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Hawaii at the Right Price
by Lori Rogers on December 31, 2009 |
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Nowadays, it seems like more and more people are trying everything they can to save money on their vacation travels. Whether it's flip-flops or airfares you're looking for, I have plenty of ideas for saving money on your next Hawaii vacation. Believe it or not, there are affordable ways of making your dream trip a reality. Here are some suggestions:
There are definitely peak seasons to travel to Hawaii. If you choose to travel during off season, you'll avoid the crowds and can also save on airfare and other travel related expenses. A good rule of thumb to adhere to is that any months that children are out of school is high season for Hawaii. That being said, typically mid-April to mid-June and mid-September to mid-December are the best seasons if you?re looking to save some dollars.
Another tip that can save a bundle of money is to schedule mid-week departures and arrivals. Many airlines offer discounted rates to travelers flying on Monday thru Thursday. Also, major hotels in Hawaii offer substantially discounted mid week rates to guests. In addition, flights are less crowded mid week, so if you are traveling with a "lap child" (child under two), you may have an extra seat next to you for your little one to stretch out on.
For the most part, the hotels in Hawaii are very nice - but you pay for it. A more affordable way to go, and a wonderful option for larger families, would be to rent a condo, which often come with kitchens. Preparing your own meals can save a lot of money too, but don't let that get in the way of tasting the local ambrosia! Insider's tip: Most of the islands have a Costco and the prices are very similar to the mainland.
When renting a car, ask for a free map of the island you are visiting. It will save you several dollars and valuable time that you would otherwise waste having to stop and purchase one. Or, if you are looking for a more environmentally friendly option, Hawaii's bus system is fairly detailed: for a couple bucks per person, you can ride practically all around Oahu. The fare is only $2.00 per ride for adults or a 4-day pass for $20.00. The Bus serves the entire island of Oahu so you can ride anywhere you like all day!
If you are looking for some inexpensive local flavor, check out Hawaii's many farmer's markets. Each offers island-grown fruits and vegetables, seafood, chicken and best of all, local flowers. Don't bother picking up flower lei's from the airport to take back home, by purchasing them at the farmer's market you are guaranteed freshness and affordable prices.
The best deals on souvenirs can be found at Wal-Mart. Regardless of what island you visit, each Wal-Mart store includes a large section of Hawaiian souvenirs; everything from postcards, magnets, beach bags, towels, snorkel gear, shot glasses, hula dolls, etc.
Look for attractions that include "free admission." In Hawaii, you'll be surprised that you can really make your dollars go a long way. Located on the Big Island, the Panaewa Rainforest Zoo is located on 12 acres and is the only tropical rainforest zoo in the United States. It is home to more than 80 species including the endangered Nene (Hawaii State Bird) and Namaste, a white Bengal Tiger. It is open daily and admission is free.
Another forgotten tip is to bring your own water bottle. Whether you are hiking up Diamond Head or hiking down to the latest lava flow at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, you will often be met with vendors offering you a bottle of cold water that costs $3.00 to $5.00! Bring your own and save money. The water quality is above par, so no need to worry about drinking the water.
Free visitor magazines are handed out all over the islands. They're full of ads and discount coupons for restaurants, sightseeing and more.
While on Oahu, make sure you visit the Swap Meet at Aloha Stadium, a short bus ride from Waikiki. It operates on Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday and offers many items at a discount compared to the shops in Waikiki. You can get 8 t-shirts for $20.00!
Certainly one of the least expensive and most convenient ways to save money when traveling to Hawaii is to book a package that includes air, hotel/condo and car rental. This will include all taxes and will be paid for before you even leave.
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