Simple Travel Hacking Tips

Let's talk travel hacking. YOU KNOW I love to travel whenever and wherever I can. If you have been following along, you also know the holidays just passed, and I am purchasing a home, so I do not have money to throw at traveling. 

First, is the most talked about method of travel hacking, and that is to use a travel credit card. You can get cards that earn points for airline miles, and you can also get cards that earn you points toward hotel stays. My favorite airline mile card is the Delta Amex. 

Having a travel card usually comes with other travel perks as well, such as free bags, TSA precheck, discounts on various travel arrangements, and so much more. 

This particular way can be a slippery slope if you do not have healthy relationships with credit cards. If you attempt this method, I suggest you use the credit card to pay off monthly expenses that you would have anyway (i.e., groceries, gas, utilities, etc.). Only use this method if you trust yourself with a credit card.

Another tip is to shop your airline travel. If you know you want to travel a few months down the line, you can use apps such as Hopper to watch the trends in flight pricing. 

While shopping for flights, be sure also to compare prices between roundtrip or two one-way tickets. For instance, sometimes Southwest will have deals on one-way flights as low as $59, but as soon as you select roundtrip, your price can increase by $200. 

Another tip is to maximize your carry-ons and luggage so that you only spend a little on luggage fees. When they say carry-on, you can technically have two bags. You can have a personal item if the dimensions do not exceed 14"H, 18"W, 8"D. 

Now, what are some of your favorite travel hacks?