SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WGGB/WSHM) - As summer vacation season begins for many families in western Massachusetts, the rising cost of travel can make planning a trip more difficult.

AAA Northeast spokesperson Wendy Marley shared several tips aimed at helping travelers save money while still taking the vacations they want.

Marley suggested travelers “reverse” their booking patterns by starting with airfare prices instead of choosing a destination first. She said looking for places with lower airfare — including destinations that are “off the beaten track” — can help reduce overall costs.

She also recommended contacting a travel adviser for suggestions on up-and-coming destinations that may offer better deals. Marley said popular, traditional vacation spots often come with higher prices because many travelers are searching for the same places.

Marley added that flexibility with travel dates and the time of year can also make a difference.

She also encouraged travelers to consider “shoulder season,” or traveling just outside a destination’s peak season. Marley said Europe’s high season typically runs from about mid-June through roughly the first week of September, but some travelers are looking into October and even early November.

On the early side of the season, Marley said travelers may find options from late March into April. She said weather can still be good during those periods, while prices may be lower and crowds smaller.

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