Secrets to Cheap Travel (Encore)
Summary
Wirecutter hosts interview Elaine Glussack, The New York Times’ Frugal Traveler columnist, to discuss strategies for saving on airfare, lodging, and Black Friday deals. Glussack advises booking flights six to eight weeks in advance, utilizing tools like Google Flights and Going.com, and avoiding non-refundable tickets. She also highlights the benefits of strong exchange rates, using Costco for car rentals, and negotiating directly with short-term rental hosts.
Topics discussed
Sponsor: Instagram teen accounts and safety features
Show intro and re-airing announcement for travel deals
Hosts introduce guest Elaine Glussack and episode topics
Sponsors: SNHU, Apple Card, and Instagram
Elaine's background and approach to budget travel writing
Philosophy of frugal travel and sustainability
Timing for booking flights and holiday travel tips
Tools and websites for finding flight deals
Myths about best days to buy airfare
Basic economy vs. flexible fares and credit card perks
Booking directly vs. third parties and budget airlines
Strategies for finding hotel and Airbnb deals
Sponsors: Instagram, Apple Card, and SNHU
Travel trends, domestic opportunities, and exchange rates
Value of travel agents and Costco travel for car rentals
Finding travel deals during Black Friday sales
Flight refunds and the need for travel insurance
Lightning round: error fares, subscriptions, and resale
Final advice and luggage preferences
Host takeaways and show credits
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