Travelling is a sure path to happiness. However, many people put it off because they cannot afford it. We spoke to financial and travel experts to give you some tips on how you can save for your next holiday trip.

1. Make travel a priority

“I suggest making travel a priority. Make it a necessary part of your spending plan or budget. Even if you have currently no destination in mind,” says Kate Phillips, a wealth coach from Total Wealth Coaching.

She suggests that you put away whatever amount you can afford.

2. Research your destination

“Research is very important in identifying the destination you want to go to. If you are travelling within the continent, it is obviously going to be cheaper than visiting another continent,” says  Sibabalwe Peter, a sales manager at Minor Hotels.

3. Take that first step

Phillips says you don’t have to work out all the details, but you must start somewhere.

“Pick your dates. Then take a bold step, such as purchasing the airfare, putting a down payment on a cruise or tour, or opening a dedicated savings account,” she advises.

Peter adds that the savings account must be an interest-bearing account.

“But you need to be disciplined and not use the money in the account,” he says.

4. Take advantage of savings

Look for opportunities to save money on expenses by paying less. This is how you can do it, according to our advisers:

  • Compare different travel days and seasons. Travelling off-season is often cheaper. For instance, early December instead of Christmas break time.
  • Compare vacation package prices on Expedia.com and similar sites to save on airfare-plus-hotel-plus-car deals.
  • Consider hotel alternates such as AirBnB.com.
  • Join hotel loyalty programs.
  • Book your flight and hotel in advance.
  • Book through online agents.

5. Negotiate with yourself.

Few people have unlimited budgets, but you must decide what is important to you. According to Phillips these are the questions you need to ask yourself:

  • Do you want to plan your own trip or have it planned for you?
  • Are you okay with public transportation?
  • Do you want a room with a view, or would you rather have a longer trip with more humble lodgings?
  • Do you need to eat your meals out, or can you make your own breakfasts and lunches?
  • Do you need to watch that movie or make that luxury purchase, or should you rather put the money in your trip fund?

6. Keep saving every chance you get

“It doesn’t matter if it’s R20 or R200, or if it’s in a jar or a savings account, but you must have some money saved,” adds Phillips.

7. Don’t be afraid to make bold requests

According to Phillips you should never be afraid to ask for help if you find yourself short on cash.

“Whether it’s a gift, a loan, or perhaps you can offer something as a reward, you probably have family and friends that would love to support you,” she says.

8.Travel in a group

Peter says it is cheaper to travel in a group than doing it alone.

“When you are in a group, you have more bargaining power. Hotels offer group discounts,” he says.