How to Travel on a Senior's Budget

If you are on a senior citizen on a budget, it's a great time to snag some serious discounts available to you. When you plan your next big adventure, consider some budget travel strategies designed for seniors.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Ask for senior discounts at restaurants, rental car agencies and hotels. Discounts of 10 to 15 percent are common, but they are often not advertised. Usually, you will have to ask for them.

2. Call car rental companies and compare rates. Ask for any upgrade specials when you pick up your rental car.

3. Check your auto insurance policy to see if it covers rental cars. If it does, you won't must purchase insurance from the rental car company.

4. Consider traveling during the winter months. Between mid-October and April, airfare is often a good deal for seniors traveling on a budget. Hotels and motels often offer off-season discounts as well

5. Book flights at least six months in advance to get low-priced promotional airfare. If your travel plans are flexible, you may be able to get great prices at the very last minute.

Tips & Warnings

• Make your reservations as soon as possible. You will be much more likely to be eligible for deeper senior discounts.
• If you have family or friends traveling with you, ask about group discounts.

Resources

• American Association for Retired Persons.