Last-Minute Summer Travel

A few months ago, summer seemed so distant. But somehow, June has come and gone and many of us are in panic mode trying to make the most of the last few months of summer. If you still haven’t planned that summer getaway, you are not alone, after all statistics show 20 percent of the population procrastinates. But fear not - there’s still time to get off the couch and head out to enjoy the warm weather before the temps cool off. Whether you’re looking for a weekend getaway, impromptu day trip, or just fun activities to enjoy close to home we have expert for that summer trip you have been putting off. It’s not too late to take that vacation.

Flexible travel dates can make a big difference especially when you’re looking for an affordable placem said Julie Loffredi, journalist and award winning television news reporter. “But about half of Americans say finding the right place to stay kind of holds them back during the trip planning process according to a recent study by Booking.com When you use the site it makes things a lot easier, from looking at reviews to all sorts of accommodation’s.” You can find deals for any season at any time, book your flight, hotel or flight and hotel together and even rent a car. Right now you can save 15 percent or more during peak travel season. Check out Booking.com

It’s time to get outdoors after staying at home during the start of summer. “If you’re looking for motivation to get outdoors from now till the end of August Nature Valley is posting its Summer Of A Million Miles challenge,” said Loffredi. Partnering with the MapMyHike app, Nature Valley is challenging families to get outside and collectively hike one million miles this summer. Why one million? If everyone participating collectively logs at least one million miles in qualifying hikes, Nature Valley will donate $250,000 to the National Park Foundation, the official charitable partner of the National Park Service.

Joining the challenge is easy. If you don’t already have the app, simply download the MapMyHike app, go to the “challenge” tab and join the Million Miles Challenge. Log your hikes to earn badges and rewards. At the end of the summer, one lucky winner will be selected to win the grand prize, a trip for two to a National Park! Don’t forget the snacks for the trip. Nature Valley features on demand energy snacks, bars including protein and crunchy and lots more visit Nature Valley.

"If you want to feel refreshed I always bring along Tic Tac mints especially when I'm on the road and they are giving to travelers s chance to win alittle adventure. Tic Tac comes in various flavors such as orange, fruit adventure and apple mix. Don't forget the gum.Visit tictacusa.com

“Be spontaneous,” adds Loffredi. “Get out there and book a trip. And if you want to ride the hottest vehicle this summer check out the 2019 Toyota Avalon. It’s a luxury sedan it’s all redesigned and has all the technology us travels love. There is a hybrid version.”

Some of Julie’s tips include:

• Be Flexible. Last-minute travelers can still score great deals. Be flexible with travel dates and have better luck finding cheaper airline tickets and accommodations.
• Snack Attack: Whether your heading out for weekend trip, a day trip, or planning a local outing/activity, make sure you keep a few snacks in your bag for added energy and great to tie you over between meals.
• Stay Fresh: It’s hot out and sometimes you need a little burst of freshness throughout the day- keep mints on hand and pop one for a tiny burst of flavor!
• Set a Budget. Before booking, set a budget in advance. The good news? Summer is a great time to take advantage of the free outdoors!
• Sign-up for deal alerts: Sign up for e-mail updates from destination or attractions on your wish list, you'll get word of upcoming discounts and last-minute specials.

For more information visit betterstuffforlife.com

MORE ABOUT JULIE LOFFREDI:

Julie Ruditzky Loffredi is a journalist and award winning television news reporter. She has appeared on NBC TODAY show, CNN, ABC Good Morning America, Fox News Channel, Hallmark Channel, NBC 30, ABC 6 and Fox Providence and others. Julie’s vast experience crosses over into many media platforms – TV, radio, and online. Her reporting work is currently featured on FoxNews.com, USAToday.com, ABCNews, Oyster.com, Clark Howard, The Points Guy, Huffington Post, Yahoo! Travel and others. Julie is also viewed as a media expert and is a Continuing Education Instructor at Rhode Island School of Design. She was recently nominated as “Entrepreneur of the Year” by Newport Chamber of Commerce.In addition to her television work, Julie is also an artist and photographer.

Courtesy: Booking.com, Tic Tac, Nature Valley, Toyota Avalon

Photo Courtesy: Booking.com