When Jeff Campbell checked in at the Austin airport for a spring break vacation, the last thing on his mind was a credit card chargeback. Instead, he was thinking about the fun he’d have with his three daughters at Universal Orlando Resort that week.“Literally at the gate, my airline canceled … [Read more...] about When disputing a credit card charge isn’t the best answer
Travel
15 ways to save money on vacation
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You’ve booked an affordable vacation, but what happens when you arrive at your destination and your brain enters vacation mode? Suddenly, you’ve forgotten your budget, and are jumping at all the you-only-live-once vacation purchases: restaurants, excursions, souvenirs and the like.You can still … [Read more...] about 15 ways to save money on vacation
How not to lose money on expiring travel vouchers
If you’re holding on to travel credits that are about to expire, you don’t have to lose your money. There are ways to use your credits before they become worthless — and there are even ways to get a full refund.Consider what happened to Cynthia Donahue and her husband in 2020. Amtrak canceled … [Read more...] about How not to lose money on expiring travel vouchers
How to set (and stick to) a vacation budget
For Kathy Lopez, it’s all about the spreadsheet. When she started planning a future trip to Europe with her friends, she put every expense into a Microsoft Excel spreadsheet to determine how much the month-long adventure would cost.“We’re going to save a lot of money and planning time on the … [Read more...] about How to set (and stick to) a vacation budget
Budget-friendly family summer vacation ideas
With summer comes thoughts of family vacations: theme parks and beach stays and island cruises. For families on a budget, fancy resorts and international travel are likely to be costly to consider. The good news is you don’t have to be rich to enjoy a great family vacation."A lot of people have … [Read more...] about Budget-friendly family summer vacation ideas
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
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
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
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
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
How to pay for your next vacation with rewards points and miles
Summer Hull has taken her family to Hawaii, Walt Disney World, Paris, the Maldives and around the United States to visit relatives – all on airline and hotel rewards points."We literally have gone around the world," she says. "Our baby's not even 1 year, and she's been on a dozen miles and … [Read more...] about How to pay for your next vacation with rewards points and miles
6 easy ways to earn miles and points to travel for less
Ever since my college days, I’ve found ways to leverage frequent flier miles and hotel loyalty points and turn them into some pretty amazing — and super low-cost — vacations. I’ve given my family travel experiences that would otherwise be out of our reach. I’ve earned and redeemed miles for … [Read more...] about 6 easy ways to earn miles and points to travel for less
