How to cut travel costs and still have fun

Travel and hospitality experts have predicted that 2024 is going to be the busiest since the Covid-19 disruption. They say it going to be as big as it was before the pandemic in 2019.

According to a recently released travel survey, The State of Travel report estimates that 29 per cent of people said that time will be a barrier to travel this year, while 25 per cent of people said money would be their main deterrent.

Here is some expert advice:

Travel during off-peak seasons: This is a great way of finding pocket-friendly and affordable means of travel whether by road, rail or air. It is also a time to travel comfortably without the rush that comes with peak travel seasons such as Christmas, Easter or other long weekend holidays.

Allow ticket prices to guide you: Train yourself to hold out for pocket-friendly destinations that meet your budget plans.

Maximise your time off: Learn to be strategic. This means that you must be strategic in booking your days off around holidays and long weekends so that you have plenty of time off to plan for travel.

Be keen on points and miles: Many travellers do not take note of points and miles - bonuses that you earn when you travel, especially by air, or your stay at certain accommodation facilities. However, once you crack how to use them, you will start earning points and miles that you can redeem towards flights, accommodation, food and entertainment joints, and other travel expenses.

Find budget-friendly accommodation: What scares many travellers, is the cost of finding an affordable place to stay. However, experts say there are alternatives and options. For example, you can house-swap or share a house. Be on the lookout for some great platforms that connect travellers with such opportunities.