Tips for booking flights

If you’re taking to the skies for your trip, there are a lot of strategies to ensure you get a good deal on your flights. According to Travel + Leisure, the ideal time to book a domestic flight is two to three months before your travel dates. For international travel, it’s typically best to book flights at least 90 days in advance. If you know when and where you want to travel, you can set up price alerts on sites like Google Flights, Kayak and Skyscanner. These sites provide price trends and insights that will help you secure a flight that aligns with your budget. 

Additional Travel + Leisure tips for booking flights include: 

• Don’t assume that the cheapest flight is always the best option. Cheaper flights may not allow for seat selection, checked bags or the ability to change flights. Make sure you know what you’re buying and the potential additional costs before you book. 

• Wake up early and head to the airport. Early morning flights are typically cheaper and less likely to be delayed. So, set two or three alarms and catch a morning flight to your destination.  

• Be flexible with your departure and arrival dates. Airlines use dynamic pricing and the cost for a flight can change at any time. Set your alerts and be open to shifting your travel time if possible. 

Finding the perfect travel accommodations

There is a lot to navigate when finding a great place to stay during your travels. In addition to traditional hotels and motels, today’s travelers can consider home-sharing options like Airbnb and Vrbo.  

The Bon Traveler blog provides excellent tips for finding great accommodations when traveling. Top considerations are staying within your budget, finding a great location and knowing your must-have amenities.  

Don’t forget to check Indiana Farm Bureau’s My Member Deals platform for discounts at traditional hotels. Discounts are available at Choice Hotels, Wyndham Hotels and many other places. 

Tips for traveling on a budget

Travel and your accommodations are typically the biggest expenses when taking a trip, but there are a variety of ways to stick to a budget when you arrive at your destination. Investopedia’s guide to traveling on a budget covers several of these tactics.  

• Create a budget before you leave and stick to it. Decide ahead of time what you plan to spend on food, souvenirs, tours and attractions. In addition to the budget, create a buffer of funds for potential emergencies.  

• Use public transportation when you can. Trains, trams and buses provide an affordable, efficient way to get around a city. Research ahead of time with public transportation apps or with other internet resources.  

• Cook your own meals and avoid eating out in areas with heavy tourist traffic. Ask the locals where they eat or visit the local grocery store to stock up for meals. 

• Research low-cost or free attractions in the area. Exploring nature is often a great low-cost option. 

• Pack light and be organized. Efficient packing can reduce your luggage costs if you’re flying. Consider using packing cubes to keep yourself organized, taking neutral clothing items so you can mix and match, and doing laundry at your destination. 

Travel doesn’t have to break the bank! With proper preparation, you can explore new destinations and stick to a budget.