Taking a trip with the person you love most can be an exciting adventure. It can also be a highly effective way to cope with workplace stress, especially if you’re a manager. However, travelling can be expensive. When you’re planning a trip, it’s essential to plan well and start preparing weeks or even months ahead of time so you can save money and ensure that you and your loved one are ready for anything that crosses your path. Think about the details, such as transportation while you’re at your destination, meals and snacks, and the best way to snag deals on activities and attractions along the way. Here are a few ideas on how to save on your next trip.
Find travel deals online
If you do a bit of research, you can find some awesome travel deals online; the key is to start your search early and to keep an open mind when it comes to time frames. Some airlines have better deals during the slower weeks of the year, and often you can find a cheaper flight if you fly out on a particular day of the week. Using a service like Priceline to book a hotel, rental car, or flight can help you save quite a bit as well, especially if you combine coupons with a cashback opportunity. Read up on your preferred airline to find out the details of their best deals — and whether they have blackout dates — and prepare ahead of time for your travel.
Find activities you both want to do
Of course, you and your loved one share a lot of similar interests. But, when planning to travel as a couple, you might need to make some compromises. She might have high hopes of a full day shopping, but he might have other ideas about doing a craft beer tour. Make sure you’re both on the same page before you go to make sure there are no crossed wires on your trip.
Explore on your own
If you’re going to a big city, you might find that there are guided tours offered everywhere, from museums to the town square. Instead of joining a tour, explore on your own in order to save some money. You can look online for tips on where to go to experience the best local fare, or simply ask the locals to find out where they like to eat, shop, and have fun. You might be able to rent a car, mopeds, or even a boat to get yourselves around the city, which is a fun way to see more of the area. If you’re in a new country, just make sure you understand the rental agreement and buy the insurance if they offer it.
Don’t feel pressured to eat out every night
Eating out at fabulous restaurants is often an exciting part of travelling, but it’s a good way to quickly overspend your budget. Save money by staying at a hotel or vacation home that has a kitchen or grill so you can cook some of your meals. What’s better than a romantic homemade dinner for two, followed by a walk on a nearby beach? Go grocery shopping at the beginning of the trip and buy items for a few meals, plus lunches and snacks. This way, you won’t have to worry about buying overpriced food while you’re out and about. This is especially helpful if you’re staying in a very touristy area.
Picnics and drinks in the park
You don’t need to spend loads of money in the expensive bars while you’re on your couples holiday. Instead, enjoy time together with a picnic and a few drinks on the beach, in the park or wherever other people seem to be relaxing. Be sure to pay attention to local laws, such as signs telling you not to drink. But, in many popular tourist towns, a few takeout beers on a park bench are perfectly acceptable. And much cheaper than drinking at the bar.
Get outside
One of the best ways to have fun for couples on a budget is to get outdoors. If the weather permits, explore the area you’re visiting as much as possible with your loved one. Rent bikes and go for a ride near the beach, check out a local event or outdoor attraction, or head to a local park for a hike. Plan a picnic lunch at a scenic spot and spend some time just relaxing in nature. Not only is this good for couples, it’s great for an individual’s mental and physical health to get outside and soak up some sun.
Planning an exciting, fun trip for couples on a budget can take some time and effort, so make sure you start preparing as soon as possible. Once you have a money-saving plan in place, it’ll be easier to relax and enjoy your couple’s adventure.
