With Fourth of July weekend here, can you still find cheap travel with a tight window?
With Fourth of July weekend here, can you still find cheap travel with a tight window?
With Fourth of July weekend here, can you still find cheap travel with a tight window?
The Fourth of July weekend is here, which means your time to plan a summer getaway is starting to run out.
So, can you still find cheap travel with a tight window? CBS News Miami went hunting for some deals.
Illiett Ojeida said she travels about six times a year, often with little planning. Spontaneity is her guide, and she doesn't always go to tourist traps.
"Sometimes, honestly, the most spontaneous trips have been short-planned," Ojeda said. "Very adorable, and we have the best experiences."
She told CBS News Miami she's learned how to navigate these trips through scouring social media, reading travel blogs from other moms, and even using AI.
"I love just hidden gems that we have to kind of just figure out how we're going to get there," Ojeda said.
Her family's most recent trip was to Arizona for Memorial Day. Ojeda found out that flying to Las Vegas and driving to their destination cost less than flying directly to Arizona.
"Going to Vegas, making something special about that stop and then driving over part of the road trip experience — it made a huge financial difference," Ojeda said.
Richie Massa, the managing partner of the Lorraine Travel Agency, said you likely won't find many deals this late in the summer if you want to go to international destination spots like Greece or Italy, but added you could get more for less if you go to some place less popular, or a place in the offseason.
"That could be the Caribbean and more specifically a lesser-known Caribbean island," Massa said. "These places, nonstop flights from Miami. They're gonna provide immediate value compared to more in season."
Massa said a place like Portugal can be 30-40% cheaper compared to Italy or France this time of year. And he said outdoor enthusiasts can save up to 50-60% if they go to Canada compared to Aspen in the summer.
"They're not the place that the usual traveler thinks of. Less tourists, better value," Massa said.
If you're looking for deals online, Amazon has travel deals for Prime Day. You can save on gas, rental cars, cruises and select hotels. Some of those deals are available now.
Ojeda said when you're done exploring and need a place to crash, she usually finds better prices on Airbnb compared to hotels.
"I feel like the gem of being in an Airbnb gives that whole personal experience," Ojeda said.
Massa says if you want to save money traveling internationally, you should go to a place that has better currency exchange rates. That means countries like Japan, Canada, Argentina and Peru, your dollar is worth more in these countries than it is in the United States.
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Travel + Leisure
2 hours ago
- Travel + Leisure
Calpak's Fourth of July Sale Has Deals Up to 60% Off—From Editor-approved Suitcases to Oprah-loved Duffels
Whoever coined the phrase 'a Jack of all trades, a master of none' clearly wasn't referencing California-based travel brand Calpak. Originally launched in 1989 as a handbag and wallet supplier, the company has grown to successfully launch everything from diaper bags to long-haul trunk suitcases—all with quality, durability, and functionality at the forefront. It's no wonder that the Oprah-loved brand is a favorite of ours to test here at Travel + Leisure ; whether you need a work-friendly travel tote, a set of packing cubes, or an all-in-one luggage set, Calpak does it all (and quite well , we might add). That's why we're especially stoked about the Calpak 4th of July Sale happening this weekend. This event includes deals up to 60 percent off colorful luggage sets, roomy laptop backpacks, compact carry-ons, and rolling duffel bags. Curious to know which deals we're most excited about? Keep scrolling for the 11 Calpak pieces we recommend shopping for Fourth of July, starting at $32. $175 $77 at Take it from someone who tests and reviews travel products for a living: The Calpak Terra collection is fantastic from top to bottom. This collection of wallets, sling bags, carry-ons, and travel accessories is made with recycled materials and water-resistant ripstop polyester that is, dare I say, practically impossible to scuff up or get dirty. I recently took the Terra 26L Laptop Duffel Backpack on a carry-on-only trek to Puerto Rico and have been using the Terra 35L Tote Bag for beach trips. Both have been absolute lifesavers for staying organized. Now, I'm eyeing this Terra Laptop Backpack to add to my collection. Not only does it come with a myriad of zippered internal and external pockets and a luggage trolley sleeve, but it also has a padded laptop compartment that can be used for a hydration reservoir, transforming it from a commuter bag to a hiking pack. And just like the other bags in Calpak's Terra collection, this two-in-one duffel backpack is made from recycled plastic bottles and has a slick exterior that wipes clean. $165 $66 at What's hot pink, has wheels, and is 60 percent off? This one-of-a-kind Stevyn Rolling Duffel, of course! Previously $165, this $66 carry-on duffel has a large zippered bottom compartment to keep your shoes or bulky items separate from the rest of your clothes, a pass-through trolley sleeve, interior and exterior pockets, two spinning wheels, and reinforced grab handles. When you're tired of carrying it by hand, you can stand it upright and use the telescopic handle to pull it behind you in the airport. $48 $32 at Some adventures call for a smaller bag, and this Luka Mini Belt Bag, 35 percent off, is large enough to hold your most important items without weighing you down. On top of a spacious main compartment, this belt bag comes with a hidden back pocket for stashing your keys, ID, or cash, and has an adjustable nylon strap that can be worn on your waist or across your chest. Hundreds of Calpak shoppers have given a perfect five-star rating, with one reviewer noting that its mini size is perfect for 'everyday use.' $48 $39 at This might just be the cutest way to carry a water bottle. Made easy-to-clean, wipeable materials, this cinch-top water bottle holder is insulated to help keep your beverage cool, and is outfitted with three exterior pockets that can hold your sunglasses, sunscreen, wallet, or keys. The bungee cord opening allows for easy access to your drink, and the adjustable carrying strap can be worn as a crossbody or closer to your chest as a sling bag. $80 $56 at Upgrade your toiletry game with this Fit Hanging Dopp Kit that's flush with storage options. On sale for $24 off, this dopp kit comes with multiple interior mesh pockets, elastic loops, a hanging loop, and a large clear PVC zippered pouch that can be removed and used on its own for shorter trips. It's also made with an antimicrobial lining to keep bacteria and odors at bay. One five-star reviewer called it a 'must-have' for travel. 'I've been on the hunt for a TSA-compliant storage kit that also includes non-liquid storage for literal years, and I'm happy to say that my search is over,' they wrote. 'This product is both sleek and roomy, and can easily accommodate everything I need for trips up to 2 weeks.' $545 $273 at Starting your luggage collection from square one? Scoop up all the bags you'll ever need in one fell swoop thanks to Calpak's Evry Starter Bundle. This complete set comes with a carry-on, a large checked suitcase, three packing cubes, a laundry bag, a shoe bag, and a luggage tag. The suitcases are stacked with features, including 360-degree spinning wheels, interior divider pockets, TSA-approved locks, and two inches of expansion. $265 $212 at Don't let the fun color options fool you: This front pocket carry-on means business. Great for those who travel for work, it comes with a drop-down front lid pocket that has a padded laptop sleeve, a separate pocket for stashing notebooks or important documents, and a zippered mesh pocket for housing the essentials you need quick access to. TSA-approved combination locks, dual spinner wheels, and a side grab handle make moving through the airport a breeze. $98 $59 at Road trippers, soccer parents, and commuters, rejoice: This is the solution you've been looking for to maintain a tidy, organized car. This fully collapsible car organization system expands to create three spacious compartments to keep your essentials separate and easy to grab. Each compartment comes with a mesh separator pocket for documents and small items, and both ends have built-in carry handles for easy transportation. Whether you need a place to stash snacks or a change of clothes, there's no shortage of uses for this organizer. One five-star reviewer even shared that it was an 'unexpected lifesaver' while evacuating a wildfire and became a 'huge help' for housing items they almost left behind. $265 $159 at This Ambeur carry-on boasts a combination of functionality—and style—that is nothing short of impressive. This sleek metallic suitcase comes with four smooth-gliding 360-degree wheels, side handles for easy lifting, interior zippered dividers and pockets, and a TSA-approved combination lock for safekeeping. The coolest feature, though, is the drop-down exterior compartment: It contains two padded laptop sleeves, plus a deep, open pocket that's large enough to hold all of the essentials you need to quickly access while traveling. Each shiny colorway of this carry-on is on sale for over $100 off—while supplies last, that is. $115 $81 at Calpak's Luka collection has a large, dedicated internet fanbase, and this Fourth of July weekend, you can pick up this widely-beloved Luka Expandable Laptop Tote for 30 percent off, marking its original price down to $81. Made with a trendy, puffy exterior, this spacious tote comes with a padded laptop sleeve, a discreet zippered side pocket (perfect for stashing your passport), and an expandable zippered bottom that can add 3.5 additional inches of storage space. $265 $212 at Overpack to your heart's content thanks to the Hue Medium Trunk. It expands up to two additional inches and is 27.75 inches tall, allowing you to pack longer, larger items like trekking poles, knee-high boots, poster tubes, or wrapped gifts with ease. This travel trunk comes with all of Calpak's best luggage features, including 360-degree wheels, a TSA-approved lock, and cushioned grab handles for easy transportation. $180 $99 at If you're in the market for a reliable yet stylish work bag, look no further than the gorgeous Haven laptop tote, 45 percent off. You can customize this tote to suit your needs, too, thanks to the adjustable, removable shoulder strap, removable laptop sleeve, and removable multi-pocket organizational insert. Complete with a trolley sleeve and protective metal rivets at the bottom, this tote is perfect for commuting and business trips alike. Love a great deal? Sign up for our T+L Recommends newsletter and we'll send you our favorite travel products each week.
Yahoo
5 hours ago
- Yahoo
Are Target, Walmart open on the 4th of July? See what's closed in California
Fourth of July celebrations often mean last-minute errands, from purchasing hot dogs to grill and festive clothes for photos. And if you get the holiday off from work, you may hope to schedule some appointments with the newfound free time. But like any federal holiday comes store closures and special hours. Here's what to know before you step out this Independence Day in California, although many companies suggest checking with your Visalia-area store this holiday. Fourth of July fireworks: Looking for a fireworks show? Here's when, where they are happening Walmart stores only close on Thanksgiving and Christmas, so they will also be open with regular hours on the Fourth of July. Target will be open throughout the Fourth of July weekend; however, hours of operation may vary by location, so please check your local store's hours before visiting. Costco will be closed on July 4. Trader Joe's stores are open until 5 p.m. on the Fourth of July, the company announced. Aldi said that its stores operate limited hours on the Fourth of July, so be sure to check with your local store before you go. The fast food chain recommends checking with your local store for special hours. Banks are generally closed on the Fourth of July, including branches of Chase and Wells Fargo. Some banking services may be available, such as self-service ATM tellers for withdrawals or deposits, the Arizona Republic reported. The New York Stock Exchange and NASDAQ are closed on the holiday. All California Department of Motor Vehicles offices are closed on the Fourth of July, according to their holiday schedule. U.S. Post Offices will be closed on the Fourth of July, and there will be no regular mail service. UPS store locations may be closed, so it's recommended that you check your local store for their hours of operation. There will be no UPS pickup or delivery service on the Fourth of July, according to UPS. IKEA said that special holiday hours are posted to store-specific pages on their website, so check with your local store for the most up-to-date information. USA TODAY Network reporter Samantha Neely contributed to this story. Paris Barraza is a trending reporter covering California news at The Desert Sun. Reach her at pbarraza@ This article originally appeared on Palm Springs Desert Sun: What stores are open on Independence Day in California? Costco, UPS, more
Yahoo
6 hours ago
- Yahoo
We've been married for years, but we both love traveling alone. Solo trips have made our marriage stronger.
My husband and I have been together for 13 years, but we never stopped taking solo trips. I travel alone at least two or three times a year, and it makes our relationship even stronger. Solo travel lets us explore our own interests, and also helps me appreciate my husband even more. Earlier this year, I took a train to Oceanside, one of my favorite places in Southern California — but I did so without my husband. This was one of the many solo trips I've taken since we got married six years ago. These days, I typically travel alone at least two or three times a year. Don't get me wrong: I love being around my husband, and I always prefer to take trips with him whenever possible. However, solo travel has become an integral part of staying connected to myself. For us, taking solo trips while married isn't about escaping each other. It's about investing in our individual growth — and, by extension, our relationship. Here are a few ways it's made us stronger as a couple. Both my husband and I have worked from home for the majority of our marriage, meaning we're almost constantly together. We also live in a two-bedroom apartment, so there's limited space to retreat. Going on regular solo trips allows us to break out of the familiarity (and occasional annoyances) of constant proximity. As someone who has struggled with codependency in the past, creating space in our togetherness reinforces my sense of autonomy — which, ironically, makes me feel more present in our relationship, not less. Although my husband and I have been married for over six years, we've been together for 13 years, or a third of our lives. We know practically everything about each other, and our conversations can often start to feel mundane as a result. It's not that I don't enjoy those everyday chats about how cute our cat is (very cute), what to have for dinner (often chili), or what we want to watch on Netflix — but solo travel gives us new stories, perspectives, and sometimes even new interests to discuss. My husband and I have a lot of shared interests, but we have individual passions, too. While I took up "grandma" hobbies like cross-stitching and gardening during the pandemic, he became obsessed with baseball. A couple of years ago, my husband planned a solo trip where he went to a baseball game every day. Although we've gone to plenty of games together, going to that many would have been too much for me. By taking his own trip, he didn't need to worry about whether I was getting antsy or not having a good time — he could fully immerse himself in the experience. These types of trips let us both lean into what excites us individually, which makes talking about it later even more fun. As introverts, my husband and I both need alone time to feel refreshed. Although we find ways to snag bits of quiet peace at home — a nap here, a meditation there — oftentimes, a change of scenery can give us both that much-needed sense of feeling recharged. Traveling alone, especially when nature is involved, lets me take a breather and move at my own pace. I always find that I come back more present, patient, and open — all the things that help me show up as a better partner. Maybe it's my love of Jane Austen novels talking, but there is something to that classic idea that absence makes the heart grow fonder. By the end of a solo trip, I always miss my husband intensely and can't wait to be back in his arms. On a recent trip I took to Florida, we made sure to talk every day, sharing funny stories or just how we were feeling. Sometimes those conversations even veered off into flirty or sexy territory, which definitely helped build anticipation for when we were reunited. Even more meaningful, though, is that the distance often helps me appreciate him in a deeper way. When I get back, all the little things I love — the way he makes me laugh, the comfort of his presence, even how he loads the dishwasher — are highlighted in a new way. Ultimately, although it seems counterintuitive, traveling alone reminds me how lucky I am to have someone I can't wait to come home to. Read the original article on Business Insider
