*First National Community Bank’s blog does not constitute legal, tax, accounting, investment or other professional advice. Recipients should consult their professional advisors for advice.

With gas prices skyrocketing and June marking the beginning of summer vacation season, many of us are left scrambling to figure out an economical way to take a summer vacation. While flights and car rental prices are at an all-time high, deciding where to vacation and how to get to and around your vacation destination within a feasible budget is more important than ever. First National Community Bank has outlined the ways that you can save on summer vacation transportation costs.

  1. Take A Train Or A Bus To And Around Your Destination 

Airline ticket prices have gone up significantly post pandemic due to rising fuel costs and other factors. While it depends how much vacation time away that you are planning, trains and buses can be an affordable, convenient and enjoyable way to get to your destination instead of flying. Once you arrive at your destination, you should research public transportation options. Many times you can purchase a daily or weekly pass to ride a city’s public transportation system such as busses, trains or streetcars. These passes often offer unlimited riding and are typically inexpensive in efficient in getting you around town to see all the sights.

  1. Rent A Car

Oftentimes renting a car can be the most efficient and cost effective way to travel to and around your vacation destination. Before choosing this option, however, it is important to do your research. One way to save money is by researching multiple car rental companies. Another way is to seek out deals on travel sites like Expedia and others. Booking early also often offers the best deal so as soon as you have your dates locked down, make your reservation.

Additionally, you can save money on a rental car by choosing the smallest vehicle that can accommodate your travel needs for the trip.

  1. Use A Ridesharing Service  

Sometimes ridesharing services such as Uber and Lyft can be the best option, depending on how far you plan to travel and what times are considered “surge times,” which increases the price based on demand at certain times of the day or for special events. If you download both respective apps, you can compare pricing and make sure you are getting the best deal. If your travel plans are flexible, you can also plan around the typical surge times of the city you are visiting.

  1. Rent A Bicycle

Exploring a new town on a bicycle is a popular way to see the sights throughout the world. The bike rental fee is often nominal, biking is good exercise, and you will be making your contribution to helping the environment by reducing pollution and keeping the air clean when you pedal your way through a town.

  1. Walk

Whether you are visiting a city that has a charming, relaxed and walkable area ideal for popping in and out of local shops, or visiting a crowded city known for its gridlock traffic and congestion, walking may be your best option. Not only is this option completely free (you of course will not be paying expensive traffic fees or costs associated with taking a vehicle) it allows you a chance to see the sights at your own pace and the flexibility to easily stop in and enjoy a bite to eat at a local restaurant or stroll through a museum or park. Like bicycling, this option is great exercise!

Saving on your summer vacation transportation costs can allow you to make the most out of your summer vacation without overextending yourself financially. As your locally owned community bank of choice, the success of your financial future is top of mind. We offer Personal Checking Accounts, Money Market, Personal Savings Accounts, CDs, IRAs, Business Loans, Mortgages and Personal Loans of all shapes and sizes and much more! To learn more about First National Community Bank’s financial solutions, contact us here.