As we are heading into December, and people from all over the world are scrambling to book a cheap holiday before 2011 comes to a close. Some money saving tips this holiday season would keep you from over-spending. We all know that travel and vacations are fun, they’re also a major expense. But do not keep yourself shut in your four walls during vacation time to save money. It is the most awful idea to save money in festive season.Saving money on one trip will in a way help you when you are planning your next trip. Here are a few tips of how to  save money in the holiday season:Staycations are a great idea
Spend time in a swimming pool in your backyard this vacation, or visit a local amusement park or museum with the family and you would be able to save a lot of money on traveling. It is like taking off from work to spend some time with family at home. Staycations are a good alternative to pricey, and tiresome vacations which involve a lot of traveling and expenses.

Visit the destinations in Off-seasons
Do not travel in peak travel days, as it may burn a hole in your pocket. Air fares, hotel bookings and sight-seeing, everything becomes really costly during peak holiday season. Try visiting places in off-seasons, as you can easily get a luxurious hotel for stay in affordable rate.

Discount available online
Websites like Groupon, Snapdeal, LivingSocial might help you if you do not wish to go on a specific holiday destination. Just register yourself with any of these websites and they would send you e-mail and sms alerts on a daily basis offering lots of discounts. It rains discounts during festive season on these websites. But these offers do not last for long, so you must avail them as soon you spot them.

Try to book the flights and hotel reservations in advance
When you know in advance that you are going to visit your friends or family in summer vacations, you must book flight at least three months prior to th moving date. Travelers who fly in the middle of the week will also get discounted air fares.

Avoid too much shopping 
If you have planned your holidays in a different country, avoid shopping gifts for friends. Even if you are out with your family and kids, avoid indulging in shopping. It may increase your luggage unnecessarily.

There are a lot of other money saving tips that you must try if you want to enjoy a holiday trip in budget. Traveling by train is a good option; it also enriches your children’s knowledge about a particular place. Look for package deals, as everything like flight, hotel and cab gets booked in one go. You can always stay in furnished apartments, as these give an at-home feeling. You will definitely save good amount of money on traveling by these creative ideas of cost-cutting.

Author: Baljinder Kaur