By Darla Youngblood
Check out Amtrak discounts on Amtrak.com/deals
Be a night owl or early bird on Amtrak 7 pm – 5 am. Go to Amtrak.com/nightowl for deals.
Book flights on Sunday. Data from Airline Reporting Corp. shows that booking on Sunday instead of Friday will save you an average of 15 percent on international flights and 5 percent on domestic flights.
Time your airplane purchases. Data shows that by booking domestic air travel 28 – 35 days before departure, you will save an average of 10 percent compared with travelers who waited until two weeks or less before flying.
Comparison shop for vacation homes. HiChee .com scours sites like Airbnb and others to find the house you want for the best price.
Book sooner. Hotels typically provide full refunds on room purchases until days before your reservation starts. Forward your reservation email to save@pruvo.com and the site will monitor prices on your behalf and let you know if it finds a better rate.
Avoid creeping charges on cruise ships. Use a travel agent that specializes in cruises- they often get perks they can pass along, such as a free stateroom upgrade.
Email independent hotels to negotiate. Let them know the price you saw on a travel site and ask whether they can do better.
Skip the rest stop burgers. Check out Roadfood.com to find affordable regional food at diners, clam shacks and other eateries.
Stay in someone else’s timeshare. Check sites such as Redweek.com, Koala and timeshare users group to rent directly from the owners, sometimes for less than half what you pay at a hotel.