10 Hottest Ways to Save on Travel

Affordable travel may not be chic, but in a down economy travelers are looking for ways to cut the costs. One thing that remains the same is the desire to explore new places and experience new cultures. Finding affordable ways to travel lets people have a longer vacation or splurge on other things like the spa! Here are the top 10 hottest tips: 1. Travel Zoo Searches for YournThere is a reason they have 23 million subscribers, they have the hottest top 20 deals emailed to you weekly. Sign up based on your location, and the Travel Zoo global staff scour the web so you don't have too. Based on your location, you are send incredibly cheap flight and vacation deals. When you find your perfect steal of a deal, book it quick before its gone. 2. Travel In the Off-SeasonrnWhen you time your travel to the off season, you can save 50% on many travel accommodations and get to skip the crowds. Places such as the US national parks, Europe and Canada have high travel traffic in the summer, so plan your vacation for fall, winder or spring. 3. Don't Surf. Kayak.rnInstead of wandering the web and wasting time searching for the cheapest airfare, let Kayak do it for you. Kayak searches the hottest 140 sources for airfares and hotel rates. Use the flexible date feature, and when you choose your perfect flight, Kayak sends you to the website where you can purchase the ticket at a big savings. 4. Ring Up a Better DealrnAlways ring up your hotel front desk and ask for an extra night's stay free, a discounted rate or free upgrade. It never hurts to ask and you might score big savings. Try saying "I already booked with a cheaper hotel, but if I can get a third night free I will book with you". 5. Swap Your HousernHow does free lodging sound? With 250,000 people a year now home exchanging, it a hot new way to save on travel. Many also exchange cars, and having your own kitchen lets you cut costs on restaurants, while experiencing more of the local culture. World Home Exchanges offers a one of a kind contract you fill out and sign on the computer for added security at www.WorldHomeExchanges.com. 6. Save with Vacation RentalsrnCompare the cost of a hotel stay with a vacation rental. You get all the comforts of home in a less cramped environment. Check out Craigslist or VRBO and remember to search different rental agency sites because often the same property is listed on multiple sites at a different rate. 7. Be LoyalrnHotels look for your allegiance, and incentives can save quite a bit on hotel costs. The Hilton HHonors Point Strecher Rewards let you check into participating hotels for 40 percent less points. The Marriott Rewards has been known to give 2,500 extra points per visit, starting with your second stay. Top hotels with rewards also include the Hyatt, Starwood and Wyndham. 8. Self-Cater and Eat Where Locals EatrnCarrying bottled water and snacks saves you a great deal over the course of your trip. Buy from the local farmer's market or grocery store to get the same prices as the locals, and pack snacks for a quick money saving breakfast or lunch on the go. 9. How to Splurge Smart on Eating OutrnFeel like going out? Lunch is a great time to eat at gourmet restaurants for half the cost. Fodors guides also do a great job of listing locations for great cheap eats. Keep your eye out for restaurants packed with locals at all hours, since it is a great clue that they have great food and prices. 10. Don't Miss the CouponrnLook for online coupons to attractions and restaurants Before your vacation, sign up for Groupon and LivingSocial deal alerts in your destination city. Many cities offer city passes, which can help you save big on local tourist attractions. Start by searching the websites of the attractions you plan to visit, and next google the attractions name with "coupon". Also ask your hotel for discounts at the attraction and at the attraction ask for club discounts. Buying tickets online ahead of time will save you money and time. To fully experience the country's cultural heritage and make your stay more memorable, try home exchange now!