travel budget

All the Ways You Can Score More Points and Miles This Holiday Season

Holly Johnson — Fri, 01 Nov 2019 08:00:06 +0000

The National Retail Federation (NRF) reports that Americans will spend an estimated $727.9 billion to $730.7 billion on their holiday purchases in 2019. This estimate doesn't even include extra expenditures on gas, dining, or holiday travel.

This means that, like it or not, most of us are spending a hefty sum of cash on gifts for family and friends. And many of us are paying the high costs of holiday travel on top of that, whether it's for a road trip, a flight across the world, or a holiday soirée with extended family closer to home.

If you've set money aside all year long, this may not surprise you or throw your budget far off track. However, it would be a shame not to maximize the extra purchases you'll need to make anyway — especially since you can leverage holiday bills to earn more points and miles.

Use holiday spending to earn major points

By and large, the best way to earn more cash back or travel rewards is by using a rewards credit card for everything you buy. Most of the top rewards and travel credit cards give you one to three points for each dollar you spend, making it easy to rack up more and more points when you have big upcoming expenses, like the holidays.

However, you can boost your rewards quite a bit if you leverage holiday spending to earn a sign-up bonus on a new card. Many of the top cards offer 50,000 points or more if you can spend a few thousand dollars within a few months, and holiday spending could easily help you reach the required threshold.

Also note that you could use holiday travel bills to start racking up another type of rewards if you're ready to diversify. You could sign up for an airline credit card that doles out airline miles, for example, a hotel credit card, or a card that earns flexible travel credit.

Earn more points on holiday dining

Like it or not, holiday shopping and other events can easily cause families to dine out more than normal. If you want to capitalize on your extra meals out, you can always sign up for an airline dining program like Delta SkyMiles Dining or Southwest Rapid Rewards Dining.

These airline dining programs and others let you earn miles each time you dine at a participating restaurant and pay with a credit card connected to your account. Some also offer a "sign-up bonus" of sorts. With Delta SkyMiles Dining, for example, you can currently earn 3,000 bonus miles when you spend at least $30 at three participating restaurants and complete online reviews for each within 30 days.

Use shopping portals for all your holiday shopping

If you shop online, you'll absolutely want to figure out which portals can help you earn the most points and miles — or at least the type of points and miles you want to earn. Most major airlines have their own shopping portals, but hotel brands and bank-based loyalty programs have them too.

While you can earn airline miles or hotel points through shopping portals without having a co-branded credit card in most cases, you'll need to have the right credit card to earn bank-based rewards.

Regardless, shopping portals all work in the same way. To earn bonus points, all you have to do is log into your account and "click through" the portal before you shop online with a participating store. You’ll find common big name stores such as Kohl's, Macys, Home Depot, and Best Buy. And remember, the bonus points you earn by shopping in a portal are offered on top of rewards you earn by paying with a rewards credit card.

Take advantage of category bonuses

Remember to check if any of your rewards cards offer bonus categories that might line up nicely with your holiday shopping or travel plans. Credit cards with rotating categories generally have popular stores for their 4th quarter bonus categories.

Use portals when you book holiday travel

Finally, don't forget that you can earn extra points and miles when you book and pay for holiday travel for yourself and your family. You'll just have to get creative and do some research to figure out the best way to make the most of your plans.

Let's say you want to rack up more points in the Southwest Rapid Rewards program, for example. In this case, you'll probably be delighted to know that you can earn Southwest points if you log into your account and use their portal to book rental cars, vacation packages, hotels, and more. In fact, most airline programs let you earn miles when you use them to book rental cars, hotels, and other travel accommodations, so make sure to check with your favorite program.

Keep in mind that a handful of hotel booking websites let you earn airline miles for booking hotels. PointsHound and Rocketmiles are two of the most popular, both letting you earn thousands of miles per night in programs like Etihad Guest, Air France/Flying Blue, and Southwest Rapid Rewards.

And make sure you have a rewards card that will give you extra points when you fill up your gas tank, particularly if you're planning a holiday road trip. A handful of cash back credit cards offer bonus points for gas purchases each year with no annual fee, making them a no-brainer.

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This article is from Holly Johnson of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

A Step-by-Step Guide to Planning a Trip Around the World

Nick Wharton — Thu, 04 Oct 2018 08:00:12 +0000

Are your social media feeds constantly making you want to jump on the next plane to an exotic destination? Do you catch yourself daydreaming about exciting adventures in faraway lands? If you're suffering from wanderlust, then a world trip might just be the cure.

Planning a trip around the world is a daunting task, even if you're a frequent traveler and have incredible organization skills. It often takes months of research to get to the stage where you're ready to board that plane and take to the skies. So to help you get ready to for the adventure of a lifetime, here's a step-by-step guide to planning your world trip.

Step 1: Pick which countries you want to visit

Choosing where you want to go is the first step of the planning process, as it provides you with focus and inspiration to follow through on your dream trip. But more importantly, knowing the countries you want to visit will determine everything else. It will help you decide how long you're going to spend in each place, the route you take, and how much to budget.

If you're even considering a trip around the world, then you've probably got a long list of destinations you're desperate to explore. There's no right or wrong way to do this, it's just a case of writing down all of the places you want to visit so you can start to plan around them. (See also: 5 International Destinations Anyone Can Afford)

Step 2: Start planning a route

Now that you have a list of potential destinations, it's time to start connecting them into a viable route. Unfortunately, at this stage you're probably going to drop a few spots from your list, as it just won't be feasible to include them all.

Remember that the fewer places you visit, the less money you'll need to dedicate to transportation getting to each location, meaning your budget may stretch further. It'll also mean you'll get to spend more time in each place.

The best way to plan your route is to pull out a large map and place pins in all of the destinations on your list. You should start to see clusters of destinations that are close to each other and how you might be able to move from one to the next.

When mapping out your route, it's important to take the weather of each place into account. Check the seasons beforehand as this may alter the direction you travel in and when you go. You should also consider whether there are any specific festivals or events that you're hoping to attend. (See also: Savor Your Trip and Save Big With These 5 Slow Travel Tips)

Step 3: Create your budget

Once you have a rough idea of the route you'll take, you can start figuring out how big your budget needs to be. Check travel blogs and guidebooks to give you an idea of the costs for each destination you want to visit. You should also look at accommodation sites to see the price of a room during your chosen travel dates.

You can then break it down into a daily budget for each location, multiply it by the number of days you expect to spend in each place, and add them together to get your total. It's important to create separate budgets for each country rather than just a blanket daily allowance, as costs can vary wildly from place-to-place. Remember to include transportation, accommodations, food and drinks, as well as things like Visas and border fees.

How large your budget is will depend a lot on your personal style of travel. Whether you stay in luxurious hotels or budget hostels, and whether you plan to fly everywhere or are happy to travel by train or bus will have a significant impact on how much you'll need. Be realistic about the level of comfort you require while traveling and understand that you'll generally have to pay more for better amenities. (See also: How to Build Your Best Travel Budget)

Step 4: Organize your banking

The majority of your money should be kept in a bank account that doesn't have access via a card, but can be accessed online, so you may need to open another account. From there, you can then transfer smaller amounts into an account with card access. So if your card is stolen, the thieves will only have access to a small amount. Because of the potential difficulties of getting new cards on the road, it's also a good idea to have more than one account that you keep virtually empty, but can transfer money into if need be. (See also: How to Avoid Theft While Traveling)

Step 5: Check your passport

Visas can be both an added expense and complication, but unfortunately as a U.S. traveler, you're going to need them for several countries you visit. Make sure you do your research and apply ahead of time for the ones that require you to do so. Some countries are notoriously difficult to secure visas for and it may only be possible to do so from your home state, so check this prior to buying a ticket.

Your passport needs to be up-to-date with at least six months to cover the end of your trip, as many countries won't let you in with any less time left than that. You also need to have enough pages left for all of the stamps and visas you're going to acquire, and most countries require a minimum of three full pages. It's worth doing a quick calculation to ensure your passport will last you to the end of your journey and not see you turned away at any borders. (See also: How to Provide Proof of Onward Travel During an Open-Ended Trip Abroad)

Step 6: Start booking

Booking flights, accommodations, and even visits to major attractions ahead of time might not sound appealing, but in some instances it may be essential. For example, if you're planning on walking the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, there are a limited number of visitors allowed to do so each year. Because of this, you need to book around six months or more ahead to secure everything. Events and festivals will mean that accommodations get booked up quickly as well, so you should have this in place long in advance.

Booking in advance can be an excellent way to help manage your savings and budgeting as well, as things will already be paid for prior to setting off. However, spontaneity is one of the real joys of traveling the world, so having a rigid schedule will detract from that. Allow yourself some flexibility to stay longer or change your plans if you want. (See also: 10 Flight Booking Hacks to Save You Hundreds)

Step 7: Get your home affairs in order

If you own a house, are you going to rent it out while you're away? Do you have any recurring bills that you need to automate or cancel? Are you planning to sell off belongings before your trip to raise extra funds? (See also: How to Sell All Your Stuff and Travel the World)

There are plenty of things you'll need to get in order at home before you leave, and the earlier you start the less stressful it will be. Make a list of everything you'll need to do and spread the tasks out leading up to your trip.

Step 8: Get vaccinated

Staying healthy on the road should be your main priority, as lots of countries are affected by diseases and illnesses that we just don't get here in the U.S. Find out what vaccinations you need as soon as you have your route figured out, so you can get them done in plenty of time. There are even some countries that won't let you in without proof that you've had certain vaccinations, most commonly for yellow fever.

If you take any medications, you should also put a plan in place to ensure you have enough to last the duration of your trip. You should also research whether you're going to be able to purchase that medicine in each location you're in, whether you need a prescription, and how easy it is to obtain. (See also: 7 Ways to Avoid Getting Seriously Sick on Vacation)

Step 9: Buy travel insurance

Lots of people take a chance by heading abroad without travel insurance, but when you're going on a longer trip, it's just not worth the risk. Get a solid plan that will cover you for health costs, travel cancellations, lost luggage, and anything else you need covered. As with any insurance, make sure you double check the fine print to ensure it's suitable and worth the cost.

Step 10: Pack wisely

Packing for a world trip can be a huge task, as knowing exactly what to take and what not to can be extremely confusing. Start by looking at the places that you're visiting, the climates you're going to be experiencing, and the activities you're going to be doing. These three things will help to determine what should go into your luggage. Remember, you're able to get anything virtually anywhere in the world, so rather than overpack, it's better to underpack and pick up things as you go. (See also: 8 Things You Should Always Pack in Your Carry-On)

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This article is from Nick Wharton of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

6 Relaxing, Affordable Hot Springs You Can Visit This Fall

Lindsay VanSomeren — Fri, 31 Aug 2018 08:00:11 +0000

Fall is the perfect time to visit a relaxing hot spring. The heat of the summer is over and the hot water feels great against the chilly air. But even though it's cold, it's not so cold that you'll get frostbite after you leave the pool, like during the winter.

Hot springs can run the gamut from hoity-toity, historical playgrounds of the rich and famous to undeveloped natural upwellings in the middle of nowhere with a trail to lead you there.

These six hot springs fall right in the middle — not super spendy, but they also offer more amenities for maximum relaxation. For a true frugal hot springs visit, pack your own meals and drinks for a poolside picnic and check out these six beautiful locations. (See also: 4 Affordable Autumn Destinations for Nature Lovers)

1. Thermopolis Hot Springs in Thermopolis, Wyoming

At first glance, Thermopolis Hot Springs looks like something otherworldly. The pools are fed by a spring that drips over a gigantic, cascading wall of mineral buildup (known as the Rainbow Terraces) that resembles a scene from prehistoric times.

The entire hot springs is contained within Hot Springs State Park, which charges a reasonable $6 entrance fee ($4 if you're a Wyoming resident). Once in, you can visit the historic State Bath House and the pools for free. There's even a herd of wild bison that live in the park, which the staff feed daily at 8:30 a.m. during the late fall and winter (a great time to see them).

There are several affordable lodging options nearby. You can find rooms right in town for under $100, as well as a plethora of Airbnb private cabins, homes, and campsites nearby also for under $100 per night. (See also: 9 Simple Ways to Save on Hotel Stays)

2. Riverbend Hot Springs in Truth or Consequences, New Mexico

New Mexico can get scorching hot in the summer. But come fall, you can enjoy a gorgeous vista of the red rock mountains right from a pool at Riverbend Hot Springs, located smack dab on the banks of the Rio Grande.

These hot springs are perfect for couples looking for a romantic getaway, as the Riverbend Hot Springs Resort has a strict "whisper-only" policy around the pools, and small children are only allowed in certain areas. You can even reserve private pools that are clothing-optional starting from $30 per hour, if that's how you roll. Otherwise, you can get a one-hour pass to the common pools for $12 per hour.

Riverbend Hot Springs itself offers lodging starting from $94 per night for an "artist room," or $146 per night for a "budget double." If you book a room at the resort directly, you'll also get a free pass to use the common hot spring pools, or you can book a private pool at a 33 percent discount.

3. Kirkham Hot Springs in Lowman, Idaho

Kirkham Hot Spring is a bit of a local secret, and a destination ripe for adventurers. It's less developed than many other hot springs — it's literally just a cascading, hot pool in the forest — but it is located within a campground inside of Boise National Forest. The campground offers vault toilets, drinking water, trash cans, and picnic tables. There is a short trail to get to the hot springs that can be steep and slippery for some folks, so bring your hiking shoes.

The best way to experience this rustic hot springs is by making a camping reservation online so that you don't even have to travel far to get back to your cozy tent. Rates start at $15 per night, and there is a $5 day-use fee if you don't plan on camping here and instead park at one of the picnic sites. One final heads-up: Because it's a less-developed hot spring, the campground (and therefore the hot spring) closes each October 31 and reopens the next year on April 1.

4. Breitenbush Hot Springs in Detroit, Oregon

Be prepared for a tranquil, yet hippie-like retreat at this hot spring. It's owned and run by a member co-op, all of whom live on-site. Since this is a remote lodge, there are few other alternative lodgings nearby. However, lodging at the resort is relatively affordable, ranging from $72-$165 per person, although you will need to bring your own bed linens (heads-up: you may be asked to bunk with a roomie if you show up solo). Lodging does include meals, however the options will be vegetarian and organic.

If you'd rather just visit the hot springs and not stay on-site, there's a $22-$38 per-day fee, and you'll need to make reservations in advance. This may also be another spot to leave the kids at home for. While kids are allowed on-site and in the pools, the hot springs themselves are all entirely clothing-optional. (See also: 5 Affordable and Unforgettable Experiences to Have in National Parks)

5. Quapaw Bath and Spa in Hot Springs, Arkansas

The Quapaw Hot Springs is located right within the thriving town of Hot Springs, Arkansas. There are many options for lodging, including over 30 local Airbnbs for under $75 per night or three-star hotel rooms starting at $129 per night.

More of a "spa" than a "hot spring," this one is a perfect choice if roughing it on algae- and mud-covered rocks isn't your style. It's owned and operated by a resort that has channeled the hot springs into a series of indoor pools. Spa services cost extra, but if all you want is a simple soak, it'll cost just $20 per person.

6. Strawberry Hot Springs in Steamboat Springs, Colorado

It's hard to complete any hot springs list without including one from Colorado. After all, the state boasts around 30 hot springs. Strawberry Hot Springs is one of the best, however, because it offers an affordable, rustic-yet-not-too-rustic experience.

A day pass for the hot springs costs $15, and includes access to the pools, restrooms, picnic areas, and heated changing areas. Although there are plenty of lodging options available in nearby Steamboat Springs, you can stay on-site in a whimsical covered wagon for just $70 per night, or a rustic cabin for $85 per night.

Although two-wheel-drive cars are fine during the summer months, it's better to plan on using a four-wheel-drive vehicle to get up the road in the fall and winter, just in case there's snow or ice on the road. If you don't have access to such a vehicle, no worries — two different shuttle services will drive you up for $45 per person.

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This article is from Lindsay VanSomeren of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

How to Travel Across the U.S. on a Budget

Nick Wharton — Thu, 30 Aug 2018 08:00:11 +0000

From the beauty of the hundreds of national parks, to the world famous landmarks dotted across the country, America is truly a traveler's paradise. It's possible to have virtually any kind of experience you're after in the U.S., but many people believe it to be more costly than heading abroad on a vacation.

Sure, it's possible to spend a fortune on a five-star hotel and business class flights, but there are also plenty of affordable ways to explore this breathtaking country. (See also: 5 European Cities You Can Visit for $50 a Day)

Opt for low-cost accommodations

If you're not careful, accommodations can unnecessarily eat up a huge chunk of your travel budget. It will likely end up being your largest expense (unless you choose free options), so it's vital to tackle this first to bring costs down.

Airbnb

Airbnb is particularly great as an alternative to hotels in major cities — which tend to be far more expensive. The cheapest way to use Airbnb is to use the private room feature. This allows you to book a room in someone's house rather than having to shell out for an entire place of your own. You'll have the added benefit of being able to use the kitchen facilities, which can save you tons on food costs. (See also: A First-Timer's Guide to Using Airbnb)

Couchsurfing

This is by far the cheapest option when it comes to finding budget accommodations, because it's absolutely free. It's best to try and plan couchsurfing far in advance, as it's unsurprisingly a popular service, and can get booked months ahead. Another thing to keep in mind is that it's mainly available in big cities, so you'll need to plan accordingly if you're heading to a more rural area.

Camping

Campsites can cost as little as $5, but if you want to save even more, there are plenty of options for dispersed camping (aka wild camping) that are absolutely free. Wild camping is widely available on Bureau of Land Management land and in National Forests. It could also open up a cheap way to visit National Parks, as much of this land lies directly beside National Park sites. (See also: How to Find Free Campsites in the U.S.)

Nosh on a budget

Food is reasonably cheap in the U.S., so keeping yourself fed and watered shouldn't cost an arm and a leg. However, there are ways to keep your food costs down.

Cook your own meals

Dining in fancy restaurants three times a day is clearly going to bust your budget, so it pays to pick and choose when you eat out. Buying your own groceries and cooking for yourself is by far the most effective way of saving money on food while traveling. This is another reason why hotels are a less cost-effective option than Airbnb, couchsurfing, or camping, as they generally do not provide a kitchen.

Find cheap restaurants

With a little bit of Googling, you can find fantastic cheap restaurants in virtually any part of the U.S. These can be fast food restaurants, diners, or chain restaurants that offer good value for their menu prices. You can also find special offers like weekly deals, kids-eat-free discounts, or offers on the restaurant's app to cut down the total even more. (See also: 20 Fast Food Apps That Help You Score Free Food)

Find free or affordable activities

There's so much to see and do across the 50 states that it would be a real shame to miss out because of a lack of funds. However, there are fun, free attractions throughout the country if you know where to look.

Google, Google, Google

Search for the location you're headed to with the key term, "free things to do in" and the results will most likely turn up numerous offers. Not everything will be your bag, but you'll certainly come across a few gems no matter where you are. From free museums and art galleries, to one-off events and festivals, you'll probably be surprised at what you can do without spending a dollar. (See also: 47 Free Things to Do Across the U.S.)

Buy a National Parks pass

If you're a nature lover, your travels across the U.S. will likely include visiting a National Park or two. If the ones you plan to visit charge entrance fees totaling more than $80, then purchasing a National Parks pass is going to save you money. Plus, it will give you entrance to every single park and, national forest, and Bureau of Land Management site for an entire year. (See also: How to Save on National Park Visits in 2018)

Consider a city pass

Many of the larger cities within the U.S. offer a city pass that gives you access to discounts across the most popular attractions and sometimes even entitles you to free use of the public transportation systems. These can be a great way to save money on an action-packed couple of days and are well worth checking out before arriving at your destination. (See also: 8 Free Things You Can Do on Any Vacation)

Keep transportation costs to a minimum

When you're traveling across America on the cheap, it's important to figure out the best method of transportation to take you to your desired locations.

Drive

There are numerous ways to get around, and much of it depends on your route, but generally driving works out to be the cheapest, especially compared to flights or trains. Before you leave, however, make sure you get the car inspected to ensure it won't break down in the middle of nowhere.

You'll have to budget for gas, and these costs can add up quickly, especially in an area where gas prices are high. To cash in on this common budget buster, use a credit card that offers cash-back or bonus points for gas. That way, even if you do end up spending a lot on gas, you'll make some of it back via rewards. (See also: How to Take a 7-Day Cross Country Road Trip for $350 or Less)

Rent a car

Another option is to rent a car for your cross-country vacation. By renting, you can guarantee that the car is going to run well, and you can also choose a fuel-efficient model, reducing your gas costs. This option works well for shorter trips, and depending on the rental deal, it can be better than using your own car.

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This article is from Nick Wharton of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

Make These 5 Money Moves Before You Travel Abroad

Holly Johnson — Fri, 24 Aug 2018 08:00:12 +0000

Traveling outside the U.S. requires more research and preparation than traveling close to home. You can't exactly pack a bag and hop on a plane. For starters, you'll have to get a passport to leave the U.S., and some countries require you to apply for a Visa ahead of time.

And there are other logistics to consider when you travel to a country with different customs than your own. Do you need to learn some key phrases in the local language, for example? Do you know how to get around, either by local bus, high-speed train, or car? How much can you pack, and how much should you pack?

Of course, there are also financial issues to prepare for — some of which you should take care of before you depart. As you prepare to travel abroad, consider this financial checklist of to-do's. (See also: Follow These 5 Credit Card Rules When Traveling Abroad)

1. Exchange some currency ahead of time

While you may not know how much cash you'll need during your international trip, it's smart to have at least some of the local currency before you arrive to your destination. You'll probably want to get out of the airport quickly and need the cash to pay for a taxi or bus fare, for example. Or, perhaps you want the security of knowing you have money if your bank cards or credit cards don't work. It never hurts to be prepared.

Fortunately, it's fairly easy to get currency for nearly anywhere in the world if you plan ahead. Reach out to your bank or credit union early and you can get your hands on international currency within a few days, most of the time. Generally speaking, you will get a better exchange rate from your own bank or credit union than if you exchange currency at the airport currency exchange desk. Just don't carry so much that you end up with load of cash on you. (See also: How to Evaluate an Exchange Rate)

2. Find out how much it will cost to use your ATM card abroad

You can also wait until you arrive to get local currency out of the ATM. However, you should find out what fees you'll be charged for making a foreign transaction, if any.

Keep in mind that you may be charged more than one fee to use your ATM card abroad. First, your bank may charge you a fee for using an out-of-network ATM. Second, the bank that owns the ATM could tack on their own fees. Finally, you will likely be charged a foreign transaction fee for using an ATM outside the U.S.

If you're traveling for a long time, staying in one place, and you plan early enough, you can also consider opening an account with a bank that offers ATM usage with fewer fees or no fees. You may not want to open a new checking account before your overseas trip, but it's an option to consider if you've been thinking about getting a new checking account anyway. (See also: 11 Ways to Avoid Bank Fees While Traveling)

3. Get a credit card with no foreign transaction fees

In addition to figuring out how much you'll pay to use your ATM card abroad, you'll also want to figure out a way to avoid foreign transaction fees on purchases made with credit. The foreign transaction fee is a fee levied on purchases made abroad with many credit cards, and it's usually around 3% of your purchase.

The best way to avoid paying this fee altogether is by signing up for a credit card that doesn't charge foreign transaction fees. There are many cards that fall into this category, including ones that don't charge an annual fee.

Apply for one of these cards and bring it with you on your trip, and you'll be glad you did. Better yet, get two cards with no foreign transaction fees from two different card issuers. This way, you can have a backup card to use in case you have trouble with your primary card for any reason. You may even want to carry one card with you and leave the other in your luggage in case the card you're using gets lost or stolen.

4. Call your bank and credit card issuer

Purchases and ATM withdrawals made abroad may be flagged as fraudulent if your bank doesn't know you're traveling. In that case, you may not be able to use your debit card or credit card until you get the situation worked out.

Since you probably want to avoid banking snafus on your big trip, call your bank and credit card issuers before you depart to let them know where you're traveling and when. Doing so will give your bank the time to update your account to reflect your upcoming travels.

5. Record your credit card information and stash it away

You need to protect yourself in case your belongings are stolen abroad. While using a safe and locking up your luggage are smart ideas, there are additional steps you can take to protect your credit card numbers.

One step to take is writing down all your credit card and ATM numbers separately in case your physical cards are stolen. Also make sure to write down customer service numbers that can be found on the back of each card. Keep a copy with you in your luggage and separate from your wallet.

If your cards are stolen or lost, you'll have your account numbers and customer service details on hand. This will make getting ahold of your bank — and getting those card numbers out of service — infinitely easier. Your bank may even be able to expedite a new credit or debit card or to your hotel. (See also: How to Avoid Theft While Traveling)

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This article is from Holly Johnson of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

47 Free Things to Do Across the U.S.

Nick Wharton — Tue, 21 Aug 2018 08:00:11 +0000

You might assume that heading to one of America's biggest cities for a vacation will cost you an arm and a leg, but you'd be wrong. There are plenty of ways to save money when seeing the country's biggest attractions. In fact, you can see most of them for $0. If you're looking for amazing things to do on a budget, check out this list of 47 free things to do across the U.S. of A.

1. Geek out at the New York Public Library in New York City

You don't have to be a bookworm to get a thrill out of visiting New York Public Library, although the hundreds of thousands of books will certainly excite you if you are. The building's classical interior is absolutely breathtaking, they run free tours, and you can also get a glimpse of the Rose Room, famous for that scene in the original Ghostbusters movie. (See also: 8 Free Things You Can Do on Any Vacation)

2. Gaze upon the bright lights of Times Square in New York City

One of the most famous landmarks in New York, Times Square is probably best visited after dark to ensure you get the full effect of the giant neon billboards that surround it. This larger-than-life square has a great atmosphere, thanks to the thousands of people enjoying the sights. Take a camera and some snacks and soak up the electric ambience.

3. Visit the African Burial Ground Monument in New York City

The African Burial Ground Monument was created after the 1991 discovery of numerous caskets during the beginning stages of the construction of a federal building on the site. They contained the remains of over 400 African people, both free and enslaved, dating back to the 17th and 18th centuries. Learn the history at the fascinating and informative visitor center and memorial.

4. Chill out in Central Park in New York City

In the middle of Manhattan lies possibly the most famous park in the U.S., if not the world. This vast oasis allows you to forget that you're even in a city, let alone the largest metropolis in the country, and there are plenty of things to see and activities to get involved in. You can also take a self-guided tour with one of the free downloadable guides they provide that take you to the park's most famous spots.

5. Walk the High Line in New York City

Converted from a former rail line, New York's High Line is one of the coolest and attractive parks in the city. Running 1.45 miles from the north of Chelsea to the Meatpacking District, this beautiful elevated slice of nature is a wonder to behold. Colorful flowers and greenery are interspersed with works of art, not to mention the breathtaking views of the Big Apple's magnificent skyline.

6. Take the Staten Island Ferry in New York City

Shuttling between Lower Manhattan and Staten Island since 1817, this historical route is way more than just a neat boat trip. The Staten Island Ferry not only provides its passengers with unparalleled views of the Manhattan skyline, but the 25-minute journey also glides right below the Statue of Liberty. It's also absolutely free.

7. Visit the National Air and Space Museum in Washington, D.C.

Showcasing the history of flight through various objects ranging from historic aircraft and spacecrafts, to uniforms and objects gathered from space, this museum is a riveting day out. Take a flight in a realistic simulator, learn the science behind space exploration, and watch various demonstrations put on by the staff throughout the day. (See also: How to Visit Museums for Free)

8. Marvel at the Lincoln Memorial in Washington, D.C.

Pay your respects to one of the most important figures in U.S. history with a visit to the grand Lincoln Memorial. Located in the National Mall, there are also plenty of other points of interest to discover nearby. Rangers are on hand between 9:30 a.m. and 10 p.m. to answer any questions, and you can also join one of the hourly talks they run at no cost.

9. Tour the White House in Washington, D.C.

Home to the current President and at the center of political life in the U.S., the White House needs no explanation. But what you may not know is that you can do a self-guided tour of the famous landmark for free. It's not as simple as just showing up, and must be booked in advance, but it's certainly worth the effort to secure a slot.

10. Get star-struck on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in Los Angeles

Anyone who's anyone in the entertainment business has one of the legendary stars on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Take a stroll alongside Tinseltown's most distinguished names, from old favorites like Marilyn Monroe to modern megastars such as Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson.

11. Immerse yourself in modern art at The Broad in Los Angeles

At The Broad in downtown L.A., you'll find an incredible collection of modern art with familiar names ranging from Lichtenstein to Basquiat. Admission is free, but it's advised to book tickets online, especially during peak times. There's even a free app that includes digital tours for guests to access.

12. Gaze at the stars at the Griffith Observatory in Los Angeles

This gorgeous building overlooks the Los Angeles Basin, providing amazing views across Hollywood and beyond. But that's nothing compared to the peek at the night sky you'll get inside via the telescopes. Entry to the grounds and building is free, as is a look through the telescopes, but individual exhibitions cost a few dollars each.

13. Check your reflection at Millennium Park in Chicago

Millennium Park is Chicago's best loved outdoor space, packed with a winning mix of glorious green gardens and stunning modern art. But it's probably most famous for the futuristic Cloud Gate sculpture, more commonly known as "The Bean." The park has a full program of free events, so check the schedule ahead of time to see if there's anything else going on while you're there.

14. Take the Samuel Adams Brewery Tour in Boston

The Samuel Adams Brewery tour is completely free of charge (though suggested donations of $2 that go to local charities are welcomed). Find out the inner workings of one of America's best breweries and you can even taste three beers for free. Tours run every half-hour so show up and wait in line.

15. Walk the Freedom Trail in Boston

The Freedom Trail is a 2.5-mile, red brick path through the heart of Boston that can be completed over the course of a couple hours. Starting at the Boston Common, you'll take in many of the city's most important historical sites, from the site of the Boston Massacre, to the Old South Meeting House where the Boston Tea Party took place. (See also: 4 Affordable Autumn Destinations for Nature Lovers)

16. Set sail on the Sam Houston Boat Tour in Houston

Take a 90-minute boat trip around Houston's working port, where you'll learn about the history of the area, and its current maritime industry. While the tour is free and passengers even get a complimentary drink, you must register for a spot online beforehand, as no walk-ons are permitted.

17. Watch the Waugh Bridge Bat Colony in Houston

Before Hurricane Harvey, Waugh Bridge had an estimated population of 300,000 Mexican freetail bats that called its underside home. Though many were unfortunately killed during the resulting floods, there's still a sizable number remaining. Each night, they emerge en mass just after sunset, filling the sky for a number of minutes as they take to the skies to feed, providing an awe-inspiring sight.

18. Check out the Constitution at Independence Hall in Philadelphia

Central to America's history, Independence Hall is the site where both the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution were debated and signed. Steeped in history, a tour of this important site is free and makes for an interesting and educational adventure.

19. Run up the Rocky Steps in Philadelphia

For Rocky fans, this has become something of a pilgrimage. Recreate the famous scene by running up the stairs leading up to the Philadelphia Museum of Art, then take your picture with the nearby Rocky statue.

20. Take the PING Factory Tour in Phoenix

Calling all golfers! The opportunity to tour the factory of one of the most prestigious and widely used club manufacturers in the world is surely too good an opportunity to pass up. Perhaps surprisingly for such a huge name, the factory has a real family feel to it, and the complex process will be fascinating even to a non-golfer. Booking must be done by phone in advance to ensure a place on the tour.

21. Visit Arizona Capitol Museum in Phoenix

Set across four floors, the Arizona Capitol Museum details the rich history of the state with numerous exhibition areas showcasing the political, cultural, and economical past. The building itself and surrounding memorial park are also beautiful and house numerous tributes to the emergency services.

22. Get involved in First Fridays in Phoenix

As the name suggests, the first Friday of every month is a huge event in Phoenix. The vast celebration sees thousands of visitors and residents alike taking to the streets to enjoy cultural happenings. First Fridays encompasses art exhibitions, live music, food and drink, and much more, and there's even free transportation to shuttle you around between events.

23. Explore The Alamo in San Antonio

With 300 years of turbulent and harrowing history held within its walls, The Alamo is a must visit in San Antonio. A former mission and site of the Battle of Alamo, it's free to enter, and although tours are not, there are plenty of information boards around the site detailing the riveting history.

24. Take the River Walk in San Antonio

San Antonio's urban River Walk winds its way through the heart of the city past its most important cultural attractions. You'll encounter historically important sites, like the five UNESCO designated missions, natural havens full of greenery and wildlife, and public art, as you meander along the banks of the gorgeous waterway. While you may not walk the entire 15 mile stretch in one go, any portion will provide you with several points of interest.

25. Enjoy the spectacle of The Saga in San Antonio

Witness 300 years of the history of San Antonio take place in front of your eyes in this breathtaking 24-minute video, projected onto the walls of San Fernando Cathedral. Set to an evocative soundtrack, the art installation turns the church into a kaleidoscope of thrilling activity. Projections are on Tuesdays, Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays, and start at 9 p.m., 9.30 p.m., and 10 p.m.

26. Hit the track at the Elite Athlete Training Center in Chula Vista

If you've ever wondered how track stars prepare for competition, then this is the place to come. The colossal 155-acre site in southern California has been the base for countless Olympians and renowned athletes, and is open for self-guided tours of the top facilities Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

27. Visit Olympic Sculpture Park in Seattle

Packed with both permanent and visiting art installations, this nine-acre outdoor sculpture park provides a peaceful and attractive break from the city with incredible views over the Olympic Mountains and Puget Sound. There are also free tours of the park at various times throughout the year, so check the calendar for further information.

28. Immerse yourself in A Sound Garden in Seattle

This gigantic musical art installation is played entirely by the wind, so the tones that emanate from it range from gentle utterances to guttural snarls depending on the weather. Located in the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Western Service Center campus and overlooking Lake Washington, entry is free but you'll need photo ID to get past security.

29. Visit the Cities of the Dead in New Orleans

Because the city is located on swampland, the bodies of the city's deceased are required to be buried above ground. As a result, the cemeteries are full of elaborate tombs laid out in avenues that resemble streets, giving them the nickname "Cities of the Dead." Cemetery No. 1 is the most celebrated of these, thanks to its most infamous inhabitant, voodoo queen Marie Laveau — who's rumored to still wield great power. However, access to her tomb is only available on a paid guided tour. The others however, are still currently free to enter. (See also: 8 Affordable Destinations If You Wanna Get Spooked This Halloween)

30. See St. Louis Cathedral in New Orleans

Resembling a Disney castle from the outside, St. Louis Cathedral is as enthralling on the inside. Stained glass windows tell the story of Saint Louis, King of France, and ornate murals depict biblical figures on virtually every wall. At almost 300 years old, the history inside is palpable.

31. Bike the Dequindre Cut in Detroit

This two-mile long urban trail connects the Detroit riverfront to the Eastern Market area of the city and is a tranquil and colorful route loved by cyclists and walkers alike. It's flanked by numerous murals and works of art, with plenty of places to take a break and admire the surroundings. When you reach the river, you're rewarded with awesome views of downtown Detroit.

32. Expand your mind at the Saint Louis Science Center in St. Louis

This exciting homage to all things science is a wonder to behold for people of all ages. Jam-packed with interactive exhibits and installations, St. Louis Science Center in Missouri makes science both accessible and fun. While some areas and special exhibitions are ticketed, general admission is always free.

33. Visit the Cable Car Museum in San Francisco

The cable cars are a legendary part of the San Francisco landscape and one of the most distinctive characteristics of the city. Learn all about the history of how they came into existence, how they almost disappeared, and the ongoing efforts to preserve them.

34. Walk the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco

This is undoubtedly one of the most iconic bridges in the world, with its gigantic towers connected by swathes of cables providing an instantly recognizable silhouette. Walking its almost two-mile span will provide you with sweeping views out to the Pacific and across San Francisco Bay.

35. Ride the Metromover in Miami

This space-age looking method of public transportation has got to be the coolest way to get around Miami, and yet, surprisingly, it's completely free to use. More than just getting you from points A to B, the Metromover is an attraction in its own right and provides a fun way to see the city.

36. Enjoy the Bellagio Fountain Show in Las Vegas

The celebrated water and light fountain show at the Bellagio sums up Las Vegas in one water-soaked swoop. It's brash, glitzy, and eye-catching, with water jets being fired 460 feet into the air, choreographed to dance perfectly in time with a revolving soundtrack of classic tunes from musical greats. Watch in awe.

37. Marvel at the Mirage Volcano in Las Vegas

If you've ever wondered what it would be like to witness a volcanic eruption, then this is probably the only place in the world you can safely find out. Fireballs, explosions, and exciting entertainment are the order of the day at this red hot, thrice daily show.

38. Crane your neck at the Viva Vision light show in Las Vegas

Another free spectacle in Vegas is the Viva Vision light show, which uses the world's largest video screen to provide a magical overhead experience. Located in the ginormous Fremont Street Experience, combining restaurants, bars, and shopping, the Viva Vision light show is undoubtedly the star, and will have your jaw dropping in no time.

39. Check out the Martin Luther King, Jr. National Historic Site in Atlanta

As possibly the most recognizable leader of the Civil Rights Movement, Martin Luther King, Jr.'s importance in U.S. history is undeniable. Learn more about the man and his incredible achievements at this large historic site, encompassing several buildings, including his childhood home and the family church.

40. Appreciate the cuteness of Mill Ends Park in Portland

The world's smallest park definitely upholds Portland, Oregon's reputation for quirkiness. Not much larger than a car tire, it has one tree, a few flowers, and legend has it that it's also home to the world's only Leprechaun community west of Ireland. While the story surrounding it is make believe, the park is very much a real place and makes a fun stop on a visit to this city.

41. Take a trip to the Tuskegee Airmen National Historic Site in Tuskegee

This moving museum tells the story of the Tuskegee Airmen at the time of World War II, who became the first African Americans to be enlisted as military airmen. Trailblazers in the fight for social equality, this site reveals what it was like and the struggles they faced along with the sacrifices they made.

42. Navigate the U.S. Naval Academy Museum in Annapolis

Discover the long and distinguished history of the U.S. Navy at this compelling museum. Set on the grounds of the U.S. Naval Academy, you can also tour the rest of the grounds and encounter current trainees.

43. Dig in at the Harland Sanders Cafe and Museum in Corbin

See where Colonel Sanders developed his legendary secret recipe for the classic American fried chicken brand KFC. The museum contains the old kitchen, one of the Colonel's famous white suits, and various other interesting artifacts that help tell the story of KFC.

44. Take a shot at the Oscar Getz Museum of Whiskey History in Bardstown

A veritable gold mine of information and whiskey paraphernalia, this museum features everything from rare whiskeys, to old decanters. A great trip out for bourbon lovers everywhere.

45. Check out Tennessee Williams' Home and Welcome Center in Columbus

Enjoy a free tour around renowned playwright Tennessee Williams' first home. While it's not on its original site, it is the original building, as it was moved for preservation reasons from its first location before being restored to its full glory. You'll even get a free cup of coffee in the gift shop.

46. Marvel at the Museum of Alabama in Montgomery

Through more than 800 artifacts, dozens of video clips, and hundreds of documents and pictures, discover the history of the State of Alabama at this interactive museum. From Civil War times to present day, this is a comprehensive overview of how Alabama was shaped.

47. Pay your respects at Arlington National Cemetery in Arlington

Visit the resting place of more than 400,000 former servicemen and women and pay your respects to military forces while soaking in the history preserved here. There's also an app that will help you locate a loved one's grave or any other point of interest throughout the site.

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This article is from Nick Wharton of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

5 Websites to Book Cheaper Travel Packages

Nick Wharton — Wed, 15 Aug 2018 08:00:12 +0000

If you think all travel booking sites are the same, and they offer indistinguishable packages at identical prices — think again. While many of them appear similar and offer comparable deals, they each have subtle differences that provide benefits. Which one is right for you will largely depend on the type of travel you're trying to book and your flexibility.

One of the best ways to save money, time, and hassle when booking a getaway is to opt for an all-inclusive bundle. These can include a combination of hotel, flights, and car rentals, and sometimes even attraction entrance passes. For this type of package, there are certain sites and stores that are guaranteed to present you with some great bargains. Here are five sites to book cheaper travel packages.

1. Costco

Costco isn't just a chain of warehouses where people load up on wholesale goods at bargain prices. They also have an in-house travel agency called Costco Travel that you can use to find deals on cruises, hotel stays, rental cars, and also full vacation packages. They use the buying power accrued from being one of the largest retailers in the world to negotiate big savings on vacations for their customers.

As with their stores, you have to be a member to access Costco's travel deals. A standard yearly membership is $60. However, you're still able to search without being a member, so you can check out the deals before committing. An added benefit of Costco packages is that many come with complimentary amenities that can range from credit to be redeemed at the resort to multiday attraction passes, so you're getting even more bang for your buck.

2. Expedia

While you can book flights, hotels, car rentals, cruises, and activities individually on Expedia, you can really score good deals on this site with travel packages. They have a specific option to "Bundle and Save" that allows you to bundle bookings for any combination of flights, hotels, and car rentals. Not only does this save you the time and hassle of having to organize all of these elements separately, it also enables you to save money.

The interface is really user-friendly, and rather than offering preset bundles, it allows you to build your own package with numerous options at each stage. They also have a selection of what they call "Unreal Deals" that are usually exceptional value packages where you might get the cost of your airfare covered completely from the savings. At each stage of the process, you can see exactly what the price is and the savings you're getting from bundling your package together. (See also: 10 Flight Booking Hacks to Save You Hundreds)

3. Travelocity

At first glance, you might think Travelocity is remarkably similar to Expedia, with the search box on the front page looking almost identical. And you'd be absolutely right, as they're both owned by the Expedia Group; so the interface, look, and feel of the two sites is almost indistinguishable. However, they're actually run independently, which still allows and even encourages them to compete with each other.

The upshot of this is that while the search functions, the focus on bundled packages, and even the deals may be very similar, the prices might not be. Each company has access to the same metadata as the basis of their deals, but they negotiate with the partners separately, so it pays to use Expedia and Travelocity in conjunction when searching to see which has the best price for the specific package you're looking for.

4. Priceline

The site used to be famous for the "Name Your Own Price" feature that allowed you to bid on flights, hotels, and car rental deals by entering what you wanted to pay in a process similar to an auction. This has now been phased out, but Priceline still offers great discounts to be found on hotel, flight, and car packages. Priceline's site says you can achieve savings of up to $625 when you bundle your hotel and flight together.

They also have a feature called "Express Deals" that allows you to score great prices on hotel rooms, getting up to 60 percent off by purchasing them without knowing the name of the hotel. The reason for this is that hotels don't want to advertise the fact that they're making such big reductions. So while you can see general details on the hotel, like its star rating, general location, and amenities, you only find out its name when you actually book. (See also: 10 Surprising Ways to Save Money on Hotels)

5. CheapOair

Like the other sites on this list, CheapOair allows you to build your own travel packages to include flights, hotels, and cars. They call their package deals "Vacations" and can secure you fantastic savings by booking elements together instead of individually. But what sets CheapOair apart from the other booking sites is that they place a large emphasis on group bookings, and catering to large groups.

Most booking sites have a limit of around six adults, whereas CheapOair's limit stands at nine. If you're looking to book for even more people, you can get in touch with their dedicated team of travel agents who will assist you with building the package you require. You can do this by giving them a call directly. (See also: How to Tell If Your Vacation Package Is a Good Deal)

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This article is from Nick Wharton of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

How 2 People Can See Paris for $500 or Less

Holly Johnson — Wed, 18 Jul 2018 08:00:10 +0000

France is one of the most visited countries on Earth, and its capital city of Paris remains one of its biggest draws. This thriving metropolis boasts everything you could want in a European getaway — historic landmarks, world famous art, amazing food, and Insta-worthy photo ops galore.

You can visit historic Notre Dame cathedral, roam enchanting neighborhoods like Saint Germain and Le Marais, see Leonardo da Vinci's Mona Lisa at the Louvre, and ride to the top of the Eiffel Tower in a single day. You can also nosh on exquisite French pastries, macaroons, cheeses, and wine. With so much to do — and so many goodies to consume — why wouldn't you want to visit Paris? (See also: 8 Money Lessons I Learned From Three Weeks in Europe)

Planning a trip to Paris with rewards

For many people, the biggest deterrent is the cost of getting there. International flights aren't cheap, after all, and you still have to pay for a place to stay.

That's why savvy travelers leverage travel credit cards and cash-back to cover the biggest components of their Parisian getaway. With the right combination of airline credit cards and hotel cards, it's not that difficult to plan a vacation to Paris for the same price — or less — as a trip closer to home.

Before you rule out Paris for your next vacation, consider how you could use rewards to score a trip for two for $500 or less.

Getting to Paris with airline miles

Paris may be an eight-hour flight from many East Coast cities, but it's not that difficult to get there with airline miles. Because it's such a popular tourist destination, all the major airlines fly there and many offer multiple flights per day. As a result, you won't have to look too hard to find a frequent flyer program that can get you to Paris with ease. (See also: The Cheapest Way to Fly to Europe)

One of the most popular airline programs for flights to Paris is the American AAdvantage program. With this frequent flyer program, you can fly off-peak to Europe (including Paris) for 22,500 miles per leg plus airline taxes and fees. That works out to 45,000 miles for a round-trip flight, which is a fairly easy sum of miles to earn with an airline credit card.

Another popular program for travelers who live near a Delta hub is Air France/Flying Blue. This frequent flyer program lets you book flights to Europe with Delta, and you can frequently book flights for 25,000 to 29,000 miles one-way, or as little as 50,000 miles round-trip. Another airline program that's easy to earn miles with is United MileagePlus. You can book round-trip flights to Europe in economy for 60,000 miles round-trip. (See also: Best Airline Rewards Programs for Trips to Europe)

In addition to miles, you'll need to pay airline taxes and fees for your trip. These generally work out to around $100–$150 per person for flights to Europe, but they can vary based on the airline you book with, along with any partner airlines you'll fly with.

If you want to plan a trip for two to Paris, getting your flights squared away is one of the first steps you should take. Consider signing up for airline credit cards that let you rack up miles in a program that will let you fly to Paris from your home airport. With two spouses or partners each getting their own card, it's feasible to earn enough miles for two round-trip flights. Just remember that you'll be on the hook for government-mandated taxes and fees for those flights, and these fees will likely range from $200 to $300.

Covering Paris hotels with rewards

The next component of your trip you'll want to cover with rewards is your Parisian lodging. You have all kinds of options at your fingertips, but the best choice for you depends on the type of place you want to stay.

If you prefer to stay in a higher-end hotel, the World of Hyatt program is a smart option for any stay in Paris. This hotel program will let you book the following hotels with points:

Hyatt Paris Madeleine: 25,000 points per night
Hyatt Du Louvre: 20,000 points per night
Hyatt Regency Paris Etoile: 15,000 points per night
Park Hyatt Paris Vendome: 30,000 points per night

It's easy to rack up rewards in this program with their co-branded credit card. However, you can also earn points with some credit cards for transfers to the World of Hyatt program.

Another program that's easy to earn points with is IHG Rewards. InterContinental Hotels Group properties you can book with points in Paris include:

Holiday Inn Paris Notre Dame: 40,000 points per night
Crowne Plaza Paris Republique: 45,000 points per night
Holiday Inn Paris Opera: 35,000 points per night
Holiday Inn Paris Gare de Lyon Bastille: 40,000 points per night
Holiday Inn Paris St. Germain des Pres: 40,000 points per night

Also consider the fact that hotel brands like Marriott, Starwood Preferred Guest, and Radisson Rewards offer properties in and around Paris and greater France. Make sure to compare hotel loyalty programs to see which one might be best for you depending on where you want to stay before you sign up for a new credit card to earn points.

In addition to large hotels, Paris is also packed with rental condos and Airbnbs you can book. If you would rather shack up in a cozy flat with more of a neighborhood feel, we recommend signing up for a credit card that lets you earn flexible travel credit. With a card that falls into this category, you can earn a big sign-up bonus plus ongoing rewards to pay for any type of hotel or condo you prefer.

Ideally, you'll use hotel points, flexible travel credit, or a combination of the two to pay for all your hotels in Paris. By doing so, you can avoid the expense of lodging altogether and save your travel funds for the other components of your trip.

Covering excursions with rewards

When it comes to the other components of your trip, there are plenty of free things to do in Paris. You can go inside Notre Dame Cathedral, walk through courtyards and winding city streets, and peer at major historical sites such as the Arc de Triomphe and Place de la Concorde. However, there are some activities in Paris you'll need to pay to take part in. Fortunately, credit card rewards can also come in handy when it comes to the getting the most out of your trip.

With some credit card rewards programs, you can use points to book all kinds of activities and excursions through their travel portal. While the options are nearly unlimited, activities available to you include things like food tours, skip-the-line entry into the Louvre, Eiffel Tower entry, guided city tours, and Seine River cruises.

If you can cover your flights with miles, pay less than $300 in airline taxes and fees, cover your lodging with hotel points, and limit spending on extras, you could easily book a trip to Paris for $500 or less outside the cost of food.

Since French cuisine is divine and you'll need a while to rack up the points for this trip, it's wise to start planning now. You definitely want to save up enough to have a few of those French meals that will make you understand why French cuisine is so famous.

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This article is from Holly Johnson of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

How a Family of 4 Can See Italy for $1,000 or Less

Holly Johnson — Mon, 09 Jul 2018 08:30:20 +0000

Italy is one of the most visited countries in the world, and for good reason. This boot-shaped nation boasts ancient ruins and historical landmarks, world class art, towering mountains, beaches, and wineries. You can see the famous works of Michelangelo one day, hike a cliff that overlooks the Mediterranean Sea the next, and tour the world-renowned Colosseum or Roman Forum shortly after. And all these wonders are only hours away at any given time.

Plus, the sights and landscapes in Italy are only part of the allure. The food is also a huge draw. Tourists flock to Italy for the world's best pizza and pasta, amazingly fresh produce, and of course, award-winning wines.

There are about a million reasons to visit Italy and only one to avoid it — the cost. As with many European countries, Italy can be expensive to visit.

Fortunately, Italy is a country with modern transportation, inexpensive lodging options, and plenty of airports. You can fly into nearly any corner of the country, visit all the must-see destinations via high-speed train, and opt for an affordable bed-and-breakfast if you want.

Food doesn't have to be expensive, either. You can dine at Michelin-star eateries overlooking famous piazzas, but you can also pick up a piece of pizza or a sandwich for a few euros. At the end of the day, you can spend as little or as much as you want on your Italian vacation; it all depends on your choices and where you choose to splurge.

But what if you could cover the entire trip with travel rewards? For the average family of four, we think it's possible to get this trip for $1,000 or less. Here's how:

Cover your flights with airline miles

One of the most expensive components of any trip abroad is airfare, and there's not a lot you can do to bypass this expense other than rack up airline frequent flyer miles. The good news is, there are several ways to earn enough miles to get to Italy on miles alone — even if you're traveling with four people.

One of the best programs for flights to Italy from the United States is Air France/Flying Blue, the loyalty program for Air France, KLM, and five smaller regional carriers. This is partially because Air France tends to have plenty of award availability for economy flights to Europe, but it's also because it's easy to rack up miles for this program. While Air France/Flying Blue doesn't have its own co-branded credit card, you can transfer points to this program from multiple other credit card rewards programs. (See also: Best Airline Rewards Programs for Trips to Europe)

One-way economy flights to Europe are typically just 25,000 miles plus government-mandated taxes and fees of approximately $125 per person. For a family of four, that means you would need a minimum of 200,000 miles plus up to $500.

While 200,000 miles sounds like a lot, this sum can be earned fairly quickly with some time and the right combination of rewards cards. If both spouses can sign up for several cards that offer 50,000 bonus points, for example, they could earn 200,000 flexible travel points or more in a matter of months.

Plenty of other airlines fly to Italy, however. You could focus on racking up American AAdvantage miles with co-branded credit cards, for example. Since SAAver awards to Europe start at just 45,000 miles round-trip, this program offers solid value for families, provided they can find award availability. And while the Delta SkyMiles program no longer publishes an award chart, you can frequently find round-trip flights to Europe from the U.S. for as little as 60,000 miles round-trip. (See also: How to Score a European Cruise for $1,000 or Less)

Get your hotels covered with flexible travel credit

Once your flights to Italy are covered for $500 out-of-pocket or less, you'll need to get your accommodations covered with rewards. This is where things get tricky when you're traveling as a family of four. While you might be inclined to pick up a co-branded hotel credit card to cover the expense, you may regret it if you do.

In Italy, it is extremely rare to find a hotel with a loyalty program that offers rooms that sleep four. You can check across all the major hotel brands with co-branded credit cards — IHG Rewards, Marriott Rewards, Hyatt, and Starwood Preferred Guest — and the story is the same. Finding a room that sleeps two is a piece of cake if you have enough hotel points, but a room for four is a unicorn indeed.

Your best bet in Italy is loading up on flexible travel credit cards and points in flexible programs. While these two types of rewards may sound similar, they are actually very different.

Flexible travel credit is a travel benefit you can earn with fixed-value rewards cards. Travel credit cards that fall into this category typically offer an upfront sign-up bonus and up to two points for each dollar you spend. On the redemption side, you can cash in your points for statement credits against just about any type of travel at a rate of one cent per point. (See also: Best Credit Cards With Easy Travel Redemption)

Flexible travel credit is great if you have a larger family and need to book a place with more space. You can rack up points to redeem for an Airbnb with a few bedrooms, for example. Doing so can make your family travel experience a lot more comfortable than if you were stuffed in a single hotel room. Plus, having a kitchen can help you save money if you prepare some meals at "home" instead of dining out.

The other kind of flexible travel programs we speak of include programs like Chase Ultimate Rewards, American Express Membership Rewards, and Citi ThankYou rewards. These programs let you rack up points that can be transferred to hotel and airline programs or used to book travel through their respective travel portals. (See also: Best Credit Cards That Transfer Points to Airlines and Hotels)

This strategy can be beneficial since these portals make all kinds of hotels available — not just hotels with the big brands. You can frequently find smaller bed-and-breakfasts or boutique hotels that sleep four in "family rooms" with these programs, and for fewer points than you might think.

Recently, I booked a room for five at the Hotel Del Golfo in Naples, Italy for just 10,058 points per night. You do have to dig to find properties like this, but they absolutely exist.

No matter which strategy you choose, it's possible to get all your hotels or rental condos in Italy covered with rewards. Just like with your flights, you'll need to sign up for a few different travel credit cards and plan it out as you go. (See also: How to Vacation in Greece for $300 or Less)

Covering excursions with rewards

Getting your flights and lodging covered is great, but what about everything else? When you're so close to so many sites of historical significance and famous art, you absolutely have to go.

Fortunately, you can also use rewards to cover day trips and excursions. One strategy to consider is using flexible travel credit to book your own excursions and tours through a website like Viator. This booking site connects you to options that span from day trips to the Leaning Tower of Pisa, to guided tours of the Uffizi Gallery in Florence and food tours in Rome. (See also: Once-In-A-Lifetime Experiences I've Earned With Credit Card Rewards)

You can also book many of the same excursions available through Viator through a popular credit card rewards portal, which can be a smart move.

If you employ all of these strategies, you should have your flights, lodging, and excursions covered for $500 or less. This leaves you with $500 to spend on food and other attractions, which is a real possibility if you're willing to eat cheap.

A fancy restaurant overlooking a famous square may tempt you, but your money will stretch further if you dine off the beaten path. And the best souvenir is one that's free — the memories you'll be left with for a lifetime.

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This article is from Holly Johnson of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

How to Save Big on Last-Minute Travel

Jason Steele — Thu, 21 Jun 2018 08:31:13 +0000

Do you need to get out of town in a hurry? To find the best deals on travel, you usually have to make your reservations at least a few months in advance. But sometimes, it just isn't possible and you'll have to be on the lookout for last-minute deals. Thankfully, there are some types of travel reservations that go on sale within days, or even hours of use.

Here are a few of the most popular ways to save money on travel booked without advance reservations.

Look for frequent flyer awards

Whether you earn your frequent flyer miles using travel credit cards or by flying, in my experience, the two ways to receive the most value from your frequent flyer miles is to book expensive flights in business or first class, or to travel on otherwise expensive tickets booked without advance notice. Actually, you can often use your rewards to do both and realize a value of several cents per point or mile redeemed. That's the kind of value worth cashing in for. (See also: Which Airline's Frequent Flyer Miles Have the Best Value?)

For example, Lufthansa tends to only release its business and first class award seats to Star Alliance partner airlines within two weeks of departure. To book these seats, you could use miles from United Airlines, Air Canada, or Singapore Airlines. Other airlines that are good at offering last-minute award flights include Delta and British Airways, neither of which charge close-in booking fees.

On the other hand, United does charge a close-in booking fee for flights booked less than 21 days before departure, but it will let United credit card holders and those with elite status book any available seat as an Everyday award. Those awards cost at least double the miles of the harder-to-find Saver awards, but there are more of them available. The extra points it will cost you is often worth it to snag a very expensive ticket at the last minute.

Thankfully, I've even been able to avoid United's $75 fee by booking a flight I didn't want that's outside the 21-days advance purchase window. Then I immediately call the airline and change the flight to the date I actually do want, which is within the 21-day window. Everyone has the right to change their flight within 24 hours of booking without incurring change fees. For some reason that $75 close-in booking fee also doesn't get charged if you make this change by phone — but it won't work if you try to change the ticket online. (See also: 20 Secrets of Last-Minute Travel)

Use the right app or website

When it comes to last-minute travel, several apps and websites can be your best friend. Here are a few of the top ones:

1. icruise

icruise is a website and app with a special section for last-minute cruises being offered at steep discounts.

2. GTFO

GTFO stands for Get The Flight Out, and this website lists some of the cheapest last-minute flights out of nine top cities in the U.S.

3. HotelTonight

HotelTonight is an app that lives up to its name by offering discounted rooms up to a week in advance or as late as the same day. This service searches available properties in over 1,700 cities.

4. Last Minute Travel

Last Minute Travel offers discounted hotels, flights, cruises, rental cars, and more to those who pay a $50 annual membership fee. It claims to offer discounts of up to 65 percent, as well as personalized offers by email.

5. One:Night

One:Night is an app that offers hotel deals in select major cities after 3 p.m. local time. (See also: 7 Best Websites for Last-Minute Airfare Deals)

Negotiate

Long before apps were invented, resourceful travelers would take it upon themselves to find the best last-minute deals possible. Today, you can still strike a great deal under the right circumstances. When it comes to hotels, you can call around, or even visit the front desk to find the best rate. To start, simply ask what's available and what their best rate is. Then, ask if there's any way that they can do better. Try to find out if the person you're speaking with has the authority to offer a lower rate and if not, don't hesitate to ask for someone who does.

It can also help to have a good reason for booking a room at the last minute. For example, if you're traveling because of an emergency, or you need a room for the night because your trip was disrupted, share that information with hotel staff, and they may offer you a distressed traveler rate.

Rental car agencies will be less flexible, but managers of local franchises may have the discretion to offer lower rates during periods of weak demand. Sadly, you're unlikely to achieve these results if you attempt to bargain with airline staff, but there's little harm in asking them to help you find the best possible price once you've exhausted all other possibilities. They may not be able to bargain, but if you're nice, they might share some tips or tricks you didn't know.

Consider last-minute cruise deals

Just before a big cruise ship leaves port, unsold cabins are sometimes offered at a steep discount. If your travel plans are flexible and you can make it to any of the major ports, then you can find some great deals. (See also: 10 Little-Known Secrets to Saving Money on Your Next Cruise)

To find these last-minute cruise tickets, there are several places you can check. First, the websites of the cruise lines themselves have special sections for last-minute deals. A few to try are Royal Caribbean, Princess and Norwegian Cruise Line. Next, look at third-party sites that specialize in last-minute deals, such as Cruises.com, Last Minute Cruises and even Costco Travel.

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This article is from Jason Steele of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

How to Take a 7-Day Cross Country Road Trip for $350 or Less

Holly Johnson — Mon, 18 Jun 2018 08:30:20 +0000

When it comes to the standard family vacation, there's almost nothing more American than the old-fashioned summer road trip. And this type of trip may be more popular than ever thanks to low gas prices and the diversity of destinations within the U.S.

According to the 2017-2018 Portrait of American Travelers study, which is sponsored by travel and hospitality marketing firm MMGY, 85 percent of American vacations take place within the U.S. This figure represents a 7 percent increase from the previous year's numbers, which means 13.9 million more vacations were taken domestically instead of internationally during this study session. Road trips are increasingly popular, with 39 percent of U.S. leisure travel over the last year including a stint on the road, an increase of 17 percent over the prior year.

If you're angling for a road trip this year but hoping to keep costs low, it's smart to start planning now. With some creative thinking, you may be able to cover the bulk of your expenses with rewards and keep your total out-of-pocket costs to a minimum. And this is true no matter where you plan to explore, from the Great Smoky Mountains to the arid deserts of the Southwestern U.S.

Here's how to finagle a seven-night road trip around the U.S. for $350 or less. (See also: How to Have a Fun Family Road Trip Without Breaking Your Budget)

Cover gas with cash back

One of the biggest expenses of any road trip is the cash it will take to fuel your car. The price of this expense can vary depending on your car's fuel economy and how far you plan to travel, but it will mostly like take up a good chunk of your road trip budget.

One of the easiest ways to get your gas covered is by signing up for a cash-back credit card that offers an initial sign-up bonus and gives you ongoing rewards for your spending. With a cash-back card, you can redeem your points for statement credits to cover your gas after your road trip is over.

The key to choosing a cash-back card for this expense is looking for a card with the highest rate of return, hopefully more than the standard 1 percent back. A big sign-up bonus is a plus as well.

Make sure you come up with an idea of the total rewards you'll need to cover your gas purchases ahead of time. AAA has a solid gas cost calculator that can help you determine what you'll spend based on the car you drive and other details. For example, if you plan to drive from Mobile, Alabama to the Grand Canyon in a 2009 Honda Civic that gets 30 miles per gallon on average, this calculator reveals the fuel cost at $146.92 one-way or $293.84 round-trip at today's gas prices.

In that case, you would need to earn nearly $300 in cash-back to cover fuel costs before you go, which shouldn't be that difficult when you combine a sign-up bonus and regular spending on the card.

You may also want to consider how you can earn more cash back on the road on that gas you'll be buying. Cards that earn extra points for spending on gas are ideal for this purpose. (See also: Best Credit Cards for Road Trips)

Pick up a co-branded hotel credit card or two

One huge advantage of road trips is the fact that you may be able to stay in lower-end, roadside hotels and motels. Doing so will make your hotel stays considerably less expensive in points or cash.

A co-branded hotel credit card or two can easily help you cover a week's worth of hotel stays around the country, although the right card for you depends on your itinerary.

Imagine you plan to drive through the Black Hills of South Dakota and all the way to Yellowstone National Park. In that case, earning rewards with the IHG Rewards program could be beneficial if you plan to stay in Winner or Fort Pierre, South Dakota on the way. Both cities offer IHG properties that are just 15,000 IHG Rewards points per night.

On the way from the Black Hills to Yellowstone, you would probably want to drive through Wyoming. Once again, the IHG Rewards program is a great one for this state. In cities like Casper, Lander, and Buffalo, Wyoming, there are numerous IHG properties for 15,000–20,000 IHG Rewards points per night. These destinations (Casper, especially) are also worth a visit on their own and not just a place to lay your head at night. Casper boasts a beautiful mountain backdrop, museums, and hiking trails with waterfalls. What's not to love?

Still, your road map may look totally different. Maybe you're driving through the Everglades to the Florida Keys or exploring the northeastern coast of the U.S. Take the time to explore hotel credit cards and loyalty programs to find options that will work with your itinerary, then consider signing up for a few. By staying outside big cities and closer to the highway, you will find options that cost a lot fewer points. (See also: 7 Travel Hacks for an Affordable Summer Road Trip)

Using flexible travel credit for guided tours and miscellaneous travel expenses

The next challenge you'll face is figuring out how to cover the other components of your trip — expenses like museum entries, park visits, or guided tours. This is one area where you'll want some flexibility in how you can redeem your rewards, which is why cards that offer travel statement credits are perfect.

Many flexible rewards cards offer two points for each dollar you spend, then let you redeem them for a statement credit against any travel purchase at a rate of one cent per point. If you can earn a sign-up bonus worth 50,000 points, for example, you could redeem them for $500 in travel including day trips and excursions.

Also consider checking out a popular credit card rewards program to pay for excursions and tours. This program lets you book an endless number of activities all over the country, and your experience will be free if you pay with points. Options can include once-in-a-lifetime experiences like kayaking tours, guided hikes, food tours, and museums. Basically, you can book almost anything found on Viator.com through this program — except you get the privilege of paying with points.

If you play your cards right and use a combination of flexible rewards and travel credit, you could book all your family's activities for free.

Cover your other travel expenses

If you cover gas with cash-back, book free hotels with hotel points, and pay for excursions and tours with travel credit or other rewards points, the bulk of your trip will be free. So, what does that leave?

Other expenses you'll need to cover may vary depending on your family and travel style, but there's one giant cost you likely can't get away from — food.

This is one area where you'll want to set a daily budget and look for ways to save. Hopefully, you can set a dining budget of $50 per day, or $350 for the week. However, you may spend more or less depending on the age of your kids and your flexibility in dining options. If you love to splurge for a nightly dinner out, you will likely need to spend more than $350 for the week. If your kids are cool with eating PB&Js out of a cooler, on the other hand, you could spend even less. (See also: Best Credit Cards for Dining Out)

Either way, it's possible to save on food while you travel. Here are some strategies to consider and plan for ahead of time:

Booking a hotel with free breakfast: Although you'll likely be covering your hotels with points, many lower end properties bookable with the big hotel brands (Holiday Inn Express, Comfort Inn, Hampton Inn, etc.) offer free breakfast as a perk whether you pay in cash or points. Make sure to scan rewards programs for options that include breakfast for free so you can avoid paying for this meal altogether.
Eat on the road: You can pick up fast food that's fairly healthy, although your options may be limited depending on where you're traveling.
Pack meals ahead of time: Bring a cooler with snacks, sandwiches, and ingredients you can use to make a healthy meal. Lunch meat, bread, fresh fruit, and carrot sticks can easily be brought along on your trip to cover lunch for each day of the week. (See also: These 15 Road Trip Snacks Make It All About the Journey)
Read restaurant reviews and study menus online: One of the most important steps you'll take to save money on food is not walking into the first restaurant you see. Use the internet to search for affordable dining along the route of your trip so you can avoid pricey establishments and dine on a budget instead.

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This article is from Holly Johnson of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

How to Score a European Cruise for $1,000 or Less

Holly Johnson — Fri, 15 Jun 2018 08:30:22 +0000

If you dream of seeing Europe but your time and budget are limited, consider planning a cruise. Mediterranean and Adriatic cruises with stops in Spain, Italy, Croatia, and Greece are particularly popular, but you could also cruise through the Norwegian Fjords or through greater Scandinavia. River trips with brands like Viking River Cruises are also well-liked since they let you traverse smaller waterways and get up close and personal with some of Europe's most beautiful cities.

But why cruising? Most cruises offer a lot of bang for your buck since they let you see more than one destination for a single price. Pay for flights to your departure city and your cruise fare, and you get to wake up in a new place for a unique adventure every day. Food, some drinks, and entertainment are also included on cruises, making them an especially good deal. (See also: 10 Little-Known Secrets to Saving Money On Your Next Cruise)

Still, the term "good deal" is relative since European cruises aren't exactly cheap. Plus, you have to pay for international flights upfront, which could easily add thousands of dollars to the cost of your trip.

If your goal is seeing as much as you can for as little as possible, it's wise to come up with a comprehensive plan to use travel rewards. With the right travel credit cards and some patience, you could even book this trip for $1,000 or less. Here's how:

Pay for flights to your departure city with airline miles

For the purpose of this example, let's say you're a family of four. You need to cover transportation expenses for four people and a cruise cabin big enough to accommodate your family.

The first step to planning this trip is making sure you have the airline miles to cover your flights. Fortunately, there are several ways to get to Europe on the cheap — even if there are multiple people in your party.

One of the easiest rewards programs to pay for flights to Europe is Air France/Flying Blue. While this airline doesn't have its own co-branded airline credit card, you can transfer points to this program from several other popular credit card rewards programs.

While Air France/Flying Blue no longer publishes an award chart, one-way economy flights to Europe are typically just 25,000 miles. This means that a family of four could fly round-trip for just 200,000 miles, plus airline taxes and fees.

Those fees usually amount to between $100 and $125 per person, though they can be higher, especially in London. For most destination airports, however, your family will pay $400-$500 in airline taxes in addition to your miles. Considering that round-trip economy flights can cost $1,500 each or more, this represents a huge savings.

To rack up the miles you need, you'll want to sign up for flexible rewards cards that let you transfer points to airlines, and in particular, to this program. While 200,000 miles is a lot, you could earn these miles easily with some time and with both spouses earning their own signup bonuses.

You could also opt for airline-specific rewards, including the American AAdvantage program. This frequent flyer program is fairly easy to accumulate miles with, since several credit cards earn American AAdvantage miles. Off-peak MileSAAver flights to Europe, which can be booked from November through April with blackout dates over the holidays, are only 22,500 miles each way plus airline taxes and fees. (See also: 6 Money-Saving Items to Bring On Your Next Cruise)

Shop around for an affordable cruise and matching available flights

Your next step is comparing cruises to find the best deal. While many cruise lines offer similar itineraries in Europe, their prices can be all over the board.

If you're cruising with kids and need a cruise line that's family-friendly, you can look for a cruise line that lets kids cruise for free. MSC Cruises offers numerous options out of various European cities such as Venice, Italy and Barcelona, Spain. Kids ages 11 and under cruise free on many of their itineraries.

Use a travel portal like Expedia.com to search for inexpensive cruises, then try to line up potential cruises with airfare you can swing based on award availability.

Let's say you find ideal flights into and out of Venice, Italy for the month you want to travel. From there, you can look for cruises that embark from this cruise port on your preferred dates using an online search engine.

Cover your hotels

You may want to fly into the cruise port a day or two early to get your bearings and make sure a flight delay doesn't cause you to miss your cruise. You may also want to stay a night in your departure city once your cruise is over. In either case, you'll want to earn some rewards to cover a few nights in a hotel.

Co-branded hotel credit cards can work splendidly in this regard, although the card you should get will depend on the city you need to stay in. In Venice, for example, the IHG Rewards program could be a good option. You can book the Holiday Inn Venice — Mestre Marghera, which is on the mainland and fairly close to the airport and public transportation, for just 20,000 points per night.

Cover your cruise with flexible rewards

Once your flights and potential overnight stays are covered, you'll need to rack up rewards to cover your cruise. The best way to do this is by earning flexible rewards points you can redeem for any type of travel.

There are several credit cards that offer big signup bonuses and two points for every dollar you spend. These cards let you redeem points for statement credits to pay for any type of travel, including cruises. When you redeem, you'll get a rate of one cent per point.

This is where pricing is important. If you're redeeming rewards for a cruise at one cent per point, more affordable cruises will be easier to cover with points.

Fortunately, there are many inexpensive cruises you can book in Europe. With Norwegian Cruise Line, for example, you can book an inside cabin for myriad cruises out of cities like Venice and Rome for less than $2,500. Meanwhile, MSC Cruises offers cruise deals out of European cities for slightly less on itineraries where kids cruise free.

Keep in mind, however, that even "free cruises" for kids come with government taxes and fees. Also, most cruise lines charge gratuities that are added to your onboard account at the end of your cruise.

Ideally, you will book an affordable cruise you love for less than $2,500 all-in. If both you and your spouse or partner sign up for cards with big signup bonuses, you could easily rack up $2,000 in flexible travel credit over the span of a year.

Cover the difference and enjoy all the free food and entertainment on your ship, and you could end up with your out-of-pocket expenses at $500 or less.

Book cruise excursions with rewards

You can get off your ship and look for free things to do, but it's likely you'll want to maximize your time in Europe while you're there. One of the best ways to cover excursions in Europe is to sign up for a credit card that earns points that can be used for cruise excursions. One particularly popular program offers many of the same cruise excursions you can book through Viator.com and ones that are similar to what you can book via your cruise line. The difference is, you can book with rewards points and save your cash for something else.

But what kinds of trips can you book? It really depends on your cruise stops and your interests, but nearly anything you want to do is a solid possibility. From vegan food tours in Barcelona, to skip-the-line access to the Colosseum in Rome or a Game of Thrones tour in Dubrovnik, Croatia, credit card rewards bring Europe's greatest treasures and cities within reach. (See also: Once-in-a-Lifetime Experiences I've Booked With Credit Card Rewards)

Following this plan, you'll pay $400-$500 for flight taxes and fees for your family, plus an estimated $500 on cruise expenses, putting your total for this trip at a very modest $1,000 or less for a family of four. To make it work, get to work earning those credit card rewards.

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This article is from Holly Johnson of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

7 Common Travel Myths That People Need to Stop Believing

Nick Wharton — Wed, 06 Jun 2018 08:30:29 +0000

Many people hold misconceptions about travel that are born out of rumors, misinformation, and a fear of the unknown. Most imply that you need to be rich, that only certain privileged people can travel, and that common life situations make it impossible to see the world. But safe and affordable travel is actually possible. Here are seven common travel myths that are flat-out wrong.

1. Traveling is too expensive

There's no doubt about it, traveling can absolutely be expensive. But that doesn't mean it has to be. If you're booking luxury cruises and five-star hotels every time you go on vacation, then yes, you'll need lots of cash. There are endless ways to make traveling easier on your budget, though, and all while enjoying a fantastic standard of living.

Choosing the right destinations is key, and outside of the U.S., many places are far cheaper on everything from food to accommodation. You can use travel rewards credit cards to save hundreds of dollars per year and get free travel perks. And timing your trip is another way to keep costs down, simply by traveling outside of peak seasons.

2. Travel credit cards are bad for your finances

Credit cards are only as dangerous as the person wielding them, so it's completely inaccurate to assume that the cards themselves are dangerous for your finances. When used correctly, travel rewards cards can actually be of huge benefit for travelers. They’re a great way to earn free bonuses just for doing your everyday spending, and savvy travelers use them to score everything from free flights to free hotel stays.

Rewards credit cards are most suitable for people who are already debt-free and able to pay off their balance each month. It's also important not to increase your spending in order to gather rewards, as this will rarely make financial sense.

3. Couchsurfing is unsafe

Couchsurfing sometimes gets a bad rap, and people tend to focus on the few horror stories that appear in the news. The reality is that most people have a fantastic experience when couchsurfing, and trouble with hosts or guests is extremely rare. Travel blogger Rachel Jones is a fan of couchsurfing, and has found that it gives her a more immersive local experience. She has even made long-lasting friendships through it. (See also: 13 Ways to Get Free Travel Accommodations)

There are precautionary steps you should take as a guest when looking for a couchsurfing opportunity that is right for you. First, read the host profiles carefully, particularly the reviews, as these will give you an insight into the person you'll be staying with. Second, always give a friend or family member the address you're heading to before you go, and arrange to check in with them throughout your stay. Finally, don't be afraid to walk away. If alarm bells ring in your head, listen to your instincts and leave.

4. Traveling with kids is a nightmare

Traveling with kids can be difficult, and it's certainly more complicated than traveling alone. But that doesn't mean that it should stop you from doing it. There are plenty of families successfully navigating the world with multiple kids in tow, and absolutely loving the experience.

Some destinations are more child-friendly than others, so it pays to do your research before choosing. It will also take a bit more planning to find suitable accommodations and ensure you have packed everything you need to make the trip enjoyable for everyone. But there are lots of useful resources filled with great information to help you out. (See also: How to Handle World Travel With Your Family)

5. Traveling solo is too dangerous for women

There's an entire genre of travel blogging that has grown out of the desire to crush the belief that solo travel is inherently dangerous for women. Not only is it outdated and sexist, but it's also incorrect. There are female solo travelers making their way to every corner of the globe, safely and expertly.

That's not to say that there aren't precautions that solo female travelers should take to keep themselves safe. But they're exactly the same ones that apply to any kind of solo traveler, regardless of gender. Stay alert, do your research, don’t tell strangers where you’re staying, do let close friends and family know where you’re going, and consider joining a tour group if you’re uncomfortable on your own. (See also: 6 Unexpected Benefits of Solo Travel)

6. You can't work overseas

While it's not as simple as packing up, boarding a flight, and finding a suitable position in your chosen country, it's not impossible to work overseas. For 18–30-year-olds, there are working holiday visas that the U.S. government has set up with New Zealand, Ireland, South Korea, Singapore, and Australia that allow you to work overseas for up to two years with relatively few restrictions.

If you don't qualify for one of those, then you can still work overseas as long as you have the correct visa. You should also be aware of U.S. tax regulations, meaning you'll likely still have to file returns. (See also: 5 Tax Myths That Can Be Costly for Expats)

7. You have to have enough money for your whole trip before you leave

If you're planning on traveling for a long period of time, it can be daunting to save up the exact amount of money you need to cover your whole journey. But the truth is, you don't have to. It's entirely possible to set off with a limited amount of cash and earn money as you make your way around the world.

There are countless ways to make money while you travel that are open to anyone, and if you have some skills that enable you to work remotely, then even better. From hospitality work to web design, there are lots of occupations you can do from anywhere in the world. Just make sure you've saved enough to get yourself started before hitting the road. (See also: 15 Ways to Make Money While You Travel)

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How a Family of 4 Can Book a Disney Vacation for $1,000 or Less

Holly Johnson — Wed, 25 Apr 2018 08:30:05 +0000

Even though Disney parks are notoriously expensive, there are still plenty of ways to save. If you're on a tight budget, you could visit a Disney park for only one day and spend the rest of your trip at the hotel pool, for example. You could also buy one-park day passes instead of "park hopper" tickets that let you access multiple parks, and you could skip out on extras like character dinners and souvenirs.

You could even stay in an off-site condo or timeshare rental, bring and make all of your meals, and drive to the park instead of flying.

But you'll still face the inevitable fact that Disney isn't cheap. Even one-day park tickets start at $109 at Disney Magic Kingdom Park during nonpeak times. Plus, you have hotel stays to cover, meals to pay for, and, well, everything else. And if you need to fly to the park, you can add hundreds of dollars per person to your total bill.

Fortunately, the best travel rewards credit cards can help you plan a Disney vacation that fits within your budget. You may not get your entire trip for free, but the right combination of cards and points can help you save on some of the bigger components of your trip and whittle your total travel costs down.

While you'll want to plan at least six months to one year ahead if you want to use rewards to cover airfare or hotels, the strategy below is totally doable if you have the right mindset. Here's how to plan a Disney trip for $1,000 or less for a family of four.

Paying for airfare to Disney

If you don't need to fly to Orlando at the start of your Disney World trip, then you can restrict your transportation costs to the price of gas. But if you need to fly, you'll want to make sure you sign up for the right combination of airline or flexible travel credit cards ahead of time.

One of the best options to focus on is Southwest Rapid Rewards if Southwest Airlines flies out of your home airport. You can rack up Southwest miles with a co-branded Southwest credit card or transfer points 1:1 to Southwest from a popular bank rewards credit card.

The tricky thing about using Southwest is the fact that award flights fluctuate based on ticket pricing. This makes it difficult to predict how many points you need for a flight, but it's also a good thing since lower-priced flights cost fewer points.

You can frequently find flights from many U.S. cities to Orlando for as little as 6,000 miles one-way or 12,000 miles round-trip. If you find a sale or book when prices are low, this could mean getting your entire family's airfare to Orlando covered for 48,000 miles round-trip. Keep in mind, however, that you'll also have to pay $5.60 in government-mandated taxes and fees for each leg of your flights.

If your local airport doesn't offer flights with Southwest, you'll need to look for a different frequent flyer program to rack up points with. JetBlue is another good option since flights can cost fewer points on certain dates and they are easy to earn. I found round-trip flights from Chicago to Orlando on JetBlue in June for 16,000 miles (plus $11.20 in fees), for example.

You could also consider American Airlines, which will charge 25,000 miles round-trip (or fewer miles if you live within 500 miles of Orlando), plus the same $5.60 per leg in taxes. United MileagePlus is another good option for as little as 20,000 miles round-trip, plus taxes. Last but not least, Delta Air Lines may have good options from your home airport, but you should check online ahead of time before you start racking up Delta miles since the airline no longer publishes an award chart.

Covering hotels

Hotels are fairly easy to cover near Disney World in Orlando, and that's true whether you want to stay in a traditional hotel room or a condo. Most of the major hotel brands offer properties in the Disney area, with some even on park property. Here are some of the best options to consider racking up hotel points with using either a co-branded hotel credit card or a card that lets you transfer points. (See also: Best Hotel Programs and Credit Cards)

Starwood Preferred Guest:

Sheraton Lake Buena Vista Resort — from 4,000 Starpoints per night
Walt Disney World Dolphin — from 12,000 Starpoints per night
Sheraton Vistana Resort Villas — from 10,000 Starpoints per night

IHG Rewards:

Holiday Inn & Suites Across from Universal Orlando — from 25,000 points per night
Crowne Plaza Orlando — from 30,000 points per night
Holiday Inn Lake Buena Vista Resort — from 35,000 points per night

Marriott Rewards:

Fairfield Inn & Suites Orlando Near Universal Orlando Resort — from 30,000 points per night
Residence Inn Near Universal Orlando — from 30,000 points per night

Hilton Honors:

DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Orlando Downtown — 30,000 points per night
Hampton Inn near Universal Studios — 30,000 points per night
DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel near Universal Orlando — 30,000 points per night

To make any of the above options work, you'll want to get a co-branded hotel credit card or a card that lets you transfer points to hotel programs. Find out how many points you need for the number of nights you want to stay ahead of time, then strategize credit card sign-up bonuses and regular spending to earn enough points in time. You can also consider having yourself and your spouse sign up for the same card to earn double the sign-up bonuses. And don't forget that Starwood Preferred Guest, Marriott, and Hilton usually offer a fifth night free when you book with rewards.

Also keep in mind that you can use points to book any kind of accommodation if you've got a flexible travel credit card that doles out travel credit instead of hotel points. Cards that fall into this category let you earn points that can be redeemed for any travel purchase at a rate of one cent per point. (See also: Credit Cards With the Best Travel Redemption Value)

What about park tickets?

While hotels and airfare may be fairly easily covered with rewards, park tickets can be tricky. This is partly because Disney seldom has sales on tickets to its parks.

One of the best workarounds is to sign up for a credit card that offers flexible points you can redeem for any travel purchase. Better yet, both you and a spouse or partner sign up and earn double the sign-up bonuses.

There are some cards that offer 50,000 bonus points after you spend $3,000 within the first three months of the account opening. Plus, you earn two points for each dollar you spend, meaning you'll have $560 in travel credit after you earn the sign-up bonus. If both you and a partner sign up, you could have $1,120 in travel credit to spend on park tickets. That's easily enough to cover four two-day "park hopper" tickets for a family of four with two kids ages 3-9.

The downside here is that, traditionally, Disney purchases have not coded as "travel," which is the key factor that lets you cover them with flexible travel credit. To work around this, buy your Disney World Orlando park tickets from UndercoverTourist.com. This website does code as travel when you purchase with credit, and it offers similar prices to the Disney website.

Adding it all together

While there are lots of ways to piece together a Disney trip with credit card rewards, this blueprint has the potential to help you achieve a Disney vacation for four for less than $1,000. If you covered your airfare with Southwest Rapid Rewards points, covered your hotel entirely with points, and used flexible travel credit to pay for a few days at Disney parks, for example, you would have the bulk of your $1,000 budget to spend on food and fun.

You can also cover part of your trip with rewards and pay the rest in cash. If you can stay near the parks with a friend or relative for free, for example, you could focus your rewards efforts on covering flights and park tickets and skip over hotels altogether.

If your goal is saving money on a Disney vacation, then more than one strategy will work. The key is planning ahead, reading the fine print, and pursuing credit card rewards with caution and care.

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This article is from Holly Johnson of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

How to Vacation in Greece for $300 or Less

Holly Johnson — Mon, 23 Apr 2018 08:30:10 +0000

It's easy to see why Greece tops the list for so many travelers saving up for a bucket list trip. The country boasts ancient ruins, historical marvels like the Acropolis and the Oracle at Delphi, stunning scenery, and 6,000 islands, only 227 of which are inhabited. Of course, a visit to Greece wouldn't be complete without time spent in the ancient city of Athens, where you'll find big city night life along with historical relics around every corner.

The problem with traveling to Greece is the same one you'll find when you plan trips to other far-flung corners of the world. Greece is farther from the U.S. than the rest of Europe, and thus it's expensive to get to. There are frequent sales for flights to Athens and other Greek destinations, but they are typically short-lived and only available from bigger cities.

If you want to plan a bucket list trip to Greece at a price you can afford, your best bet is coming up with a credit card rewards strategy and implementing it early. Here's how you can score a Greek vacation for $300 or less with the right combination of points and miles. (See also: 7 Ways to Save on a European Getaway With Kids)

Getting to Greece with airline miles

Since nearly all major airlines with frequent flyer programs fly into Greece, you have many options when it comes to racking up miles. One of the best choices, however, is the American Airlines AAdvantage program. You can earn miles in this program by signing up for a co-branded American Airlines credit card, shopping through the American AAdvantage shopping portal, or earning miles through the airline's dining program.

While flights to Greece from the U.S. will set you back at least 60,000 American AAdvantage miles for most of the year, you can book these flights for only 45,000 miles during the off-peak season, which lasts roughly from November through the end of March, with blackout dates over holidays.

Keep in mind, however, that you'll need to pay for airline taxes, fees, and fuel surcharges on top of your miles. These fees vary depending on the flights and dates you choose, but they tend to run in the $125-$280 range. This could be the biggest expense you'll pay for travel — or even the only expense you'll pay.

Another solid option within the frequent flyer space is Air France/Flying Blue. This program partners with the proprietary rewards programs offered by major card issuers, making it an especially easy option for racking up points through sign-up bonuses. With Air France, you can fly round-trip from many U.S. cities to Athens, Greece for 50,000 miles plus taxes and fees.

A third option to consider is United Airlines. It's easy to rack up United miles through either the credit card rewards programs that lets you transfer points to United, or through United's own co-branded credit cards. Round-trip flights from U.S. cities to Athens will set you back 60,000 United miles plus $100-$150 in fees per person.

Covering your hotel

Hotels are easy to book with points all over Greece, but you'll want to think long and hard about where you want to stay before coming up with a plan. Remember that Greece is huge and that there is much to see on the mainland as well as on famous Greek islands like Santorini and Mykonos.

Your best hotel options depend on where you want to stay, but here are some of the hotels you could book with the right hotel rewards programs. (See also: Best Hotel Rewards Programs)

Starwood Preferred Guest:

Periscope Athens — from 10,000 Starpoints per night
The Romanos, Costa Navarino — from 25,000 Starpoints per night
Blue Palace, Crete — from 25,000 Starpoints per night
Sheraton Rhodes Resort — from 10,000 Starpoints per night
The Met Hotel, Thessaloniki — from 7,000 Starpoints per night

IHG Rewards:

Crowne Plaza Athens, City Center — from 25,000 points per night
InterContinental Hotels Athenaeum Athens — from 35,000 points per night
Holiday Inn Athens near the airport — from 20,000 points per night

Marriott Rewards:

Domes of Elounda, Crete — from 40,000 points per night
Domes Noruz Chania, Chania-Crete — 45,000 points per night

Hilton Honors:

Hilton Athens — 50,000 points per night

Keep in mind that these are just some of the options available. There are additional hotels you can book with a co-branded hotel credit card or with a travel card that lets you transfer points to hotels.

If you sign up for a credit card that offers a bank rewards program, you could book any hotel you want through the card's travel portal. During a November 2016 stay in Athens, I booked the 360 Degrees Hotel Athens for less than 9,000 credit card points per night. This hotel features a rooftop bar with a stellar view of the Acropolis nearby as well as a great location in Monastiraki Square. (See also: This Might Be the Best Travel Rewards Program)

Getting around in Greece

Finally, how will you actually get from place to place once you arrive in Greece? Your best is to sign up for a travel credit card that offers flexible travel credit and use points to earn statement credits against charges for rental cars and ferries to the islands. (See also: Best Credit Cards With Easy Travel Redemption)

Cards that fall into this category typically let you redeem points for travel at a rate of one cent per point, making the average 50,000-point sign-up bonus worth $500.

Use these points to pay for a rental car around Greece, which could cost as little as $140 for the week depending on when you book. Pro tip: Make sure you use a rewards card that offers primary auto rental coverage so you can avoid paying extra for this benefit at the rental counter.

You can also use statement credits to pay for ferries to the Greek Islands. A round-trip ferry from Athens to Heraklion costs just $47, while a round-trip ferry from Athens to Mykonos costs as little as $90. Make sure to compare ferry services to different destinations until you find the best deal for your dates.

Greece for less than $300?

If you cover your flights with airline miles, pay for hotels with hotel points and flexible travel points, and use flexible travel credit to cover the rest, the Greece trip of your dreams could be yours for $300 or less. Your main costs are going to be the price of airline taxes and fees, which you couldn't get out of if you tried.

Still, you should make sure to budget for the rest of your trip. Even if the bulk of your journey is covered with points and miles, you'll still have to pay for food, entry to attractions, and miscellaneous expenses.

Start saving and planning your rewards strategy now, and this trip could be yours in less time than you think.

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This article is from Holly Johnson of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread: