Tips and deals to help maximize your summer vacation dollars

Globe and Mail

4 days ago

Travel has become more expensive in recent years, with increased costs for airfare, hotels, and dining. However, don't let that deter you from exploring. Regardless of your destination, booking early and choosing off-season travel are effective strategies to save money.
If you want to stretch your budget further, try these tactics that can help maximize vacation dollars.
The insiders' guide: Where to go in Europe to avoid the crowds
Although travelling within Canada can be notoriously expensive, some recent changes may help reduce your overall costs.
Porter Airlines expanded its network and now flies across the country. Both Air Canada and WestJet have also increased their domestic routes as they've scaled back some flights to the United States. As a result, lower fares have been available.
Additionally, the federal government recently announced a Canada Strong Pass, which allows those under the age of 18 to get free access to art galleries, national parks, museums and free seats on VIA Rail when travelling with their parents. While specific details are yet to be announced, this initiative could offer a valuable opportunity to cut costs.
When planning your travel, make sure to check the local tourism website since they often have exclusive deals or passes.
Stephanie Clovechok, chief executive officer of Discover Saskatoon, said her group's website helps direct those planning their itineraries to a range of services and deals.
'Our offers and packages page connects travellers directly with hotel promotions and seasonal experiences developed in partnership with our hospitality and tourism members,' she said.
In B.C. there's Whistler's offer of up to 25 per cent off and a complimentary $100 activity voucher on stays of three nights or more, or up to 30 per cent off and a $200 voucher on stays of at least five nights.
Those headed to Nova Scotia may be interested in the Halifax Experience Pass and the Nova Scotia Museum Pass. Both give you access to some top attractions at one low price.
When you bundle your flights, hotel and airport transfers together as a vacation package, it's often significantly cheaper than booking everything separately. That said, major resorts such as Sandals and Grand Velas often have seasonal sales, so booking separately might make sense.
Working with a travel agent can also be beneficial since many don't charge a fee and offer practical advice.
'For flexible travellers, we can help them find the best days to depart to maximize savings,' travel adviser Jennifer Zabloski said. 'Sometimes leaving the day before or after your desired date can save you hundreds or even thousands of dollars.'
She points out that online photos and reviews of resorts are frequently misleading, so collaborating with an adviser who has visited the properties and knows the location well can ensure you're getting the best fit for your needs.
Another sun destination with deals right now is Bermuda, where visitors can get up to 30 per cent off hotel stays, and 20 per cent off air and hotel with BermudAir Holidays.
If you're headed to Europe for the first time, it will be tempting to visit major destinations such as Paris, Rome and London, however, those cities tend to be the most expensive. Instead, consider more budget-friendly destinations such as Portugal, Poland, Romania or Bulgaria, where costs could be considerably cheaper.
When it comes to flights, choosing an airline that provides a stopover program, such as Icelandair, Emirates, Turkish Airlines and TAP Portugal, can be a cost-effective way to visit multiple countries. Stopover programs allow travellers to break up their journey – usually by at least 24 hours - and visit cities that are en route to their ultimate destination. Google Flights and Flightconnections.com are excellent websites for discovering the lowest prices and best routes.
Many European cities, such as Amsterdam, Vienna and Berlin, offer a museum pass that can save you money, depending on how many attractions you plan to visit.
'Regardless of what loyalty points you collect, using them for long-haul travel often makes sense because it'll immediately reduce the cost of your flights or hotels – typically your largest expense,' said Sash Bhavsar, co-founder of pointspartners.ca, a consultancy firm that frequent flyers hire to help them maximize their points.
Don't overlook local hotel brands abroad, like Tokyu Stay and APA in Japan. They're often more affordable and offer a more authentic experience than large international chains, Mr. Bhavsar noted.
If possible, opt for a regional or smaller international airport instead of the main one at your destination to save on airport landing fees and taxes that are often reflected in ticket prices.
Secondary airport hubs charge airlines less, so if visiting Bangkok, Thailand, see if you can land at Don Mueang International (DMK) instead of Suvarnabhumi (BKK). And in Buenos Aires, for example, aim for Aeroparque Internacional Jorge Newbery (AEP) rather than Ezeiza (EZE).
Many seasoned cruisers turn to vacationstogo.com as a starting point for trip research. While it may not be the most user-friendly website, its filtering system is arguably the best because it allows travellers to browse cruise deals by departure date, ports, cruise lines and trip duration. Once you've found what you're looking for, contact the cruise line and book directly for the best price.
'Most cruise lines offer seasonal promotions, including discounted fares, onboard credits and special deals like free passage for third and fourth guests,' Lisa Huizing, a vacation consultant with Expedia Cruises, said.
Planning ahead and prepaying for add-ons such as beverage packages, Wi-Fi, airport transfers, excursions and gratuities can also help, Huizing added.
No one wants an unexpected charge at the end of their voyage, so securing these extras in advance can ensure a more enjoyable experience. When booking, ask about all-inclusive packages that bundle these extras at a reduced price.
Barry Choi is a personal finance and travel expert. He was previously affiliated with Air Canada and WestJet, but currently has no relationship with any of the brands mentioned.