Ready to pack your bags and dive into new adventures? Join the club! Hilton’s recent Trends Report, surveying over 10,000 globetrotters, reveals that 2024 is shaping up to be a year when wanderlust takes center stage. A whopping 64% of travel enthusiasts are reshaping their budgets, cutting back on other expenses to fuel their globetrotting desires. And it’s not just about going places; it’s about going bigger and better, especially for Gen Z and Millennials. An impressive 72% in these age groups are not only prioritizing travel but also willing to spend more to make each journey unforgettable.
But how do you indulge this renewed passion for travel without blowing your savings? This is where smart planning and savvy budgeting come into play. Here are four strategies to help you maintain your wanderlust in a financially sustainable way.
1. Maximize Savings with Hotel Amenities
The amenities available during your stay can enhance your travel experience while being a valuable source of savings. Opting for accommodations with fully equipped, in-suite kitchens, such as those at Homewood Suites by Hilton, allows you to prepare your own meals. This not only cuts down on dining expenses but also offers the flexibility to eat on your own schedule. On the other hand, hotels like Hampton by Hilton, which is renowned for its waffles, and Tru by Hilton, known for its pancakes, provide the added value of complimentary hot breakfasts. This convenient option ensures you start your day with a satisfying, cost-free meal. For pet owners, each brand welcomes pets, allowing you to take your furry family members with you, eliminating the need for boarding. Choosing hotels with these types of amenities gives you greater control over your budget, enabling you to allocate more funds to other aspects of your travel adventures.
2. Seek out Value-Focused Accommodations
Look for hotels that blend affordability with quality. Options like budget-friendly hotels, such as Spark by Hilton, and extended-stay accommodations, such as the upcoming LivSmart Studios, can provide the essentials at a great price, making them ideal for both short and long trips. By choosing properties in strategic locations, you can also save on transportation costs while exploring your destination.
3. Combine Business and Leisure Travel
If you travel for work, consider extending your business trip for personal leisure. Staying at a hotel that offers easy access to both business hubs and local attractions, such as Embassy Suites by Hilton Aruba Resort, which features 7,000 square feet of flexible indoor meeting space and rests near the popular Eagle Beach, can save you the expense and time of planning a separate leisure trip. This “bleisure” approach allows you to enjoy the best of both worlds without incurring extra travel costs.
4. Leverage Loyalty Programs
Joining a travel loyalty program can provide valuable perks that enhance your travel experience without the extra expense. Look for programs that offer free nights, room upgrades or unique Experiences. Hilton Honors is free to join and offers tools like Points Pooling to expand your travel options by using Points from up to 10 friends and family members, as well as a Points/Money Slider to mix Points and cash for bookings, helping you manage expenses wisely. Additionally, consider a co-branded credit card, where you can earn Points on your everyday spending, and can accelerate earnings, helping you reach your travel goals faster.
As you venture into 2024, keep in mind that fulfilling your travel aspirations can be done in style and within budget. By adopting these tips, you can embark on a year filled with exciting discoveries and adventures without compromising your financial well-being.
