FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact:
Kelly Rote
Kelly.Rote@moneymanagement.org
713-394-3201
HOUSTON
(November 8, 2004) – Over the last few years, studies have shown that Americans
are increasingly turning to the comforts of family and home. At no time during the year is this more
apparent than the holiday season.
Whether a result of a nostalgic desire for a simpler time or an effort
to cut back on spending, many families have decided to forgo the longer delays
at the airport this year and just drive to their holiday destinations. Driving trips can be memorable and fun, yet
when not planned properly, they can end up costing as much (if not more) than
flying.
Before heading off, consider these money-saving
tips:
1.
Assess your
car's roadworthiness. Check the tires
and windshield wipers for wear, make sure the tires are inflated properly and
the fluids are full. Spending a little
money on a tune-up will provide better gas mileage and reduce the chances of
you being stranded by the side of the road.
But just in case it does happen,
make sure you have a roadside assistance kit with jumper cables, a toolbox, fix
a flat, etc. to help avoid towing expenses.
2.
Going somewhere
you've never been before? For travel
books and/or maps, try a used bookstore or print out Internet maps and take
them with you. Use the local library
for audio books and travel games for children.
3.
Make a list of
things that would require a stop at a convenience store along the way if
forgotten – sunglasses, CDs, snacks, water, maps, film, camera, aspirin,
Band-aids, antiseptic, books, and toys/games for the kids. Double check your list before leaving home.
4.
If your drive
is long enough to require an overnight stay, make your hotel reservations in
advance. Take advantage of specials,
coupons, discounts and complimentary breakfasts. Chose hotel accommodations in outlying areas rather than areas of
high demand. Select hotels that have
kitchenettes so that you can prepare meals in vs. eating out.
5.
For overnight
stays, forgo purchasing travel size products.
Most hotels provide complimentary shampoo and other vanity items.
6.
Research your
destination’s Chamber of Commerce Web site for discounts, coupons and free
information.
7.
Consider
renting a car vs. driving your own.
Many car rental agencies offer special discounts for the holidays.
8.
Make sure your
vehicle's registration, inspections and insurance are current. A ticket is always an unplanned and
avoidable expense.
9.
Understand your
cellular roaming charge policy. A
prepaid calling card may be a less expensive option.
10.
Pack clothing
appropriate for the climate so that there are no last minute trips to the mall
for a missing jacket, sweater, etc.
Kelly Rote,
Communications Manager for Consumer Credit Counseling Services advises,
“Lastly, put together a spending plan for the trip and stick to it. Take along a set amount of cash to avoid ATM
fees and use cash or debit cards to ensure that you do not overspend. The goal is to return home from your trip
with lots of memories and little debt.”
About Money Management International
Consumer Credit Counseling Services (CCCS), a division of Money Management International (MMI), is the nation’s largest non-profit, full-service credit counseling agency, providing confidential financial guidance, counseling and debt management assistance to consumers since 1981. CCCS helps consumers trim their expenses, develop a workable spending plan and repay debts. Counseling is available by appointment in branch offices and 24/7 by telephone and Internet. Services are available in English or Spanish. To learn more, call 800-762-2271 or visit MMI's website at www.moneymanagement.org