Ways to Save on Travel Costs You May Not have Thought of. (Part 2)

This is a continuation of an article from last week. You can access it by clicking here or by signing up for our free newsletter.

We last talked about all the untraditional ways of saving on a vacation whether for the family, a special someone or yourself. This week we really get outside the box of all your usual travel deals. Let’s just dive in and see what may appeal to you.

Many of you have heard of Youth hostels for young travelers, but did you know that there are elder hostels for people much older than the college kids. Elder hostels are often the choice of many over the age of 55. There is an abundant choice since there are more than 8,000 elderhostels in all 50 states of the US and more than 90 foreign countries. People of all classes and all walks of life travel together and experience educational tours, learn, exchange ideas and explore the world. This is all done at a much more reasonable cost than traveling alone. Of course the cost will vary depending on where you decide to travel and what services are included. These are “not for profit tours” and many of them have teachers and guides who know the countryside and culture that act as tour guides to make sure you get the most from your experience.

Have you ever though or Volunteering and vacationing. If you like the idea of going somewhere and helping others to improve their way of life this may be for you. Many times you will travel in groups. The savings are in the ability to take group discounts/

In the US and Overseas you will spend time volunteering on various projects such as rebuilding homes in New Orleans or planting trees in the Amazon jungle or spreading religion to the masses in areas that have not been exposed to it previously. Now, it is not always all work. There are many opportunities for fun along the way. You can get more information from the United Way, Red Cross, or many religious sponsors.

Another way is to trade your hotel keys for RV keys. With the high price of gasoline and diesel, this is not as doable as it once was but more and more young people are buying RVs where it once was reserved for the much older crown. One afternoon, my girlfriend was feeling a little down and I suggested we go out and looks at RV’s and Travel Trailers. Well, I wound up buying a 5^th wheel travel trailer. I never thought I would do that because I felt I would never use it. Boy was I wrong. I love it.

If you have a large family and plan on a longer the trip you can save more eliminating hotels and restaurants and preparing your own meals in the RV or at the camp site. The work you do can more than offset the gas cost. If you’re not sure you want to take the big step and buy an RV there are many available to rent. If nothing else, you can try before you buy…

Now the following may not be fore everyone, but if you’re seeking to reflect on your inner self or find yourself, you can rent a rooms at monasteries and spiritual retreats very reasonably all over the country. Most are not expensive; some will only require a donation. You might be asked to participate in some of their activities and help with chores but it’s not necessary to share their beliefs. Experiencing e the quiet amid beautiful settings can really be an eye opener.

Break the hotel habit and seek out something different. Untraditional vacations may be just what you’ve been longing for and it will help the bank account

You can read last weeks article by clicking here

Technorati Tags: elder hostel, volunteer vacations, rv travel, monastary lodging

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