Jet fuel prices doubled

Jet fuel costs have doubled compared to last year, sending airfare prices soaring and forcing some airlines to cancel flights. This squeeze makes smart spending on travel more important than ever.

Skip rental car insurance

Your existing car insurance likely covers rental cars. If not, most travel credit cards include free rental car coverage when you book with that card. Check the fine print before paying extra.

Travel insurance often overlaps

Many travel cards include trip protection similar to travel insurance. Check what your card covers before buying a separate policy. You can fill gaps instead of paying for duplicate coverage.

TSA PreCheck may be free

More travel credit cards now offer complimentary credits for TSA PreCheck or Global Entry. Check your card perks before paying the fee yourself.

Budget airlines hide real costs

Budget airlines like Frontier and Allegiant charge extra for checked bags, carry-ons, seat selection, airport check-in, and boarding passes. Add all fees before comparing to major carriers.

“Not only are checked bags extra, but you might not even be able to bring a carry-on suitcase for free.”

Watch for tight connections

Cheap flights often have tight layovers or connections at different airports. Missing a connection costs money and stress. If you're only saving a few dollars, it's not worth the risk.

Budget airlines delay more often

Budget airlines like Frontier and Allegiant have more frequent flight delays than major carriers. If you're not actually saving money, dealing with delays makes the deal even worse.

Cheap hotels cost more overall

A cheap hotel far from attractions means spending more on transport. Add those costs to the room rate. Also check for complimentary breakfast and hidden amenity fees.

Free breakfast saves daily meals

Paying a few dollars more per night for complimentary breakfast means one less meal you buy while exploring. This adds up quickly over a week-long trip.

Watch for hidden amenity fees

Some hotels charge for gym access, pool towels, and other amenities like airlines charge for bags. Check which amenities cost extra and add those fees to your total.

Packing too light backfires

Leaving behind necessary items forces you to buy them at tourist prices. A winter coat in Sweden or an umbrella at your destination costs far more than luggage space.

Check the weather forecast

Pack an umbrella if rain is expected rather than buying an overpriced one from vendors at your destination. The space is worth the savings.

Full-size toiletries on longer trips

Travel-size hygiene products work for short trips. On longer vacations, pack full-sized products in checked luggage to avoid buying extras at inflated prices.

Buy quality luggage once

A good suitcase costs more upfront but lasts decades. Cheap luggage breaks within a year or two with stuck wheels, broken handles, or missing zippers.

“My Samsonite set is seven years old at this point and looks the same as the day I bought it.”

Quality luggage pays off long term

Even infrequent travelers benefit from durable luggage that lasts a decade or more. The upfront investment beats replacing cheap bags every year.