9 Times It’s Not Worth Scrimping on Travel Costs

Whether you travel as part of running your own business or you’re planning a vacation, you’re probably looking for a travel deal.

Between airfare, ground transportation, lodging, food and other miscellaneous items, travel expenses add up quickly. Everyone loves saving money, but there are times when it’s worth ignoring the discounts and spend a little extra.

Travel is a balance of a few finite resources: time, money and energy. It’s important to weigh potential savings against what it will cost you in other ways. Sometimes thriftiness leaves you too tired to function or cuts into time that could be spent more enjoyably or productively.

Here are 9 times you will be glad you didn’t scrimp on your next trip.

Ditch the Red-Eye Flight

Catching the midnight flight may be easy on your pocketbook, but it’s hard on your body. Don’t count on sleeping on the plane either— there are no guarantees you’ll get any rest. If your first day at your destination is low-key it may be worth it. But if you are giving an important presentation to a new business prospect, don’t arrive exhausted. Either budget an extra day or spend more on a better flight.

Beware of So-Called Deals on Airfare

You may find a great fare, but it involves 4 stops and adds 7 hours to what is normally a 3-hour direct flight. It may not be worth the savings if your itinerary eats up valuable vacation time or you arrive at your destination drained. Also, when comparing choices, consider the hidden costs: one airline may offer a great price on the ticket but charge hefty fees for both checked and carry-on luggage, while another airline may charge more for the flight, but allow free checked bags.

Check Your Accommodation Location

Even in a big city with great public transportation options, don’t try to save money by booking a room on the outskirts of town. If most of the places you need to visit are downtown, you will waste precious hours in traffic. It’s often worth the money to be closer to the action.

Rent the Car at the Airport

You may feel smart when you reserve a less expensive car you pick up away from the airport or train station. But you may be kicking yourself after paying a steep cab fare for a long ride to the middle of nowhere to find your rental.

Upgrade from the Subcompact Car

Yes, the teeny tiny rental car is a great bargain. But you will not appreciate your savings when you are driving in unfamiliar territory and 18-wheelers are bearing down on you. Your luggage doesn’t fit in the trunk and your passengers’ knees are around their chest because there is no leg room. Extra comfort for yourself and your passengers may be worth the extra expense, especially if you plan to drive a long distance on your trip.

Pay Admission Online

Many attractions will allow you to purchase tickets online to either print or show on your phone at the gate. Even if a small convenience fee is charged, you’ll be glad you paid it rather than wait in a long line when time is short. Try not to be smug as you walk past those who are in winding lines in the hot sun.

Go for the Nicer Hotel

It’s tempting to save a few bucks with a no-frills hotel, especially if you will be gone during the day and only sleeping there at night. However, if you plan to use the hotel as a meeting point for clients, or if you know you’ll have downtime, go for something with attractive common areas and amenities you will use, such as a restaurant and bar, fitness center, spa and pool. It’s also worth paying extra to be in a safe area of town when traveling alone or walking to your destination.

Splurge on Real Food

Finding healthful nutrition can be difficult when traveling, but it’s worth paying for decent food that will give your body the right fuel. Be sure to bring a supply of portable, healthy snacks, such as dried fruit, nuts, granola or energy bars, so you don’t have to choose an unhealthy, overpriced junk food alternative.

Buy a Decent Cup of Coffee

While the hotel may have thoughtfully provided you with an in-room coffee maker, chances are it will produce a less-than-satisfying brew. You have a big day ahead in your new locale, so start it off right with a more inspiring cup of java from a specialty coffee shop served just the way you like it. You will start your day off on the right foot— especially when you are in a strange city with a long day ahead.

For more of Diane’s etiquette tips, you may enjoy Travel Etiquette: How to Pack Smart. Read her posts on Inc., and HuffPost, “like” The Protocol School of Texas on Facebook, and follow her on Pinterest, Instagram and Twitter. Diane’s latest book, Modern Etiquette for a Better Life is available on Amazon.