Many people like to spend time with their family, and often that means traveling. And some people like to use that vacation time to go on well-deserved trips. And that’s great. But it’s also one of the most expensive times of year to go traveling.
Here’s how to make your next holiday trip more affordable from start to finish.
1. Book Early to Lock in the Best Prices
If you remember just one rule for saving on holiday travel, make it this one: book early.
Airlines and hotels raise prices as the holidays approach, especially for popular destinations. The earlier you book, the more options and better prices you’ll find.
• Flights: Try to book at least 4–6 weeks ahead of time. Midweek flights (Tuesday or Wednesday) are often cheaper than weekend ones.
• Hotels: Lock in refundable rates early, then check back closer to your trip. If prices drop, you can usually rebook and save the difference.
2. Use Rewards Points or Miles
Now’s the perfect time to cash in those unused credit card rewards, airline miles, or hotel points.
Redeeming points for flights or hotel stays can dramatically cut your travel costs or even cover them entirely. If you haven’t already, consider signing up for a travel rewards credit card that earns points on everyday purchases. (DO NOT DO THIS IF YOU STRUGGLE WITH CREDIT CARD DEBT OR IMPULSE SPENDING)
Some even offer bonus points or cash back when you book through their travel portal.
Read More: Find a travel rewards card that fits your budget and travel goals
3. Compare Gas Prices Before You Fill Up
If you’re driving instead of flying, gas can be one of your biggest expenses, but it’s also one of the easiest to save on.
Before hitting the road, download a gas comparison app like GasBuddy or Upside. These apps show you real-time gas prices along your route so you can fill up where it’s cheapest.
Extra tip: Apps like Upside even give you cash back for every gallon you buy. Combine that with rewards credit card points, and your savings add up quickly.
Start saving on gas with Upside here
4. Pack Snacks and Meals for the Road
Airport food, highway rest stops, and convenience stores can drain your wallet fast.
A simple way to save? Pack your own.
Bring reusable water bottles, snacks, sandwiches, and even a few easy meals if you’re driving long distances.
You’ll spend less, eat better, and skip long lines at overpriced food stops.
If you’re flying, remember that most packaged snacks can go through security just fine. Granola bars, trail mix, or crackers can save you from buying a $12 airport sandwich.
5. Choose Flexible Travel Dates
If your schedule allows, avoid the most popular travel days, usually the Wednesday before Thanksgiving, the Friday before Christmas, and the days immediately after New Year’s.
Flying or driving a day earlier (or later) can save you hundreds of dollars. Plus, you’ll deal with fewer crowds and shorter lines.
Set fare alerts on sites like Google Flights or Skyscanner to track prices and spot the cheapest days to travel.
6. Look for Free or Low-Cost Accommodations
Hotels can eat up a huge portion of your holiday travel budget, but there are great alternatives:
• Stay with family or friends (and bring a small thank-you gift instead of paying for a room).
• Book vacation rentals early through sites like Booking.com for lower nightly rates and kitchen access, which will help you save money on meals.
• Use loyalty programs to earn or redeem free nights.
Cooking a few meals where you are staying (instead of eating out) can make a big difference in your overall budget, especially if you’re traveling with kids or a group.
7. Make a Travel Budget (And Stick To It)
It’s easy to lose track of spending while you’re away so create a travel budget before you leave.
Include:
• Transportation (flights, gas, parking, tolls)
• Lodging
• Food and snacks
• Activities or attractions
• Souvenirs and gifts
Then add a small cushion for unexpected expenses. Keeping your budget realistic helps you enjoy your trip without the post-holiday financial stress.
Want to get started? Download a Free Travel Budget Printable Today!
8. Use Apps That Pay You Back
There’s no shortage of apps that help you earn money or cash back on travel.
Here are a few worth trying:
Groupon- gets you great deals on entertainment
Pogo- gets you cashback on everything
• Rakuten – Earn cash back when booking through their partner travel sites.
• Ibotta – Great for saving on road trip snacks and groceries.
• Upside – Cash back on gas and dining.
Stacking these small savings can easily add up to $100 or more by the end of your trip.
9. Skip the Airport Parking
If you’re flying, airport parking can cost more than your actual flight.
Look for cheaper options nearby. Many off-site lots offer free shuttles and much lower daily rates.
Even better: ask a friend or family member for a ride, or use public transportation to cut that cost entirely.
10. Keep the Focus on the Memories
It’s easy to get caught up in the stress of travel costs, but remember why you’re going in the first place: to make memories with the people you love.
When you plan ahead and make intentional choices, you’ll spend less time worrying about money and more time enjoying the experience.
Safe travels and happy holidays!
