Most people mistakenly think that you need a lot of money to travel, or that vacations are simply too expensive and lavish. But traveling ‘light’, with limited cash, is completely possible when combined with a positive attitude, deep commitment, persistence and resourcefulness.

Simply put, planning pays and travel budgets save money. Taking the extra time to review the resources at your disposal before and during your trip encourages a hands-on, proactive approach to traveling.

The keys to travel success are taking advantage of saving opportunities, discounts, and limited time offers, along with utilizing tips and tricks from frequent travelers.

Plan your trip so that everyone has fun and budget for it accordingly. Save money by planning early. Avoid trying to fit in all the “touristy” must-sees that will add up in the end. Select just a few of them you really cannot bear to miss.

You can save a lot of money by booking early and taking advantages of special offers, seat sales and more. Scout for good deals. Watch out for and avoid deals that sound too good to be true (they normally are!). Do not get caught by ill-reputed providers and travel scams. Always read the fine print!

Beware of other details, like what time of year you choose to travel, what the weather will be like, the impact of seasonal traveling, public or special holidays and more. Be smart and budget for the unexpected - delays, unplanned extended stays, inevitable layovers and more. Show some resilience, positive attitude and utilize your financial resourcefulness to make the most of your trip, regardless of what life and fate throw at you!

Early on, while planning and gathering information, consult with a travel agent and tap into their expertise and experience. They can provide you with current information on pricing and availability, they can plan and book your vacation, and find you discounts and special deals.

They will also be able to point out details that might otherwise remain undiscovered like new resorts and airport construction. Some can be extremely resourceful, patient and imaginative and want to provide you with the best travel and customer service options that are right for you.

They mostly work on a commission basis though, so just ensure that this is the best deal for YOU and not their pocketbook! Save money by asking questions about the best discounts. If you don’t ask, they might not necessarily offer the cheapest option or hunt for better deals.

When choosing your accommodations, remember that double rooms in a hotel are generally cheaper than a single room. Consider sharing, but choose and weigh your travel partners wisely. Ensure that you are financially independent of one another and that all parties are responsible with money and will not come running to you expecting your help.

Guidebooks and tourist brochures should not dictate your trip. They describe, not prescribe. Some might have set itineraries and must-sees that don’t necessarily interest you and might be costly if you choose to follow them to a tee. Their pricing options might also be out-of-date, so check their accuracy. They can provide you with a list of numerous lodging options across the price spectrum, and are a useful tool in your travel budgeting process.