Travel is such an expensive activity these days, I look for small ways to save whenever possible.
Today was a monumental day in my life. My 8 year old daughter, Sara, got on a plane by herself to visit family in California over Spring break. Needless to say, my hormonal self was a nervous wreck, and the crummy weather did not help.
But she bravely wiped away tears and got on that plane. Part of my heart went with her, and I sat and stared out the window until that plane was no longer in sight. Now that I am back home, I am calming my nerves with a little bloggy business.
Frugal Friday is the perfect distraction! While a plane ticket to California may not be so frugal, I did manage to save in other areas.
Here are my favorite ways to save while traveling by plane:
- Snacks- I pack healthy options from my ever growing collection of freebies.
- Activities- good old fashioned crayons and paper!
- Books- since it is risky to travel with library books, a great alternative is used books from your local friends of the library bookstore or a garage sale
- Strategic Packing- use a checklist, so nothing is forgotten. There is nothing frugal about buying items at your destination that you already have at home!
- Avoid checked baggage if possible- and save yourself $15 or more!
- Utilize free samples- toothpaste, lotion, shampoo, sunscreen, etc. All of these items I have on hand to throw in the suitcase. I vlogged about this here.
- Drinks- since you cannot take bottled water through security, take an empty reusable water bottle and fill it at the drinking fountain once you are through.
- Headphones- depending on the airline, you can usually use your own and avoid buying them on the plane.
- Carry-On Bags- use what you have. For my daughter, her school backpack is a practical and comfortable choice.
- Shopping at the airport- just say no.
What tips would you add to the list?
{ 4 comments… read them below or add one }
Wow, I think you are BOTH brave. None of my children have ever traveled on a plane without us, so I can only imagine how difficult that must have been.
We actually never travel, but I did find your tips to be very practical.
BTW, I did click your banner for 3 boxes of coffee for $3 and since my husband and I drink coffee, I signed up to try it.
[Reply]
This is not really a frugal tip, but more of a time saving tip. We NEVER bring luggage when flying. I always ship our stuff via UPS. You can track your packages on line to make sure they arrived safely before you even leave home. The best of all, no waiting for luggage at the airport. We have 3 children and this really saves alot of whines and cries – once we are off the plane, we go!!
[Reply]
Simple changes of daily habits of waste will help us all save. Saving water is a great way to start as saving water makes good cents and in most cases $. look at sites with water saving tips, get educated and save.
Thanks again,
Planet Earth
[Reply]
You have been given an award. See my blog
[Reply]