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Money Monday: Jini Thornton
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It’s Money Mondays on Get Up Mornings with Erica Campbell, and today we’re bringing you insights from financial expert Jini Thornton. With travel season in full swing, Jini shares actionable tips to help make your summer adventures wallet-friendly while keeping the joy of travel intact.

Despite travel costs being 2% lower than last year, the reality is that jet-setting still comes at a premium. But don’t worry! Whether you’re planning a family trip, a couples’ getaway, or a solo retreat, these smart strategies from Jini will ensure your travel plans don’t derail your financial goals.

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Finding Affordable Airfare

“Flexibility is your best friend when it comes to finding cheaper flights,” Jini advises. Did you know that traveling on certain days can make a big difference in price?

  • Domestic Flights: Tuesdays and Wednesdays tend to be more affordable.
  • International Flights: Look to book on Wednesdays and Thursdays.

She also recommends using tools like Google Flights to compare options without committing to a booking. “It’s perfect for people who want to see all their choices,” Jini says. And one pro tip? Make sure you allow plenty of time to get to the airport and through security. Missing your flight and having to rebook can cost a fortune!

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Saving on Hotels and Dining

Hotel stays and food expenses can drain your travel budget fast, but Jini has a solution for that too.

“Take advantage of your hotel or credit card points,” she shares. If you’ve been racking up rewards, now is the perfect time to redeem them. Another practical idea? Opt for Airbnb or VRBO accommodations. Not only do they often save you money on nightly rates, but they also allow you to prepare some of your meals. “Food is SO expensive right now,” Jini says, “so cooking a meal or two at your Airbnb can really cut costs.”

Maximize Convenience at the Airport

If airport lines give you anxiety, Jini recommends investing in services like TSA PreCheck, CLEAR, or even Global Entry for frequent travelers. While these options come with an upfront cost, they save you valuable time and provide peace of mind.

“However, if you don’t travel often,” Jini points out, “this is where arriving early becomes non-negotiable.”

Discount Passes for Attractions

Planning to visit amusement parks, museums, or city attractions? Jini has advice for saving big on those, too.

  • City Pass: Check out multi-attraction passes like City Pass for bundled savings.
  • Membership Discounts: Explore deals through AAA, AARP, or warehouse clubs like BJ’s.
  • Employer Deals: Some employers provide summer passes to attractions, so it’s worth asking around.
  • Social Media: Follow your favorite parks and attractions for exclusive deals posted online.

Traveling doesn’t have to mean sacrificing financial wellness. By staying flexible, planning ahead, and making smart choices, you can enjoy your vacation without the post-trip money stress.

For more financial tips and advice on budgeting, saving, and more, follow Jini Thornton on social media @jiniithornton, and tune in to her podcast, The Thank Me Later Show, available on YouTube, Spotify, and Apple Podcasts.

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The article ‘ How to Travel Without Breaking the Bank | Money Mondays‘ was created with the help of Jasper.AI

How to Travel Without Breaking the Bank | Money Mondays  was originally published on getuperica.com