Eight Frugal Travel Tips You Don't Want to Leave Home Without

Shop Around When You Plan Your Travel On-Line. This seems like "old hat" information, but many people do not bargain shop for tickets, hotels, and car rentals because they are under the impression that their favorite travel comparison website, such as Travelocity.com, does it for them. Before you accept that your travel website offers the best fare, check the actual airline, hotel, or car rental websites for comparative fares. Sometimes the source (ie: Delta Airlines, Avis Car Rental, etc.) will have a better rate or a "hidden" special available. If your travel plans are very flexible, consider bidding at priceline.com to save even more.

Travel Off-Season. Many attractions, especially in warmer climates, operate year round. To avoid the high peak season rates and long lines, try to plan your vacation so that it doesn't fall around peak travel times, such as spring and summer breaks. Late fall is an ideal time for travel as the start of school and the upcoming holidays keep many families home. Cruise fares are reduced in the fall too, so it's a great time to take the ocean voyage you've been dreaming of.

Use Your Frequent Flyer Miles. It is estimated that over sixty percent of frequent flyer miles go unused. Make sure you keep your frequent flyer cards in your wallet and your address updated with your frequent flyer programs, so that you'll be sure to stay on top of using up rewards. Also, consider using credit cards that reward you with frequent flyer miles to the airline of your choice.