GirlsGuideTo | Spring Break on the Cheap

Looking to get away this spring but feeling strapped for cash? Not to worry. It’s totally possible to book a killer vacation and still have money leftover to splurge on a new bikini and drinks by the pool.

Do your homework
The number one way to save yourself some money is to invest a little time and do your research. Did you know that Wednesdays and Sundays are the cheapest days to fly? And if you get on the first flight of the day you’ll save even more? A 4am wake-up call just might be worth it for significant savings. Look up your destination and find deals and hotspots the locals love before you leave. Even contact a local blogger for information on what to see, do, and eat.

Consider your timing
We’ve all been there. The only thing worse than finding out the price has gone up when you waited too long is when the price goes down when you bought too early. Start looking at prices about two months out and check every few days for changes. When the price drops to a reasonable amount, make the reservation. You won’t always get the best price, but you’ll get something you feel comfortable with.

Spontaneous ladies out there could make last-minute getaways work for their wallet. Sites like Travelocity and Expedia feature last-minute deals to destinations all over the globe if you’re willing to wait and act fast!

Hit the road
There’s nothing like a road trip. If you and your girls decide to drive, make it a part of the vacation and have fun hitting up attractions along the way. Don’t forget to find local paces to eat, it’s the best way to experience local culture.

Beyond cheap flights: Hotel deals
While checking on hotel prices, it's important to look beyond the nightly room rate. Check travel sites for deals like "buy two nights and get one free," or "free spa services with room purchase." A cheap hotel rate might be reason enough to go to a destination. Girls wanting to stay within the U.S. might consider Las Vegas. Thousands of new hotel rooms were added in the last few years and hotels need people to fill them.

Consider all-inclusive
Gone are the days of the cheesy all-inclusive resorts and cruises. All-inclusives now know they have to seriously impress us and now feature resorts with great restaurants, amazing rooms, and activities all day long. And new cruise lines like Norwegian and Celebrity are geared toward us…not your grandma’s bridge club. These are a great way to cut down on food expenses and avoid overspending while you’re away.

Shop the deals and flash sale sites
Also appealing to the spontaneous travelers among us, daily deal and flash sale sites like Groupon, Living Social, Spire, and Jetsetter feature new destinations and bargains everyday. These sales are a great way to get discounts on hotels that you otherwise wouldn’t be able to afford. Most flash sales only last about a week, so be ready to book when you spot a deal you like. And don't forget the cost of getting there. But oftentimes, the hotel discount is so deep that even paying a little bit more for your airfare may be worth it.