Travel is a priceless experience, but everyone knows how quickly things can add up when you’re living in the moment on vacation.

We might not have a solution for how to make traveling free yet, but we do have some tips on how you can save your hard-earned vacation money for what really matters!

Written by The Pack Up + Go Team

1. Packing Light and Packing Smart

   • Packing light not only saves you from having to keep track of your personal items during vacation but can also save you money! By saving space in your luggage and packing efficiently, you can also save on any fees. Putting a little extra thought into what you pack can help in the long run, by keeping some extra change in your pocket and making traveling simpler. Travel rewards credit cards, such as the new United Quest Card℠  also offer many benefits, like two free checked bags ⁴ that can help you save!

2. Take advantage of Public Transportation 

   • Rideshare services have become a convenient option when traveling, but the cost can add up. If you are looking to save a little extra on your next getaway, consider public transportation! This will not only save money but allow you to see your destination from the point of view of a local. Pack Up + Go even offers many suggestions on “How to Get Around” with public transportation. Buses, trains, and subways are eco-friendly options as well as easier on your wallet; with many cities offering all-day and weekend passes too so that you can have unlimited rides while you are in town!

3. Travel Rewards Credit Card

   • Travel rewards credit cards can help you earn miles on many of your vacation purchases. Some cards, such as the new United Quest Card℠ are a great option, and for a limited time, new cardmembers can earn up to 100,000 bonus miles¹. The United Quest Card allows you to earn travel rewards on purchases, including 3X on United purchases, 2X on all other travel, restaurants (including eligible delivery services), and select streaming services², so that you can always be earning toward your next getaway! Additionally, the United Quest Card comes with other money-saving opportunities such as a $125 annual United purchase credit ⁵and seat upgrades⁸.

4. Get Refund Assurance  

   • The easiest way to lose money? Not planning for the unexpected. That’s why Pack Up + Go offers Peace of Mind Refund Assurance to help you book confidently knowing that if anything comes up, you will be guaranteed refunds and the flexibility to change your trip dates for free. This optional add-on gives you the peace of mind that if anything arises before you depart, you’ll be covered. 

   • Even if we cannot secure a refund from your airline, hotel, or activity providers, we will refund you:

     • 100% of your travel budget if your trip is 4+ weeks away

     • 80% of your travel budget if your trip is 72+ hours away - 4 weeks away

     • 75% of your travel budget if your trip is within 72 hours 

5. Ask the Hotel Staff for Their Tips

   • Locals know best! Take advantage of your hotel’s concierge service and you’ll be surprised how you’ll save money. Why? Because your concierge will know the best free events happening in town, give you insider tips on what popular spots to swing by or what to skip, and can help you navigate the public transportation system. The concierge may also have exclusive offers available to the hotel guests that will allow you to get a local experience of the city. Saving money and having a one-of-a-kind trip? Sign us up! 

Vacations come in all shapes and sizes, but wherever you go, keep these money-saving tips in mind so you can save your cash for even more experiences.

What are your go-to money-saving tips? Let us know in the comments!

This blog post was made in partnership with the new United Quest Card.