Avoid Vacation Regret With These Smart Travel Moves
June 13, 2025
Nothing energizes us more than the change of scenery or routine that comes from a great vacation. That's why our team has put together a few easy trip tips to keep your next getaway from becoming a financial drain:
What's the plan
Even simple trips involve a lot of choices. Google Flights offers tools to track prices to compare so you land a great deal. You can also see price history and even create a graph for various flight options. Feeling adventurous? Plug in a broad category such as "Europe" and you'll get a map of top airfares to a variety of cities.
Timing matters
If you're booking a flight, how soon should you book to save the most money? The sweet spot for booking airfare is a month or two in advance, so keep that in mind. Flying midweek can generally be the lowest cost option.
Read the fine print
Before you buy your tickets or book your stay, check the fine print. Often times, rock-bottom rates come with more restrictions that may cost you if you need to make an adjustment or if your itinerary changes.
Before it gets complicated
If you're a student or recent grad, you're probably the least-tethered down to commitments than you'll ever be. Take advantage of this time to travel with friends or study abroad. There are numerous affordable options, so think it over and start planning that dream trip with your friends. Check out our Travel Now, Pay Less post too.
Get rewarded for traveling
Before you book your airfare and lodging, use our Platinum Rewards Mastercard that gives you one point for every dollar you spend. Points can be used for future travel or other things you love. (Spoiler alert: Read below to see how you can earn DOUBLE points!)
If the road is calling
Summer is a great time for road trips. A little upfront work ensures the road ahead will be smooth. Make sure your car's regular maintenance has been done and be sure to have your car's cooling system checked. Check out these summer driving tips from NHTSA.
We found a way to make gassing up your car more rewarding! Through September 1, 2025, you can earn double points on all fuel transactions when you use our Platinum Rewards Mastercard.
Come home without regret
It's nice to come home to a clean house, so tidy up before you head out. And more importantly, avoid regret when returning by not having vacation bills that linger. Open a "Vacation" Special Savings account with us where you can automatically put a little money away each month and have cash to clean up any vacation costs.
Before you take off
We have other resources you'll want to pack, including:
