travelers collec- tively spent $2.6 billion a day on trips in 2015, which equates to $30,033 a second, according to the U.S. Travel Association. Eating out, accommodations, rental cars, plane tickets and other expenses can make taking a vacation costly. But don't let the thought of a potentially lofty price tag deter you. ‘Thankfully, there are plenty of ways to save withoutsacrificing your travel experience dream. Here are somehints that may help: 1. Research free things to do for a memorable andaffordable experience. Manynature parksare free to visit and make for a charming place for an outdoor family barbecue. During the summer there are often free concerts and other events to choose from. Museums and zoos also often offer a free admission day during the week. 2. Loyalty programs are a great way to put hard-earned points, dol- lars and miles to work. Most credit cards have a points program that help members earn cash back or use their points with partnering airlines and rental car companies. Travelers can also save with hotel and lodging companies that offer free loyalty programs, such as Wyndham Rewards. Program members can earn points with a Wyndham hotel stay and redeem free night for every 15,000 points accumulated. For those interested in a private accommoda- Five simple steps can help your vacation dollar go farther. 4. Food and meals can offer a big opportunity to save money. During the planningstage, look for an accommodation that has a kitchen. Even if you cook only a few meals in, you can save a bundle. In fact, vacationers who stayed in a vacation homewith a kitchen reported saving $898 a week. You can also pick up the family’s favorite snacks to bring along during daytrips orfor a late night refreshment. Notonly will it cut costs,it will add convenience aswell. 5. Couponsare another wayto get experiences on the cheap. Websites such as Groupon and LivingSocial can help you save on someactivities that many travelers normally don’t consider. [hese websites are also great for getting ideas on whatto do. Plus, someattrac- tions sell discounted passes to multiple activities, museums or theme parks. Makesure to checktheir websites before tion stay, Wyndham Rewardsrecently visiting. for redemption. VacationDifferently.com. This travel resourceoffers great tips on family travel, ideas for vacation rental accommoda- added 17,000 vacation homesto thealready expansive 7,500 hotels available 3.Curbing impulse-buying habits is one way to cut down on extra spend- ing. Create a budget forall those small purchases that add up andstick to it. Limit souvenirs and take pictures to rememberthe trip instead. For more saving advice, head over to tions, and inspiration on howto travel a little bit differently. The articles can help make your next trip exceptional with new experiences, hidden treasures, and authentic places to call home while away.
