Are Americans going to be trading their "staycations" for actual vacations this summer? Travel seems to be one significant silver lining that has emerged from the economic downturn.
If you have the time and money to take a trip this summer, you could be receiving some steep discounts. Here are five good things about traveling in this rough economy:
- Big Discounts – Airline tickets are available for steep discounts. Plus, you can find great deals on car rentals, hotel packages, cruises, restaurants, shows and amusement park fees. There are even special travel offers just for people who have recently lost their jobs.
- Exchange Rates - Your dollar is going to go further in more countries in 2009 compared to recent years. Frommer's keeps a monthly index of places where you can get the most bang for your tourism buck. TIME recommends Iceland, Canada, Australia, Great Britain and South Korea as particuarly good currency deals.
- Fewer Crowds – Airport security lines are shorter, lanes are less packed and amusement park ride lines are shorter. And it's easier to get a last minute dinner reservation or a theater ticket. Take advantage of crowd-free travel!
- On-time Flights – FlightStats.com reports that on-time performance at US airlines have improved significantly. The top 37 airlines in the US exceed 80% on-time arrival rates in February. Fewer delays can make your summer travel stress-free.
- Freebies – Along with discounts, the travel industry is offering up freebies to entice Americans to pack their suitcases. Keep an eye out for dining credits, kids-eat-free deals, free internet access, free extra nights and room upgrades.
Are you eyeing a particular travel deal this summer?
Emily Peters – Credit.com's personal finance expert and former TransUnion credit bureau insider. Emily writes about credit reports, credit cards, loans and personal finance as the CreditBloggers.com editor.