(ARA) – Whether hitting the road, taking to the skies or staying
close to home this summer, being a budget-wise traveler is easy
when you keep a few tips and smart strategies in mind.

Leverage your rewards programs

No doubt you probably have signed up in the past for a hotel
loyalty or frequent traveler program or a credit card that earns
rewards. Check all these programs before booking travel or hitting
the road. Hotel programs usually require staying in certain
properties and some airlines allow miles to be converted for hotel
stays. These can be great deals if you know exactly what you’re
looking for, but cash-equivalent perks like the Cashback Bonus
program from Discover offer the most flexibility. 

If you have a Discover card, you can get 5 percent “cash-back”
on hotel bookings from July through September. Julie Loeger, a
spokesperson for Discover, says the company times this deal and
other cash back rewards during the season when customers are most
likely to benefit.

“Cardmembers get 5 percent cashback for their summer purchases
made at restaurants, gas stations, movie theatres, theme parks and
hotels,” she says.

Save at the pump

Gas prices are projected to increase again this summer. To save
money, drivers are best off by doing a bit of research before
buying.

Web sites like MSNAutos.com and GasBuddy.com can help you
navigate to the nearest bargains; a quick search can find gas
stations less than a mile apart with 30 cents per gallon price
difference, saving fuel and time. In-car navigation systems, like
the Sirius Travel Link in Ford models, often have the ability to
list gas stations by price and location on the in-dash screen. It’s
estimated that filling up for less every time could result in more
than $200 saved each year.

Drivers can also save by maximizing deals offered by hotels and
local tourist organizations. The convention and visitor’s bureau at
your destination may have fuel-related specials for stays lasting
longer than a weekend. And, many hotels offer special gas
promotions for guests arriving by car – typically a voucher or gift
card – so ask your hotel or inn if they have any offers when making
reservations.

Low-budget luxury lodging

During the recession, hotels were hit especially hard. To lure
back customers, many properties are renovating and refurbishing
rooms to like-new condition to attract vacationers. Many also are
offering amazing discounts, but it’s essential for consumers to
know where to look and what to ask for to reap the most
savings.

Deals are plentiful and, thanks to the Internet, are easier than
ever to find. Websites like Kayak.com gather prices from a variety
of online travel agencies and provide a range of options and price
levels. Sign up for weekly e-mails from sites like TravelZoo.com to
get information on unpublished deals and package upgrades for
maximum savings.

Once at your hotel, be sure to ask about any specials or offers.
These usually range from complimentary breakfast, discounted museum
passes, or turn-down service. Remember, it doesn’t hurt to ask!

Staycations still offer value, fun

A great getaway doesn’t require going across the country;
excitement and adventure can be found within the range of a single
tank of gas. For instance, Six Flags Theme Parks have partnered
with Discover to give cardmembers budget-savvy benefits like 
discounted tickets during select months, Discover-branded family
meal packages at as much as fifty percent savings and exclusive
“After Hours” perks. Using a Discover card in the park for
purchases – food, souvenirs, snacks – will save cardmembers 5
percent instantly.

Roller coasters aren’t for everyone but that doesn’t mean you
can’t have an adventure outdoors. Take a trip back in time by
creating your own drive-in movie theatre. Home projectors are now
available in affordable, portable versions that attach to laptops
and iPods. Use a clean white sheet hung against a large flat space
in your backyard for the screen. Make a big bowl of popcorn, lay
out a blanket and cue up your favorite film for memorable movie
experiences and affordable fun all summer long.

These are just a few savvy tips to make the most of your budget
and summer. Start planning early and research your options for the
savings. But most importantly, remember to get out and have
fun.

Courtesy of ARAcontent