I sometimes think my desire to explore places beyond my local environment is genetically linked. For more than two decades my wife and I have explored places near and far. Over the years I have fine tuned how to maximize our travel experience while minimizing the economic cost. For the past several years several of my financial planning clients and friends have suggested I share how I elevate our travel lifestyle for the least amount of dollars spent.
I thought that few would want to read another story about travel. However, I have been convinced that perhaps there may be interest in my story and more importantly how others may elevate their lifestyle through the lessons learned.
My first lesson of travel is to join airline, hotel, cruise and car rental loyalty programs. I suggest you join as many loyalty programs as relevant. So, regardless of if you travel for business, visiting friends, family or just want to explore a destination joining the loyalty program for airline that will provide transportation, the car rental agency providing local transportation and the hotel brand providing lodging. There is absolutely no limit on how many loyalty programs you can join. These memberships are free and start the road to staying informed of discounts, offers and preferential treatment.
Knowledge is power. In this case knowledge can heighten your travel experience and save you hard earned dollars.