I have been an amateur travel writer for several years now. All my travel-related articles were utilized by various publications, such as Camp Business Magazine and Hostelz.com. I have also given presentations on travel, such as how to travel cheapskate-style and how to pack everything in a small carry-on. But I've longed for a place where all my travel writings could be found in one place. Thus was the birth of value ventures.
I love to travel, but I'm not the typical traveler. For one, I'm on a tight budget. Travel is definitely not something worth draining my savings account or putting me into debt. And while I love cheap ways to travel, I'm more about the value of the experience. I think that travel is one of the greatest life investments, so there are times when you should not nickel and dime your way through vacation.
Value Ventures will involve a lot of things. It may even evolve into something I can't anticipate right now. But as for now, my plan involves several topics. The main topic will be my adventures of the various travel experiences I have. Of course, these will involve excellent insight in case you decide to take a similar trip. Another important aspect will be money saving advice. When not traveling, I'm at home, trying to find ways to save. Over the years I have developed some unique money-saving ideas, and much of the savings from these go into my travel fund. While traveling, I also incorporate money-saving ideas that don't sacrifice the value of my trip. There is so much in store and I'm truly excited about Value Ventures!
To kick off Value Ventures, here is the beginning of what I'm sure will end up becoming a long, looooooooooooong list of Value-Maximizing Travel Tips!
1. In your regular budget, designate money to go specifically towards travel.
2. Save on flights, hotels, and more by using online sites such as Expedia and Travelocity. Clear your cookies or use another browser to get the best deal.
3. If flying, you can likely pack everything you need in your carry-on luggage.
4. Take advantage of any opportunities your work offers to travel.
5. Sometimes hotels are the best deal, but look for other opportunities like hostels, cabins, guesthouses, bed and breakfasts, ministry buildings, and camps, just to name a few.
6. If you have to travel somewhere, such as for work or moving, turn your drive into a road trip by planning your route on RoadsideAmerica.com.
7. Use a website or app like GasBuddy.com to fill up at the cheapest places.
8. Take advantage of any memberships you have to save money. AAA is one of my favorites. I even save on Kroger-owned gas stations because I have a store card.
9. I love solo trips, but traveling with others can often be a better deal as you can split many of the travel costs.
10. Whether you're at an attraction, lodging, or basically anywhere, sometimes all it takes to get a discount is politely asking!
11. Search websites like RoadsideAmerica.com and Geocaching.com for day trip and road trip ideas. Some of the best adventures may be within a few miles of your home.
12. And of course, link to Value Ventures! I'll be posting all kinds of ways to get the best value on your excursions!
