Traveling on a budget

By Ed Biado

With all the financial crisis drama around us this year, we just need a break to get away from it all. But many of us can?t even afford a break right now because a break comes with a price tag. But there may still be hope yet. With a little creativity without sacrificing much of the luxuries, we can still take a vacation and do it in a cost-effective way. Here?s how:

1. Be prepared for unnecessary air travel fees. Some airlines are now charging for pillows, blankets and headsets. They are also charging your second checked bag. Avoid that outrageous damage by double-checking on the specific additional charges your carrier has beforehand; and by bringing your own necessities.

2. It?s time to use all those frequent-flyer miles. Researchers are predicting that 2009 will be a slow year for the airline industry. Therefore, unlike other times when it?s difficult to redeem your points because of traffic, there will definitely be seats available.

3. Have you seen the film The Holiday? Aside from the heartwarming story it tells, take the lesson with you?that is, home exchanging. For absolutely no cost (except, of course, if you break something), make a deal with one of your pals or relatives abroad that you?d trade houses while on vacation. Smart, budget-friendly with all the comforts of ?home?.

4. If you don?t have someone to do the exchange with, search for the best in hotel deals. Again, because of the expected decline in demand, hotel prices will plunge this year. Not all hotels will be slashing their rates, though. Others will be offering a complimentary night, an inclusive breakfast or upgrades.

5. Speaking of an inclusive breakfast, that?s not the only deal you have high chances of scoring. Many travel agencies will raise their competitiveness by offering cheaper packages. Going all-inclusive (airfare, hotel, food and tours) is the smartest thing to do as you don?t have to worry about anything once you confirm your reservation.

6. Find a hotel-substitute. Still going lower, go for inns, motels or even rentable condos. This is safer and easier if you?re going to a major city. In New York, for example, there are hundreds of listed apartments for rent to vacationers.

7. Choose your destination wisely. By wisely, we obviously mean monetary-wise. Read the news and find out which countries have the most weakened currencies. The lower their cash strength is, the more value yours will have. Relative to the global market, Hungary and Mexico are those with the most affected banknotes.

8. Opt for the ?off the beaten path.? You don?t necessarily have to backpack. But doing more outdoor travel than tanning on the poolside deck is definitely more economic climate-appropriate. Find out as much as you can about your destination and its roundabouts. And take all precautionary measures.

9. Go on a cruise. Cruises are known to provide the best value for your money in the tourism world. And this year, it gets better as most lines are finding ways and means to make their rates more economical.

10. Major hotel chains are always giving back to loyal guests. Swear allegiance to one brand and your loyalty will literally pay off. Some have a redeemable point system while others are just happy to reward you with a complimentary stay.