How to Save for Spring Travel

As winter fades and the days grow longer, many families plan a springtime family trip to coincide with school breaks. But whether on the road or in the air, the price tag for traveling can quickly balloon. If you’re seeking spring travel savings, using these strategies and credit card perks to help offset the cost of travel.

Let everyday purchases pay for your trip

No matter what time of year it is, you can start your travel planning by using credit card rewards you earn for your everyday purchases to offset the cost of travel expenses. As you accrue rewards for things like filling up your gas tank or your frequent trips to the grocery store, you can use them to pay for some or all of the cost of your flight and hotels, or simply redeem your cash back rewards to use as spending money on your trip.

How to save when choosing your destination

When you’re looking for savings, start by looking for the right destination. While your mind may instantly go to the popular spring break spots and tourist traps, do a little extra research to find similar locales that won’t break the bank.

Dying to go to Mexico this spring? That doesn’t mean you have to join the crowds in Cancun, historically one of the most in-demand destinations for spring breakers. By choosing a less popular alternative like Playa del Carmen, you can enjoy thinner crowds and also save on accommodations and activities.

How to save when booking your travel

When it’s time to book your trip, flexibility and proper planning go a long way toward helping you save money. For starters, you should avoid waiting until the last minute to book everything from flights to excursions, as prices may be more expensive closer to the departure date. So don’t wait until the last minute to book a spa day or snorkeling tour, and book any flights well in advance of your trip whenever possible.

On top of this, you can also save by booking your trip for the right dates. While you may be tempted to maximize your time away and leave at the beginning of a weekend, you can save with a little flexibility by booking your departure or return on a weekday.

Keep saving on travel while on the go

At the airport

When flying, you may find additional costs for things like baggage or access to an airline’s lounge. Some credit cards may allow you to avoid these charges.

Read the fine print and you may find that you have an airline miles credit card that allows you to check your bags free of charge or use a statement credit to cover the cost of your checked bag.

Not all credit cards offer these benefits, so check with your individual card issuer for details.

On the road

A host of perks may be available to those traveling abroad or on a road trip.

If you’re traveling by car, keep in mind that some rental car companies require you to provide a credit card when you pick up your rental vehicle at your destination. With Discover, you don’t have to worry about getting stranded. Discover is accepted nationwide by 99% of the places that take credit cards.²

With these tips, your next spring travel may be more affordable than ever before.