Community Corner
Book Summer Trips Now to Lock in Deals
Whether traveling far or enjoying a "stay-cation," plan ahead to maximize your budget.
The No. 1 thing you can do to save money on your vacation is book early, says travel agent Anthony Archie, owner of in Blackwood.
Booking early can also help you save on airfare.
“Be prepared to book airfare as soon as you see a low price,” Archie said. “And be flexible with your travel times. Leave and return on Tuesday or Wednesday to get the best flight deal.”
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Archie and other Gloucester Township residents offer more suggestions on saving on summer travel.
Plan Your Budget and Be Flexible
Find out what's happening in Gloucester Townshipwith free, real-time updates from Patch.
Archie, who has been planning travel for families, couples and groups for more than 24 years, recommends first assessing your travel budget and then booking your trip. Also, be flexible with your travel dates and avoid peak travel times such as holiday weekends.
Consider International Travel
Even with high airfares, traveling to family-friendly Nassau, Bahamas, Cancun, Mexico, or Punta Cana, Dominican Republic, can be more affordable than a week at the Jersey Shore, according to Archie. Cruises, which are typically all-inclusive, can be booked up to a year in advance, and most include food, drinks and on-board activities.
Disney World
Disney World is still the top family vacation destination. While there are some great deals on accommodations and park admission, the cost of meals remains expensive. Caroline Menold, an experienced Disney traveler and Sicklerville native, recommends making dining reservations and special attraction arrangements as far in advance as possible.
“If you stay at a Disney World resort property, you can book meals up to 180 days in advance. And since some of the best food values are in sit-down and buffet-style restaurants, you want to try to lock in reservations,” Menold, who travels to Disney once a year, said.
Stay Local, Plan in Advance
If you are looking to stay local this summer season, booking early and taking advantage of preseason ticket and pass sales can save you big bucks. Most South Jersey Shore points offer deals on seasonal beach tags if you purchase before Memorial Day. Ocean City, for example discounts their beach tags by $5 if you purchase early. Many theme parks offer discounts on season-ticket packages, if you book before the parks open for the season.
Travel agents can also help save you money. In Gloucester Township, check out Archie's, and .
