Saving Money when Planning a Hawaiian Vacation

Saving Money when Planning a Hawaiian Vacation

by Jim Dornfeld

Are you wondering if planning a Hawaiian vacation on a budget is possible? Many Hawaii natives and frequent visitors have found some great money-saving tips for stretching your dollar while on a vacation to the Hawaiian Islands.

Tips for Planning a Hawaiian Vacation on a Budget

1. Vacation packages can be obtained at a discount price over booking separate airline tickets, hotel accommodations and a rental car.

2. Renting a vacation home, cottage, or condominium is often cheaper than booking a luxury hotel. You can chose to vacation with a friend or another family and split the cost of lodging since most Hawaii vacation homes sleep 4-6 people.

3. Cut your dining expenses by eating in your room, preparing your own breakfast and lunch, or seeking out restaurants where the local frequent. Pack a picnic and eat dinner on the beach as the sun sets or pack granola and fresh fruit to eat on a morning hike. You can also dine out by selecting items from the lunch wagons dotting the beaches of the islands. Shopping at the local farmers markets can save you a small fortune in food costs

4. Limit the number of paid tours you participate in during your stay. Hawaiian locals are very friendly and will share information readily when questioned. You can ask around to find the best places to visit and the must-see sights of Hawaii.

5. Hawaii often has the highest prices for gasoline in the U.S. Limit your amount of travel and fuel up your rental car in large cities rather than small towns to get the best prices.

6. Research attractions before you leave home and plan a rough itinerary for your trip in advance. You can find recommendations and reviews written by other tourists online.

7. Hiking, snorkeling, and lounging on the beach are low cost activities to occupy your time.

8. Consider purchasing an entertainment book from www.entertainment.com for your Hawaii trip.

9. Once you arrive in Hawaii, take advantage of free brochures offered at the airport, hotels and local attractions. They often contain valuable coupons and unadvertised discounts for popular attractions and restaurants.

10.Begin and end your Hawaiian vacation in the middle of the week. Flights are cheaper mid-week than on weekends.

11.Get a detailed map of the island once you pick up your rental car. Most rental agencies will provide one for free- but only if you request it.

12.Fill up your own water bottles before venturing out for the day.

13.Avoid purchasing souvenirs at the local stands and shops. The local Wal-Marts carry Hawaiian souvenirs at reasonable prices.

14.If you have a military ID, ask about military discounts. Many places honor a military discount if you ask for it.

15.Check Roomsaver.com for discount coupons before you book lodgings.

These money-saving tips can help you enjoy your dream vacation to Hawaii without breaking you piggy bank. Planning a vacation to Hawaii on a budget is not only possible, it is an enjoyable challenge for many travelers.