Ten tips for a cheap Bahamas vacation

A fabulous Bahamas vacation doesn't have to cost you an arm and a leg. It is quite possible to have a very fun and gratifying vacation in the Bahamas without spending a lot of money, by simply taking the time to plan ahead.

A fabulous Bahamas vacation doesn't have to cost you an arm and a leg. It is quite possible to have a very fun and gratifying vacation in the Bahamas without spending a lot of money, by simply taking the time to plan ahead.

Here are ten tips to help plan your Bahamas vacation to get the most value for your money:

1. Shop for package deals

Package deals consist of airfare, hotel, ground transportation, meals and even some sightseeing costs - all bundled together. Booking a package deal often makes it a lot easier to compare overall costs, and to find the best bargains.

2. Make your airline reservations early

There is a significant price difference between fares reserved months ahead, versus fares reserved just days or weeks ahead of your planned departure. Making your airfare reservations ahead of time can save you bundles.

3. Check for last minute deals

If you're a little flexible in your travel plans, keep an eye on last minute deals which can come along even during the busiest part of the holiday season.

3. Go during the "low season"

The "low season" in the Bahamas generally stretches from mid-April to mid-December. Needless to say, the holidays - New Years and Christmas - are the most expensive times to go. Prices dip a bit right after New Years, and then rise again by February.

4. Eat like the locals

Hotel meals can be pricey, and unless you're at an all-inclusive resort hotel where your meal costs are counted as part of the total cost, you'll probably have to pay for your own meals. Find where the locals eat, and enjoy some authentic island fare instead.

5. Pick your hotel accomodations carefully

Hotel accomodation prices can vary greatly, even within the same hotel complex. Do you really need to have a view of the sea from an oceanfront suite? If so, expect to pay extra - but if you can make do with garden view instead, you'll save some money.

6. Walk or use public transportation

Renting a car can be expensive due to high gas prices and cab fares can add up; consider walking or using the public transportation system instead. Many hotels also offer shuttles as well as organized tours that can save you a bundle.

7. Consider activities costs

Swimming in the ocean and laying on the beach are of course free, but the costs for other activities in the Bahamas can vary greatly. Even many all-inclusive resort deals require an extra payment for scuba diving and some other activities, and greens fees for golf courses can range from under $100 to over $200, depending on the location (though some courses offer reduced fees for 9-holes in the afternoon.)

8. Duty-free shopping?

There are mixed opinions on duty free shopping. Sure, you'll save on the sales tax, but sometimes the prices are higher anyway. You can theoretically save up to 50% on the cost of some types of goods, such as watches and jewelry, but you'll find the best bargains and largest variety of goods at the major shopping centers in Freeport and Nassau rather than the outer islands.

10. Use the payphone to call home.

Use of hotel phones can get pretty expensive when used to place calls outside outside of the Bahamas, even when making toll-free calls. Some hotels charge you everytime you simply pick up the telephone.