Save on your holiday travel expenses with these strategies:

1.      Take the unpopular dates.

a.      For example, most people traveling for Thanksgiving want to travel from Wednesday to Sunday. Leaving or coming back a day earlier or later can save as much as 20% on the cost of your airfare. Check all the possible dates before you choose.

2.      Continue watching the prices after you’ve made your purchase.

a.      Most airlines will provide a travel credit if the price drops after you’ve made your purchase.

3.    Consider shipping your luggage.

a.    Airlines are charging an arm and a leg for bags. Sometimes the fees are $50 each way for a single bag. Fees are even charged for carryon luggage on some airlines. Ship your luggage and presents a few days before you leave.

4.      Save on transportation.

a.      Taxis, Uber, Lyfts can be expensive.

b.     Many hotels offer a free or inexpensive shuttle service.

c.      You might have easy access to the bus or subway.

d.   However, nothing compares with a friend or family member picking you up!

5.      Search for coupons or other deals related to your destination

a.   Restaurants, attractions, and hotels commonly publish deals and coupons that can greatly reduce your costs. Take the time to look for them.

6.      Consider an alternate airport.

a.   Many larger cities have multiple airports. While it might be logical to assume the airfares would be the same, they’re often not. While you’re looking at alternate dates, consider alternate airports, too.

From booking your flight to planning your itinerary, there are a lot of ways to save money on holiday travel. For example, you could fly out of another airport or drive instead of flying. No matter what type of transportation you use, the early bird gets the worm (or better deals). Start looking for the best deals early in order to save on airline tickets, hotels and getaway destinations.