When it comes to international travel, finding cheaper flights and discounted rental cars can significantly impact your overall trip expenses. While many travelers are familiar with the usual strategies, there are some lesser-known insider tips and tricks that can help you unlock even better deals. In this blog, we will reveal eight essential travel hacks that not many people know about, allowing you to save money on flights and rental cars for your international adventures. Let’s dive in and discover these insider secrets!
Utilize the "Hidden City" Technique
The “hidden city” technique involves booking a flight with a layover in your desired destination as a stopover point instead of the final destination. For example, if you want to go from New York to Paris, you can book a flight from New York to Rome with a layover in Paris and simply disembark in Paris. This can often result in significantly cheaper fares, but it’s important to note that this technique should be used one-way only, as airlines may cancel your return flights if they detect this practice.
Leverage Error Fares
Error fares occur when airlines mistakenly publish significantly lower prices for flights. These fares are typically available for a short period of time before the error is corrected. Stay updated on websites and online communities that specialize in error fare alerts, such as Secret Flying or Fly4Free. Act fast when you spot an error fare and be prepared to book immediately, as these deals can disappear within minutes.
Book One-Way Flights with Different Airlines
In some cases, booking one-way flights with different airlines can be cheaper than purchasing a round-trip ticket with a single carrier. Compare prices for one-way flights on various airlines, and don’t be afraid to mix and match to find the most affordable options. This hack requires a bit more research and flexibility, but it can lead to significant savings.
Use VPN for Better Booking Prices
Flight and car rental prices can vary depending on your location and the currency you’re using to make the booking. By using a virtual private network (VPN) and selecting different server locations, you can access prices that are tailored to specific regions. Experiment with different VPN server locations to compare prices and potentially find better deals.
Capitalize on Open-Jaw Flights
Open-jaw flights allow you to fly into one destination and return from another, without having to circle back to your original starting point. This flexibility can often lead to cheaper flights, as airlines have different pricing strategies for various routes. For instance, you can fly from New York to London, then return from Paris to New York. This hack can save you money and offer a chance to explore multiple destinations.
Consider Secondary Airports
When planning your trip, check if there are secondary airports near your desired destination. These airports often cater to low-cost carriers and may offer cheaper flights compared to major international airports. Be mindful of transportation options from the secondary airport to your final destination, as this additional cost should be factored into your overall budget.
Opt for Long-Term Car Rentals
If you plan to rent a car for an extended period during your international travel, consider long-term car rental options. Many rental companies offer discounted rates for rentals spanning a week or more. Look for special long-term rental packages or reach out to rental companies directly to inquire about extended rental discounts. This can lead to significant savings, especially if you’re exploring a country or region for an extended period.
Join Frequent Renter Programs
Similar to airline reward programs, rental car companies offer their own loyalty programs that provide members with exclusive discounts and benefits. Joining these programs is often free and can grant you access to discounted rates, priority service, and even complimentary upgrades. Sign up for frequent renter programs with major rental car companies and take advantage of the perks they offer.
By employing these eight insider travel hacks, you can unlock hidden opportunities for cheaper flights and discounted rental cars for your international adventures. Utilize the “hidden city” technique or error fares to find incredible flight deals, and consider booking one-way flights with different airlines or using a VPN for better prices. Explore open-jaw flights to save money and add variety to your itinerary, and consider secondary airports for potential cost savings. Take advantage of long-term car rental discounts and join frequent renter programs to secure discounted rates and additional perks. With these lesser-known travel hacks in your arsenal, you can maximize your savings, making your international travel more affordable and enjoyable. Happy travels!
