College was where I honed my creative skills in getting what I wanted without going broke. I never held a full-time job because I was in school, some summers included, and I lived at home with my parents, so I didn’t make much money. If you are in college, or even if you aren’t, I have some tips for you on how to travel without going broke! I believe everyone needs to take at least 1 trip a year, for sanity’s sake. Even if it’s a staycation, a vacation where you stay in your hometown state/region/city, everyone needs a break. Here are some tips to travel without breaking the bank:

1. If you belong to a professional organization, try to attend an annual conference. Yes, I’m aware fees can be quite expensive. This is where your employer comes in, ok? Try to see if they can reimburse you for travel or even pay your registration. Come up with a proposal to make it worth their while for you to attend. This can involve showing them how attending the conference would enhance your skills and grow professionally. I do realize that a lot of companies are struggling financially right now. But it’s worth a shot. It could be a win-win situation-they get an employee dedicated to professional growth, you get to travel, network, and stay up-to-date in your industry.

2. Go see family! Go see that cousin, aunt or uncle you haven’t seen in ages. Some of your cousins may have moved to a different city, allowing you to see them and their new place. Also, you can possibly save money on a hotel by staying with them. OR, at the very least, they can suggest a reasonably priced hotel for you to stay at. You get to spend time with them and see somewhere other than your every day surroundings!

3. Rental Cars/Hotels…for those of you who don’t have a AAA card…GET ONE ASAP. You can get SO many discounts with hotels and rental cars, it’s worth the yearly membership fee. And if you own a car, you should have it anyways.

4. Try to travel during the week. It’s cheaper to fly between Tuesday and Thursday, going and coming. Hotel rates are also cheaper during the week as well. If you must travel on the weekends, try to go during the off-season, when it’s not Spring Break, Summertime, Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any other holiday. Also inquire about special rates & discounts. It doesn’t hurt to ask.

Those are only a FEW suggestions I have. I have MANY more, ones I will share in posts to come, but this is just a list to start with.

Happy travels y’all!