To Check my bag or not check my bag. That IS the question

Most of the time I find myself questioning whether or not to buy more than economy ticket for the airline I will be taking to Las Vegas. Anymore, it seems like many airliners are creating tiers of boarding passes in order to "make flying easier."

Case in point, Frontier Airlines offers three tiers of boarding pass. If you buy the second or third tier, they "wave your bag fee" for up to two (2) luggage pieces that are checked at the ticket counter. Although tempting, let's do some math.

The price difference between economy and tier 2 is approximately $30. When I travel to Vegas [because I like to consider myself an experienced traveler], I will check one luggage that is within the airlines guidelines (weight limits, dimensions, etcetera]. Checking a bag costs $20...Need I say more.

Now, I am in no way condemning how airlines do business these days, but be smart when booking that airline ticket. If money can be saved and spent on your actual vacation [or saved in general], then I would highly recommend it. Don't leap at a deal on any airline just because the lights are flashing and whistles are going off in that "Deal of the Day E-blast." Be smart and you will be amazed at how flying will be less expensive.

Be Smart. Play Hard. Have Fun.

7's

One must research to save

Okay, so this post doesn't apply to just Las Vegas, but I find this question daunting every time it's asked:

"I just don't think we can afford to travel this year. You're so lucky that you find all these travel deals. I can't find any of them."

I've said it before, the old saying, "Rome wasn't built in a day," seems to leave people's minds more often than not when tasks seem difficult. The truth is a pocketbook friendly vacation takes time and planning. I never hurry up and book a trip to Vegas prior to doing my homework on travel arrangements. Honestly, I will probably research flights for months on end until I feel the best deal presents itself. Like we've mentioned before, a vacation cannot be a last minute thing if you want to budget. Do research and I promise, the deals will present themselves on how to get to your destination in a more budget friendly style.

I'll see you in Las Vegas!

7's

Money Saving Tip: Slot Machines

It seems like a rush, right? Drop in 75 cents, pull the lever, and hope that the jackpot siren will go off. In all honesty, I recall seeing more people playing slots in Las Vegas casinos than anything else. Personally, I cannot sit in front of a slot machine for hours on end. At the same time, it could mostly be due to the game involving no player skill. Having the fate of the pull determined by a computer chip in a machine doesn't sit well with me; especially if I plan on investing hundreds of dollars in Las Vegas gambling.

When in a casino, I always encourage first timers to check out everything being offered. Many times, however, the flashing lights and sound effects put out by these money-hungry computers are impossible to resist. Take a page from my book: if slots are a new endeavor, start small and work your way up. Penny slots are a great way to spend a few bucks if gambling is completely new and nobody will be immediately overwhelmed. Don't be intimidated into thinking that high credit slots only have good payouts. I've personally hit a few small jackpots on penny slots and it is well worth the ten dollar investments. Just remember to set spending limits if your on the verge of becoming a slot machine junkie. Have fun, and remember to be responsible. I'll see you...in Las Vegas.

7s

Keeping a Budget in mind Part I

A topic that may be sore for some; how to budget vacation money when on a visit to Las Vegas. Remember, visiting Sin City is similar to grocery shopping while hungry: everything looks delicious, but affording it is not possible. Keep this same mentality when passing that favorite casino, outlet store, and/or restaurant.

One thing I like to do is make my dinner and show reservations before I even get to the airport. This way, I don't get myself into trouble while in Vegas. The plan doesn't have to be followed verbatim, but be mindful of what can be spent. Staying within a budget will allow you to return keep returning and enjoying all that Las Vegas has to offer.

7s