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Here's how to save on spring break travel

Time for travel as spring break approaches. This year, you will likely find flights, hotels, and activities more expensive. Where to look for savings.

SAN ANTONIO — Airfare is about 25% higher and hotels 30% higher this year according to AAA. It can all add up. Do not let spring break break your budget.

First, head away from well-known travel spots.

“Try to go someplace that isn’t on everybody’s list,” said Julie Ramhold, a consumer analyst with Dealnews.com. “It makes it a whole lot easier to find better prices.”

“In general, look to travel during the off-season or what is an off-peak time for a place,” said Nitya Chambers, executive editor and senior vice president of digital content for Lonely Planet. “You can bring down the tension in all regards when you think about being flexible on the destination and being flexible on your dates or days of the week, if you can.”

Avoid third-party travel booking sites for better bargains.

“Go directly to the airline websites or the hotel websites because you may find better deals than if you were to use one of those online booking services like Expedia,” Ramhold said.

Ramhold said Panama City Beach is a favorite spring break destination where she lives, but her plans are to head in the opposite direction.

“Take me to the mountains, instead,” she said.

Book accommodations with a kitchen.

“We can save some costs on eating out because we can cook breakfast at home before we leave every day,” said Chambers.

Or book a hotel where the price includes breakfast. Then dine out where the locals eat.

“That alone is probably going to help you save just because the prices aren’t going to be driven up like crazy,” Ramhold said.

She also recommends eating out for lunch, when prices are less expensive.

Then, choose a few essential activities.

“What are the one or two standout experiences that we want to have to spend money on?” Chambers said.

For example, she chose a hot air balloon ride and horseback riding during a recent family trip to New Mexico.

“As a family, going to national parks, going to state parks, engaging with the natural environment, with cultural sites in the destination that you’re visiting is a really great way to engage with a place in a way that’s affordable while still thinking about what hallmark experiences are going to make the place memorable for you where you want to spend your money,” Chambers said.

Free or low-cost activities include hiking, exploring a museum, or going to a festival.

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