SoFi

Travel isn’t the only way to strengthen your relationship with your dad. You can spend quality time together more easily and cheaply on the couch or in the backyard. But those routine interactions probably won’t become lifelong memories.

Exploring places together, from the Grand Canyon to a cool urban landscape, can take you out of your comfort zone and pull you closer. Discovering new sights, sounds, and tastes as a unit can be a wonderful way to reconnect.

Whether you’re the parent or an adult child, here are some inspiring ideas for creating an unforgettable trip:

•   How to plan a father-son trip

•   Ways to afford a father-son trip

•   Great destinations for father-son travel

Recommended: Apply for an Unlimited Cash Back Credit Card

Tips for Planning Your Trip

A little planning can help create a meaningful father-son trip that avoids the usual travel hiccups.

•   Set up a travel fund: The first step in planning any father and son trip is establishing a budget. Add up all the projected expenses, such as flights, hotel, attractions, food, entertainment, and incidentals. Once you have that figure, divide it by the number of months until your trip.

Then start contributing that amount each month. But don’t keep the money under your mattress: Set up a travel fund. The fund can be saved in a separate savings account or a short-term CD. Setting up automatic transfers or adding “found money” (say, a tax refund or a bonus at work) can speed up your savings’ growth. Look for a competitive annual percentage yield (APY) as well to help your money grow more rapidly. Online banks tend to offer the best rates.

•   Book now and pay later: Another easy way to manage your father-son trip costs is to book now and pay later. Many travel companies, airlines, and hotels offer payment plans, so you can book your trip and spread the costs over time. This can be helpful if you want to take advantage of early booking discounts or offers. And you may be able to avoid the steep interest fees that can accrue when you put everything on your credit card.

•   Consider travel insurance: Part of smart planning can be recognizing that sometimes things don’t go your way. Events may happen before or during your father-son trip (someone gets sick, your car decides to conk out) that may cost you additional money. Did you know that your favorite rewards credit card may already include travel insurance?

Your credit card travel insurance can cover things like lost luggage, new hotels, family emergencies, and other-last minute changes. You’ll want to learn what your specific card provides. If the coverage doesn’t meet your needs, you can look into additional travel insurance if you’re worried about things going awry.

•   Reward yourself. Reward points are available from all sorts of sources, such as credit cards, airlines, car rental agencies, hotel chains, bus and train lines, and more. Do your research to see what’s available, and you may be able to whittle your costs down or even score some freebies, such as a no-pay night at a hotel. Or you might score a free flight or an upgrade. Sometimes, when it comes to credit card miles vs. cash back, you may find that the travel bonus is better than the dollar bills.

Recommended: Traveling with a Pet

Popular Destinations for Fathers & Sons

Beaches, baseball games, breweries, and big cities: Those are just a few of the places that can make for a terrific father and son trip. The best destination for you will depend on your shared interests and budget. And also your timing: If it’s summer travel you’re planning, heading to Orlando may be too hot for some folks.

If your family tree goes back to Ireland, a long weekend in Dublin might make an incredible experience for you two to explore your roots. Closer to home, you might rather visit sites from the Revolutionary War if you’re history buffs.

Some fathers and sons might love to go camping; others prefer to stay at a swanky hotel in a big city and eat their way through some of the town’s best restaurants. It’s really all about what makes the two of you and your relationship tick while getting you out of your usual element.

3 Sample Getaway Itineraries

Need some help figuring out where to go? Here are a few itineraries for a father-son trip that may spark some ideas or even help you get booking.

1. Natural Wonders: National Parks

National parks are an excellent, affordable choice for a father-son trip, especially if you love the outdoors. With 63 national parks in 30 states, there’s no shortage of options to choose from. Purchasing a national park pass in advance will grant you access to all parks for one year. Expect to pay between $20 (seniors) and $80 for an annual pass. One idea:

•   Utah is a popular destination for those looking to explore the jaw-dropping natural wonders of the United States. The state is home to Arches, Bryce Canyon, Canyonlands, Capitol Reef and Zion National Parks, which all have awesome, unusual vistas.

•   Whether you are renting a car or using your own wheels to take a road trip through Utah, Zion National Park is a great option for a multi-day father and son trip. You can reserve a campsite at Watchman Campground; a free shuttle bus can take you to one of the many trails, where you can spend quality time birdwatching one of the 200 species at the park. Father and son evenings can be spent stargazing, as Zion is certified as an International Dark Sky Park.

•   Other activities include hiking the Emerald Pools Trail and driving 90 minutes to visit Bryce Canyon National Park, which is known for its unique, otherworldly rock formations called hoodoos. You can explore the park by foot or even by horseback.

2. Hit a Grand Slam: Stadium Trip

For fathers and sons who share a love of sports, a baseball trip can be an excellent choice. With over 2,400 MLB games per season played at 30 ballparks, there are plenty of opportunities to catch a couple of games and try some tasty stadium foods.

If you want to catch a couple of games at different stadiums, look no further than a father and son trip to Kansas City and St. Louis. (Bonus: With St. Louis being a travel hub, you’ll have many opportunities to use your favorite airline credit card and earn points.)

•   Start in St. Louis. After getting settled at your hotel, go visit the renowned Gateway Arch, where you can ascend inside and catch views of St. Louis.

•   Head down to Ballpark Village for a little pregame snack (maybe a Bratzel, a bratwurst wrapped in pretzel dough) and watch highlights on their many outdoor screens. Then enjoy the game at the adjacent Busch Stadium as well as the amazing cityscape views inside the stadium.

•   Another highlight of a father-son trip could be the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum which celebrates the rich history of African-American baseball while touching on the league’s social impact.

•   Hop behind the wheel and drive 250 miles to catch another game at Kansas City’s Kauffman Stadium. With its unique Crown scoreboard and 1970s architecture, it is recognized as one of the game’s best experiences.

•   You can hit up fan favorite Joe’s Kansas City Bar-B-Que for their famous, finger-lickin’-good food.

3. Make Family History: A Historical Father-Son Trip

For the history buffs, consider a historical father and son trip to Washington, D.C. With its abundance of museums, monuments, and government buildings, this city has something for everyone.

•   After you’ve checked into your lodging, you might take an evening monument tour that showcases the city’s stunning landmarks under glamorous lighting. There are both guided and self-guided tours, which are a great, affordable way to visit the sites without a lot of driving.

•   The next day, start with one or more of the city’s world renowned museums, such as the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum, the Holocaust Museum, the National Portrait Gallery, or the National Museum of Asian Art.

•   You might spend an afternoon at Mount Vernon, the home of George Washington. Both self-guided and guided tours are available where you can learn about the life of our first President.

•   Another great stop on a father-son trip would be driving a little more than two hours to Gettysburg, PA, for their annual Civil War Reenactment. Walk through the different camp sites, explore the battlefield, and take in the sights and sounds of this historically accurate event.

Recommended: How to Save Money on Hotels

Accessible Ideas for Less Mobile Dads

For fathers and sons who may be less mobile, there are still plenty of trip options.

•   There are cruises and riverboat vacations that let you relax on board your ship and take in the sights.

•   Train travel can be another option, especially historic scenic railroads along the West Coast or through the Carolinas and Great Smoky Mountains.

•   Tours in your area can make for a fun father-son trip, too. The Oregon Fruit Loop, near the Hood River, brings visitors to 30 farms with fruit stands and wineries. This unique experience allows you to choose the time and pace you spend at each stop while spending quality time in the car together.

What About Father-Daughter Getaways?

Family bonding doesn’t have to be just for the guys in the family. For those looking for fun father-daughter getaways, as with father-son trips, it’s all about your shared interests. Beach lovers can spend a couple of days by the shore. Or if snowboarding is more your speed, head to the mountains. Can’t resist a musical or some other live theater? Try a visit to NYC and some Broadway shows.

For dads of younger daughters, Disney vacations can be a treat, or a weekend that revolves around a visit to one of the nine American Girl stores can be a great bonding experience.

The Takeaway

A father-son trip can be a fantastic way to have some quality time and make amazing memories. What’s more, by planning ahead, budgeting wisely, and knowing how to find good deals, you can have an experience that’s as affordable as it is unforgettable.

Whether you want to travel more or get a better ROI for your travel dollar, SoFi can help. SoFi Travel is a new service exclusively for SoFi members that lets you budget, plan, and book your next trip in a convenient one-stop shop. SoFi takes the guessing game out of how much you can afford for that honeymoon, family vacation, or quick getaway — and we help you save too.

SoFi Travel can take you farther.

---

Photo credit: iStock/VioletaStoimenova

¹See Rewards Details at SoFi.com/card/rewards.

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

**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.

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.

SOCC0323026

Read more

“The older I get, the more I see the power of that young woman, my mother,” poet Sharon Olds wrote of the connection between a mother and adult daughter. How better to strengthen your relationship than to take a trip together, affording you some time to relax and get to know each other all over again.

Still, one-on-one time with Mom can be intense. Where should you go? How will you fill the time? We’ve got you covered, with some sample itineraries for moms of every stripe.

Tips for Planning Your Getaway

First, you’ll want to pick a mother-daughter getaway that’s right for each of you individually and together. Here are a few questions worth considering: Are you or your mom by nature self-directed, or do you thrive when there’s a set schedule to follow? Are you seeking adventure-filled days and nights? Unfamiliar surroundings and culture? Are you foodies whose days would best revolve around meals and culinary adventures? Or do you just need some pampered, luxurious downtime?

If you’re a mom and doing the planning, think about your daughter’s age and what holds her attention — and how long you two can get along without working each other’s last nerve.

Consider the same if you’re the grown daughter planning an escape for you and your mother, and think about your dynamic: In what situations do you tend to be at your best together? And for how long? Are there any physical limitations if your mom is elderly? Keeping this information in mind when you look at locations will guide you in the right direction.

Popular Destinations for Mothers & Daughters

A handful of spots tend to make just about every mother-daughter getaway list out there: New Orleans, New York City, Las Vegas, Paris, London, and Washington, D.C. These places all offer excellent mixtures of culture and excitement, from museums and theater to live music and culinary adventures. Also popular for their range of offerings: Sedona, AZ; Taos, NM; Newport, RI; Sonoma, CA; and Miami Beach.

8 Getaway Itineraries

There’s nothing scarier than a blank page you’re expected to fill — especially if that page is a travel itinerary and your mom is looking over your shoulder. Use the ideas below as a template to get you started. Solicit input from your mom (or daughter) so you’re building a getaway plan together. And make sure to leave room for spontaneous discoveries or naps.

1. Outdoorsy Mom

Spending time in nature has health benefits, both physical and mental, that can make an outdoorsy-mom getaway a life-affirming choice for both of you. Consider a number of destinations before making any decisions, including the aforementioned Sedona. Boulder (CO), Hilo (HI), and Taos (NM) also offer stunning scenery without requiring an up-to-date passport. If you’re looking for a more far-flung adventure, consider Iceland.

Once there, your itinerary might look something like this:

•   Settle into your nature-themed accommodations, whether a glamping tent, cabin, or lodge. Then get your hands on a local trail map. Prepare daypacks with water and snacks.

•   Have dinner at your lodge or near where you’re staying, and get to bed early.

•   Get up with the sunrise, have a healthful breakfast, and head out for a hike, making it as long or as short as makes sense for each of your physical abilities. Have an al fresco lunch with a view, preferably at the peak of your hike. Then head back before sunset.

•   Enjoy dinner and some wine at a local spot. Wash, rinse, and repeat the next day.

2. Foodie Mom

The world is your oyster! Pick a place known for its cuisine that’s within your budget and an acceptable distance — anywhere from Portland or Chicago to Nashville or Philadelphia. Or hey, why not? Paris or Rome.

•   If you’re into trying the hottest spots at your destination, you’ll want to reserve tables well in advance and confirm before you head out. Then linger over every meal, being sure to take precious time to reminisce and share life goals.

•   Book a cooking class, preferably one that’s specific to your locale. Learn how to make a perfect gumbo in New Orleans, for example, crepes in Montreal, or Cuban tostones and ropa vieja in Miami.

•   Spend an afternoon hitting local markets and food emporiums, stocking up on spices, oils, and other culturally specific pantry items that will double as useful and evocative souvenirs.

3. Artsy Mom

Most of us don’t take the time to explore the art scene in our hometown. That makes this trip a special opportunity for the creatively inclined duo.

•   Pick an arts-rich city. San Francisco, for example, has the most art museums, theaters, music venues, cultural centers, art supply stores, and music shops per square mile, according to a recent ranking of U.S. destinations. Get hold of a local exhibit guide. Then get out there and see it all. Other arts-rich spots: Miami (brimming with art fairs, galleries, and dealers), New York, and Chicago. Not to mention smaller locales, from San Antonio and Santa Fe to the tiny Cape Cod strip of Provincetown, each of which draws crowds for regular and lively art gallery walks, especially during summer travel season.

•   Schedule your trip around a major art fair. Miami’s Art Basel, for example, NYC’s Armory Show, or the spring rite of passage in Italy, the Venice Biennale. Book your hotels and restaurants well in advance. Then enjoy the works of art — and some parties, too, if you’re both up for it.

4. Spa Mom

Who isn’t a spa mom, really? Booking a room and a lineup of treatments could not be a better approach to mother-daughter bonding in our opinion. You’ll find a lavish place to be pampered pretty much anywhere, but these favorites should get you started:

•   Lake Austin Spa Resort, in Texas Hill Country, comes with a water view and farm-to-table cuisine. LakeAustin.com

•   The Lodge at Woodlock, in Pennsylvania, has everything from hydro-massage to cooking demos. TheLodgeatWoodloch.com

•   Miraval Resort Arizona, or any of its other properties, from the Sonoran Desert to the Berkshires in Massachusetts. MiravalResorts.com

•   Amangiri, a dreamy 5-star hotel and resort in Utah. Aman.com/resorts/amangiri

Once you’re there, figuring out how to fill your days should be easy. May we recommend a combination of:

•   Massages, facials, and body wraps

•   Lazing in pools, hot tubs, and saunas

•   Strolling peaceful grounds and dining on clean, fresh foods

5. Wine Mom

Does Mama love her vino? Consider a weekend of vineyard-hopping — in Sonoma, on the North Fork of Long Island, through Oregon’s Willamette Valley, along Michigan’s Leelanau Peninsula, or through the Finger Lakes region of Upstate New York.

Your shared goal: getting around to the various wine tastings and vineyard strolls. Cap it off nightly with regional fare and tucking in at a local B&B or hotel, perfect for stretching out, watching a movie, and bonding with before-bed conversation. Some points to have on your checklist:

•   Start by renting a car with a credit card. Or if you head to Santa Barbara for its charming Urban Wine Trail (UrbanWineTrailSB.com), a couple of bicycles. Prioritize your vineyard visits with the aid of a local map and guide.

•   Leave plenty of time to linger at each place — for shopping as well as sipping. Double-check the times of their tasting hours.

•   Wind up at a spot that offers dinner, too, so you can soak up the alcohol while you download your favorite parts of the day.

•   Tuck in at a place that’s close by, and look into the unique experience of sleeping at an actual winery, as is offered at vineyard B&Bs such as Sannino Vineyard on Long Island (SanninoVineyard.com), the Glass House Winery in Charlottesville, VA, on the Monticello Wine Trail (GlassHouseWinery.com), the Chateau Grand Traverse Inn on Michigan’s Old Mission Peninsula (CGTWines.com) or Chateau de Vie in California’s Napa Valley (CDVNapaValley.com).

6. Party Mom

Is your mom your best friend, from whom you hold nothing back, including a shared crazy night out? Then go all-in with a trip to a place where nightlife is the main attraction — and shopping, strolling, and eating gets you happily through the days. We’re talkin’ Las Vegas, Los Angeles, Key West, New Orleans, or Austin.

•   Start by making dinner reservations at all the hotspots. Then get a hold of local arts weekly, which will give you the rundown on nightlife (something a hotel concierge can help you with, too).

•   Spend your day shopping, browsing, perhaps getting your hair and nails done for your evening. Then relax back at your room before having a festive dinner followed by a night of dancing or live music.

•   If you’re the mom and you’ve got a restless teen on your hands, show her a great time by making her favorite pop star’s concert the destination’s main event — whether it’s Pink in Boston, Taylor Swift in New York, or Adele in Las Vegas. She’ll never forget it. And trust us: Neither will you.

Recommended: What is a Charge Card?

7. Hippie Mom

One way to bond and relax, with a little bit of structure helping you along, is to sign up for one of the many mother-daughter retreats offered at centers around the country. Some are geared toward specific ages — moms with tween or teen daughters, for example — and all offer a range of activities, discussion groups, and relaxed, unstructured time.

Programs are offered at Omega in upstate New York (EOmega.org/ mother-daughter-retreat); Kripalu in the Berkshires of Massachusetts (Kripalu.org/ presenters-programs/ mother-daughter-yoga-weekend); and various wellness-trip operators in Costa Rica (HereandNowTravel.com/ mother-daughter-costa-rica) and Mexico (BookRetreats.com/s/ other-retreats/mother-daughter-retreats/mexico) — just for starters! Your itineraries will be taken care of by the planners at each retreat.

8. Sun-Worshipper Mom

Time to hit the beach! If you two can’t soak up enough of those rays, consider a jaunt to one of these wonderful year-round destinations (and please don’t forget to pack plenty of SPF). Miami, St. Petersburg, Grayton Beach, and St. Augustine in Florida are all perfect for a winter getaway. And for summer travel, Block Island (RI), Cape Cod (MA), Chincoteague (VA), and Cape May (NJ).

•   Check into your room. (Why yes, you really should get the water-view room!)

•   Pack a beach bag and hit the sand or pool, ordering waterside drinks if it’s an option (and you’re not traveling with a teen).

•   Find al fresco lunch and dinner spots, and catch up over plates of seafood.

•   Catch sunset at the shore, get some lovely post-sun sleep, and do it all again the next day.

Accessible Ideas for Less Mobile Moms

If one of you is older or less mobile for any reason, consider a trip where you’re a bit more taken care of and shepherded around: a riverboat cruise, for example, such as through Mississippi with Viking Cruises (VikingRiverCruises.com), or a more traditional cruise with a theme, such as Seth’s Big Fat Broadway cruises (SethsBroadwayVacations.com/#/Cruises), chock full of your favorite talent from the Great White Way.

You might also consider a guided bus tour or a stay at a full-service resort that has plenty of restaurants and activities right on-site.

The Takeaway

Mother-daughter bonds can be complicated. That is precisely why it’s worth making a thoughtful plan to reconnect with your parent or child. Choose a location and itinerary that caters to both your interests (art, food, the beach, nature hikes), and leave plenty of time for reminiscing and discussing life goals. You’ll both come back from your get-to-know-you-better getaway with a newfound understanding of the most remarkable woman in your life.

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, your one-stop shop for travel.

---

Photo credit: iStock/Ridofranz

**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.

SOCC0323025

Read more

While you might think that summer is the most popular time to travel, fall travel is also primetime for many people to hop a flight, get behind the wheel, or otherwise head off on an adventure.

After all, not everyone is tied to school schedules that dictate spring break and summer vacations. People looking for less oppressively hot weather, those without kids, or travelers looking for fewer crowds might choose to travel in the autumn. Any fall foliage adds to the allure.

Another reason to travel after August: Prices can be lower in fall for everything from flights to lodging because there is typically less demand. But it’s important to note that there can be a wide range in overall costs, depending on a number of factors, including the destination, exact dates, kind of trip (camping vs. classy hotel), and when you book the travel.

That last factor can play a significant role in the cost of fall travel, so here’s a closer look, including:

•   When to book flights for fall

•   When to book hotels for fall travel

•   How far in advance to book a rental car

•   When to book a fall cruise

Things to Keep in Mind

Fall travel encompasses a wide variety of trips. Here is some intel that can help you assess pricing and when to book:

•   Autumn can be the peak time for some types of getaways. For instance, New England for leaf peeping can be one of the best places to travel in fall. But it could be off-peak or shoulder season for other locations. Beach vacations or ski resorts aren’t likely to make the list of best fall travel destinations.

•   Understanding peak vs. off-peak gives you insight into supply and demand for travel. When demand is high, prices tend to go up. But when it’s low (that is, fewer people are booking flights or hotel rooms), prices tend to drop. This knowledge can help you decide where to travel in the fall and plan an affordable vacation.

•   You’ll also want to be aware of any special events that might be going on at your location. For instance, if you are dreaming of a fall getaway in Paris, you’ll want to avoid the days when the fashion shows are in full swing, sending costs soaring. People from all over the world flood into the city for these shows, meaning an affordable hotel room can be hard to find.

•   Using credit card miles or cash back can also be a part of paying for your trip. If you’re using miles, check for how the time of year may impact points needed. There might also be blackout dates to avoid.

Recommended: Where to Keep a Travel Fund

When to Book Flights for Fall

Knowing the right time to book flights for fall travel can depend on how you’re planning on paying for your flights. If you apply for a credit card to earn airline miles or credit card rewards, you’ll want to leave enough time to collect the miles from your welcome bonus and still have time to book your flights. Otherwise, it can depend on whether you are booking domestic or international flights.

Domestic Flights

Just as with summer travel, you’ll want to start watching flight prices a few months before your planned travel dates. Consider using a travel booking site (you may hear them referred to as online travel agencies, or OTAs), such as Expedia or Booking.com. Look for ones that offer comparisons to past results. That can give you an idea how the price today stacks up vs. historical price trends. If the current price is below historical averages, consider booking your flights right away. Otherwise, check back in a week or two. You may also find some sites that use predictive data analysis to say prices are likely to rise or fall, which can be very helpful info.

International Flights

Booking international flights can be a bit more complicated, because there are often a lot more moving parts on an international vacation. Hotels, activities and excursions, and other transport can be harder to arrange when you’re traveling overseas. Booking your fall travel at least a couple of months in advance can be a wise move. You can often snag a good price by booking early, and nailing down your ticket can help the other plans fall into place.

Also, if you need to get a visa for your international trip, you probably want to make sure that your flights are locked down several months before your trip. You may need your travel documentation to get that visa approval.

A budget-boosting move: When booking international travel, you are likely going to rack up a good number of miles and dollars. Being part of an airline points program or using an airline credit card can be a smart way to earn rewards.

Of course, there’s no harm in using your usual plastic and collecting those credit card rewards to redeem as you see fit. Perhaps you’ll get enough cash back to have an amazing meal as you travel, whether you’re headed for South Carolina or Singapore.

Booking Hotels for Fall: Advance vs Last-Minute

When booking hotels for fall travel, you may wonder whether you’ll score a better deal by doing so way in advance or last-minute. Some points to consider:

•   Both techniques can have their upsides. An early reservation may allow you to lock in a low rate before demand grows, sending prices upward. However, if a hotel has rooms lingering unbooked, it might discount them at the last moment in the hopes of filling them up.

•   Many hotels offer rates that have very lenient cancellation policies. So one way to make a hotel reservation can be in the form of book now, pay later travel.

You might save money on hotels by making a cancellable reservation at your preferred hotel. Then, regularly check on the rates for your hotel and other nearby hotels. If the price goes down, you can cancel your first reservation and make a new one at the lower rate. This strategy can combine the benefits of booking in advance and booking at the last minute. You can keep an eye on pricing and search for a better deal until your departure date, yet you still know there’s a room reserved for you if you don’t find a better price.

How Far in Advance to Book Rental Cars for Fall

If you will be renting a car on your trip, you can use the same strategy as outlined above. Most rental car companies allow you to make your reservation and then pay for it if and when you arrive on site. You can make an initial reservation and then monitor it over time to see if the price drops.

Bonus tip: When booking a rental car for fall travel, your credit card may offer car rental insurance. Check into that detail. If your card does carry this perk, you may be able to save money by declining the rental company’s insurance.

Recommended: How Does Credit Card Travel Insurance Work?

When to Book a Fall Cruise

It can be cheaper to book a fall cruise many months or even years before the date of the cruise. Cruise companies can offer lower prices on cruises with a long lead time, in the hopes of filling their ships. As the date of embarkation gets closer, it’s common for cruise prices to increase.

In general, you’ll find the best prices for cruising around the Caribbean, up to Alaska, or elsewhere if you book during the industry’s sale season, which tends to be November through March. That’s when holiday (Black Friday and Cyber Monday) and “wave season” discounts are usually offered.

However, it’s also common for cruise companies and travel sites that specialize in cruising to offer last-minute deals. So if you have the flexibility to travel at the last minute (maybe you’re sitting on some unused vacation days at work and have a slow week coming up), you can often score a great deal. Using a travel credit card can also help you earn rewards that you can use for cruising.

Best Time to Book Tours, Sites, and Activities for Fall

Are there specific tours or activities that are “must dos” for your fall vacation? A sightseeing Jeep ride or an exhibition at a museum that requires a timed ticket? By all means, you should book them in advance as soon as you know when and where you’ll be traveling. That way, you don’t have to worry about them selling out.

For other activities, you can consider waiting to see if there are any coupons or deals that come available. Also consider that many credit card companies have travel portals that allow you to pay for activities with credit card rewards. This can be a way to save money on your fall vacation while still packing in cool attractions and experiences.

The Takeaway

There isn’t a single best time to book fall travel — instead, the best timing will depend on a variety of factors, such as where you want to go, how you are traveling, and your comfort level with “fly by the seat of your pants,” unplanned travel.

Generally speaking, booking further in advance can get you good deals and provide you with the best choice. You can also take advantage of “book now, pay later” refundable or cancellable reservations for hotels, rental cars, and activities. Once those are secured, if the price drops, you can save money by canceling and rebooking at the lower rate.

Whether you want to travel more or get a better ROI for your travel dollar, SoFi can help. SoFi Travel is a new service exclusively for SoFi members that lets you budget, plan, and book your next trip in a convenient one-stop shop. SoFi takes the guessing game out of how much you can afford for that honeymoon, family vacation, or quick getaway — and we help you save too.

SoFi Travel can take you farther.

---

Photo credit: iStock/AleksandarNakic

¹See Rewards Details at SoFi.com/card/rewards.

**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.

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.

SOCC0323019

Read more

Gone are the days of cheap pandemic-era flights. America is back to traveling, and the airlines know it. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics’ Consumer Price Index, airfare prices rose a whopping 26.5% between February 2022 and February 2023.

Flying can be so expensive these days, you might hesitate to plan a vacation at all. But with a little research and consumer savvy, you can lock in a great airfare with a few clicks. Here are some tips for finding cheap airfares, including:

•   How to compare airfares

•   How to find the best airfares

•   How to book cheap airfares

•   How not to fall for airfare myths

Know the Average Flight Cost for Your Trip

To start your hunt for the best airfare, you’ll need a baseline. Whether you’re heading cross-country or to the other side of the planet, begin researching how much your flight costs on average.

To get an idea of airfare costs for your next adventure, consult an online travel agency (OTA). Booking sites such as Expedia, Kayak, and Google Flights provide metasearch travel engines to compare prices of various airlines. These scour the Internet to bring you the best deals.

To begin, type in your preferred departure airport and destination in the OTA search engine, and a target date for travel, if you have one. The results can give you an overall idea of what major airlines are charging, and how much you’ll have to dip into your sinking fund for airfare.

In addition to targeting your range of travel dates, you can get more granular and zero in on the number of stops you’re willing to make, the class of service you want to fly, and other details. This will give you more intel so you can start comparing airfares.

Recommended: A Guide to How Credit Card Travel Insurance Works

10 Tips for Booking the Lowest Airfare

How can a flight to Miami that costs $250 on a Tuesday jump up to $350 by Friday? Plane fare fluctuations can be maddening, especially when low airfares seem to rise for no discernable reason.

Whether you crave a lavish sojourn overseas or a minimalist camping trip a couple of states away, there are tricks to saving on airfare. Here are 10 ways to stop your getaway funds from flying out of your bank account.

1. Set Up Price Alerts

Some people don’t have the time or patience to hunt for discount airfares — constantly checking prices with multiple airlines, hoping they drop from one day to the next.

Luckily, there’s an app for that. Several of them.

Certain travel websites and apps, such as Hopper, Skyscanner, and Kiwi, offer to set up price alerts. You provide the destination and dates, and they will send you an alert whenever the airfare drops.

Many price alert services will allow you to set up searches for flexible dates or from multiple airports. Some can even advise how far in advance to book or on which days you should book in order to get the best deal.

There’s typically no obligation to buy, so you can decline any offer and wait for a different one. Price alerts can do the work for you, so you can get back to earning money for that all-inclusive resort.

2. Travel During Off-Peak Seasons

Airfares can vary due to supply and demand. Airlines know when most people travel and will raise their fares during peak travel seasons.

If possible, avoid booking flights during July and August, traveling instead in May to early June or late August through mid-October. You can typically avoid the high cost of summer travel that way. January and February tend to be slow travel months and traditionally yield good flight deals, too.

Airfares tend to skyrocket in December, especially around the holiday season and New Year’s. Also, be wary of traveling during certain weeks in March and April, when many K-12 schools and colleges go on break. If you aren’t bound by a school schedule, you will likely find better rates by varying your dates a bit.

3. Be Flexible with Dates

Speaking of dates: If you can be fluid with when you depart and return, that will usually give you some wiggle room to score the lowest airfares. With many OTA websites, you can choose an “I’m flexible” option when searching, which can reveal the price difference between flying back on a Tuesday versus a Sunday. Depending on how business and vacation travel demand fluctuates, you might find a sweet spot where you can snag a cheap airfare.

4. Reap the Rewards from a Travel Credit Card

There are many travel credit cards that offer airline reward points for every dollar you spend, so you can earn a free flight or upgrades in the future. Consider signing up for a credit card with an airline you use frequently or that has a hub near you.

Some airlines offer credit cards with large signing bonuses — up to 75,000 miles or more under certain conditions. But be careful: Those “free” points aren’t free if you can’t pay off your card balance every month and wind up spending your hard-earned bucks on interest charges.

5. Book on the Best Day for Your Route

Here’s a little calendar intelligence about nabbing the best airfare: Some days can offer lower prices than others:

•   Mondays and Wednesdays can be the cheapest days to fly domestically and internationally, ringing up at 12% to 20% less than weekend flights.

•   Sundays are often the most expensive day to leave for a trip.

•   The day you book a flight doesn’t matter very much. Research shows you only stand to save 1% or 2% on ticket prices that way.

6. Know How Far in Advance to Book

You probably know that last-minute travel can be dicey. And when it comes to air travel, not only do you risk high prices, but you could be shut out entirely.

It’s usually best to book travel between one and five months in advance to secure the seats you want at the best price. If you are going really far afield (Australia, anyone?), it can be wise to start hunting a full nine or even 10 months in advance.

7. Save on Last-Minute Fares

Here’s an exception to the above rule: If you are a person who’s super spontaneous (you might even say you fly by the seat of your pants), you might be able to fly cheaply too. When there are empty seats on a plane, airlines may promote last minute deals to fill them.

Betting on last-minute airfares is risky though — prices can soar with demand or tickets can sell out. If you’re the Best Man in a destination wedding, best to book your flight in advance, even if you are trying to cut the costs of being in a wedding. But if you happen to have a slow work week ahead and unused vacay days, the stars might align in your favor.

8. Book Through the Airline

Travel search engines like Expedia can be a great way to find cheap airfares, but when it comes to booking, sometimes it’s worth double-checking prices directly at the airline’s website.

Booking directly through an airline may save you time and hassle if a flight gets delayed or canceled. If you book through a third party and there’s a problem with a reservation, an airline will often pass you back to whichever OTA processed the purchase.

Worth noting: Some airlines, like Southwest, don’t allow OTAs to list or sell fares.

9. Shop for Nearby Airports or Cities

You may be able to save on airfares by broadening your airport search. If you’re willing to drive a bit more, sometimes flying in or out of a smaller, out-of-the-way airport or from a nearby city can save you money. As you search for cheap airfares, allow the results to show additional airports within a certain radius of your destination to see if that alters pricing.

10. Save on Fees

Airlines can tack on a lot of fees for extra perks — checked baggage, reserving your seat in advance, and in-flight amenities. You can save on fees by:

•   Becoming a frequent flyer. Enrolling in an airline’s frequent flyer plan or signing up for an airline credit card can award you free checked bags, free advanced seat selection, upgrades, and other benefits.

•   Packing light. To avoid checked-bag fees, invest in the biggest, airline-approved luggage piece that can fit in the overhead compartment. You may need to scour the airline’s website to get the dimensions that are accepted. Then, for your “personal item,” choose a roomy but squashable bag or backpack that can fit under the seat.

Recommended: Credit Card Rewards 101: Getting the Most Out of Your Credit Card

3 Myths About Booking Flights

There are several myths surrounding ways to find the best airfares. Don’t fall for them. Here are examples:

1.    Buy your tickets on a Tuesday. According to Google Flights, when comparing fares bought on a Tuesday, Wednesday, or Thursday to those bought on a weekend day, “prices have only been 1.9% cheaper on average.” In short, good deals are not reserved for a specific day of the week.

2.    Shop incognito. There is no evidence to suggest that your searches are being tracked and that the intel gathered is being used to raise your airfare. Clearing your cookies and your cart or shopping in incognito mode will not unlock access to lower airfares.

3.    Save with a Saturday stopover. In the past, when business travelers with expense accounts filled airline seats, airlines would offer deals if you stayed over on Saturday instead of flying home Friday night for the weekend. But with so many discount airlines and non-business travelers, this no longer necessarily holds true.

The Takeaway

No one wants to blow most of their travel fund just getting to and returning from their destination. By comparing airline ticket prices, setting up price alerts, and being flexible with your travel plans, you can likely land the best flight deal. You’ll spend less of your time in the skies and leave more for sightseeing, shopping, and fun activities, which after all is the whole point of traveling.

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/Mikhail Davidovich

¹See Rewards Details at SoFi.com/card/rewards.

**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.

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.

SOCC0323015

Read more

If you need wheels for an upcoming vacay, chances are you’re searching for rental options and trying to understand why prices can fluctuate so much. Typically, car rental rates vary based on supply and demand, just like airline tickets and hotel rooms. Lower availability generally means higher rental car rates.

There are some obvious times when demand will be high, such as spring break in Florida. Much of the time, though, there’s no way to know when a car rental company has a surplus or not, so car rental rates can seem to vary with no rhyme or reason.

But there is a method to the madness. With a little shopper savvy, you can snag the cheapest rental car rates for your next getaway. Learn more here, including:

•   What factors impact car rental rates?

•   How can you get the best car rental rates?

•   What are some alternatives to renting a car?

Why Are Car Rental Rates So High?

During the COVID-19 pandemic, people scrambled for car rentals to escape the doldrums of lockdown. As a result of demand, car rental rates shot up, reaching record highs in July 2021. While weekly rental car rates have dipped since the summer of 2021, they’ve remained consistently higher than before the pandemic.

With more Americans traveling lately, the demand for rental cars has remained high. Plenty of people who fly to LAX, Orlando, or elsewhere are in search of wheels to get around.

Combine those forces with the effect of inflation, and your weekly car rental can cost more than a plane ticket.

Factors That Influence Rental Car Rates

Beyond supply and demand there are other factors that play into the prices of weekly or monthly car rental rates. It’s important to be aware of them when budgeting for your next family vacation.

Factors that can affect car rental rates include:

•   Age of the driver. Car companies may have a surcharge for renters under 25.

•   Type of car. Luxury brands and larger cars can push prices higher.

•   Pickup location. Prices can vary between airport vs. in-town branches.

•   Day of the week. Your pickup and drop-off days can influence cost.

•   Length of the rental. Deals can be found for short- and long-term rentals if you know the rules of the (rental) road.

•   Extra fees and add-ons, including insurance, additional drivers, and perks like satellite radio.

11 Ways to Get the Best Car Rental Rates

Wondering how to get the best car rental rates? Whether you’re planning a quick weekend getaway or an epic cross-country road trip, here are some tips for scoring the lowest price.

1. Book Early

Booking in advance can help you snag a low price, which can be an incentive for planning ahead. Reserving your rental car three to six months in advance can be the ideal time frame for finding the lowest prices. So if you know, say, you are going to be doing some summer travel and are making hotel reservations, don’t forget to book your car too. Bonus: You’ll likely have your pick of vehicles, with compact sedans, minivans, and SUVs available.

Waiting till the last minute can definitely be risky: What if every car is already booked? But if you do have late-breaking travel plans (maybe you want to visit your college roomie who just had a baby), you might luck out. One recent report revealed you can save around 15% when you book the same rental only a week in advance, provided a vehicle is available.

2. Shop Around Online

Online searching can help unlock travel deals. The same holds true for car rentals. There are a lot of online travel agencies (OTAs), such as Kayak and Expedia, that can do the comparison shopping for you. They review all kinds of sites to find you the lowest car rental rates, so you don’t have to click through to each individual company.

But remember, these are third-party vendors. If you need to change or cancel your reservation, it can be easier to do so directly through a car rental agency.

3. Check for Membership Discounts

Most rental car companies offer loyalty programs that are typically free to join. In the same way you earn credit card points for swiping your plastic, you can earn points for each booking that can be applied toward a free rental or vehicle upgrade in the future.

There are also warehouse club memberships, such as Costco, that provide discounts at major car rental companies, such as Avis, Alamo, Budget, and Enterprise. AAA works with Hertz, Dollar Car Rental, and Thrifty to bring down costs for members.

Many travel credit cards can help you earn points to spend on whatever you’d like — including car rentals.

Recommended: ​​A Guide to How Credit Card Travel Insurance Works

4. Use Your Own Insurance

Your personal car insurance typically covers a rental car with the same limits and deductibles — as long as your trip is for personal travel. If you’re on a business trip, you might need commercial coverage or your company might have a commercial auto policy that can cover the rental.

Most rental companies prefer for you to pay with a credit card for your car rental reservation. But what most people don’t know is that many travel credit cards will cover basic collision insurance on rentals, saving you up to $30 a day. Check with your credit card provider to fully understand the terms and conditions.

5. Rent for the Weekend

If your schedule and plans allow, time your trip for the weekend, when you can nab the lowest rental car rates for a getaway. Rental car companies cater to business travelers who tend to need cars Monday through Friday, making rates per day higher during the week.

6. Rent by the Week

What if you have a longer adventure in mind? Rental companies can offer deals if you rent a car for the whole week versus just a few days. (And if you are planning a major road trip or renting a car all summer for beach getaways, check with rental companies and see if monthly car rental rates are available at a discount.)

If you are planning on covering considerable ground, be sure and ask about weekly car rental rates with unlimited mileage. That way, you can take to the open road without worrying about the odometer.

7. Avoid Airport Pickup

Picking up your rental car at the airport is convenient when a flight is part of your travel plan, but doing so can come with a higher price tag. Airport rental locations may charge a “Customer Facility Charge,” which can add up to several dollars a day.

Plus, demand can be high at the airport, leading to higher prices or lack of available cars. Renting from a local branch in town can save you money. Just be sure to factor in the cost of the transportation from the airport.

8. Don’t Add Additional Drivers

Most rental car agreements charge extra to add an additional driver — between $12 to $15 a day, depending on the location. Some companies will waive the additional driver fee for a spouse, as long as you have the same address on your driver’s licenses.

9. Refuel Yourself

Rental car companies typically require you to return your vehicle with the same fuel level you left with. If you leave with a full tank and come back half full, they’ll charge you a fueling fee. This can trigger an additional “ka-ching” to your bill.

You can opt for a prepay fuel option, but rental car companies tend to charge a lot more for their gas than the going rate. So if you’re not rushing to an early-morning flight, it’s worth making a pit stop at a gas station. (Hint: If you have a gas credit card, use it to help boost your rewards and savings.)

10. Skip the Extras

Opting out of the extras offered by car rental agencies can save you some cash. Make a playlist instead of paying for satellite radio, bring your kid’s car seat if possible, or utilize your phone’s map apps vs. renting a GPS with the car to help navigate.

11. Opt for a Modest Car

This may sound obvious, but the larger and fancier the vehicle, the bigger the price. Selecting an economy vehicle can save you hundreds on a weekly rental, and you’ll spend less on gas.

How to Get the Most Out of Your Car Rental Rewards Program

A car rental rewards program can help you earn points toward free rentals, allow you expedited check-ins, free car upgrades, and more. Familiarize yourself with the benefits of your tier status, so you can take full advantage of the perks. Also be sure to stay on top of any reward point expiration dates.

Recommended: Guide to Choosing a Rewards Credit Card

Alternatives to Car Rentals

Another way to save money on car rentals is to not rent a car! Hey, when money is tight, it’s worth exploring all your options.

•   If you’re visiting a city, explore local mass transit and taxi/rideshares. Book a conveniently located hotel where you can walk or bike to everything.

•   Investigate the cost of rideshare services. Could you take an Uber to the resort you’re staying at and then use shuttles to get around?

•   Consider car-sharing services like Getaround and Turo that can allow you to use a car just when you need it. If you have a vacation planned and need wheels for only one or two excursions, that might save you money and keep you from blowing your entire travel fund.

The Takeaway

If you need a car when traveling, you can find good deals on car rentals by doing some comparison shopping, being flexible with your travel schedule, and maximizing any rewards programs. Doing so can help you put your money toward what makes a vacation the most fun and memorable vs. watching it fly out the window.

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.

---

Photo credit: iStock/GoodLifeStudio

¹See Rewards Details at SoFi.com/card/rewards.

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

**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.

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.

SOCC0323017

Read more