5 Big Travel Myths, Debunked
Myth #1: Travel is sooooo expensive
You can imagine that, with a name like Budget Travel, we take this myth personally. Sure, a city like, say, London is home to sky-high hotel rates. But even that European capital, like most places on your list, can be brought down to earth with the help of smart research, package tours (where rock-bottom airfare and hotel rates are often bundled into the package), and taking advantage of the luxurious freebies and bargains that can be found almost anywhere. READ: The 25 Absolute Best Money-Saving Travel Tips Ever.
Myth #2: Managing rewards points is a headache
It doesn’t have to be. Truth is, the rewards points systems you enter when you sign up for a frequent-flier program or mileage credit card can be confusing, but that’s why we’ve devoted considerable resources in scoping out the best programs and the best techniques for holding on to your points and using them in the most dream-fulfilling way possible. READ: Biggest Reward Program Blunders and How Not to Make Them.
Myth #3: Lodging is too expensive for big families
Well, ok, hotels can be expensive. So… try a vacation rental instead! If your brood won’t fit comfortably into one hotel room, chances are you’ll save big by renting an apartment or home where you can do some of your own cooking (and add, say, Italian cooking lessons to your itinerary in Rome!), get more elbow room (maybe even a backyard for the little ones to frolic in), and save big. READ: Read This Before You Book a Vacation Rental.
Myth #4: “All-inclusive” actually means “all-inclusive”
Ahhh. The words sound so lovely. And the experience of not having to reach for your wallet while on vacation is enticing. But… When you book a cruise, make sure you read the fine print (or get on the phone with a customer service rep) before clicking “book.” In many cases, top-shelf drinks, certain restaurants, and other experiences may cost you extra, and finding out before you buy is always nicer than finding out when they hand you the bill. READ: All-Inclusive Vacations: The 7 Questions Every Traveler Must Ask.
Myth #5: You can’t control flight delays and other snafus
Okay, you can’t control the weather or the various ways in which mechanical failure or human error may derail your flight. But… You can take control of delays and cancellations when you understand the best procedures, the magic words that unlock kindness in strangers, and, most importantly what your rights are. READ: Take Control of Weather-Related Flight Delays and Cancellations.
