Travel Smart: Small Tips Add Up to Big Savings

Planning to hit the road this year?

Whether you travel for business or for pleasure, knowing the tricks of the trade before you pack your bags can save you time and money.

Know Before You Go

Look for deals designed to lure in the weekend traveler. Hotels that cater to a business clientele during the week often struggle to fill their rooms once their guests go home Friday night.

Ask For A Better Deal

See if your frequent flyer miles will get you a deal at your hotel. Check with your airline to see if they are running any cross promotions.

Use sites like Hotelscentral.com, Hotels.com, or Hotwire, and also check the hotel website for last minute discounts.

Watch out for Hidden Fees

Don't touch that phone! Seasoned travelers know that hotels often charge exorbitant rates, even for local calls. But, did you know that many hotels attach service fees to your bill, even for things you don't use? These pricey little extras, like bag carrying charges, room service gratuities, mini bar restocking, or spa fees, can inflate your bill.

Watch out for the "resort fee." You may have to pay for amenities such as the pool, exercise room or spa even if you don't use them. Some hotels charge a fee to lock your valuables in your room safe, even if you don't use it!

What You Can Do

When you book your room, ask the reservation agent about any charges other than room occupancy and sales taxes you might incur. Be sure you understand the hotel's arrival and departure policies; some hotels charge for a partial day if you arrive a few hours early, or stay a little past checkout time. Many hotels will charge for a night's stay if you don't follow their 48 to 72-hour notice cancellation policy.

If you plan to use the hotel's business center, make sure you ask about fees for Internet access and fax service before you use them.

Keep track of amenities and facilities you use. Speak to the manager on duty about unexpected charges for things you didn't use. You might be able to erase some charges.

Earn Points as You Spend

Use your Wachovia Visa Check Card when you travel, and earn points as part of our Rewards Program. You'll earn one point for every $1 you spend on qualifying purchases, and you can redeem them on travel, merchandise, and more. For more information, visit our recent article regarding Wachovia's Rewards Program.