Home for the holidays on a budget

The summer is gone and fall has set in on most of us around the country.  Cooler weather will is on the way and before we know it, the holiday season will be upon us.  I’m not much on the cool weather, but I am big on getting together with the family on holidays.  My closest relative lives 150 miles away from me and my only son lives half way across the country.  Being he is only 3 ? years old, it is up to me to get there to see him during the year when I don’t have him for the summer.  I try to get there as much as possible, but sometimes work and this horrible economy prevents me from getting there as much as I would like to.  That’s why it is very important to make travel arrangements as early as possible when you know you will be traveling over the holidays.  This time of year is meant to be spent with family and especially your children if  you happen to be divorced.  Nothing makes me happier than to see the excitement that my son shows when Santa is on his way, even if he is more amused by the box the present comes in instead of the actual gift.  Even though traveling is expensive, there are steps you can take to minimize the costs.

1. Shop around for the best deals on flights and hotels
2. Ask friends and relatives for advice on hotels and places they have stayed
3. If you are driving, bring snacks and drinks along to cut the costs of eating out.
4. Make reservations at least 3 weeks in advance of travel
5. Make sure your vehicle is up to date on maintenance
6. Rent a fuel efficient car if you have a gas burner
7. Eat before you get to the airport.  Everything in there and on the plane is expensive.
8. Choose a carrier that doesn’t charge for checked baggage.  ( if you can find one) Southwest is my favorite.

 These are just a few ways I have found to minimize costs while traveling.  I’m sure you can think of a few more, but the most important thing is to make sure you spend the holidays with your loved ones.