How to Travel Economically When Visiting Hawaii

Kaloli Point on the Big Island

A trip to Hawaii can break the bank if you're not careful! There are several tricks you can use to live like a local while you're in our 50th state, and this can help you to enjoy and appreciate all that Hawaii has to offer and allow you to see a side of these islands that few tourists ever experience. So--aloha! And have a fantastic trip!

Instructions

1. Plan ahead! Booking your airline ticket(s) well in advance of your planned trip can save you a bundle. Look for charter flights instead of using regular airlines.

2. Save on lodging. Hostels, camping and alternative accommodations are readily available. It's best to book them in advance of your trip. If you can afford a condominium, you'll save on meals because you can prepare your own meals at your island home.

3. Get off the beaten path. If you frequent tourist areas, you're bound to pay more for many things. Consider "neighbor islands" and out-of-the-way places.

4. Shop at farmers markets for the best choices in local produce and other gourmet items like goat cheese, all locally produced.

5. Look for free adventures: hiking is always fun and lets you see places that you would normally not be able to see as a tourist.

6. Ask yourself if you really need a fancy SUV if you rent a vehicle. Or can you survive with a subcompact car? Keep in mind that in some areas of Hawaii, public transporation can be spotty, so a rental car is often the best way to get around.

7. Consider working in exchange for your lodging; there are volunteer organizations such as "Willing Workers on Organic Farms" and "Organic Volunteers" that you can register with for a nominal fee (see Resources below). All of the islands have participating farms and working just 20 hours a week (in many cases) can save you hundreds of dollars in lodging.

Tips & Warnings

• Bed and breakfast inns can be a good bargain--shop around for the best, but plan ahead: the good ones get booked months in advance.

• <br>Check with each island's County office to reserve camp sites--you must pay a small fee for camping on every island. You can now do this online as well (see Resources below).

• Always camp in approved campgrounds to avoid being evicted by county officials who check the campsites.