Ways to Save Money on Vacation This Summer

Depending on where you're planing to go, your travel expenses can take up the largest chunk of your vacation budget. Here is a list of ways you can save money on your vacation transportation expenses:

• Be Flexible Regarding Your Travel Dates
  Prices for airline tickets can vary greatly depending on the day of week. Use an online ticketing service that lets you compare different travel dates, such as kayak.com.


• Drive to a Different Airport
  Consider whether driving to a less-convenient airport might save you enough money on the purchase of the tickets to be worth the added gasoline expense and potential inconvenience. kayak.com will also let you compare the cost of airline tickets at different airports.


• Use Frequent Flyer Miles
  Points.com can help you keep track of your frequent flyer miles and will even let you swap points between various programs. In addition, they make it easy to transfer points from one person to another, in case you have a friend or relative who would be willing to share points with you.


• Drive Instead
  Keep in mind, too, that driving can significantly cut your vacation transportation costs. Don't be intimidated, either, by the idea of entertaining your kids while you drive. You just might find that those hours you share in the car together are some of the best memories of all!


• Rent a Car Only if Needed
  If you do decide to fly, consider whether you really need a rental car. Many hotels offer free airport shuttles and even provide daily shuttles to and from nearby attractions; so you may find that you either don't need a rental car at all, or you only need one on certain days. This can also help you save a significant amount of money on your vacation transportation costs.