Self-care comes in many different forms, from nice long soak in the tub to getting a massage. And for some, getting a change of scenery is their ideal way to unplug and destress. Unfortunately, taking a trip is a little pricier than a candle or a face mask, but there are ways to make it budget-friendly. Travel experts share their tips for embracing travel as self-care without breaking the bank.
- Sign up for loyalty programs - Save on travel bookings by joining loyalty programs for the hotel and airlines you prefer to use. Travel blogger Katie McIntosh says that way, you’ll earn points that can score you discounts later on and you’ll find out about deals and other sales coming up.
- Be flexible - Having flexibility on timing and location will help you find more affordable travel options. Budgeting expert Andrea Woroch advises looking for destinations offering sales or during off-peak windows and says going midweek can help you save since those are slower days for travel.
- Snag deals early - If you have time to plan ahead and don’t mind booking in advance, Casey Brogan, a consumer travel expert at Tripadvisor, points out that you can snap up deals as soon as you see them.
- Fly to alternative airports - “Consider flying to alternative airports,” recommends Martin Jones, CEO of ParkSleepFly. “Major cities, such as London and New York, have multiple airports to choose from aside from the most popular. Next time you’re booking flights, look at traveling to and from the less popular airports as you’ll usually get a better deal.”
- Cut costs on transportation - With gas prices so high, travel blogger and TV host La Carmina suggests renting an electric car for your trip.
- Book overnight trains and flights - Another way to save on hotel costs is by taking overnight trains and flights. McIntosh says they’re usually cheaper than a night in a hotel and many offer comfortable cabin options.
Check out the article at Huff Post