Money-saving tips for travellers

Travelling in retirement can be a fun and rewarding experience, offering the chance to explore new destinations, learn about the world, visit loved ones, and simply live your best life. 

But if you are on a fixed income, it’s essential to be thrifty when you travel. 

Here are some practical money-saving tips for seniors who want to make the most of their travel adventures without breaking the bank. 

Plan ahead and be flexible: One of the best ways to save money on travel is by planning well in advance. Early booking often comes with discounts on flights, accommodation, and tours. Being flexible with your travel dates can help you take advantage of off-peak rates. Mid-week flights and stays outside of holiday seasons typically cost less. 

Look for discounts: Many airlines, hotels, car rental companies, and tourist attractions offer discounts for seniors. It's worth asking about these deals when booking your trip. Don’t forget to carry your identification to verify your eligibility. 

Choose affordable accommodation: Consider alternatives to traditional hotels. Vacation rentals, hostels, and bed-and-breakfasts can be affordable and provide a more authentic travel experience than a big-brand hotel. If you're comfortable with it, house-sitting or home exchanges can provide free lodging. Of course, make sure you are booking with a legitimate service and that you are comfortable with the standard of accommodation. 

Use public transport: Using buses or trains instead of taxis or rental cars can significantly cut down on travel expenses. Many cities have cheap, reliable, and efficient public transport, and some offer senior discounts, providing further savings. You should seek advice on the safety of the services and their operators, and the places you’ll travel to and between. 

Seek out free attractions: Many cities offer free museums, parks, walking tours, and festivals. Exploring these can enrich your experience without adding to your expenses. Tourist information centres are a great resource for finding out about free events and attractions. 

Travel light: Avoid extra baggage fees by travelling light. Pack versatile clothing that can be mixed and matched, and stick to essentials. Many airlines charge for checked bags, or overweight luggage, so limiting yourself to a carry-on can save money. Travelling light also makes it easier to navigate airports and public transport. 

Cook your meals: Dining out for every meal can quickly become expensive. If you stay in a place with a kitchen, consider cooking some of your meals. Visiting local markets for fresh produce and regional specialties can also be a fun way to experience the local culture. When you do eat out, look for lunch specials or early bird dinners. 

Use travel rewards and loyalty programs: Many credit cards offer travel points that can be redeemed for flights, hotels, and other travel-related expenses. Join airline and hotel loyalty programs to earn points for future discounts. Just be sure to use these rewards before they expire, and make sure you are not spending extra or buying things you don’t need just to acquire the points. 

Stay connected with technology: Use technology to find the best deals. There are many apps and websites designed to help travellers book cheap fares and hotel stays and others, such as TripAdvisor and Yelp, provide reviews and price comparisons for restaurants and attractions. 

Buy travel insurance: While it is an added upfront expense, travel insurance can save you money in the long run by protecting you against trip cancellations, medical emergencies, and other unforeseen events. Look for policies that cater specifically to seniors, which might offer better coverage for your needs. 

With careful planning, flexibility, and the use of available discounts and resources, you can enjoy memorable trips without straining your finances. Happy travels! 

Disclaimer: Any financial information is of a general nature. See a registered financial advisor for professional help.