In the stressful, fast paced, and complicated world we live in. it is very important to take time out and relax. A vacation is sometimes just what the doctor ordered to ease us out of the daily grind of making a living and reconnect to the world around us. Vacation time is precious and important for your family, I have never regretted the drain on my savings caused by a good vacation. Unfortunately going on a vacation isn’t always something your pocket allows. However, if you shop smart for your vacation, you won’t need to break the bank or turn in your pink slip for cash just to pay for a holiday.

Here are a few money saving ideas on how you can get the best deals to enjoy your time on a holiday without breaking the bank.

1. Plan Ahead

If you plan what you want to do while on vacation ahead of time, you can nab some pretty sweet deals. It is almost always cheaper to book things online well in advance. You can also get group discounts, early bird deals, and off season rates.

2. Use Public Transportation Instead of Renting a Car

Look up the public transportation options of where you’re going beforehand. You should try to use the mass transit systems as much as possible and avoid renting a car unless absolutely necessary. Rentals can be expensive, but if you must rent, look for deals before arrival. Better yet, use your legs. The best way to take in the sights and sounds of a new place is to walk around as much as you can. You’ll also save yourself a small fortune in taxi and rentals.

3. Bring Your Own WiFi

If you are traveling to another country, do your research and look into acquiring a small rentable mobile WiFi device. Usually called pocket WiFi, these devices can be reserved and then picked up at the airport delivered to your hotel. These pocket WiFi devices are much cheaper than having to pay international roaming charges, hotel WiFi, or data centre charges.

4. Find Free Entertainment

There are plenty of places that don’t cost a dime to visit and provide entertainment and amusements. Churches and other historical buildings and monuments are a great option. Most old buildings and churches are beautiful, serene and are usually full of art. Additionally look for parks and places where there is live entertainment as a regular feature. You can also look to visit places that have parades or other celebrations going on that would be a good experience.

5. Ask the Natives and Locals for Advice

The locals are a veritable source of knowledge for anything you might need. For instance if you want to find out where to get great coffee, or visit a farmers market, or a good place to eat or shop, no one can give you better insight than the locals. When you talk to the locals, that adds depth to your experience as their advice and insight can be invaluable.