Travel – Page 2 – user's Blog!

March 27, 2017

Travel Hacks for Booking Your Spring Vacation

Spring is finally here, which means we probably all have our eye on a travel adventure. If your spring break plans are more about getting the most incredible travel experiences for a bargain than about splurging on a luxury vacation, then you’re in luck. There are plenty of ways to take advantage of travel deals online and in person. All it takes is a little digging and patience to save you big and earn you Cash Back at Ebates. Here are some of the best travel hacks of the season.

Book packages

You already know Tuesday and Wednesday are the best days to find deals on flights, and you know clearing the cache in your web browser can help keep prices down. But did you know you can save on flights, accommodations and ground transportation when you book it all at once? There’s a reason Travelocity offers that option right off the bat: It’s one of the easiest — and possibly the most overlooked — travel tips. You can get your flight, hotel and rental car for a bargain if you’re ready to commit all at once.

Start earning points

Any self-respecting travel hacker has a credit card or 10 that earns valuable miles, hotel points or both. Beyond signing up for cards that have incredible travel rewards, less committed travelers can simply sign up for any frequent flyer program that’s available. Anytime you try a new airline, sign up. Anytime you book with an airline you’re already signed up for, don’t forget to include your frequent flyer number. This easy (and free) hack will earn you points simply by traveling. It won’t happen right away, but maybe next spring you’ll have miles to use and your biggest decision will be whether to upgrade to first class.

[ebatesads id=”in-post”]

Pre-book activities

LivingSocial is the perfect travel mate for anyone looking to try new activities while on vacation. It has deals for every travel adventure — from snorkeling in Hawaii to a spa day in Napa Valley. It’s the best way to book something in advance, eliminating the headache of indecision when you arrive and saving you money by finding the best discounts on local attractions. Booking — or at least researching — in advance could save you while you’re on your trip.

Locate restaurant deals

You’ll be able to enjoy the best brunch in town at a bargain with a pre-booked deal at Mangrove Mama’s in Sugar Loaf Key, Florida. Restaurant.com lists some of the country’s best restaurants, and most have significant discounts. If you’re trying to be spontaneous or you simply can’t make up your mind beforehand, ask three locals where to go for food as soon as you arrive. Chances are, they won’t suggest a chain or the main tourist trap. They’ll know where to go to get good food that’s affordable. Expert tip: Don’t be afraid of street food or a hole in the wall!

Get all the apps

Splittr:

Wolfram Sun Exposure:

Before you travel, make sure you have all the apps you might need to make it the most efficient trip possible. Don’t waste time splitting the hotel bill; to painlessly and scrupulously divvy up all the week’s expenses among your group, download Splittr from the App Store before you go. Or, to avoid missing dinner reservations because you’re stuck at the hotel applying endless globs of aloe to your arms, download Wolfram Sun Exposure. This app tells you exactly how much sun you should be getting and when to call it quits. There are so many seriously clever apps out there that could make your trip as efficient and cost-effective as possible, and it takes only the smallest amount of effort before you travel to find them.

February 25, 2017

Iconic Movie Destinations to Travel To

Movie lovers: Pack your bags and head out to visit the location of your favorite films. Whether it’s Hogwarts’s Great Hall or Amity Island’s shallow, shark-infested waters, you can book a few nights at a familiar destination and feel like you’re part of the action. Embrace the cheesy nature of your trip and venture out to explore the surrounding areas. It will be an epic vacation worth the effort. Plus, you’ll get serious Cash Back when you book at Ebates. If that’s not Oscar-worthy, I don’t know what is.

Hobbiton

Alexander Farm was the inspiration for Peter Jackson’s interpretation of J. R. R. Tolkien’s “The Shire,” which is why he chose the rolling hills of this sheep farm in Waikato, New Zealand as the location for “Lord of the Rings.” Epically Middle Earth, there are few signs of modern life on the farm and plenty of kitschy Hobbit experiences to be enjoyed. For LOTR buffs, this is a must-visit. Take a full day tour of the movie set through Expedia and be sure to have a drink at the festive Green Dragon Inn.

Hogwarts

Christ Church College in Oxford, UK was not only the inspiration for the Harry Potter films, but it did serve as a primary movie set in many of them. Visit and you’ll get to glimpse the Great Hall, the library and the Hogwarts infirmary. For a cozy stay, book a room at nearby Macdonald Randolph Hotel in Oxford, where you can have tea just before heading out to indulge your inner witch or wizard.

[ebatesads id=”in-post”]

A Christmas Story House

Completely renovated to look just like the actual film—down to the leg lamp—the house from legendary holiday movie “A Christmas Story” is worth a stop in Cleveland for any cross-country traveler. Across the street is the museum gift shop, where you can score your own decoder ring.

The Beach

On Thailand’s Koh Phi Phi Leh, you may not experience all of the same thrills of “The Beach,” starring Leonardo DiCaprio. You can, however, catch some hidden beaches and lush backdrops from the film. Here, the water’s turquoise hues and towering rock islands will have you wanting to book a room for the week. The Phi Phi Island Cabana Hotel, available through Agoda, is a good choice for a luxurious stay.

Avatar Rainforest

Visit the Hamakua Coast on the Big Island in Hawaii to imagine yourself in the world of “Avatar.” Though David Cameron’s vivid imagination inspired a majority of the film’s CGI moments, the lush rainforest and pristine waterfalls that enliven the backdrop are not imagined. Kalopa State Recreation Area and Akaka State Falls Park are good places to start your adventures. Hamakua Ranch B&B is a great nearby spot to call home while jaunting in and out of the trails you know and love from the movie. Book through booking.com for a great deal.

Amity Island

Off the coast of Massachusetts, you’ll find the quaint island of Martha’s Vineyard, otherwise known as “Amity Island” from Steven Spielberg’s 1975 film, “Jaws.” The town of Edgartown was taken over by the cast and crew for its quaint fishing-town feel and shallow surrounding waters—the perfect backdrop of a town terrorized by a series of terrifying shark attacks. Visit the Vineyard, but maybe stay out of the water unless you have a big enough boat. The Harbor View Hotel at beautiful Lighthouse Beach is a great choice for coastal New England charm (and occasional shark viewing).

February 23, 2017

The Fashionista’s Travel Checklist for Looking Fly on the Go

We all know how difficult long trips can be, from overseas flights to cross-state road trips. But that doesn’t mean you can’t look as fresh as a daisy the minute you arrive at your destination! All you need are the right packing tips. Check out this simple travel checklist of fashion and beauty must-haves that will keep you looking radiant on the run. All of these items will fit in your purse or carry-on, and you can earn Cash Back at Ebates when you buy them. Don’t forget to browse The Smart Shopper for even more travel tips and ways to travel on a budget.

Extra hair ties. Just bring a whole pack. These little guys are easy to lose, and you never know when you might need an emergency bun.
Face wipes. These are especially great for overnight flights when you don’t want to sleep in your makeup.
Hand cream. Airplane cabins get incredibly dry, but you can stay moisturized with a travel-size cream.
Foldable flats. These are the ultimate carry-on checklist item. Get on the plane in your heels, but lounge in these stylish flats that won’t take up excess space.

[ebatesads id=”in-post”]

Pointed cotton swabs. Eyeliner runs. Keep your MOTD in line with a mini pack of these babies.
Mini hair brush. Need we say more?
Mini lint roller. Don’t let airplane seats or the backseat of a minivan leave a mark.
Non-aerosol dry shampoo. Aerosol cans may leak on airplanes, so opt for a non-aerosol version of the jet-setter’s solution for clean-looking hair.
Face primer. When it’s morning and you’re still en route, a little face primer is all you need for a rested glow.
Lip tint. Don’t mess with lipstick in bumpy situations.
Brush-on sunblock. No more messy application — just land and dust this lightweight powder onto your face for instant SPF protection.
Earplugs. The first step toward looking your best is getting the best sleep possible.
Sleep mask. See No. 12.
Bonus item: wrinkle-proof dress. Plan a travel outfit that will stand up to wrinkles and keep you looking crisp. This dress is simply elegant and will be your best friend for the duration of your trip. Bon voyage!

February 18, 2017

Late-Season Ski Destinations

Winter ends March 20, which could be depressing news if you haven’t yet squeezed in a trip to the mountains to enjoy fresh snowfalls and steep terrain. Luckily, there’s still time to book Presidents Day travel deals at resorts around the world. Score a last-minute Presidents Day travel deal or book at a resort that stays open into the spring (or one that’s open year-round). Choose a destination that’s close to home or one that’s halfway across the world, but, whatever you do, don’t forget to book at Ebates to get paid for your travels!

Park City, Utah

Park City has 300 trails that are almost always white with powder during late-season weeks, and are perfect for a Presidents Day vacation. When you’re beat from a day filled with making fresh tracks, you can drop off your equipment with a ski valet, who will safely store your skis and boots while you warm up by the fire. To mix up the adventure, book a sleigh ride or a dog-sledding or bobsledding trip with the hotel’s concierge. The options are limitless.

Lake Tahoe, California

This year, the mountains at Lake Tahoe have seen more snow than they know what to do with — and the storms keep coming. Winter here will last long enough for you to squeeze in a perfect last-minute, late-season ski trip at one of Tahoe’s 13 ski resorts. Book a room at the Resort at Squaw Creek through Priceline.com for the ideal secluded resort with direct access to a chairlift to take you up the tallest mountain on the north side of the lake.

Whistler Blackcomb, British Columbia

Winter snow continues well into spring at Whistler, where you can stay at a delightfully luxurious ski-in, ski-out lodge like this one on VRBO. With consistently white conditions, Whistler sees an average annual snowfall of 39 feet. If you can’t get there by the end of spring, you can always count on the Horstman Glacier at Blackcomb — it’s open to skiers and snowboarders year-round.

Niseko, Japan

This mountain is known around the world for its deep powder, receiving a jaw-dropping average of 55 feet of snow per year. As the crowds dwindle during spring and the conditions stay snowy, April may be the best time to visit — and it’s certainly the best time to find lodging deals through sites like agoda.com. Stay in a modern apartment or a breakfast-included hotel, or book a boutique hotel like Chalet Ivy with natural hot springs to make the long trek overseas worth it.

Chamonix-Mont Blanc, France

This high-altitude mountain reaches 12,000 feet into the sky, and is home to some of the best late-season ski trails in Europe. With the altitude comes lots of snowfall and low temperatures that keep the snow cold and fresh into spring. With a charming village to boot, Chamonix-Mont Blanc feels like picturesque Alps country. Snuggle up by the cozy fire at Grand Hotel des Alpes apres your apres-ski glass of world-class French wine.

February 13, 2017

How to Book a Luxury Vacation for Less

Savvy travelers know the best vacation packages can be found online for less. Whether you’re booking your honeymoon, a long weekend getaway or a group trip, you can save big on luxury travel if you know where to look. When you search through Ebates, you’ll get even bigger savings with a special promo code and Cash Back.

Hilton Hotels and Resorts

Hilton Hotels offers luxurious rooms and accommodations for all your vacation, business and bridal needs.

Savings Tips:
• Shop the Offers section to earn bonus points and get 20 percent off an early booking. If you’re an AAA or AARP member, you can get 5 percent off.
• Take advantage of Hilton’s free Hilton HHonors membership and earn loyalty points and perks such as late checkout and free breakfast.

Orbitz

From discount flights and hotels to car rentals and full vacation packages, Orbitz knows how to travel on a budget.

Savings Tips:
• Head to the Deals section for money-saving promo codes and unbeatable prices on hotels.
• Join Orbitz Rewards to earn up to 5 percent on your hotel stay and 1 percent on flights.
• Check out the Orbitz travel guide for the insider scoop on the best times to find travel packages to some of the world’s best tropical resorts.

[ebatesads id=”in-post”]

Hotwire

Hotwire offers deals on hotels, car rentals and flights all around the world.

Savings Tips:
• Save a bundle when you book at the last minute. Check out Hotwire’s Cheap Travel and Last Minute Deals sections to save on your spontaneous getaway.
• Find even more deals when you download Hotwire’s mobile app. It’s the easiest way to book and save.
• Use the TripStarter feature to choose your destination and departure airports and find out when flights and hotel rates historically have been the cheapest.

Expedia

Known for its travel bargains, Expedia offers a Best Price Guarantee so you’ll get the lowest price possible on your trip.

Savings Tips:
• Use Expedia’s free app to get a special promo code for $25 off your first hotel booking.
• Unlock special member pricing and save an extra 10 percent or more when you book with select hotels.

Atlantis

Atlantis vacation packages include meals, entertainment, drinks, local transportation and entrance to water parks at the Bahamian resort.

Savings Tips:
• Get the lowest rates and exclusive benefits when you book specialty offers. Select your location to see the offers for that hotel.

Booking.com

Booking.com is the place to go when you want to book a smaller, independent hotel with a more personal feel.

Savings Tips:
• Subscribe to the Booking.com email list and gain access to exclusive secret deals of up to 50 percent off!

Priceline

Priceline allows you to be an expert auction bidder for the ultimate savings on your luxury vacation.

Savings Tips:
• The trick is to search Priceline’s Express Deals for the lowest price being offered, subtract 5 percent to 20 percent and then use that number to make a Name Your Own Price bid.

[ebatesads id=”in-post”]

Travelocity

From Europe to Hawaii, Travelocity offers the best deals in travel all over the world.

Savings Tips:
• The exclusive Bargain Hunter ticket feature allows you to see the final cost of your booking without having to guess how any associated fees might add up.
• Check Travelocity’s promotions to see how you can save more with current coupons and an exclusive promo code.

BookIt

BookIt offers vacation packages, flights and hotels to popular destinations worldwide.

Savings Tips:
• Sign up for the BookIt newsletter and get a $50 credit instantly.
• Become a member at BookIt and gain access to the Rest Assured special feature, which guarantees your hotel rate is the lowest possible.

CheapTickets

There’s no beating around the bush here: CheapTickets offers discounted vacation packages and accommodations so you can travel on the cheap.

Savings Tips:
• Download the CheapTickets app for exclusive savings and deals.

February 6, 2017

Heading to Wine Country? Here’s What to Pack

Everything is stressful right now: work, watching the news, social media — even conversations with friends are walking the line. Although there are few things in the world that seem relaxing right now, there’s nothing a long weekend of self-indulgence and blissful gluttony can’t take care of. California’s wine country is a haven of escapism that’s filled with friendly local faces, more tasting rooms than you can imagine and endless supplies of critically acclaimed food. It’s enough to make any stress-junkie forget to check Facebook for an entire weekend.

Planning your trip to wine country doesn’t require a lot of gear, but it does require packing precisely the items that will make you feel as relaxed and happy as possible — and leaving plenty of room in your bag for take-home wine. You should be able to fit everything you need in a small suitcase, and you can get it all while earning Cash Back at Ebates.

Go for Practical

Comfortable and casual attire for men and women is always in season in Napa and Sonoma — unless it’s mid-summer. You’ll probably spend as much time outdoors as indoors in wine country, and you’ll move from the day’s activities into the evening’s without much of a break. That means you’ll want jeans or a comfortable pair of black pants that can transition seamlessly from day to night.

You’ll want practical shoes that you don’t mind getting a little dirty but also look great as you stroll into a restaurant in town. Burgundy is always trendy—find options for men and women at Target—especially when red wine spills are a risk.

Northern California can be chilly in the winter months, which means a jacket is almost a must. If you’re traveling to Monterey or Paso Robles in Southern California, on the other hand, fewer layers are necessary (which means more room in your bag for wine!).

[ebatesads id=”in-post”]

A messenger bag is never a bad idea for anyone willing to schlep it around wine tasting. It’s more chic than a backpack, but you can still fit a reusable water bottle, an extra layer or two and any picnic food you pick up along the way.

All About the Wine

Clothes are not the only important items to consider packing; you’re going to want to bring wine-related items as well. An instructional book that offers wine-tasting tips or a history of the region is a great way to prep for the trip on the plane ride out. “The 24-Hour Wine Expert” will give you a basic understanding of the wine world, and just what you’re getting yourself into. At least you’ll have some intriguing questions to ask at various wineries throughout your trip.

A corkscrew may sound like a no-brainer, but you’ll be grateful you brought it when you pull it out of your bag just before your significant other tries the “shoe trick.” (If you don’t know what this is, don’t worry because you’re prepared with your corkscrew!) Bring one that doesn’t have a blade attachment, so you can stick it in your carry-on and forget it.

After hours of wine tasting, you’re going to want to bring some bottles home with you. That means your carry-on will become a checked bag. Prepare for it beforehand and you’ll avoid the hemming and hawing that eventually leaves you in an over-packed, under-prepared situation on the way home. Bring bubble wrap or a wine sleeve, which will protect your bottles from breaking on the journey back and save anything that’s not already wine-colored.

The most important part of your trip to wine country is your attitude. If you go in ready to relax, learn, indulge and disconnect, it will be one of the best long weekends you’ve ever had. If not, at least there’s wine.

January 31, 2017

Jet-Setting Pets: How to Travel With Your Dog

Pet travel doesn’t need to be stressful, since pets get some of the best travel deals around. And pet transport is now easier than ever, with many international airlines allowing you to keep your furry friend by your side (or feet) during your travels. But flying with Fido isn’t the end of the perks — hotels and restaurants around the world are opening their doors for pups. And, together, you can earn Cash Back at Ebates.

On the Plane

For a fee, many airlines will allow your pet to travel with you in the plane’s main cabin. Pet-friendly airlines such as Air France, Emirates, Etihad, Hawaiian Airlines, Qatar Airways, Swiss International Airlines and Virgin America allow you to take your cat or small dog aboard. A few allow larger pets in the luggage compartment under the plane, where it’s pressurized and climate-controlled.

When You Land

For a low-key stay, you can bring your canine friend along to up to 1,600 Best Western hotels nationwide. The hotel chain is pet friendly, welcoming cats, birds, up to two dogs and other small animals for a maximum charge of $20 per day. Depending on the hotel, you might even be able to score complimentary pet travel services, such as a blanket and a treat as a welcome gift for your favorite four-legged friend.

Search pet-friendly accommodations on Hotels.com to see a world of lodging options that will allow your furry friends to join you. Whether you’re booking a stay at the Kimpton Palomar in San Diego, which offers (at no extra charge) a bed and food for your dog, as well as a nightly wine reception to which dogs are welcome, or the Hotel Balmoral in Paris, one of the most pet-friendly cities in the world, you’ll be surprised how many options you and your companion will have.

[ebatesads id=”in-post”]

If You Have to Be Apart

Sometimes it’s just not possible for you and your pup to travel together. But don’t despair: You can take Smudge for a walk around the Fairmont St. Andrews or play outside with Tusker and Grammy at the Fairmont Mount Kenya Safari Club. Fairmont Hotels loves pets so much, it has its own. If you’re lucky enough to stay at a location that features the hotel chain’s Canine Ambassador program, you’ll be greeted by a friendly resident pup in the lobby. And, if you decide to bring your own dog, you can schedule a pet sitter while you enjoy an evening out on the town.

January 28, 2017

How to Travel for a Month or More on a Budget

Heading out on the open road for more than a short vacation is a daunting task, made even more daunting if your finances are tight. Budget travel can be exciting, but you have to find luxury in minimalism when you’re taking time off from work to experience the world for a month or more. These budget travel tips will allow you to splurge on a crazy cool helicopter ride or a worth-it wine tasting instead of overrated hotel rooms, all while earning you Cash Back at Ebates.

Wait to Book

Unless you can score an unbeatable deal on Hotels.com, shopping around in person, as opposed to online, can save you significantly, which is critical since accommodations likely will be your largest expense. If you’re doing on-the-ground research, do yourself a favor and get a backpack rather than hauling your roll-aboard suitcase down cobblestone streets or dirt roads. Summit Online has deals for backpacks that will suit travelers who need lightweight, durable options, such as this 65-liter pack from the North Face.

Pack Like a Champ

Traveling for a month means keeping your packing to a minimum, but that doesn’t mean you need to look like a backpacker. Inevitably, you’ll need something to wear for a night out, so instead of packing a few dresses or spending money (and valuable space) on a new dress while on the road, invest in something that packs well and is versatile. A convertible dress that can be worn multiple ways is the ideal solution for looking and feeling great, even when you’re traveling on a budget. Wear it multiple ways over and over, and even you won’t notice it’s the same piece of cotton. Maybe.

Travel by Ground

One of the best ways to keep your money in your pocket while traveling long-term is to travel by bus or train as opposed to by airplane. Booking convenient flights between budget travel destinations is a quick way to destroy your budget. Plus, over-ground transportation often is one of the best ways to see a new country and experience a place as a local would. Ground transportation is especially budget friendly if you head to a destination that has plenty to see and do all in one area, such as Southeast Asia.

[ebatesads id=”in-post”]

Stay Hydrated

No matter where you’re traveling, you’ll need to stay hydrated. Whether you’re hiking in the Andes or lounging on beaches in Southeast Asia, water may be an added expense. A SteriPEN water purifier from Walmart is the best budget option if you’re traveling to a place that may have unsafe drinking water. Sterilizing allows you to fill up with tap water and still stay healthy, saving you money and saving the environment from a month’s worth of plastic bottles.

Keep Your Electronics Charged

A universal electrical adapter that can accommodate a USB is a must for international travel so you can charge your phone, camera, laptop or tablet. You may find yourself in places with different plugs and voltage (even if you’re just traveling from, say, London to Paris), so you’ll need to start your journey with a universal adapter that can fit various plugs. You won’t want to have to buy a new phone while traveling because you destroyed your old one by charging it with the wrong voltage.

October 27, 2016

8 Things You Probably Forgot for Your Winter Beach Getaway

Winter is fast approaching, which means you’ll soon be longing for the beach. Give in to your desires and head somewhere warm for the ultimate winter beach getaway. Your off-season vacay means you’ll score plenty of getaway deals on everything you need to make it an enjoyable escape. Plus, thanks to holiday sales events, you can save big on some of the items that will make your vacation even more memorable. Start planning your beach-trip packing list, and don’t forget these must-have items that will earn you Cash Back at Ebates so you can have even more money in your pocket during your beach getaway.

Amazon Kindle

Reading a book at the beach with sand in your toes is the epitome of relaxation. The Amazon Kindle Paperwhite gives you a glare-free screen even on the brightest of beach days. It can last weeks on a single charge, so you can read to your heart’s delight on the plane and on the beach. Best of all, with electronics at the top of the Cyber Monday sale list, you can save on your purchase when you shop during the winter.

Waterproof Tablet Bag

The beach is full of everything your electronics hate — namely sand and water. Do yourself a favor and plan ahead with a protective case designed to keep your beach reading material clean and dry. The vinyl case offers layers of protection so you can spend a long day in the sun knowing your tablet will make it home in one fully functioning piece.

Portable Security Case

The beach can be a haven for opportunists, but with a travel safe you won’t fall victim. Keep your valuables safely stowed away so you can enjoy the beach without constant worry. The strap allows it to be secured to a nearby item and uses a combination for access.

[ebatesads id=”in-post”]

Baby Powder

Even if you don’t have a tot in tow, baby powder is a beach must-have. You can use it to keep your body sand-free so you can go from oceanfront lounging to sipping cocktails in the hotel cabana without having to stop for a sand wash!

Scarf

Coming from a colder climate means you’re going to need to pack a few items that may seem silly for a beach trip, including the scarf you wore on the plane. But trust us: This pashmina scarf will find its way into your beach essentials. The scarf can be worn on a nice romantic night out or tied around your waist as a cover-up. It is the ultimate accessory for any occasion!

Open-Front Cardigan

Don’t give up on wearing sweaters just yet. Although you may be basking in the warm sun all day, the beach gets pretty chilly at night. You won’t want to forget a cozy sweater to keep you comfy during an evening stroll. Find a nice neutral sweater that’ll pair with several outfits and add a splash of color with space-saving scarves.

Floppy Hat

Trade in your earmuffs for a beach-friendly hat. Although most people are busy shopping for cold-weather accessories, you’ll get big savings on the perfect beach getaway attire. Maximize your out-of-season purchase with a promo code and rake in savings that will have you basking in the sun – while wearing your new floppy beach hat, of course.

Swimsuit

This seems like a no-brainer, but buying a swimsuit in the post-summer off-season will get you a great deal — often saving you 50 percent or more. Score cute swimwear so cheap you can bring multiple options for your beach vacations. For all you plus-size beauties, check out this fabulous list of 11 plus-size swimsuits to rock your curves.

October 25, 2016

Everything You Need to Know for Last Minute Travel Planning

Sometimes you just have to scratch when you have the itch. So if the travel bug has been biting lately, allow us to offer some tips. If your opportunity to get away from it all is quickly approaching, you don’t have to spend a small fortune to enjoy yourself. Last minute travel doesn’t mean spending all of your savings for a family outing. With savings from top notch stores and Cash Back on your purchases at Ebates, you’ll find great deals to get out the door and on the road! Here are our top tips on how to make the most of last minute travel plans.

Turn to Social Media

It turns out your bad habit might do you some good. Use your social media savvy to your benefit and find great deals on Twitter. Follow travel blogs and travel-related companies to get the latest deals delivered right to your feed. But these deals are often limited so don’t delay or you might miss out.

Escape Dry Land With Last Minute Cruises

Your off-the-cuff adventure doesn’t mean you have to be landlocked. Fulfill your love of the open sea with a simple and luxurious last minute cruise getaway. CruiseDirect has plenty of last minute offers from ports all over that will allow you to visit several destinations in one trip. Enjoy your time on the boat or escape to a new place when the boat docks for a unique experience.

Get First Dibs

Companies often spill the beans to newsletter subscribers first. Sign up for emails from your favorite travel sites to get the details on last minute vacation deals before they’re released to the general public. Travelocity and similar sites will alert you to money-saving promo codes and special offers so your morning email ritual could get you some early bird savings.

Off Season Means Big Savings

It’s no surprise that peak vacation times are going to cost more. If your last minute travel goes against the grain, you’re going to lock in some solid savings. That means an escape to Aspen is ideal in spring when the slopes aren’t exactly a hot spot. Your favorite destination may have plenty to offer when peak tourism traffic is down.

Look For Package Deals

Bundling your travel and accommodations not only make life easier, it can also spell out some decent savings. Hotels and airlines often partner and feature package deals designed to make your adventure stress free.

Do Your Own Sleuthing

Getting the best deals means cutting out the middleman. Nix the travel agent and go straight to the source for all-inclusive package savings. Empty rooms make all inclusive resorts exactly no money so many places will offer a steep discount for last minute vacation deals. Research the resorts in the area and give them a call to find out what deals they have available for your quick getaway.

Have Fun Wherever You Go

You don’t have to plan ahead to have fun at your destination. Groupon offers a great selection of activities for families and adults alike in cities all over the world. Catch a local sports event or take that whale watching trip you’ve been dreaming of all year. Whether you would like to try a new place to eat or you’re looking for a great spot for couples massages, you’ll find plenty to do in any city you’re visiting.

Scope Out Holiday Offers

You’re not the only one that wants to get out of dodge for the upcoming holiday weekend so look out for Memorial Day deals. Plenty of hotels are hoping you’ll pick them for your big escape so they’re likely offering something a bit extra. Whether they’re offering tickets to a local event, discounts at local restaurants or even multi-night stay savings, be on the lookout to make sure you’re saving on your last minute travel at Hotels.com. Business-friendly hotels are often harder to fill when corporations go on break, so you may find better hotel deals where there are empty meeting rooms.

Pack Accordingly

Last minute travel usually calls for a quick getaway. Grab a versatile weekender bag from Nordstrom and bring the essentials. Include pieces that can be dressed down or played up for a night out. Wear bulkier items on the plane and don’t forget to pack sunscreen and a hat for all of your outdoor excursions.

Keep it Local

If you’re on a tight budget, you don’t have to escape far. Last minute travel could mean a quick flight to a nearby city. Don’t overlook the idea of a simple jaunt to a neighboring city with your friends or family. You can even use a promo code for a hotel in your own city and hit up all of the tourist spots you’ve been meaning to visit. The proximity will keep travel expenses down while allowing you to still escape the routine and have a wonderful adventure.