Matt's money savers
Credit card companies’ offers can lead to great getaways
When it comes to planning a vacation, money management and proper planning are key. Whether you fly or drive, there are many ways to save money when you plan your own trip.
For trips involving flying, timing is important. There are many offers through credit card companies that allow cardholders on a limited budget to experience a great vacation.
American Express has a partnership with Delta Airlines and their frequent flyer miles. For every dollar a card holder spends they earn one mile. There are deals where cardholders can get double points through certain stores, and can even buy points at certain times of the year.
They sometimes offer bonus points for purchasing additional points. AMEX even offers special deals for new members.
AMEX often offers bonus points for new members. If a card members earns enough points they can use them for a free flight. The term “free flight” is used loosely. Card members have to pay a service fee but a payment under $60 is far less than the $300-600 a flight ticket can cost.
Keep in mind that some restrictions apply, and flights that are offered in the frequent flyer program has restricted flight times. The only downside is that AMEX has a yearly fee.
The Discover credit card offers a program that can save both money for travelers for ground and air. The five percent cash back program can be beneficial. Although they do not offer a flyer program, the money saved through their program can be worth it.
Hotels offers can be beneficial as well. Hotel rates can vary. For example, if a family is looking to go to Orlando Florida, fall would be the best time to go. Hotels on the coast offer bigger discounts during hurricane season. This can be a gamble, but some theme parks offer rain insurance.
Vacationers traveling to Disney World cansave money during this time as well. Some Disney value resort prices can range from $88-$187 a night, however hurricane season lowers the price to about $70 a night.
In addition, card members can earn $100 off a hotel booking by applying for the Disney World Visa credit card. Members can also save 10% off of $50 purchases at Disney World and Disney.com. The card also offers reward dollars that can be used for Disney products.
Other companies offer reward dollar programs such as Toys R Us.
Like hotels, flight prices can change. Be sure to call, even after booking the flight, often to insure that the best deal was made.
This can also be said for hotels that are full.
Be aware that travel websites like Priceline.con and Hotels.com do offer discounted hotels, but they may not offer the hotels that are most desired. Make sure to check the address before purchase.
Another way for travelers to save money is to travel in a group. Carpooling can provide some entertainment, but most importantly it saves on gas money. Keep in mind that hotels charge per night per car and cutting back on vehicles can mean more spending money.
