Saving Money on Travel

Travel is such an expensive activity these days, I look for small ways to save whenever possible.

Today was a monumental day in my life. My 8 year old daughter, Sara, got on a plane by herself to visit family in California over Spring break. Needless to say, my hormonal self was a nervous wreck, and the crummy weather did not help.

But she bravely wiped away tears and got on that plane. Part of my heart went with her, and I sat and stared out the window until that plane was no longer in sight. Now that I am back home, I am calming my nerves with a little bloggy business.

Frugal Friday is the perfect distraction! While a plane ticket to California may not be so frugal, I did manage to save in other areas.

Here are my favorite ways to save while traveling by plane:

• Snacks– I pack healthy options from my ever growing collection of freebies.
• Activities– good old fashioned crayons and paper!
• Books– since it is risky to travel with library books, a great alternative is used books from your local friends of the library bookstore or a garage sale
• Strategic Packing– use a checklist, so nothing is forgotten. There is nothing frugal about buying items at your destination that you already have at home!
• Avoid checked baggage if possible– and save yourself $15 or more!
• Utilize free samples– toothpaste, lotion, shampoo, sunscreen, etc. All of these items I have on hand to throw in the suitcase. I vlogged about this here.
• Drinks– since you cannot take bottled water through security, take an empty reusable water bottle and fill it at the drinking fountain once you are through.
• Headphones– depending on the airline, you can usually use your own and avoid buying them on the plane.
• Carry-On Bags– use what you have. For my daughter, her school backpack is a practical and comfortable choice.
• Shopping at the airport– just say no.

What tips would you add to the list?