Holidays are always the busiest time for travel and I have learned that is it always good to prebook and reserve for almost any activity you do ahead of time. Below are some helpful tips:
Airport Parking
I’ve learned quickly that you have to reserve airport parking during holiday times because they become full and many don’t allow drive ins without reservations. So reserve your parking spot at your preferred place several weeks in advance. Many parking places have reward points for repeat customers so make sure to sign up because they could add up to free parking later on. Interestingly some parking places that I tried to reserve said that they were no longer taking reservations, however, going to AirportParkingReservations, I was able to reserve my parking at the location I wanted. I guess they hold reservations specifically for this website. For $5 off airport parking, use code CJNAT1 at checkout.
Activities and Restaurants
Many months or weeks ahead of my vacation, I usually look through Groupon or Living Social for activities that I want to do or places that I want to eat at. You can get up to 50% off popular activities and save lots of money. I have used this strategy in Honolulu and you can use this in Orlando, Chicago, Vegas or any other city you are traveling too . Massages are a popular Groupon so instead of paying those high hotel spa prices, get that 50% discount! Don’t forget to go through a shopping portal before you purchase to get extra points. Sometimes just scouring the internet for deals will save you money.
Pick up Flyers/Maps at Airports and Hotels
Although this is not a preplanning strategy, you will be surprised at the coupon deals that you can find here. For example in Key West, they have many 2 for 1 drink offers that will really save on adult beverage costs. There are usually 2 for 1 admissions to various attractions such as museums and shows and you can even find coupons for restaurants. So hoard those pamphlets!
Hope these tips are useful. Be safe and happy holiday travels!
Re: airport parking, Would it be possible for you to rent a car the day before your trip (from the airport car rental location) and then drop it off before your flight?
That method will be pricier if you have different dropoff and pickup locations, but depending on the length of your trip it might still be cheaper than airport parking.
(I follow The Deal Mommy. Can you tell? Lol)
I love the Deal Mommy too 🙂 and yes this could make sense depending on the cost you pay for a different drop off location verses the cost of parking for your total vacation. That’s a good idea though. Thanks!
There seems to be a thing where everyone thinks if you leave things to the last minute you will get better prices and special deals. Although this can be the case I have found it much better if you plan out and do a little research ahead of time. This also applies with travel money – by constantly monitoring the rates at certain well known banks and exchange sites you can get yourself a better deal on your currency.