Tips from the Diva!

With the holiday season coming up, many people will have to budget for air travel to visit family. Airfares are up thanks to fuel costs. Many carriers have cut back flights and introduced extra expenses. Make sure you pack light.  Most airlines will charge $25 to $50 for a second piece of checked luggage.

To save money on air travel costs, schedule your flights on Tuesdays or Wednesdays because these are the least popular days. Flying during less crowded times like a red-eye will also save you when it comes to airfares.

When you plan your holiday travel, watch out for car rental charges. Take advantage of any membership discounts offered by organizations like AAA or Member Benefit Services (MBS). Reserving a rental car in advance will give you time to research the best deals. Waiting until you arrive at the airport to pick up a car can be more expensive and you’ll have a limited choice on the types of cars available.

Leave the credit cards at home when you head out holiday shopping. It’s one thing if you pay off your credit card balance each month, but if you have the habit of maintaining a balance, shop with cash only.  This will help you see the money as you spend it, and you’re likely to consider purchases much more carefully than if paying with credit cards.

One easy way to get in the habit of saving money is to get cash back when you’re out shopping.  Round up to the nearest ten when you check out at a grocery, pharmacy, or retail register and slip the small amount into your savings jar when you get home.