How to save money the next time you travel

Whether you're planning a family vacation or business trip in the near future, it pays to plan ahead; but when should you start shopping around for deals?

The experts say a good time to begin is the day you make the decision to go on a trip. Because of the very nature by which travel companies do business, those who wait until the last minute to book are automatically penalized by not having access to the very best rates available.

Here are some great tips for saving money on all your travel needs:

* Airfares

These days, the Internet makes it easy to shop around for the best airfares. A good place to start is by logging on to a travel search engine such as Travelocity, Expedia, Orbitz, Bestfares or Smartertravel.

Once you find a good rate on one of these, log on to the particular airline's Web site to see if you can get an even better rate. Also take the time to search through the travel discounts section on the various airline sites to see if they're offering a travel discount to your particular destination.

* Hotels

Plan the timing of your stay according to the type of place you visit. If you'll be traveling to a big city like New York, Chicago or Washington, D.C., room rates will be cheaper on weekends when business travelers aren't staying there. If you'll be traveling to a resort area, theme park or other place that is popular with leisure travelers, rooms are often cheaper during the week.

When searching for a hotel, don't make price the only factor you take into consideration.

Also consider amenities, such as the availability of a pool and/or spa in which you can relax at the end of the day. Ask if the hotel offers a continental breakfast that is included in the price of your stay and if the rooms have Internet access, a must for most families these days.

You'll also want to make sure the hotel you choose will be quiet and comfortable. AmericInn hotels, for example, use AmericInn SoundGuard construction to reduce sounds and vibrations. Log on to www.AmericInn.com/ara to make a reservation.

* Rental Cars

When it comes to rental cars, be sure to ask about available discounts when you book. Many of the rental car agencies offer discounts to people who hold certain credit cards, or have membership in organizations such as AAA or the AARP. You just have to ask.

Also keep in mind that it's a good idea to avoid renting a car at the airport. You'll find more competitive rates, plus avoid extra surcharges at car rental agencies away from the convenience of the airport.

And one of the best kept secrets in the industry is that you can book a rental car in the low season for less, even if you'll be using it in the peak season.

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