5 Tips for Cheaper Travel

I-Loove-Traveling!!! (Oprah voice) It's one of my favourite things to plan for... hence I travel as much as posible. Many friends and associates have asked me how I afford to travel...  
The Short Answer: I have made traveling a priority in my life, therefore I live in a way that allows the disposable income to do so.  Not only do I budget for it per pay check, I also live in an affordable apartment with roommates and I don't sustain extra bills and expenses. 
Once You have decided to make traveling apart of your life, or if there is a special trip you are looking forward to book, here's 5 Tips for Traveling Cheaper...  

1. Travel in Groups...
Traveling in groups normally makes lodging prices cheaper for each person in your crew. Sometimes the difference between splitting a hotel between 1-2 people and 4-5 people can mean extra money for activities like scuba diving, shopping, and ATV riding.  
Note: Be mindful of your travel crew... Make sure they have similar travel style as you. 

2. Track your Flights...
Once you have decided on dates and a destination, begin researching flight prices. Google Flights is a great tool to prepare your  travel itinerary but don't forget about other helpful sites like Expedia, Kayak, or Skiplagged.  
Note: Southwest Airlines is not featured in Google flights but they offer competitive prices with their "Wanna Get Away" plan and they are one of the few airlines to allow 2 (free) checked bags. 

3. Don't always go for the Big Hotel Chains...
This may appear super obvious but don't forget to check out the area's boutique hotels, Air Bnb, Home Away and even hostels. In some cities you can find these types of lodging for cheaper and in many cases they are more desirable in appearance.  

4. Pack in a Carry-on Bag..
This can be difficult for some... but if you are staying for a week or less, packing a single carry-on bag and large personal bag can be beneficial.  Firstly you get to skip the $25+ fee that many airlines charge each way and a bonus is that you also skip the dreaded baggage claim once you've hit your destination.

5. Dont be Afraid of Long Layovers...
Direct Flights tend to be the most expensive way to catch a flight. Keep in mind that flight plans with long and multiple layovers are not only cheaper, but the 4+ hours is the perfect excuse for a pre-trip trip or an vacation extension. You may have precisely enough time to taste the city's famous cuisine, lay on the beach for a few hours or you can tour a city you may have never made it to otherwise.

The time 10 people stayed in 5 bedroom Air Bnb in Jacksonville, FL... lodging for the entire trip was less than $140/pp for 4 nights.

*What are some cheap travel tips that have helped you in your travels?  Feel free to leave a comment.