling the world, consider some of these tips before heading out along your way.


    HOSTEL CARDS    : There are huge hosteling networks that allow you to book online, leave feedback and enjoy cheap travel all over the world. Checking out places like hostelbookers, hosteling international and hostel world (along with some of the smaller retailers like mini-hostels) that will save you thousands of dollars during your trip. Yet, a way to save even more is by purchasing a member card from one of these retailers. You will be able to save 10% each night by only forking over US $10-$15 to start. Not only will you make your money back in just a few weeks, but you will save hundreds over the course of your trip.

    TICKETS: Also, around-the-world tickets have some regulations and won’t let you simply jet set from one city to the other without some restrictions, but it is a great way to save on airfare by purchasing your ticket all up front.

    Your around the world ticket from Australia trips, European vacations, island hopping in the Pacific or Brazilian hideaways is that much closer by taking note of FRUGALMONKEY’s travel tips.


  • Learn How To Save 30% By Booking Travel Packages

    There are a lot of ways to save on travel: booking your trip ahead of time, booking flights through online auction sites, by traveling as an Air Courier, by finding promotional codes and by utilizing air miles from credit cards. However, you can save up to 30% on your entire travel costs by booking hotel and flight packages together. Hotels, airline companies and car rental companies offer huge savings when packages are booked in conjunction with one another. This can save hundreds on expensive vacations and eliminate the problem of booking separate elements of your travel plans piece by piece. People often consider travel packages that include hotel stay a poor way to find savings when really, it is an excellent venue to save.


  • Save Money With Car Rental Discount Codes

    Many people look into renting a carwhile traveling because it offers the freedom to move about from place to place without having to use taxis, buses or other more inconvenient ways of getting around a new place. It also lets you explore a new location at your own speed and on your own time. It is also a great way to get around long distances that would otherwise be more difficult to manage. However, renting a car can be a huge traveling expense. FRUGALMONKEY suggests doing an online search for car rental discount codes. Many websites offer promotional codes for their car rental company that provide huge discounts for travelers. This can take hundreds of dollars off your car rental! Check it out the next time you’re thinking of renting a car on your vacation.


  • Work In The Alaskan Fishing Industry

    Visit Alaska and make money by working the Alaskan Fishing Industry!

    Travel in Alaska is becoming more and more popular. Each year hundreds of people are flocking by car, bus, train, plane and cruise to visit one of the most breathtaking sites in the United States.


    Alaska is world famous for its gorgeous and wild beauty. Each year, Alaska sees more and more tourists who visit to experience the beauty and untamed wilderness, firsthand. Alaska however, is famous for more than just being the beautiful backdrop for Jack London novels and a popular vacation spot for tourists. It is also, world famous for its fishing industry, which produces much of the world’s fish and crab.  The Alaskan fishing industry has gained a lot of popularity among college students on summer break as an excellent way to travel the great state and to make great summer salaries.

    Working the fishing industry in Alaska can sometimes mean thousands of dollars earned over the course of just a few months. Additionally, you don’t need any experience to work in the fishing industry because boats and onshore processors need a large work force each year and are willing to train. Aside from making good money as a processor, college students return year after year, working their way up to positions as deckhands and offshore fisherman – positions that earn workers even larger salaries.

    The summer fishing industry in Alaska is a great way to earn a lot of money and experience travel in a state that has a lot to offer visitors in the summer.


    Instead of paying thousands of visit, you can earn thousands and see parts of Alaska tourists never get a chance to see. Many companies will hire employees for summer and pay a portion of travel costs in addition to the cost of living. This means the money you earn working as a deckhand or onshore processor is money in your pocket! Seasonal work is also available for more than just summer employees, with a large handful of jobs that are available year round.

    If you’re a college student who wants to travel for the summer but still needs to earn money, the Alaskan fishing industry is an excellent place to look. Or, if you’re simply interested in fishing in Alaska, check out FRUGALMONKEY’s entire travel guide on Alaskan tourism. Regardless of the reason, Alaska has a lot to offer any traveler eager to be and experience the great outdoors.