You can never predict whether you’re going to need roadside assistance for a flat tire, dead battery or other vehicle issue, but if you’re a member of a roadside assistance program, you’ll be covered when it happens. The difficult part is deciding which program best fits your family's needs. … [Read more...] about How to pick the best roadside assistance program
Travel
How to avoid costly travel mistakes this summer
Travel is going to be complicated this summer, and thinking that you can go back to the way you vacationed before 2020 could be a costly mistake. "Travelers are taking a lackadaisical approach to travel" as restrictions loosen up, says Manny Fernandez, vice president of global operations of … [Read more...] about How to avoid costly travel mistakes this summer
Tips for traveling with family and friends on a budget
Traveling with a family can be expensive, but the memories are priceless. Whether you are envisioning a relaxing trip to the beach, a thrilling amusement park visit, or exploring one of our great National Parks, there are ways to make a vacation fit your budget. With careful planning and great … [Read more...] about Tips for traveling with family and friends on a budget
How to change travel plans without paying extra
As they begin to plan their summer vacations, travelers don’t just want flexibility, they need it. That includes Katy Kassian. She doesn’t know where she’s going yet, but she knows how she’ll get there and where she’ll stay. “I’m going to drive, because it gives me the most flexibility,” says … [Read more...] about How to change travel plans without paying extra
Thinking of global travel? It’s cheap now
Thinking of taking an international trip? You're such a contrarian. Only about a third of Americans are comfortable with traveling internationally now, according to the latest figures from Morning Consult. Why the hesitation? It could be all the required paperwork — passports, COVID tests … [Read more...] about Thinking of global travel? It’s cheap now
How to save up for your next vacation
Saving money for your next vacation is a great goal, but it's often easier said than done. If you’re like the rest of us, most of your money is spoken for before you even get it. To save up enough money to go on a trip, you need to start planning in advance. You'll want to add a vacation category … [Read more...] about How to save up for your next vacation
How to purchase travel insurance
Travel insurance is no longer optional. After hundreds of thousands of travelers lost deposits, nonrefundable tickets and activities because of the recent outbreak, it's more or less mandatory. But how do you buy travel insurance? "There are various coverages that could be vital for travelers," … [Read more...] about How to purchase travel insurance
Amtrak BOGO sale for Valentine’s Day
The quickest way to my heart isn't with chocolate or flowers, though they'll both get you where you want to go. But ask me to be your traveling companion and my bag will be packed within minutes. If your Significant Other is like me, Amtrak has a Valentine's deal they'll love. Now through … [Read more...] about Amtrak BOGO sale for Valentine’s Day
Rent an RV for spring travel
It's already been a long winter, but as always, we can still look forward to spring. Whether you want to enjoy walking in bare feet again on a sunny beach or be dazzled by a kaleidoscope of wildflowers in bloom, travel is a great way to decompress and reconnect — with nature, with loved ones … [Read more...] about Rent an RV for spring travel
Holiday travel tips for you and your dog
Holiday travel is mostly about visiting family, but when dogs are involved, both visitor and host will benefit by laying some ground rules. Boarding your pet or paying a sitter is expensive, but saving money could come at the cost of a human relationship. You wouldn’t want your holiday to be ruined … [Read more...] about Holiday travel tips for you and your dog
Where older kids ski free
Virtually every ski area in the land offers free skiing for youngsters to age 5 or 6, but only a handful extend free skiing to older offspring. In many cases, children also stay free when bunking with their parents. This is, of course, of significance to families with youngsters in that … [Read more...] about Where older kids ski free
7 sneaky travel charges to avoid
We are about to enter what is traditionally one of the busiest travel seasons of the year. Despite numbers being lower than pre-2020 levels, demand appears to be rebounding. If you plan to travel this season and you’re a Living on the Cheap reader, chances are you’ve done your homework and … [Read more...] about 7 sneaky travel charges to avoid
Travel discounts for seniors
Once you get to the golden age of 50, you will start to qualify for senior discounts. Whether you plan to visit grandchildren who live out-of-state, or you’re hoping to travel abroad, take advantage of the deals available on transportation, lodging and even sightseeing. The more you save on each … [Read more...] about Travel discounts for seniors
Tips to save on out-of-town weddings
Wedding season can mean a lot of long weekends away, hotel rooms, fancy dresses and dining out — often equating to large chunk of change. Below are some tips to save on travel, clothing and even lodging, without missing out on any of the fun. Travel Most couples send out save-the-date cards … [Read more...] about Tips to save on out-of-town weddings
5 top cheap fall getaways
Summer has ended and the holiday season hasn’t yet begun. There may be time for one last hurrah before settling in for the winter. But where to go? Many people don’t think about traveling to tourist destinations in the off-season, but it’s a great way to get a good deal, and there’s still a lot to … [Read more...] about 5 top cheap fall getaways