ON A SHOESTRING

DISCOVER USA
★BASIC INFO
★GETTING AROUND
★HEALTH AND SAFETY
DESTINATION GUIDE
★SEARCH BY STATE
GET INSPIRED
★NATIONAL PARKS
★SUN & SAND
★CITY BREAKS
★SKING HOLIDAYS
★FAMILY FUN
★ON A SHOESTRING
★BUSINESS TRIPS
★EXTENDED TRAVEL
BEFORE YOU GO
★PASSPORT AND VISAS
★TRAVEL INSURANCE
★TRAVEL TOOLS
★MONEY MATTERS
TRAVEL COMMUNITY
★ADVERTISE ON THIS SITE
★LINKTO US
★CONTACT US
★SITE MAP

ON A SHOESTRING

America is the perfect place to travel if you are on a tight budget, whether you are a student making the most of your overdraft, a family looking to stretch your savings, a business traveller trying to keep expenses to a minimum, or simply looking to get the best deal for your buck.

While the weak dollar means your money will go even further in the states, there are lots of ways to save even more, without leaving you feeling that you are missing out on anything:

Look out for coupon booklets
These are available from gas stations, fast-food joints and tourist information booths and contain vouchers for discounted accommodation and selected restaurants.

Invest in a discount card
Membership of Hostelling International can save you several dollars a night on accommodation at HI hostels, which soon adds up. HI has hostels all over the world and welcomes travellers of all ages and backgrounds. If you are a student, an ISIC card, available from the International Student Travel Confederation gets a discount from participating hostels across the country.

Book Online
Accomodation can sometimes be cheaper if you book it in advance online. Unusually, it can sometimes be even cheaper to use a third party like www.hostel.com, rather than booking direct with the hostel.

Don’t scrimp on the insurance
It may be tempting to try and cut corners when you are on a budget, but having adequate travel insurance in America is a must. Make sure your insurance includes medical cover. When hiring a car, make sure you state clearly that you want complete cover, as different options are available, some of which can leave you vulnerable and cost you a lot more money in the long-run.

Flights
With long-haul flights, the general rule is, the sooner you book the cheaper it will be. The best deals are usually online, and if you book direct with the operator, you can save even more. Those who can be flexible on when and where they go, will find some fantastic last-minute deals online as well. There are a multitude of companies specialising in discount travel for students.

For more top tips on how to make the most of your budget, visit the specific destination page you are interested in. Here you will find advice on the best value accommodation, as well as a comprehensive guide to local events, attractions and activities.