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With its whoop-it-up Western heritage, outstanding sports and concert venues, and just about any outdoor activity you might want to try, the city of Denver is full of fun things to do. And it’s all set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Rocky Mountains.

The problem is whittling down all that good stuff to a manageable itinerary of absolute must-sees. You could have an amazing time just focusing on bucket-list items, like the Red Rocks Amphitheatre and Coors Field. Or you might use your time in Denver to go hiking, shopping, or history hunting at the city’s memorable museums.

The best answer, we think, is to do a little of everything. So we gathered tips and picks from locals and seasoned travelers to build a list of can’t-miss adventures.

Best Times to Go to Denver

The weather in Denver can be unpredictable. You might have snow in early spring and temps in the 70s in winter. If pleasant weather is a priority, you may want to stick to the “shoulder” seasons — from April to May and September to October — for your visit. But you’ll also want to consider the sites you plan to see and the best time of year for your favorite activities, whether that’s hiking, sightseeing, hitting the slopes, or hanging at the ballpark.

Bad Times to Go to Denver

There really is no wrong time to go to Denver. It’s more a matter of personal preference. The winters can be cold, but that’s what you’ll want if skiing is on your itinerary. And though summer days can get pretty hot, and the city is more crowded with tourists, it can be a great time to go to a concert, ballgame, or museum.

Average Cost of a Denver Vacation

The cost of a vacation in Denver can vary significantly, depending on how long you visit, when and where you stay, and how you get there. Travel sites put the average cost of a weeklong trip at about $1,200 to $2,300 for solo travelers and $2,400 to $3,750 for a couple. (If you’re traveling with your kids or a four-legged friend, the cost can be significantly more.)

Here are just a few of the costs you may want to consider when you’re budgeting for your trip.

Getting There

Roundtrip airfare to Denver can range from $250 to $600 or more, depending on where you’re flying from and when you’re traveling. Driving can end up costing about the same, or even more if you have to stop at a hotel for a night or two.

Given the weird weather, don’t forget to look into your credit card travel insurance, just in case your flight is canceled.

Recommended: How to Access Fancy Airport Lounges

Accommodations

If you’re willing to stay at a budget hotel or somewhere outside the city, you may be able to save some serious money. Otherwise, expect to pay about $150 to $600 per night for a mid-range to luxury hotel close to downtown Denver.

Transportation

Although there are many fun things to do right in downtown Denver, if you want to drive into the foothills or the mountains, you may have to rent a car. A mid-size SUV could cost about $65 to $85 per day.

Dining

The average spend per person for food in Denver can range from $30 to $55 per day. Your food bill may go up or down based on how often you dine out, the restaurants you choose, and of course, how many cocktails you consume. A fast-food meal, for example, can cost less than $10, while a three-course meal in a nice restaurant might be $50 or more per person.

Sightseeing

There are many free things to do in Denver, and admission to most museums and other attractions costs $25 or less for an adult.

Recommended: Where to Keep a Travel Fund

10 Fun Must-Dos in Denver

There’s so much to do in and around the Mile High City, it can be a challenge to squeeze it all into a week or two. But if you go in with a plan — and some recs from friends and frequent visitors to the city and its surrounding area — you can improve the chances that you’ll get in your fair share of fun.

To get you started, we checked out dozens of travel sites, blogs, and “best of” lists, then compiled our own lineup of the top things to do in and around the city.

1. Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre

There’s much more to do at Red Rocks Park in Morrison than see a concert at its famous amphitheater. (Although it is a fantastic venue.) Visitors to the park set out on a moderate hike — at a manageable 6,450 feet above sea level — and enjoy the unusual landscape. At the visitors center, music and nature lovers can check out the Red Rocks Hall of Fame, shop, and grab a bite at the Ship Rock Grille. Red Rocks is about a 20-minute drive west of Denver. redrocksonline.com/

2. History Colorado Center

The History Colorado Center is the place to go if you really want to get a feel for Colorado and its place in the American West. At the exhibit “Zoom In: The Centennial State in 100 Objects,” for example, visitors can see artifacts that shaped the state’s history and culture from ancient to modern times. The museum is open every day except Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day. historycolorado.org/history-colorado-center

3. Coors Field

Even if you aren’t a diehard baseball fan, a visit to Coors Field is a must. The architecture will make you nostalgic for old-time stadiums, but it’s filled with modern amenities. They include an interactive space where kids and adults can test their skills in the video batting-cages and speed-pitch area.

There’s also a spacious viewing platform where you can get a great look at downtown Denver. For the full experience, take in a game on a warm summer evening, or sign up for a guided tour during the day. mlb.com/rockies/ballpark

4. Denver Mint

The U.S. Mint in Denver was built in the late 1800s to make gold coins, and it’s still producing coins today. Visitors can watch it all happen and learn about the history of the Mint. Tickets are for same-day tours only, and are distributed on a first-come, first-served basis, so it’s important to arrive early at the building in downtown Denver. The tours are family-friendly, but all visitors must be at least 7 years old. usmint.gov/about/mint-tours-facilities/Denver/visiting-the-denver-mint

5. Trendy Streets

Looking for shopping, dining, nightlife, and historic buildings close to your downtown hotel? Denver’s LoDo (short for lower downtown), Larimer Square, and 16^th Street Mall are pedestrian-friendly and packed with cool things. Also check out Pearl Street in Boulder, about 30 miles away, for a laid-back vibe and some primo people-watching.

6. Afternoon Tea at the Brown Palace

The historic Brown Palace Hotel and Spa is one of Denver’s most famous landmarks, and their afternoon tea is one of the city’s favorite traditions. While the hotel’s architecture is designed to make you feel at home in the West, the tea is decidedly traditional, served with Devonshire cream and handmade scones, while a grand piano plays. If you decide to skip tea, you’ll still want to stop by to admire the images of Colorado animals carved in stone on the hotel’s exterior. brownpalace.com

7. Molly Brown House Museum

The Molly Brown House Museum in Denver’s Capitol Hill neighborhood is dedicated to telling the story of Margaret “Molly” Brown, who famously survived the sinking of the Titanic, but also was an activist and philanthropist. The museum’s hours vary seasonally, so it’s a good idea to look and book in advance. (You can choose a guided or self-guided tour.) mollybrown.org

8. Buffalo Bill Museum and Grave

William “Buffalo Bill” Cody became a legend for his exploits as a Union soldier and civilian scout, but he’s probably best known for his Wild West show that toured the U.S. and Europe. The educational Buffalo Bill Museum is filled with artifacts and interactive exhibits, including a mechanical horse ride for kids. The museum and gravesite are in Lookout Mountain Park, about 20 miles west of Denver. Add to your Wild West experience with a stop at the nearby Buffalo Herd Nature Preserve, where the city of Denver maintains a herd of buffalo. buffalobill.org and denver.org/listing/buffalo-herd-nature-preserve/4549/

Recommended: How Families Can Afford to Travel

9. Hiking in Rocky Mountain National Park

If you’re ready for a day exploring the outdoors, why not hike one of the many trails in Rocky Mountain National Park? There’s a trail for every age and ability — from the short, flat, and easy Bear Lake hike to the longer Sky Pond hike, which has mountain, lake and waterfall views, to the more challenging but gorgeous Chasm Lake Hike. Remember: The weather can change quickly in Colorado. Do your research, choose your trail carefully, and come prepared. nps.gov/romo/index.htm

10. Estes Park and the Stanley Hotel

Yes, you’ll see plenty of beautiful scenery around Denver, but if you decide to head to Rocky Mountain National Park (and you should), consider stopping at the quaint town of Estes Park on the way, for brunch or lunch or just a little sightseeing. While you’re there, take a ride by the historic Stanley Hotel, the elegant (and not at all creepy) inspiration for Stephen King’s The Shining. visitestespark.com and stanleyhotel.com

Insider Tips

Here, some local wisdom to keep in mind when planning your trip to Denver.

Location, Location, Location

Keep your sightseeing goals in mind when choosing your accommodations. You may find cheaper rates at hotels outside the city, but traffic in Denver can be challenging, and you can spend a large chunk of your time just getting to the attractions you hope to see.

Dine on Something…Different

Here’s something every visitor to Denver really needs to know: The “Rocky Mountain oysters” you’ll see advertised around town aren’t seafood. They’re a snack made with bull testicles — sautéed, braised, broiled, or sometimes poached, but mostly fried. For adventurous eaters, they’re worth a try.

But if this Denver dish isn’t your thing, you can still eat like a westerner. The safer choice is a Denver omelet. The better choice might be an elk-jalapeno dog from Biker Jim’s Gourmet Dogs; a Colorado-style pizza known as a Mountain Pie; or lamb fondue. For more local flavor, wash down your meal with a beer from one of the city’s many craft breweries.

Recommended: How Travelers Can Support Local Economies

Have a Plan for How You’ll Pay

It can be a good idea to bring cash, your debit card, and a couple of different credit cards to pay for various things during your trip. You also may want to bring at least one travel credit card so you can get rewarded for qualifying purchases.

The Takeaway

Although the weather can be unpredictable, there’s no bad time to go to Denver. The average cost of a week there averages $2,400 to $3,750 for a couple. Some must-see attractions include Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre, Coors Field, the pedestrian-friendly LoDo neighborhood, and the Buffalo Bill Museum and grave. Adventurous eaters can brave a snack of Rocky Mountain oysters, while traditionalists might stick to an elk-jalapeno hot dog or a Mountain Pie pizza.

SoFi Travel is a new service exclusively for SoFi members. Through a partnership with Expedia, we make it easy to find the lowest rates and book your reservations — for flights, hotel rooms, car rentals, and more — all in one place. Earn 2x rewards when booking with your SoFi Mastercard or debit card. And when you redeem your SoFi rewards for travel, you get a 25% bonus: $100 of reward points are worth $125.

FAQ

Should I worry about altitude sickness in Denver’s higher elevation?

Some visitors do have trouble with altitude sickness in the Mile High City (and the surrounding foothills and mountains). Symptoms can include light-headedness, fatigue, and nausea. One way to combat it is to stay hydrated, so drink plenty of water.

What is the nightlife like in Denver?

Denver offers plenty for night owls, including clubs, bars, and restaurants; concerts and festivals; ghost tours; and stargazing at the University of Denver’s historic Chamberlin Observatory.

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Photo credit: iStock/milehightraveler

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There are so many different credit cards on the market, it can be hard to decide which one to apply for. If you like to travel and are always daydreaming about your next trip, you may want to consider a travel credit card. These cards can offer travel-related benefits, such as enhanced hotel or airline status, free upgrades, or no charge for baggage. Travel credit cards also earn rewards that you can use to offset the cost of travel.

However, deciding what type of card to get and using your credit cards rewards for travel can be complicated. The same holds true for learning how to maximize your rewards once you do settle on which plastic you want.

Here, some guidance to help you maximize your credit card rewards for travel, including:

•   How to find the best credit card for travel rewards

•   How to use rewards for travel

•   How to get the most out of your travel credit card

Types of Credit Card Rewards for Travel

Credit card rewards come in several types. When it comes to using rewards for travel, consider these options to find what best suits your needs:

•   Airline points and miles cards: With these credit cards, you typically earn miles or points on purchases made with the card. These can be redeemed with the particular airline’s rewards programs. Examples of airline credit cards include the Citi AAdvantage Mastercard and United Explorer Card.

•   Hotel credit cards: With this kind of travel credit card, you typically rack up points that can be used for rewards (such as upgrades or free nights) at a particular hotel chain. For instance, the Marriott Bonvoy Boundless Credit Card, Hilton Honors American Express Card, and IHG Rewards Premier Credit Card are all examples of these co-branded cards.

•   Flexible currency cards: With these cards, you are not locked into a single airline or hotel chain. The points/miles and rewards you earn can be transferred to different programs, via Ultimate Rewards, ThankYou Points, and Membership Rewards.

You might use a conventional rewards credit card that earns cash back and lets you redeem your rewards for cash in the form of a statement credit, bank transfer, or check. You can then apply this toward travel-related expenses. The best rewards credit card for travel will be the one that suits your needs and spending style; the idea is to get one and use it frequently.

Credit cards that earn points typically let you redeem those points for things like travel, cash back, gift cards, and merchandise. The value of points will vary, but generally, a point is worth about $0.01. However, you may get better value when you redeem points for things like travel.

There are many factors to consider when deciding between credit card miles vs. cash back vs. points cards. Cash-back cards often have low or no annual fees, and you can redeem your cash back for any purpose. However, they don’t usually have high-value welcome offers and may not offer as many benefits as other rewards cards. Credit cards that earn points or miles offer travel-related benefits and can help reduce the cost of travel, but they may charge large annual fees, and the value of the points and miles may vary.

Recommended: What Is the Average Credit Card Limit and How Can You Increase It?

5 Steps for Using Rewards for Travel

Here are five easy steps for using your rewards for travel.

1. Set a Travel Goal

First, set a travel goal. Decide where you want to go and when. If you are flexible on dates, you can save money or points. For example, flying a few weeks before Christmas instead of a few days before can save you a lot of money.

Is there a certain hotel or resort you dream of staying in? Do a little research to see what their rates are like. You might see that your target dates are at a time of high demand and cost due to a special event at that moment. You can then move your date a bit to avoid those extra-high prices. Or perhaps you are looking for just a two-night stay at a hotel near Lake Como, Italy, but all the lodging there has three-night minimums in summer. This kind of intel can be very useful as you plan.

Also, once you determine your goal, you can begin to develop a travel budget and start a travel fund to keep your money secure as you save and earn some interest.

2. Figure Out the Miles and Points You Need

Once you know where you want to go and when, you should see which miles and/or points you will need to get there. Scope out which airlines fly to your destination from your home airport (or another nearby), and which airlines they might partner with.

As you research routes that you might take, get a rough idea of how many miles or points the flights might cost. Be aware of blackout dates and other special considerations.

3. Research Airline and Hotel Loyalty Programs

Most hotels and airlines have loyalty programs in which you earn and redeem points and miles with that hotel or airline. Every hotel and airline has its own point system, though some have networks of partners, in which rewards can be used at multiple brands.

Airline partners within the same airline alliance allow you to redeem miles on flights operated by their partners. For example, Star Alliance includes airlines such as Air Canada, TAP Portugal, United Airlines, and many more. If you are looking at a flight, you may want to look up potential partners, as it is sometimes cheaper to book that flight with miles from a different partner.

4. Shop for Credit Cards That Will Help You Meet Your Goal

Once you know which airlines and hotels will work best for your travel goal, you can figure out which credit card rewards can help you reach that travel goal.

Credit cards with rewards can be an example of how families afford to travel. You can earn points and miles every time you swipe or tap and then redeem them for travel expenses, like flights and hotels.

You may want to apply for a credit card with the specific airline or hotel, or one that offers points that are transferable to airline and hotel partners (like Chase Ultimate Rewards or American Express Membership Rewards). Be sure to research which airlines and hotels these rewards programs partner with. You should also compare things like annual fees, welcome offers, earning structures, and benefits like travel insurance. Make sure you understand how credit card travel insurance work; that can be an important perk.

5. Track Your Progress

Once you have signed up for the credit card(s) that will help you meet your travel goal, there are a few things that you will need to track. If your credit card has a welcome bonus after spending a certain amount, you will need to track your progress toward that minimum amount. Some banks track this for you in your account, but others do not. Some other things that you may want to consider tracking include:

•   Spending requirements

•   Spending goals

•   Deadlines

•   Bonus reward categories

•   Points expiration dates

•   Hotel points to help save on hotel costs

•   Frequent flier miles

Recommended: Getting the Most Out of Your Credit Card Rewards

Tips for Maximizing Your Cards

Maximizing your cards is important to get the most rewards that you can. Follow this advice to help squeeze every last drop of value from your cards.

Label Your Cards

If you have multiple credit cards, it can be difficult to remember which one to use for which purchase. You may have one card that earns more on dining, another that earns more on gas, and a third that earns more on groceries. Some credit cards have rotating bonus categories that change throughout the year and may offer a short-term bonus earning opportunity, like extra points on gas purchases for the next few weeks.

If you have trouble remembering which card to use for which purchase, you can try using stickers or tape on the card with words like “gas” or “dining.” This can help you find the right card at the right moment. This strategy can also offer some helpful guidance if you have a partner who is not as invested in maximizing their cards as you are.

Time Large Purchases Strategically

If you know that you will have a large or several large purchases coming up in the near future, you may want to plan your credit card strategy around them. You might apply for a new credit card with a welcome offer shortly before making the large purchase. Some credit cards have welcome offers that require you to spend a certain amount during the first few months. If you would not otherwise spend that amount of money, timing it around the large purchase could help you meet this minimum spend and earn a hefty bonus (say, extra points).

Utilize Shopping and Dining Portals

Shopping and dining portals can give you extra miles, points, or money when you complete an eligible purchase. This involves going through a certain platform when making a purchase so that you can earn extra cash back, points, or miles. In this way, you can stack these portal rewards with other rewards, like the ones that you are earning on purchases on your credit card.

•   Portals can be through an airline, credit card, or independent cash-back company. Some popular airline portals include American Airlines’ AAdvantage eShopping and AAdvantage Dining, Southwest Airlines’ Rapid Rewards Shopping and Rapid Rewards Dining, and Delta Air Lines’ SkyMiles Shopping and SkyMiles Dining, among others.

•   Credit card companies that offer their own online shopping portals include Chase, Capital One, and Barclays. Popular cash-back portals include Rakuten, Mr. Rebates, and Top Cashback.

•   To use a shopping or dining portal, you would sign up for an account with the specific portal program. When you are ready to make a purchase at a retailer, you can go to the portal program’s website first, and click through there to the retailer to complete your purchase. You could also download a browser button for the program, and then click on the button before you complete your purchase.

•   If you want to compare which portal will give you the best return for a retailer, CashbackMonitor.com lets you search by stores or rewards types.

Try Apps

If you find yourself with points and miles in a variety of reward systems (like various airlines, hotels, and credit card companies), you may have a hard time keeping track of it all. Apps, like Travel Freely and MaxRewards, can help you organize your credit cards, rewards, points, and miles. Apps can help you easily see which credit card to use for which purchase, how many rewards you have in various systems, view upcoming annual fees, and more.

The Takeaway

Credit card rewards can help make travel more affordable. Once you have figured out which credit card can enable you to reach your travel goals, learning how to maximize your cards will likely boost the rewards you reap. By labeling your cards, timing large purchases, utilizing shopping and dining portals, and using apps, you may get closer to your dream vacation that much more quickly.

Whether you're looking to build credit, apply for a new credit card, or save money with the cards you have, it's important to understand the options that are best for you. Learn more about credit cards by exploring this credit card guide.

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Photo credit: iStock/martin-dm

Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

Third-Party Brand Mentions: No brands, products, or companies mentioned are affiliated with SoFi, nor do they endorse or sponsor this article. Third-party trademarks referenced herein are property of their respective owners.

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Receiving a destination wedding invite typically prompts one of two responses: excitement or low-key panic. After all, the couple getting married aren’t the only ones who may be apprehensive about the cost.

Destination weddings are undoubtedly more expensive for guests than local weddings. And the cost of travel is usually the deciding factor in who comes versus who stays home and watches it all on Insta.

Before you RSVP to a destination wedding invitation, you’ll probably have some practical money questions. We have answers, as well as guidance on how to politely get the clarity you need to budget appropriately.

1. Who Pays for What in Destination Weddings?

Generally speaking, when it comes to destination weddings, guests are responsible for paying for their own transportation, accommodations, and meals that won’t be covered by the wedding party. If the wedding venue is not at the hotel where everyone is staying, transportation is often provided.

At a minimum, you’ll be paying for your own travel, whether that’s booking a flight or renting a car. For a larger wedding, it’s likely the couple have booked a destination wedding package. This might include dinner the night before the wedding, plus the ceremony and reception of course, and maybe a brunch or lunch the next day. And for more intimate destination weddings, especially far-flung ones, it’s not unusual for the couple to host guests for multiple meals apart from the reception.

Most couples will make it very clear on their wedding website what they’re covering for their destination wedding and what guests are expected to pay for. If the schedule, for example, says Thursday night welcome cocktails, Friday night beach dinner, Saturday reception, and Sunday brunch, you know those meals are covered.

Average Cost of a Destination Wedding for Guests

A survey by The Knot found the average cost of being a wedding guest was $460. The amount fluctuates based on wedding location, type, and date (say, casual beach nuptials nearby vs. black tie across the country during peak summer travel).

For a non-destination wedding requiring no transportation or accommodation, The Knot found the average cost to be $270. Driving out of town brings you to $660; flying bumps that to an average of $1,270. The Knot survey also includes the average cost of a wedding gift — $160 — but this will be lower for a destination wedding (more on that below).

Who Pays for Bridesmaid Dresses? (and Shoes and Makeup and Hair)

With destination weddings, who pays for bridesmaid dresses, shoes, makeup, and hair really depends on the couple. Bridesmaids and groomsmen are usually responsible for their own outfits and shoes. Some destination wedding packages include hair and makeup, and the couple may pay for this or tell you in advance how much it’ll cost. Some destination wedding resorts even have services on-site.

If you are asked to be in a wedding party and truly cannot afford the outfits and accessories, talk to the couple: Tell them you love their destination wedding ideas and want to celebrate with them, and see how you can work things out.

Recommended: The Cost of Being in a Wedding Party

How to Save Money On A Destination Wedding

When considering how to save money on hotels, start with recommendations on the wedding site. Many destination wedding packages include discounted rooms for guests. You can then compare the rates secured by the couple to nearby hotels and vacation rentals. (Keep in mind that if you stay too far from the wedding hotel(s), where shuttles may be available, you’ll have added transportation costs.)

Splitting a hotel room certainly saves money. Depending on the size of your group, sharing a suite may make more sense. The best destination wedding resorts often have suite and/or family-room options, and these may have a lower cost-per-person than booking separate rooms. (Whether you want to share a bathroom with your parents is up to you.)

Most destination wedding invitations go out far in advance so guests can make plans. Use this to your advantage; book now, pay later travel allows you to lock in good deals when you find them, and pay for them after a few months of saving. But always read the fine print and make sure you’re paying low or no interest, or this option could end up costing you more than paying up front.

Likewise, if you’re committed to the wedding and you see a good price on flights, book them. Already-low flight prices are unlikely to drop further.

Another way that destination wedding guests can save money is by using credit card cash back rewards to offset the cost of flights and hotel rooms. Consider which is more useful to you, credit card miles vs. cash back.

If you travel a lot, miles can be the better value — assuming you actually use them. But if you’d rather not track miles, you might prefer a cash-back card.

Many travel and/or airline cards have an added benefit — built-in travel insurance. Be sure to review carefully how your credit card travel insurance works.

As you book flights and accommodations for a destination wedding, try a spending tracker app to keep track of costs.

What If I Find a Better Deal Than the Group Price?

Though it’s not that common, some destination wedding packages include a group price, usually for an all-inclusive resort. In general, the couple will tell guests this is an option and, if you want in, you sign up and pay a deposit.

If you find a better deal than the group price, you can certainly organize your own accommodations. Just be sure to let the couple know you won’t be participating in the package.

Do I Have to Give a Big Gift Too?

Many destination wedding invitations will say something like, “Your presence is our present,” making it clear that guests’ attendance is the gift. After all, many couples know destination wedding costs can be high, and many are concerned about how their families can afford to travel.

A heartfelt card is always well-received. Mail it to the couple so you and they have one less thing to carry. If the invitation doesn’t explicitly say no gifts, and you can afford one along with the other destination wedding expenses, you can give a lower-cost gift than you normally would.

What If My Kids Are Not Invited?

Some couples may want an adults-only celebration, which can be difficult for parents who want to attend but don’t have extended overnight childcare at home.

Depending on how old your kids are and how long you’ll be away, you may be able to arrange sleepovers with their friends or ask a relative or family friend to come stay one or two nights. This is of course much easier with older, more self-sufficient children.

If your destination wedding invitation says no kids and you’re determined to go, you can still bring them to the destination and attend the wedding events on your own. Many destination wedding packages include childcare. If they don’t, the best destination wedding resorts can certainly find babysitters or have them on staff.

Can I Ask for a Plus One?

Budget is the most common reason to be invited to a destination wedding without a plus one. But you can gently and politely ask to bring a guest, citing the plus one’s relationship to you (maybe you have a new partner) and, if you feel comfortable, the benefit of having someone to share costs. At worst, the couple will say no, and from there you can decide how to RSVP.

What If I Want to Go But Can’t Afford It?

First consider whether you want to go to a destination wedding but can’t afford it, period, or you just can’t afford it at the moment you receive the invitation. If the latter, you may be able to save up for the trip, especially as destination wedding invitations are usually sent far in advance. Also consider whether you have time to earn credit card rewards, if you can minimize costs by sharing a hotel room (there are surely other guests concerned about costs), and the possibility of staying somewhere less expensive than the wedding hotel.

If you truly cannot afford the wedding, or don’t feel comfortable financially, don’t go. Do not go into debt to go to a wedding. The couple invited you because they want you to share in their special day, but not at the expense of your finances. You can RSVP no and then explain to your friends that you’re thrilled for them and honored to be invited but that a destination wedding isn’t in the financial cards right now.

True friends will be far happier to receive a heartfelt note than to have you suffer financially on account of their wedding.

Recommended: How to Balance the Urge to Travel and the Need to Save

The Takeaway

Destination weddings can be a wonderful chance for couples and their family and friends to celebrate together in a fun place, but they can also be more expensive for guests than local weddings. Before saying yes to a destination wedding invitation, try asking a few money questions of either the couple or potential wedding guests, so that you have a better idea of the associated expenses. Once you know relatively fixed costs like travel, accommodations, gifts, etc, you’ll know how much you need to save.

SoFi Travel is a new service exclusively for SoFi members. Through a partnership with Expedia, we make it easy to find the lowest rates and book your reservations — for flights, hotel rooms, car rentals, and more — all in one place. Earn 2x rewards when booking with your SoFi Mastercard or debit card. And when you redeem your SoFi rewards for travel, you get a 25% bonus: $100 of reward points are worth $125.

Wherever you’re going, get there with SoFi Travel.

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Photo credit: iStock/andreswd

**Terms, and conditions apply: The SoFi Travel Portal is operated by Expedia. To learn more about Expedia, click https://www.expediagroup.com/home/default.aspx.
When you use your SoFi Credit Card to make a purchase on the SoFi Travel Portal, you will earn a number of SoFi Member Rewards points equal to 3% of the total amount you spend on the SoFi Travel Portal. Members can save up to 10% or more on eligible bookings.
Eligibility: You must be a SoFi registered user.
You must agree to SoFi’s privacy consent agreement.
You must book the travel on SoFi’s Travel Portal reached directly through a link on the SoFi website or mobile application. Travel booked directly on Expedia's website or app, or any other site operated or powered by Expedia is not eligible.
You must pay using your SoFi Credit Card.
SoFi Member Rewards: All terms applicable to the use of SoFi Member Rewards apply. To learn more please see: https://www.sofi.com/rewards/ and Terms applicable to Member Rewards.
Additional Terms: Changes to your bookings will affect the Rewards balance for the purchase. Any canceled bookings or fraud will cause Rewards to be rescinded. Rewards can be delayed by up to 7 business days after a transaction posts on Members’ SoFi Credit Card ledger. SoFi reserves the right to withhold Rewards points for suspected fraud, misuse, or suspicious activities.
©2023 SoFi Bank, N.A. All rights reserved. Member FDIC. Equal Housing Lender. NMLS #696891 (Member FDIC), (www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org).

The SoFi Credit Card is issued by SoFi Bank, N.A. pursuant to license by Mastercard® International Incorporated and can be used everywhere Mastercard is accepted. Mastercard is a registered trademark, and the circles design is a trademark of Mastercard International Incorporated.

SoFi cardholders earn 2% unlimited cash back rewards when redeemed to save, invest, a statement credit, or pay down eligible SoFi debt.

Members earn 2 rewards points for every dollar spent on purchases. No rewards points will be earned with respect to reversed transactions, returned purchases, or other similar transactions. When you elect to redeem rewards points into your SoFi Checking or Savings account, SoFi Money® account, SoFi Active Invest account, SoFi Credit Card account, or SoFi Personal, Private Student, or Student Loan Refinance, your rewards points will redeem at a rate of 1 cent per every point. For more details, please visit the Rewards page. Brokerage and Active investing products offered through SoFi Securities LLC, Member FINRA/SIPC. SoFi Securities LLC is an affiliate of SoFi Bank, N.A.

Third-Party Brand Mentions: No brands, products, or companies mentioned are affiliated with SoFi, nor do they endorse or sponsor this article. Third-party trademarks referenced herein are property of their respective owners.

Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

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If you are planning on traveling over the winter holidays, join the club: So are many of your fellow Americans, with the Sunday after Thanksgiving typically being the very worst, most overcrowded day to pile onto a flight. But don’t let that deter you from having a great time with friends and family during the season. Instead, be a smart planner and learn the best times to book your trip.

This guide will help you get the best deal possible, covering such need-to-know topics as:

•   When to book holiday flights

•   When to book a holiday cruise

•   When to book a holiday car rental

•   Holiday travel tips

Why Holiday Travel Is So Chaotic

There are several reasons why holiday travel is inherently more hectic than any other time of year.

•   The skies are filled with people who are infrequent travelers, flying only around the holidays or perhaps not having flown at all in a few years. These travelers are less familiar with the airports and airlines (plus details like baggage requirements). That translates into their taking longer to check in, go through security, and board their plane, causing some bottlenecks.

•   There’s also the sheer volume of holiday travelers that can make getting to and from your destination challenging. To give you an idea of the order of magnitude here, about 54 million Americans traveled for Thanksgiving 2022. That kind of volume can mean airports, airplanes, and hotels may be at full capacity, and rental car lots can be empty. Not a big problem when everything is running smoothly, but throw in a winter storm or other disruption, and there’s no slack left in the system.

•   When Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Eve roll around, it’s a big deal: Everyone wants to travel at the same time. With spring break, different school districts get out at different times, but Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year holidays only occur once on each calendar. And it’s not like travelers can just reschedule their holiday plans if there’s a delay.

When to Book Holiday Flights

So, agreed: The holidays are a super popular time to travel. Every year, budget-conscious travelers look to save money by trying to precisely time their purchase of holiday flights. Here’s some intel that can help you have the most choice and pay the best price.

Recommended: How Families Can Afford to Travel

Domestic Flights

For domestic flights, the best time to book them is often as early as possible. Most airlines will open their schedules up about 11 months in advance, and you can often find the least expensive flights at that time. Other airlines (like Southwest) release their schedules in batches, often around six or eight months in advance. When the schedule is released, you’ll have the largest choice of itineraries, and often the least expensive tickets.

Before the pandemic, most airlines imposed very high fees for changes and cancellations. That gave travelers an incentive to try to time their purchases to when they think the prices will be lowest. But now, many major airlines have dropped their change and cancellation fees, giving travelers the opportunity to make reservations sooner, knowing that they can rebook their flights if the price drops.

Booking early can also give you a jump on nabbing those sought-after free or discounted seats that can be obtained by getting the most out of your credit card rewards.

International Flights

For international flights, some airlines still impose change and cancellation fees, so the timing becomes more important. And the best time to purchase an international flight can vary based on your destination. According to a survey done by CheapAir.com, it’s best to buy tickets to Europe, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Asia about 10 months out, though you might get lucky with a booking window of a month and a half to two months before your travel dates.

However, these figures were for travel year-round, and holiday travelers might wish to book as far out as possible, especially if you plan on using credit card rewards.

Recommended: What Is an Airline Credit Card?

Booking Hotels for the Holidays: Advance vs Last-Minute

When it comes to saving money on hotels during the holidays, you are almost always better off booking in advance. Holidays are peak travel times at leisure destinations, and you can expect many hotels and resorts to be sold out as you approach December.

Having a hotel credit card may help sweeten the deal, as you’ll be eligible for perks like late checkouts and room upgrades, plus earning points.

How Far in Advance to Reserve Rental Cars for the Holidays

There’s really no reason not to book a rental car as soon as you make your holiday plans. Rental cars have been in very short supply and quite expensive since the pandemic. At a minimum, you’ll likely want to lock in a set of wheels three to six months prior to your travel dates, when prices tend to be most competitive.

When to Book a Holiday Cruise

Just as with hotels and rental cars, you will often receive the best pricing and availability when you book your holiday cruise as early as possible. In fact, some cruises are available for booking over a year in advance.

You’ll usually find the best prices and perks if you book during what is known as “wave season,” which typically runs from January to March.

Best Time to Book Tours, Sites, and Activities

Certainly, if there’s a show or other high-demand activity you have your heart set on (such as seeing the Rockettes’ Christmas Show at Radio City Music Hall in New York), then you’ll want to book it at least several months in advance.

But if it’s not a major tour or attraction, then you might be able to book it just a few weeks out, or be spontaneous and book it at the last minute. Aside from the holidays, winter is usually the low season for most places, except warm-weather destinations. That’s why you might be surprised to find activities available at the last minute.

Tips for Holiday Travel

Here are some holiday travel tips to help make your winter vacay as affordable and stress-free as possible:

•   To make the most of your holiday travel, accept that you’ll be one of tens of millions of holiday travelers and systems will be on overload. Ideally, you can pack light and avoid checking a bag, which can be a major cost both in time and money, as well as one more thing that can go wrong.

•   Join TSA PreCheck, which allows you to speed through airport security without taking off your belt or shoes, or removing your liquids or electronics. Thankfully, many travel credit cards and airline credit cards reimburse travelers for the application fee, which is $78 for five years.

•   Of course, avoiding peak days, like the Wednesday before Thanksgiving and the Sunday after, can make travel a little less daunting. And if you don’t celebrate a particular holiday (say, Christmas), traveling on that day can often result in a smooth, crowd-free experience.

•   If you know you have holiday travel coming up, it can be wise to start a travel fund in advance. You might set up automatic transfers into it the day after every payday.

•   Planning some pricey travel (say, a family reunion in Florida for New Year’s Eve) that you don’t have the funds for? Look into your options. A vacation loan could be an alternative to consider vs. putting the cost of the trip on your credit card.

The Takeaway

Holiday travel is an American tradition, which means demand (and stress) can be sky-high. By planning your trip as far in advance as possible and taking into account the crowds, you can afford a family vacation that makes the most of the season. Knowing when and how to get the best deals can help you enjoy the most wonderful time of the year.

SoFi Travel has teamed up with Expedia to bring even more to your one-stop finance app, helping you book reservations — for flights, hotels, car rentals, and more — all in one place. SoFi Members also have exclusive access to premium savings, with 10% or more off on select hotels. Plus, earn unlimited 3%** cash back rewards when you book with your SoFi Unlimited 2% Credit Card through SoFi Travel.

SoFi Travel can take you farther.

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Photo credit: iStock/svetikd

**Terms, and conditions apply: The SoFi Travel Portal is operated by Expedia. To learn more about Expedia, click https://www.expediagroup.com/home/default.aspx.
When you use your SoFi Credit Card to make a purchase on the SoFi Travel Portal, you will earn a number of SoFi Member Rewards points equal to 3% of the total amount you spend on the SoFi Travel Portal. Members can save up to 10% or more on eligible bookings.
Eligibility: You must be a SoFi registered user.
You must agree to SoFi’s privacy consent agreement.
You must book the travel on SoFi’s Travel Portal reached directly through a link on the SoFi website or mobile application. Travel booked directly on Expedia's website or app, or any other site operated or powered by Expedia is not eligible.
You must pay using your SoFi Credit Card.
SoFi Member Rewards: All terms applicable to the use of SoFi Member Rewards apply. To learn more please see: https://www.sofi.com/rewards/ and Terms applicable to Member Rewards.
Additional Terms: Changes to your bookings will affect the Rewards balance for the purchase. Any canceled bookings or fraud will cause Rewards to be rescinded. Rewards can be delayed by up to 7 business days after a transaction posts on Members’ SoFi Credit Card ledger. SoFi reserves the right to withhold Rewards points for suspected fraud, misuse, or suspicious activities.
©2023 SoFi Bank, N.A. All rights reserved. Member FDIC. Equal Housing Lender. NMLS #696891 (Member FDIC), (www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org).

Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

The SoFi Credit Card is issued by SoFi Bank, N.A. pursuant to license by Mastercard® International Incorporated and can be used everywhere Mastercard is accepted. Mastercard is a registered trademark, and the circles design is a trademark of Mastercard International Incorporated.

SoFi cardholders earn 2% unlimited cash back rewards when redeemed to save, invest, a statement credit, or pay down eligible SoFi debt.

Members earn 2 rewards points for every dollar spent on purchases. No rewards points will be earned with respect to reversed transactions, returned purchases, or other similar transactions. When you elect to redeem rewards points into your SoFi Checking or Savings account, SoFi Money® account, SoFi Active Invest account, SoFi Credit Card account, or SoFi Personal, Private Student, or Student Loan Refinance, your rewards points will redeem at a rate of 1 cent per every point. For more details, please visit the Rewards page. Brokerage and Active investing products offered through SoFi Securities LLC, Member FINRA/SIPC. SoFi Securities LLC is an affiliate of SoFi Bank, N.A.

Third-Party Brand Mentions: No brands, products, or companies mentioned are affiliated with SoFi, nor do they endorse or sponsor this article. Third-party trademarks referenced herein are property of their respective owners.

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My family is planning a trip to Europe this summer, during which my daughter, who plays cello, will attend an international music camp. A cello is cumbersome, fragile, and valuable. Should we carry it on the plane?

If you’re debating whether to bring your lucky racket or how to transport that gorgeous bridesmaid dress, know that you’ll need packing skills, some room in your travel budget, and a bit of patience at security. But if you’re determined, it turns out that most special items can be accommodated on flights.

Knowing your airline’s policies and planning carefully will help you get where you need to go with your cargo safe and sound. Here are some tips for how to handle many specific items.

Things to Keep in Mind when Flying With Special Items

Before booking flights online, call ahead to find out airline policies about your bulky must-bring thing. Know which of the company’s fare tiers will allow you to carry on an extra item, as well as the cost of checking it. And be sure you understand any restrictions for the ticket you book: Deep-discount airfares often allow for only a “personal item,” like a backpack.

Recommended: Apply for an Unlimited Cash Back Credit Card

What Do Airlines Consider Special Items?

The airlines, both domestic and international, have a list of categories that are considered “special items.” When in doubt, call your carrier to ask how your item must travel before heading to the airport.

By the way, traveling with pets is a whole other story.

Here are some of the biggies:

Musical Instruments

My family isn’t alone in wondering what to do with a cello. “When I have students traveling internationally, I encourage them to try to rent a cello at their destination,” advises Erich S., a professional cellist. While he has traveled with his instrument, he says, “I have always had to buy a seat for it.” But that’s not an option that will help us afford family travel.

A fiddle or flute should be small enough to qualify as a carry-on, traveling in an overhead bin. Any traveling instrument should be hard-cased to protect it from bumps, and you should expect an out-of-case inspection at security.

Garment Bags

Some airlines have in-cabin spots to hang garment bags, but not all. Got a big dress to transport? Experts recommend carrying it on — the gown and all accoutrements, including shoes and jewelry — especially if you’re a bride heading to your “I do” destination. (Even the best credit card travel insurance can’t help you if your outfit gets on the wrong flight.)

Most wedding dresses can be contained in carry-on luggage. Place the gown in a clean garment bag, tri-fold it vertically and carefully roll it. You’ll want to arrange for a steaming upon arrival.

Sports Equipment

A tennis racket can be bubble-wrapped and sandwiched between clothing in a suitcase, or just cased and tucked headfirst into your tote. But when it comes to hefty equipment, expect to incur costs. Of course you’d rather shred the mountain on your skis, but bringing them along can be pricey.

“When my kids were little,” says Suman D., a CEO and his crew’s head ski bum, “I threw everything in a box and shipped it ahead.” Now that his children are teens, it isn’t as easy — or economical. On a recent college-scouting trip to Vancouver, the family planned to hit the slopes. Their discount carrier, Porter Airlines, charged $50 for an oversize snowboard bag at airport baggage check-in — less than the cost of a resort gear rental. On other airlines, Suman says, it’s proven cheaper to rent when they arrive.

What other equipment might you bring?

•   A fishing pole: It’s allowed, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) website says. (Hooks must be wrapped and secured in a checked bag.)

•   Hockey sticks may be checked in sports bags. First, enclose them in a hard tube or securely tape them together.

•   Surfboards can cost a pretty penny to fly — as much as $300 — but “surfer-friendly” airlines include KLM, Virgin, Qantas, and Singapore, all of which allow boards to go in the hold as normal checked baggage. (Note: if you are renting a car at your destination, that economy car likely won’t do!)

Recommended: What is a Charge Card?

Computers and Media Equipment

Everybody has a smartphone and laptop these days, and they’re no odd object to travel with. Devices containing lithium metal or lithium ion batteries — basically any kind of computer device and some games — should be carried on. Be sure the batteries are charged, as a TSA agent may ask you to power up to pass security. Some airports have such good tech that you can leave your tablet or notebook in your bag when you go through checkpoints.

Wine and Liquor

The easiest way to transport spirits via plane is to purchase it in-airport at a duty-free shop. Did your summer travels take you under the Tuscan Sun? You can tuck bottles of beverages with less than 24 percent alcohol by volume into your checked bag.

For a whole case, expect a fee (best to have a pro pack the bottles) at the airport baggage check-in. (According to the U.S. Customs and Border Protection website, “duty on wine and beer is generally low, $1-2 per liter.) In your carryon, the limit is 3.4 oz, and the container must be in a sealed plastic bag.

Fragile Items

If you’ve been to an auction or art fair, you’re surely bringing home goodies. Know how to fly with fragile items and carry them accordingly. Place well-padded (bubble wrap saves the day!) glass and other crackable objects in a hard-walled carry-on. Yup, you can bring that painting on the plane — so long as it fits in the seat you’ve booked for it.

Recommended: How to Exchange Foreign Currency

Strollers and Car Seats

Gear for kids gets on every flight free. Breast pumps and accompanying cooler bags are also allowed. To avoid hassles, bring a doctor’s note.

Medical Devices and Wheelchairs

The U.S. Department of Transportation protects your right to travel with medical equipment you require to stay mobile and healthy. You can bring your device onboard if there’s a space to stow it — otherwise, the airline will check it for free.

Recognized assistive devices include crutches, canes, walkers, braces and prosthetics, and wheelchairs. You may also carry hearing aids, portable oxygen concentrators (POCs), and continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machines. Prescription meds are allowed, as well as any implements needed to administer those medications, such as syringes or auto-injectors.

Perishables

Like to rack up credit card rewards at fancy food shops? Many countries have no restrictions regarding edibles, but the U.S. does: Agricultural products including fruits, vegetables, plants, and meat coming from other countries are banned (read: confiscated) at customs, according to their website. Baked goods, cheeses, teas, and spices are generally good to go.

Recommended: Apply for a Rewards Credit Card

Tips for Keeping Luggage Safe

The best way to ensure your items are secure is to keep them with you. Check plane seat pockets and bins, and count your bags before deboarding. Tracking fobs, TSA-approved locks or zip ties, cellophane wraps and a sturdy ID tag may keep your checked items safer — but when a bag is out of your hands, it’s exactly that.

The Takeaway

Whatever you take with you, know your airline’s policy on transporting it. Pack properly, and if that item is vital, bring certification or a doctor’s letter of necessity. Beyond that, pack light — you’ll need a spare hand to manage your valuable things.

SoFi Travel is a new service offered exclusively to SoFi members. Earn 2x rewards when booking with your SoFi Mastercard or debit card. Then apply those rewards to your next trip when you book through our travel portal. SoFi makes planning a getaway fast, easy, and convenient — perfect for people on the move.

SoFi, your one-stop shop for travel.

---

Photo credit: iStock/AzmanL

**Terms, and conditions apply: The SoFi Travel Portal is operated by Expedia. To learn more about Expedia, click https://www.expediagroup.com/home/default.aspx.
When you use your SoFi Credit Card to make a purchase on the SoFi Travel Portal, you will earn a number of SoFi Member Rewards points equal to 3% of the total amount you spend on the SoFi Travel Portal. Members can save up to 10% or more on eligible bookings.
Eligibility: You must be a SoFi registered user.
You must agree to SoFi’s privacy consent agreement.
You must book the travel on SoFi’s Travel Portal reached directly through a link on the SoFi website or mobile application. Travel booked directly on Expedia's website or app, or any other site operated or powered by Expedia is not eligible.
You must pay using your SoFi Credit Card.
SoFi Member Rewards: All terms applicable to the use of SoFi Member Rewards apply. To learn more please see: https://www.sofi.com/rewards/ and Terms applicable to Member Rewards.
Additional Terms: Changes to your bookings will affect the Rewards balance for the purchase. Any canceled bookings or fraud will cause Rewards to be rescinded. Rewards can be delayed by up to 7 business days after a transaction posts on Members’ SoFi Credit Card ledger. SoFi reserves the right to withhold Rewards points for suspected fraud, misuse, or suspicious activities.
©2023 SoFi Bank, N.A. All rights reserved. Member FDIC. Equal Housing Lender. NMLS #696891 (Member FDIC), (www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org).

The SoFi Credit Card is issued by SoFi Bank, N.A. pursuant to license by Mastercard® International Incorporated and can be used everywhere Mastercard is accepted. Mastercard is a registered trademark, and the circles design is a trademark of Mastercard International Incorporated.

SoFi cardholders earn 2% unlimited cash back rewards when redeemed to save, invest, a statement credit, or pay down eligible SoFi debt.

Members earn 2 rewards points for every dollar spent on purchases. No rewards points will be earned with respect to reversed transactions, returned purchases, or other similar transactions. When you elect to redeem rewards points into your SoFi Checking or Savings account, SoFi Money® account, SoFi Active Invest account, SoFi Credit Card account, or SoFi Personal, Private Student, or Student Loan Refinance, your rewards points will redeem at a rate of 1 cent per every point. For more details, please visit the Rewards page. Brokerage and Active investing products offered through SoFi Securities LLC, Member FINRA/SIPC. SoFi Securities LLC is an affiliate of SoFi Bank, N.A.

Third-Party Brand Mentions: No brands, products, or companies mentioned are affiliated with SoFi, nor do they endorse or sponsor this article. Third-party trademarks referenced herein are property of their respective owners.

Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

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