You could easily blow out your budget by holidaying in the Caribbean the wrong way. It’s important to spoil yourself, just without wasting money on unnecessary expenses. Don’t be a rookie traveler: make sure you’re prepared and knowledgeable so that you can keep costs down.
- Choose The Right Island
It’s important to consider your budget before you even decide which island to visit. The Caribbean is made up of everything from luxury resorts to huts on almost deserted islands. If you want to save money, then you may want to steer clear of St Barts and Anguilla: the two most expensive islands. Cheaper options include Montego Bay and most Dominican Republic islands.
While it can take longer to get to outlying islands (extra flights or boat trips ), it may be worth it. Fewer amenities will provide a more native experience that can help you save some cash.
- Pick The Right Day And Month To Fly
Christmas/New Years and December to February is the peak Caribbean Session. If you travel during these times, then you should expect some higher prices. March and April are the shoulder season where you can get cheaper tickets. The rest of the year is the offseason and will be cheaper again.
Generally, it’s more expensive to fly on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. Obviously, this is because of the number of people going on weekend escapes. Consider booking mid-week flights to save cash.
- Look For Cashback Deals
Many companies get commissions by referring travelers to hotels and tour operators in the Caribbean. They then share some of this money with customers. This is known as cashback.
Before you book a tour or accommodation, you should see if there are any cashback details available. Good sites to check out include www.swagbucks.com and www.topcashback.com.
- Scour The Net For Hotel Deals
After you flights, a massive chunk of your budget will go towards accommodation. That’s why you should hunt around to find the best details. Make sure you compare different platforms such as Booking.com, Agoda, and Expedia. You can also find deals on Caribbean travel websites. Just because a room is a particular price on one website doesn’t mean it will be the same on another.
Don’t forget about Airbnb. If you’re seeking more space, then you may find a good deal. Remember, good Airbnbs often book out months ahead of time.
- Always Bring The Essentials
You don’t want to turn up without the essentials, such as sunscreen. Chances are you will end up overpaying for this and similar items. Most tourist-focused shops charge hefty prices.
When you pack, try and include all the necessary items to be as self-sufficient as possible. This should include toiletries and medications. Use price comparison sites like Only Reviews to get the best prices for essentials that you might need prior to your visit and you’ll save a great deal!
Final Thoughts
Your trip will surely be a success. Just make sure you don’t return home with a bank account that’s more depleted than necessary. These tips will help you avoid losing out on money for no reason.
