Dayton Daily News

Want to resolve to travel in 2020?

- Clark Howard

Editor’s Note: This article was written by Clara Bosonetto, who is part of Team Clark Howard and writes for Clark.com.

It’s the start of a new decade and a time when we make personal promises and goals to start fresh.

For many, that promise or resolve is to see more of the world, or at least start with a tiny corner of it.

Here are some ways to make 2020 a year of exploring — and keep it on budget.

1. Gather your documents: Get your passport up to date, or apply for a new one. Then you’ll be ready to jump on the hot airfare deals at Clark Deals that pop up throughout the year.

Beginning October 1, if you plan to use your stateissue­d ID or driver’s license to fly within the U.S., make sure it is REAL ID compliant. If you are not sure if your ID complies with REAL ID, check with your state department of motor vehicles.

2. Find the time: Many of us start the year with a calendar already filled in with obligatory trips like weddings, reunions, graduation­s and tons of children’s sports and activities closer to home. Regardless of where you must be, add a night or two more to explore the nearby attraction­s.

3. Figure out the finances: Consider travel credit cards to earn free flights, hotel stays and other valuable perks. Many offer large welcome bonuses to earn points or miles for travel. Or, look at the best cash back reward cards that pay 2% to 5% on select purchases.

4. Just go: A getaway doesn’t have to be lengthy or even by air. Start with a one-tank road trip from home with just an overnight or two. Google “Day trips from (your town).”

A road trip is a good time to rent a larger vehicle for the gang and gear. Many neighborho­od rental locations offer weekend rates from $10-$20 a day.

5. Shop smart for vacations: Google has rolled out a fun new feature that lets you price out a complete air and lodging vacation in just a few seconds.

Google Flights is the top website to begin your search for airfare deals. Results will include an indication if the price you found is high or low for your dates.

Enter your departure airport and a destinatio­n with dates. Results will display on the regional map with complete per person prices shown in blue bubbles. You can filter results by per person price, the category of hotel, hotel guest ratings, airlines, flight connection­s and amenities like kid-friendly, beach access and more.

It’s somewhat limited to major cities, but it will reveal what you can expect to pay for a bundled air and lodging vacay.

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