Planning a tropical getaway this Spring Break but don’t want to break the bank? Believe it or not, there are all sorts of tricks that could decrease the cost of your 2025 vacation. And who doesn’t like the sound of that?
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Here are seven money-saving hacks to take advantage of this Spring Break, according to experts.
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When It Comes to Lodging, Go Straight to the Source
Marina Guastavino, co-founder of Directo Travel Extension, suggested instead of searching discount booking websites for the best deal, “go straight to the source and book directly with the hotel […] you can often find savings ranging from 5% to 20% by doing this, as the hotels can skip the hefty commissions from third-party booking sites and passes on the savings to you.”
If lower prices aren’t available on the hotel website, Guastavino recommended calling the hotel and just politely asking for a lower rate, perhaps mentioning a special occasion as the purpose of your trip. Surprisin
“About seven out of 10 times, I’ve gotten a better deal simply by asking,” she stated.
Similarly, Nubia DuVall Wilson, president and founder at Cielo Consulting LLC, recommended customers using Airbnb or VRBO for vacation rentals contact the homeowners where possible.
“Keep in mind that a lot of [homeowners] have their own rental websites separate of the booking sites and you can contact them directly to avoid the third-party booking fees,” she said.
Just be sure to keep safety in mind when booking via independent parties.
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When Booking Flights, Pay Attention to Timing
When individuals book their flights can have a significant impact on cost. According to Mercedes Zach, travel expert at ASAP Tickets, part of Trevolution Group, airfares for busy times of the year like Spring Break or Christmas can be priced 50% higher than usual.
For this reason, Zach recommended booking tickets at least two months in advance of highly-trafficked travel times. Mid-week travel can also be significantly cheaper than weekend travel. And when it comes to what day of the week to physically purchase the best rates, Friday is the worst while Sunday is the best.
Booking on Sundays “saves you about 5% on domestic flights and 15% on international flights compared to other days of the week,” stated Zach.
Find All-Inclusive Deals
If you want to cut down on travel costs, all-inclusive holiday packages and bundle deals at resorts and spas may be a smart option. Instead of paying for everything separately, the all-inclusive options require one, upfront payment that covers almost everything.
“It might seem like a more expensive choice at first, but if you combine all the meals, entertainment and transportation costs together, this option will help you save quite a lot of money at the end of your trip, especially when traveling together with a family or a group of friends,” stated Zach.
Assess your individual needs, however, as this option is not cheapest in every circumstance.
Prepare To Use Local Currency When Traveling Abroad
When traveling abroad, you may wind up paying more with U.S. dollars as opposed to local currencies. This is because stores and restaurants can set their own exchange rates. So, be sure to make the switch.
To that end, Zach recommended going to a local exchange counter in town as opposed to airport currency exchanges which can charge hidden commissions. Additionally, when paying with your domestic credit card, a 2.5% foreign exchange fee will typically apply.
The solution?
“An international travel credit card with free foreign exchange is one of the ways to cut these fees,” stated Zach.
Sign Up for Loyalty Programs
This one might involve a bit of pre-planning. So, if you’re a frequent traveler, consider joining loyalty programs to earn points and rewards which can be redeemed in a number of ways.
“Those points can alleviate the cost of hotels, flights or other travel expenses,” stated Mark Jackson, managing director of product at Valuedynamx. “You may even be able to add miles retroactively for trips you’ve already taken or combine miles with family members.”
Zach recommended signing up for a credit card that earns airline miles and hotel points “and using that card for everyday purchases.”
Take Advantage of Layovers
Indirect flights are typically cheaper than direct flights — so why not book an indirect flight and explore the stopover cities?
Joe Cronin, president of International Citizens Insurance, recommended scheduling “a layover long enough for a visit to the stopover city. Some airlines have free stopover programs that allow travelers to visit two destinations for the price of one.”
According to Conde Nast Traveler, these stopovers can range from 24 hours to 10 days. Not only will you get another mini-vacation, but you’ll pay less in airfare to make it happen.
Bring Your Own Snacks and Drinks
Tourist attractions and airports are infamous for overpriced concessions. According to the most recent data by Vox from 2022, airport concessions can be anywhere from 10% to 15% more than prices elsewhere.
To get around this trap, Cronin recommended always bringing along your own protein bars and reusable water bottles.
“Additionally, if you want to save money, pack instant coffee or tea bags” since most places provide free hot water,” he added.
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This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com: 7 Travel Hacks To Save Money on Spring Break 2025
