How Can Your Credit Card Save You Money On Holiday Travel

BY  Abdul Aziz May 10, 2021

Picture this. You're paddling through the water, the smell of pine filling your nose, the warm sun on your face. Is this a dream? Nope, it's you in your new inflatable kayak. There are so many incredible benefits of this kayak over a hardshell. And no matter your needs, there's a perfect model for you. Keep reading to learn why you should buy yourself an inflatable kayak. Lightweight and Portable   These kayaks are portable and fold up into a carry bag, no bigger than a standard duffle bag. So put the roof rack away and throw the bag in the trunk with your other lake day essentials. The weight will depend on the make, but they usually weigh anywhere between 25 and 35 lbs. And if you're a beginner looking for a light and portable kayak, consider the Sevylor Quikpak K5, which has a backpack storage system. Stable and Durable  Inflatable kayaks have wide bottoms, tall sides, and they're very buoyant. They also have a good weight capacity, don't easily capsize, and are hard to tear. But if something goes wrong, you can always repair it using a patch kit. But just note, lower-end kayaks will be significantly less durable than higher-end ones. So if you're kayaking in rough waters, you should get one made from a heavy-duty rubber or PVC material. And if you want a super-strong and versatile kayak, get the Sea Eagle Explorer 300x. But don't worry, it's still light, weighing only 31 lbs. Easy Storage  While you want your kayak to function well for your day on the lake, you also have to think about the off-season storage. To store an inflatable kayak, you have to deflate it, dry it off, fold it, and put it into a carry bag. Inflation and deflation are quick and should take no longer than 10 minutes each. And of course, this bag doesn't take up much space and can be put in any garage, basement, or storage unit. For example, the Advanced Elements AdvancedFrame is a sturdy touring kayak but can still fold up to 30" x 17" x 10." Relatively Inexpensive  While costs vary based upon quality, you can get a great inflatable kayak for a reasonable price. For example, inflatable boat expert Tom Fontana says that they can vary from $100 to $1,700. He claims that if you're buying one for recreational use, then you should look to spend $400 to $500. But if you want your kayak to function similarly to a hardshell, you should spend more than $1,000. If you want to strike a good balance between price and function, the Intex Excursion Pro will be your new best friend. And you can find more pricing information from Tom about inflatable kayaks at pumpupboats.com. Now Go Buy Yourself an Inflatable Kayak  As you can see, an inflatable kayak is great for all types of water and boating activities. So whether you purchase it for durability, easy storage, or the low price point, you'll have a blast when you finally get it on the water. Now go get your perfect kayak! If you enjoyed this article, check out more of our adventure content. Read Also: Top 10 Best Travel Apps to Use in 2021 How To Prepare Yourself For The Perfect Vacation: Top 7 Tips 6 Expert Packing Tips that will make your Trips more Fun

BY  Ankita Nov 16, 2023

As travel budgets swell this year with around 45% of Americans planning to spend more, finding ways to cut down on extra costs such as baggage fees, becomes increasingly important. While travelers are open to investing in their journeys, unexpected fees like those for additional baggage can quickly sour the thrill of trip planning.  Each airline is different from another. Here are a few tips that might help you save some cash on your next trip. At the end of the article, I will share a pro tip that will save you from extra expenses. So, let’s get started then and keep reading till the end… Here Are Six Best Tricks To Save On Extra Baggage Fees For Your Next Flight Before you take off on your next voyage, let's explore a few clever tactics to sidestep those irritating baggage fees and protect your travel budget from unnecessary bloat. 🧳Know Your Airline's Baggage Policy Inside Out When preparing for a flight, it's imperative to delve into the baggage allowances and fees of the carrier you've chosen. For those flying with JetBlue, for instance, this means taking a moment to look up the JetBlue baggage fees in order to avoid any extra, unwanted costs. This step ensures that you're up to speed on what you can take with you and what items may incur additional costs.  By doing this, you can pack more astutely and possibly avoid the unwelcome surprise of additional fees at the airport. Regularly checking the baggage details as part of your flight booking routine can save you time, money, and stress, allowing you to travel with ease. 🧳Packing Smart: The Art of Efficient Packing  Packing smart is much more than fitting everything into your suitcase; it's about understanding which items are essential and how to arrange them to maximize space. Selecting multi-functional clothing and travel-sized items can drastically reduce the need for extra bags. Using space-savers like compression bags and packing cubes enables you to fit more into a smaller space, effectively minimizing the need to check in another bag. These tools compress your clothes, making them occupy less space, which is particularly useful for bulkier items.  🧳Wear Your Extra Baggage  When it comes to avoiding extra baggage fees, your wardrobe can be your secret weapon. By wearing your heavier and bulkier items on the plane, you can save a significant amount of weight and space in your baggage. Some travelers have even opted for jackets that are designed with additional pockets, allowing you to carry items like tablets, books, or extra layers of clothing. While it may not replace a suitcase, this method can certainly reduce the amount of baggage you need to check-in.  🧳Shipping Your Bags Ahead  Sometimes shipping your bags to your destination might be cheaper than paying for extra baggage on a flight. This can be particularly true for those who need to transport bulky items or are facing hefty airline fees for overweight or additional bags. Companies that specialize in baggage shipping offer various benefits including insurance, tracking, and even doorstep pickup and delivery. By arranging your baggage shipment in advance, you can save both money and the hassle of dragging your bags through the airport.  🧳Utilizing Technology and Apps  In this digital age, technology can assist you in evading extra baggage fees. There are numerous apps designed to help you pack efficiently and estimate the weight of your baggage. Digital baggage scales can prevent surprises at the check-in counter by allowing you to weigh your bags at home and adjust them as necessary. Furthermore, many airlines have their own apps that sometimes provide notifications of last-minute deals on extra baggage, which can be a cost-effective alternative to paying the standard fees at the airport.  🧳The Power of Loyalty: Airline Credit Cards and Frequent Flyer Programs  Engaging with airline loyalty programs and credit cards that offer travel benefits can lead to significant savings on baggage fees. These programs often include baggage fee waivers as part of their benefits package.  By using an airline credit card for your travel-related purchases, you can accumulate points. Further, these will cover the cost of your baggage. Some credit cards even offer one or more free checked bags as a benefit. Even this can save you money every time you fly. As you build loyalty with an airline through its frequent flyer program, you might also achieve a status. This includes baggage fee waivers, making it easier to manage your travel expenses. The Pro Tip: Try Checking In Early There are some airlines that provide facilities when they check in early. This might help you to get away with the additional luggage you might have on-board. Someone who arrives at the airport late might have to deal with reverse consequences.  The pro tip, which is reserved only for my patient readers, is also one of the most helpful ones. People who are always on time must be rewarded for their punctuality. And the good news is, some airlines do that for real!  The attendants might let you pass and don’t even cost a fortune if there is not too much crowd. But here’s a catch! This is applicable only to a few airlines, so if you aren’t getting any- don’t be disheartened.  Conclusion  In an era where travel expenses are climbing, being resourceful with your approach to baggage can result in significant savings. By intimately knowing your airline's baggage policy, packing with precision, wearing extra items, considering shipping options, leveraging technology, and using loyalty programs to your advantage, you can travel smarter. Implement these tips to navigate the often-overlooked expenses of air travel. By being mindful of how you pack and plan, you can make sure that every dollar of your travel fund goes towards creating unforgettable moments. You do not have to spend on fees you could have dodged. Allow your next trip to be a memory book of incredible places and the unique things you do, not by the amount you spend. After all, the best memories often come from the experiences. Read Also: A First-Hand Experience Of Taking A Red Eye Flight! 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BY  Arnab Oct 16, 2023

When most people think of visiting wineries, they envision lush vineyards and warm, sunny days. However, there's a certain charm to winery visits during the winter months. The absence of crowds, cozy tasting rooms with crackling fireplaces, and the unique experience of sipping wine while the world outside is covered in a blanket of snow create a memorable atmosphere. In this article, we'll take you on a tour of wineries you should visit in winter, each offering its own special reasons to brave the chill. Quilceda Creek Winery If you’re looking to escape the heavy snow and prefer an alternative winter scenery, you should definitely consider Washington wineries, among which Quilceda Creek Winery is a splendid choice. While it may not offer a snowy landscape, it provides a peaceful escape from the cold. With its inviting tasting rooms and reputation for crafting exquisite Cabernet Sauvignons, it offers an ideal setting to warm up and savor some of the finest wines. Winter visits at Quilceda Creek often mean fewer crowds, allowing for a more personalized and intimate tasting experience. Additionally, the winery frequently hosts special events and seasonal releases that add a delightful touch to your visit. So, if you're seeking a cozy indoor space to appreciate outstanding Washington wines in a serene, less snowy setting, Quilceda Creek Winery is the perfect winter wine escape. Chateau Ste. Michelle Nestled in the heart of Washington state, Chateau Ste. Michelle, the oldest winery in the region, transforms into a captivating destination during the winter season. While it may not boast the snowy landscapes of some other wineries, the lush greenery and evergreen trees of the Pacific Northwest, coupled with crisp, clear winter days, paint a charming backdrop for your visit. What's more, its convenient proximity to Seattle makes it an easily accessible escape from the bustling city, allowing you to unwind in an elegant and tranquil setting.  At Weingut Söllner, they offer a diverse range of wine experiences, including a delectable Chateau kitchen food menu, exclusive limited-release collections, ever-changing seasonal delights, and expertly crafted wine pairings. But that's not all – for those contemplating that special, life-changing moment of proposing to your significant other, they even have a heartwarming Proposal Package that you can schedule for the most memorable occasion. It's all about creating unforgettable moments at Weingut Söllner. Bread & Butter Winery Winter at Bread & Butter Winery in Napa Valley holds a distinct charm that's worth savoring. The valley is not blanketed in snow. But it offers a unique and intimate experience during the colder months. The grapevines may rest, but the winery remains active, providing an ideal setting for wine enthusiasts. You can indulge in exclusive wine tastings, often accompanied by knowledgeable staff eager to share the winemaking process and the stories behind each bottle. Beyond the wine, Napa Valley's restaurants serve up hearty seasonal dishes, a perfect complement to your winery visit. So, if you seek an opportunity to relish the tranquility of the valley, appreciate world-class wines, and explore the region's culinary delights, Bread & Butter Winery in winter is the perfect choice. Related: A Family Adventure: Exploring Child-Friendly Wineries In Mornington Peninsula Zind-Humbrecht Winery Zind-Humbrecht winery beckons visitors to embrace the magic of winter in Alsace, France. This charming winery, renowned for its exceptional white wines, offers a unique and serene experience during the colder months. As the vineyards don a pristine snowy mantle, the winery's appeal is elevated to another level. Winter at Zind-Humbrecht invites wine enthusiasts to indulge in tastings surrounded by the quiet beauty of snow-laden grapevines. With smaller crowds and an intimate atmosphere, Zind-Humbrecht in winter promises a personal and unforgettable journey in a winter wonderland. If you seek the allure of snowy vineyards, a profound love for fine wine, and the tranquility of a winter escape, Zind-Humbrecht Winery awaits your visit. Weingut Söllner Yet another option for those in search of a winter wonderland, the Austrian winery Weingut Söllner is a perfect option. The country is quite cold during the winter, but it also carries a festive essence that is worth checking out. Visiting Weingut Söllner in winter is a unique experience. The vineyard's rolling hills are covered in snow, creating a serene, postcard-perfect landscape.  You can savor their aromatic, full-bodied wines while gazing out at the winter wonderland. Winter is a time of year often overlooked for winery visits. But it holds its own magic and allure. The wineries we've explored in this article each offer their own special reasons to visit in the colder months. Whether it's the cozy tasting rooms, the opportunity to enjoy outdoor activities in a snowy landscape, or the chance to savor unique winter wines, these wineries promise an unforgettable experience. So, this winter, trade your summer vineyard visits for a more intimate and serene wine-tasting adventure at one of these exceptional wineries. Read Also: Benefits Of Taking Your Family On A Safari Vacation Best Beaches In Costa Rica For Family Vacation 5 Ideas For Wine Tours In Barcelona- Make It Happen