Hawaii - Maui in November - trying to keep costs 'low'?

Hey guys,

So I'm planning a trip to Maui (hopefully) for my wife and I. Do you guys think these are pretty good rates considering it would be for 6 days during the end of November?

Airfare: $796~
Car rental: $172-$180 (depends if we leave in the morning or later at night on the last day)
Lodging: $604 (includes all fees and taxes - the condo has a full kitchen but no washer/dryer)


All in all, that comes out to be roughly $1580 at most for airfare/car/hotel. I anticipate food adding at least another $200-300 but I'm planning to buy food from Kmart/Costco and cook when we can.


Any other ideas on how we might save more? I haven't committed to anything and purchased or placed a deposit yet - still in the researching phase.

TIA!

I'd book the rental car once you have the date set. There is no cancellation penalty anyways. Maui rental car can jump up any time, and you can always rebook if you change date or see lower rates.

Could possibly knock a little off by using Priceline or Hotwire for the car (I'd be reluctant to for the airfare as you could wind up with undesirable flights). Keep in mind that the car would be non-refundable this way though, so you'd want your flights/accomodations lined up first.

Thanks for the tips guys!

I went ahead and booked the airfare for $796.xx as I didn't want to keep waiting too much longer. Not really sure if the price will drop beyond that. $398 per person (after taxes/fees) doesn't seem too bad.

As for the car, I actually got an even lower quoted rate of $152.xx using my Chase Ultimate Rewards travel planner/reservation tool. I definitely wasn't expecting that.

And I think we're pretty set on the condo we'll be staying at - $604 (including taxes/fees) for the 6 days seems like a decent price ($100~ per night). I'm just having trouble finding anything lower than that on the west side.

I went ahead and booked the airfare for $796.xx as I didn't want to keep waiting too much longer. Not really sure if the price will drop beyond that. $398 per person (after taxes/fees) doesn't seem too bad.

Two suggestions for next time (or for anyone else who wants similar help):

1. Be clear about the cost of airline tickets per person. I read your OP as $798ea.
2. Tell us where you're coming from. $398 is good but not great from the US West Coast; for traveling from the US East Coast it's a lot better.

Enjoy Hawaii!

Two suggestions for next time (or for anyone else who wants similar help):

1. Be clear about the cost of airline tickets per person. I read your OP as $798ea.
2. Tell us where you're coming from. $398 is good but not great from the US West Coast; for traveling from the US East Coast it's a lot better.

Enjoy Hawaii!

Sorry about that! I completely overlooked the "per person" note :T

The rate in this case is out of Oakland, CA (West coast), so based on what you're saying it seems like it might be a pretty 'standard' fare.

How are the crowds in Maui during the Thanksgiving holidays? I've heard that it's not overwhelmingly crowded. Hopefully that's not the case when we're there.

Please continue to follow this thread in the FT Hawaii Forum.
Thanks..
Obscure2k
TravelBuzz Moderator

As others suggested, book your rental car asap. They tend to gouge you during holidays and peak season, so it's best to lock something in now and then cancel or adjust if needed.

You got a really good deal on the condo. Food is a huge expense, so you're saving there if you cook in. Food is about 25% higher on Maui vs. the mainland, in my experience, which isn't too bad, so I don't pack much food. However, I do pack some things from home that would be wasteful to buy there. For instance, I hoard ketchup & mustard and salt & pepper packets during the year to throw in the luggage vs buying a big container in the store. I'll throw in some Montreal steak seasoning and some Old Bay Seasoning in plastic baggies because we usually grill steaks and fish. I always bring a collection of plastic bags, from sandwich bags to big garbage bags to pack lunches in and to haul home wet swimming suits and snorkeling equipment.

I also always pack a 9-can soft-sided cooler and some re-usable ice packs for day trips.

You can save on some activities, such as Ziplining and some boat trips, by booking online in advance. Activities is always our biggest expense next to flights so we plan these out carefully. Some activities are two-for-ones -- for instance, if you book any snorkeling trips, you'll probably see whales here or there at the end of November, so no need to book a separate whale watching excursion.

Also note how many activities include breakfast and/or lunch so that you don't overbuy at the grocery store.

I also like to rotate free activities and non-free activities. If you bring your own snorkel gear, you can go to any beach and snorkel for free. (Or just rent there, though I prefer to bring my own snorkel.) Driving to Hana or Haleakala is just the cost of gas. Kayaking is pretty cheap.

Thanks for the tips! I'll see if I can NYOP on Priceline and get something for less than what I got quoted at $152, but I think $25~ per day (after taxes) isn't too bad.

Good reminder on the bags too - I try to remember to do that when I travel, especially for storing dirty clothes, etc. We'll have a mesh bag too for the beach. Are you able to carry-on ice packs aboard the plane? We're trying to avoid checking in as it's an additional $25 for the first piece :(

I'm not sure how many activities we'll be doing. My dad scared me about ziplining after sending me a link of an accident on the Big Island where a tower collapsed and one guy going down the line fell to his death. I actually went ziplining down in Costa Rica earlier this year too. It was fun, and I probably wouldn't mind going again, but I also don't have a strong urge to either (especially after hearing about the accident).

We're probably going to just do as you suggested and find various places to snorkel around the South and West sides. I'm planning to bring fishing equipment as well to get some of that in and maybe catch us a meal :) Other than that, we're planning to do Haleakala the first day and then Hana the day after that. Maybe Iao State Park too (after Haleakala perhaps).


As others suggested, book your rental car asap. They tend to gouge you during holidays and peak season, so it's best to lock something in now and then cancel or adjust if needed.

You got a really good deal on the condo. Food is a huge expense, so you're saving there if you cook in. Food is about 25% higher on Maui vs. the mainland, in my experience, which isn't too bad, so I don't pack much food. However, I do pack some things from home that would be wasteful to buy there. For instance, I hoard ketchup & mustard and salt & pepper packets during the year to throw in the luggage vs buying a big container in the store. I'll throw in some Montreal steak seasoning and some Old Bay Seasoning in plastic baggies because we usually grill steaks and fish. I always bring a collection of plastic bags, from sandwich bags to big garbage bags to pack lunches in and to haul home wet swimming suits and snorkeling equipment.

I also always pack a 9-can soft-sided cooler and some re-usable ice packs for day trips.

You can save on some activities, such as Ziplining and some boat trips, by booking online in advance. Activities is always our biggest expense next to flights so we plan these out carefully. Some activities are two-for-ones -- for instance, if you book any snorkeling trips, you'll probably see whales here or there at the end of November, so no need to book a separate whale watching excursion.

Also note how many activities include breakfast and/or lunch so that you don't overbuy at the grocery store.

I also like to rotate free activities and non-free activities. If you bring your own snorkel gear, you can go to any beach and snorkel for free. (Or just rent there, though I prefer to bring my own snorkel.) Driving to Hana or Haleakala is just the cost of gas. Kayaking is pretty cheap.

Are you able to carry-on ice packs aboard the plane? We're trying to avoid checking in as it's an additional $25 for the first piece

They did allow it, but they were the self-contained, very clearly labeled kind.

http://www.thermos.com/products/24-ice-cubes.aspx

It would be very difficult for me to get to Hawaii with just a carry-on unless I had access to laundry. Of course, we pack our snorkel equipment and tennis racquets. I'd consider just checking in one bag for the two of you.

Agh... so I was on the phone with someone from another management office of a resort (the Papakea - I've stayed here before) down the street from where I am planning on staying (the Kuleana) and she was trying to talk me out of it. She was talking a lot of trash about Kuleana and how it's noisy, run-down, not well-maintained, and just the type of people who live there (inferring that they're permanent residents and because of that somehow our stay would not be pleasant). She basically posed a loaded questio: "Would you rather stay at a 5-star resort or at an old run-down apartment complex?"

I don't see how the Kuleana is *that* bad. The Tripadvisor reviews look like a mixed bag but it really depends on the owners too, right? This could go for Papakea as well, because I know I've heard things about that place, despite my experience there being good overall. As far as "5-star resort" I think she was exaggerating a bit. I'm also pretty sure staying at the Papakea would cost us another $100 ($700 versus $604~) but the lady was going to check with her manager on pricing.

In any case, the problem is that I put the deposit for the Kuleana in the mail. Trying to see if the post office can stop it so I can have more time to think about where we should stay.

My gut instinct is just to stick with what we have.

Anyone here who has stayed at the Kuleana and can give some sound advice? The lady said she was being "honest" but it just seemed like she was being pushy and trying to give me the upsell.

so your just trying to save on cost of travel or loking for things to do on the cheap....

your airfare is just alright from oak...nothing special...from hnl to/fr oak..looks like around 350$ or so per person...although winter time it might be more..plus your going to maui....i just flew to sfo from hnl roundtrip 220$ after taxes..so just fyi..

car yeah use hotwire/priceline...

if you want cheap(although maybe ghetto)..i would go maui aston lu..its real basic but across the street from the beach and near wailea...plus you will be in kihei..which is like not touristy at all.and nearby reg stores/restaurants..lahanina and kanapalii tends to be a bit touristy...

so your just trying to save on cost of travel or loking for things to do on the cheap....

your airfare is just alright from oak...nothing special...from hnl to/fr oak..looks like around 350$ or so per person...although winter time it might be more..plus your going to maui....i just flew to sfo from hnl roundtrip 220$ after taxes..so just fyi..

car yeah use hotwire/priceline...

if you want cheap(although maybe ghetto)..i would go maui aston lu..its real basic but across the street from the beach and near wailea...plus you will be in kihei..which is like not touristy at all.and nearby reg stores/restaurants..lahanina and kanapalii tends to be a bit touristy...

Pretty much... yea, after looking around it seems like an average fare but not bad for the break I'm not sure if we would ever end up going if we were to base it on finding the absolute lowest fare.

The price I actually got at $152 isn't bad at all. I just did Priceline and the lowest I could find was $146, and I would have to pay for it *now*. The $150 rate is a pretty good fallback.

I saw the Maui Aston Lu and passed it up just because of A) no kitchen and B) $10+ resort fee - seems like a lot of these resorts are doing that these days. The Kuleana unit has a kitchen and there's no resort fee, but probably because (as the woman at the Papakea said), it's an "old apartment complex" :) At the end of the day, I think we'll stick with the Kuleana - I'm pretty set on not paying much more than $100 per night after taxes. And it just doesn't seem as bad as the lady made it out to be. I think the experience varies unit by unit probably too...

Just some thoughts to throw out. We've stayed at bad places before and it had a significant bad effect on our enjoyment of the trip. We've also stayed at Papakea a few times and would definitely go back there for the value (combination of price, location, and comfort). Shopping at K-mart and Costco can be difficult for a week, as the cost savings come with large quantities, which you might not need for only 6 days. I think that a smart way to save money on meals is to plan your detailed menu for the week and then shop accordingly. On the other hand, that doesn't sound like a vacation to me, because I like being spontaneous with food. But, it's a good way to save if you're being really conscious of money I think.

Just some thoughts to throw out. We've stayed at bad places before and it had a significant bad effect on our enjoyment of the trip. We've also stayed at Papakea a few times and would definitely go back there for the value (combination of price, location, and comfort). Shopping at K-mart and Costco can be difficult for a week, as the cost savings come with large quantities, which you might not need for only 6 days. I think that a smart way to save money on meals is to plan your detailed menu for the week and then shop accordingly. On the other hand, that doesn't sound like a vacation to me, because I like being spontaneous with food. But, it's a good way to save if you're being really conscious of money I think.

I see what you mean. I like the Papakea as well but figured it would be interesting trying out another place. The Kuleana doesn't seem like it's as bad as the lady was making it out to be though, and based on Tripadvisor reviews, bad reviews are mostly far and few between. I even asked her about the Pa Ki Maui (near the Papakea) and she talked it down as well, saying beach access is impeded by shrubs and that it's right next to Honokawai Park, which she said really isn't a good place to be near or out around during the night. But the Pa ki Maui is the next block up from the Papakea which means if it's close then Papakea also is close - if it's really *that* bad, why would I also not be concerned staying at the Papakea too? I mean, it's not so much the fact that she made those other places sound bad, but more of the mentality that "your vacation will suck if you stay there because none of those are the 5-star resort we are." What would have been more helpful would have been to recommend other places besides Papakea that might be worth checking out. But she was really pushing Papakea hard - I understand that you want to sell out your rentals, but it just seems like a dirty way of doing it to me. Plus, I really can't imagine the Papakea as the by-all and be-all standard of all places to stay on Maui (and if you don't stay there your vacation will not be an enjoyable experience). At this point, I'm still inclined to stick with what we got at Kuleana.

As far as food, I agree, I think we're going to be spontaneous about food but I think we're also hoping to cook a good portion of the time too. We'll probably buy food for 3-4 days at most and leave the rest open for eating out.

i can understand the desire to cook your own food..but still your only going to cook so much....just keep that in mind...stick to two big meals per day and some snacks in the morning...then you won't be cooking all that much..worst case you can go eat at costco for 1.50$...

thats not a bad price for car..

i can understand the desire to cook your own food..but still your only going to cook so much....just keep that in mind...stick to two big meals per day and some snacks in the morning...then you won't be cooking all that much..worst case you can go eat at costco for 1.50$...

thats not a bad price for car..


Right.... I think if anything we'll probably make or pack breakfast a couple times, maybe lunch once or twice if we decide to veg, and dinner once or twice. So really not that much like you said. We definitely want to try out different restaurants, but also not go too overboard. Just trying to think ahead for what will work best.

i can understand the desire to cook your own food..but still your only going to cook so much....just keep that in mind...stick to two big meals per day and some snacks in the morning...then you won't be cooking all that much..worst case you can go eat at costco for 1.50$...

We don't even stop at Costco anymore because the portions are so huge and we ended up throwing a good portion away. The grocery store prices are high, but not higher than any tourist trap.

And don't forget to count in leftovers. Restaurants tend to way overserve and we usually have 1 or 2 meals of leftovers.

Right.... I think if anything we'll probably make or pack breakfast a couple times, maybe lunch once or twice if we decide to veg, and dinner once or twice. So really not that much like you said. We definitely want to try out different restaurants, but also not go too overboard. Just trying to think ahead for what will work best.

yeah once you start looking at the grocery prices in some touristy areas..then you might regret cooking anyways...

We don't even stop at Costco anymore because the portions are so huge and we ended up throwing a good portion away. The grocery store prices are high, but not higher than any tourist trap.

And don't forget to count in leftovers. Restaurants tend to way overserve and we usually have 1 or 2 meals of leftovers.

Since it's just the two of us, I'd probably avoid Costco all together. Last time when I went with my brother, sister-in-law and nephew, we just went to Kmart and got some food.

Since it's just the two of us, I'd probably avoid Costco all together. Last time when I went with my brother, sister-in-law and nephew, we just went to Kmart and got some food.

When we want to keep food costs down we will stop by an ABC Store and pick up a prepared sandwich, container of pineapple, bag of chips and a drink and enjoy it in a park or on the beach. Usually the selection is fresh and it's a way to have a meal for the two of us for under $15. We also take advantage of various deals...our favorite being the Sansei 25% or 50% discount offered for early or late night dining on various days.

When we want to keep food costs down we will stop by an ABC Store and pick up a prepared sandwich, container of pineapple, bag of chips and a drink and enjoy it in a park or on the beach. Usually the selection is fresh and it's a way to have a meal for the two of us for under $15. We also take advantage of various deals...our favorite being the Sansei 25% or 50% discount offered for early or late night dining on various days.

see..to me...shopping at ABC is splurging....cuz usually they are in touristy areas and they jack up all the prices...

just go and use yelp...do highest rated match and $ and you'll find cheap eats in your area..that real people(locals) eat at...

http://www.yelp.com/search?find_loc=Maui%2C+HI&cflt=restaurants&sortby=rating#attrs=RestaurantsPriceRange2.1&show_filters=1

Seems like a rock bottom budget.. Pick up Maui/Hawaii guides when in town, there's always coupons for dining..

Also, Sansei has 50% off Sunday and Monday at 5:00 pm opening for the first hour.. If you're looking for fancy, I would do the Four Seasons Spago Pre-Fixe menu first hour of opening and after 8:30 pm @ $50 pp.. The regular meals at 6:00 pm is usually double..

You got a really good deal on the condo.

Definitely. We have found condo owners very eager to get our business over the last few years. I think hotel and condo bookings have been very soft since the financial crisis of 2008, and a lot of condo owners are just barely covering their ownership costs (perhaps some not even doing that).

Look at the nightly/weekly rate quote like you would a sticker price on a new car. They'll gladly let you pay it if you're willing, but you don't usually have to pay that much.

Thanks for the input, everyone! I think the rates we got are pretty good. I guess I'm just concerned over the location and setting of the Kuleana - the lady who I spoke with regarding the Papakea was totally bashing Kuleana (she also bashed on the Maui Sands complex next door to Papakea as well). It seems like it's more of a scare tactic in either case.

The owners I'm working with are really nice and there's one or two good reviews on Tripadvisor for the unit we'll be, so I don't think I'm *overly* concerned. As far as budget goes, we are being pretty "cheap" about it at the end of the day. We're just really conscious of that and will try to save where we can. Luxury is nice, but not necessary. I think our mentality is this way after kind of splurging on our honeymoon a couple years ago - we went to Bora Bora and Moorea. After that I think we were blown away at the luxury but also the amount we ended up spending (even after finding various avenues in which we could save). I've come to learn that a "good bargain" is always relative :) hahaha

Definitely. We have found condo owners very eager to get our business over the last few years. I think hotel and condo bookings have been very soft since the financial crisis of 2008, and a lot of condo owners are just barely covering their ownership costs (perhaps some not even doing that).

Look at the nightly/weekly rate quote like you would a sticker price on a new car. They'll gladly let you pay it if you're willing, but you don't usually have to pay that much.

MCO.. I booked a condo three weeks over Christmas Break.. I made an offer based on the length of time, and the owner took it..

When looking at rates for a condo you want to book, doesn't hurt to make an offer.. that is prior to booking..

MCO.. I booked a condo three weeks over Christmas Break.. I made an offer based on the length of time, and the owner took it..

When looking at rates for a condo you want to book, doesn't hurt to make an offer.. that is prior to booking..

True, that's sort of what I did for the rate I got. They advertsised "$89 for early booking" (of course, I didn't see the "early booking" part ha ha) and asked if I could get that rate for the week we'll be there. They pretty much just gave it to me at that price too. I did make offers to a few other people but they all came back with a number higher than what I got. Also, I think the longer the stay the more inclined owners will be to cut you slack. Since we're only there for a week, there probably isn't much incentive for them to cut back on their going-rates.

True, that's sort of what I did for the rate I got. They advertsised "$89 for early booking" (of course, I didn't see the "early booking" part ha ha) and asked if I could get that rate for the week we'll be there. They pretty much just gave it to me at that price too. I did make offers to a few other people but they all came back with a number higher than what I got. Also, I think the longer the stay the more inclined owners will be to cut you slack. Since we're only there for a week, there probably isn't much incentive for them to cut back on their going-rates.

Its arguable, that late bookings would garner better bargains..

Owners are faced with a empty condo, or a condo with some revenue.. is better than no revenue..

Its arguable, that late bookings would garner better bargains..

Owners are faced with a empty condo, or a condo with some revenue.. is better than no revenue..

I agree, and I would point out that "late bookings" can actually be pretty far in advance for Hawaii. Not too many people plan Hawaii trips on a whim, especially not family groups traveling together.

A few weeks ago, I offered $1,200/night for a really nice 4 bdrm. condo in Wailea for President's Day week in February. They said no -- $1,500 (listed) is the best we can do for that prime week. Last week I noticed on the availability calendar that the week was still open, so I repeated my offer. Deal at $1,200! My in-laws are pretty happy with me.

My guess is that the owners were getting nervous that the week would go unbooked, so my 20% discount was much better than a 100% discount.

It's a buyer's market right now for Hawaii vacations.

I agree, and I would point out that "late bookings" can actually be pretty far in advance for Hawaii. Not too many people plan Hawaii trips on a whim, especially not family groups traveling together.

A few weeks ago, I offered $1,200/night for a really nice 4 bdrm. condo in Wailea for President's Day week in February. They said no -- $1,500 (listed) is the best we can do for that prime week. Last week I noticed on the availability calendar that the week was still open, so I repeated my offer. Deal at $1,200! My in-laws are pretty happy with me.

My guess is that the owners were getting nervous that the week would go unbooked, so my 20% discount was much better than a 100% discount.

It's a buyer's market right now for Hawaii vacations.

Probably the same condos my buddy has a time share in Wailea.. He paid I think $250,000, and his maintenance fees is around $1,000 per night.. He has 25 nights per year..

I presume you have access to the Grand Wailea water park?

Probably the same condos my buddy has a time share in Wailea.. He paid I think $250,000, and his maintenance fees is around $1,000 per night.. He has 25 nights per year..

I presume you have access to the Grand Wailea water park?

It's Wailea Beach Villas. They have some arrangement where you can get a room at the GW at a discount (mid $300s/night IIRC), and get up to 8 water park passes. Our kids are have outgrown the GW, though, and would much rather go to the beaches and snorkel. We used to stay at the GW, but I doubt we'll ever go back. The place is too big and pretty gaudy. If we ever go back to a hotel, it'd probably be the Four Seasons.

The GW deal seems odd to me -- why the need to tie in a room that would likely sit empty? And 8 passes for guests in one room? My best guess is that this is to get around some GW use permit restriction against selling stand-alone water park passes.

BTW, I think the Wailea Beach Villas are an exceptionally good deal. For three years now, we've been paying about $300/night per bedroom in luxurious condos with great ocean views. Parking is easy, the complex is gorgeous and you can't beat the location, right on the Wailea path.

It's Wailea Beach Villas. They have some arrangement where you can get a room at the GW at a discount (mid $300s/night IIRC), and get up to 8 water park passes. Our kids are have outgrown the GW, though, and would much rather go to the beaches and snorkel. We used to stay at the GW, but I doubt we'll ever go back. The place is too big and pretty gaudy. If we ever go back to a hotel, it'd probably be the Four Seasons.

The GW deal seems odd to me -- why the need to tie in a room that would likely sit empty? And 8 passes for guests in one room? My best guess is that this is to get around some GW use permit restriction against selling stand-alone water park passes.

BTW, I think the Wailea Beach Villas are an exceptionally good deal. For three years now, we've been paying about $300/night per bedroom in luxurious condos with great ocean views. Parking is easy, the complex is gorgeous and you can't beat the location, right on the Wailea path.

My friends feel the same way.. but they've got 25 nights, so they're trying other luxurious timeshare offerings in California, Big Island and the Carribean.. as well as going back to Maui, Wailea..

Wailea is the grand daddy destination.. I think your villas are 3,000 sq ft or something.. that's what I remember my friend mentioning.. They've got 5 kids, so the situation is perfect..

Wailea is the grand daddy destination.. I think your villas are 3,000 sq ft or something.. that's what I remember my friend mentioning.. They've got 5 kids, so the situation is perfect..

It sounds like your friend is paying $1,000/night in maintenance fees for a unit comparable to the one I'm paying $1,200/night to rent. Plus your friend has to pay the 4.6% timeshare occupancy tax. And there's that whole fork over $250,000 thing.

Timeshares are great...for those who sell them initially.

It sounds like your friend is paying $1,000/night in maintenance fees for a unit comparable to the one I'm paying $1,200/night to rent. Plus your friend has to pay the 4.6% timeshare occupancy tax. And there's that whole fork over $250,000 thing.

Timeshares are great...for those who sell them initially.

You've got that right.. and the new tax just kicked in to boot just recently..

So your, $1,200/night is a good deal, I can see why the owners wanted to hold out for $1,500/night.. To try to make back some of the fixed cost of ownership.. @ $500 premium above maintenance, the owners would have to sell 500 nights.. @ $200 premium above maintenance, the owners would have to sell 1,250 nights to make it back..

My friend was offered 25 nights per year, up from 12 I think.. but have to cover the $1,000 per room night in maintenance fees.. So he did get sort of 2 for 1 deal on the upfront.. but is now tied in having to pay the $25,000 a year in maintenance fees..

But vacationing with 5 kids isn't easy.. so this is a good arrangement when the economy starts picking up again..

Some time shares are worth it.. like the Embassy Suites in Ka'anapali was selling time shares for just about market value during the boom.. but the inflexibility of time shares have kept me from pulling the trigger..

I'm also thinking about shipping some supplies to the place we're staying at (confirmed with the office that I could) before we arrive. Items like sunscreen, aloe vera, fishing hooks, etc... if I ship a small box of stuff via USPS Priority, it should cost around $5-$6...

I figure that's better than paying $25 to check-in a bag or buy [probably marked up] supplies on Maui.

I actually did this with fishing hooks/lures/tackle a couple years ago before I flew into Honolulu. The front-desk had no idea what they were doing and I had to go back 2-3 times before they were able to find my package. Which was back in the office. I swear they would have taken and kept it if I didn't keep persisting.

Hopefully that's not the case with the place we'll be at in Maui!!!

I'm also thinking about shipping some supplies to the place we're staying at (confirmed with the office that I could) before we arrive.

I'm puzzled how the contents of a box that is so small that it costs only $5-6 to mail could be the difference between having an extra bag to check or not. Even so, this seems like paltry savings for the extra time and potential hassle involved.

I'm puzzled how the contents of a box that is so small that it costs only $5-6 to mail could be the difference between having an extra bag to check or not. Even so, this seems like paltry savings for the extra time and potential hassle involved.

You may not see it this way, but IMHO $20 goes a long way... maybe not in Maui, but just in general ;)


BTW: it's $25 for the *first* bag to check with Hawaiian airlines each way. To me, it's worth saving the $50 if my wife and I can fit everything into a couple bags each. It's not like we're spending a month out there anyway.

You may not see it this way, but IMHO $20 goes a long way... maybe not in Maui, but just in general ;)

Hey, I get that. I spent years in my youth travelling with very little money to spend. It's just that I can't understand how this works for you. The small flat rate box is 5-3/8” x 8-5/8” x 1-5/8” -- a thick hardcover book might not fit in that. How can that be the difference between checking another bag or not?

Regardless, I wish you an enjoyable trip.

Hey, I get that. I spent years in my youth travelling with very little money to spend. It's just that I can't understand how this works for you. The small flat rate box is 5-3/8” x 8-5/8” x 1-5/8” -- a thick hardcover book might not fit in that. How can that be the difference between checking another bag or not?

Regardless, I wish you an enjoyable trip.

Ah, I see what you mean. I just checked a box (grabbed one from the local USPS station) and I probably wouldn't be able to squeeze a normal sized aloe or sunscreen tube in, but I sure could get a good amount of fishing lures/tackle in it (aka, anything with a sharp point, like hooks, that I wouldn't want to risk losing to the TSA at airport security)

For some reason I thought there were a couple options for the small flat rate boxes - I was thinking there was one for the more square kind - maybe I shipped a medium rate box last time I went to Hawaii. I don't remember it being all that expensive though. But even if I ship a larger medium flat-rate box with a number of items in it (liquids, fishing tackle, etc), it would be about $21 total roundtrip ($10.50 each way), so still cheaper than checking in a bag. Checking in the bag would just be nice for the extra space, but we may not necessarily need a full on extra bag for the week we'll be there. And we don't mind carrying on at all.

You may not see it this way, but IMHO $20 goes a long way... maybe not in Maui, but just in general ;)


BTW: it's $25 for the *first* bag to check with Hawaiian airlines each way. To me, it's worth saving the $50 if my wife and I can fit everything into a couple bags each. It's not like we're spending a month out there anyway.Unless you're planning on going to a restaurant where you need something more dressy than shorts and polo, you can do it with 2 carry-ons for the 6 days you're going.

My husband and I couldn't check bags one trip so we pared away our clothes to the basic necessities and planned to do laundry once for a 9 day stay. We generally only pack half of what we need and do laundry.

However, HA may nail you with the fee for a carryon if it weighs more than 25 pounds :( :( :(

Unless you're planning on going to a restaurant where you need something more dressy than shorts and polo, you can do it with 2 carry-ons for the 6 days you're going.

My husband and I couldn't check bags one trip so we pared away our clothes to the basic necessities and planned to do laundry once for a 9 day stay. We generally only pack half of what we need and do laundry.

However, HA may nail you with the fee for a carryon if it weighs more than 25 pounds :( :( :(

HA is charging for a heavy carryon?:(

What's the fee?

We use them for our interisland flights..

Please discuss that here http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/hawaii-based-airlines/385676-consolidated-carry-baggage-allowance-weight-ha-thread.html?highlight=consolidated and not on this thread. Thanks.

cblaisd
Co-Moderator, Hawai`i forum

Hey guys,

So I'm planning a trip to Maui (hopefully) for my wife and I. Do you guys think these are pretty good rates considering it would be for 6 days during the end of November?

Airfare: $796~
Car rental: $172-$180 (depends if we leave in the morning or later at night on the last day)
Lodging: $604 (includes all fees and taxes - the condo has a full kitchen but no washer/dryer)


All in all, that comes out to be roughly $1580 at most for airfare/car/hotel. I anticipate food adding at least another $200-300 but I'm planning to buy food from Kmart/Costco and cook when we can.


Any other ideas on how we might save more? I haven't committed to anything and purchased or placed a deposit yet - still in the researching phase.

TIA!

Since it looks like you're condo is in Lahaina I would recomend a spot called Aloha Mixed Plate for cheap eats (http://www.alohamixedplate.com/). I'm always there on my work trips because it has good prices for decent food.

I'm not sure if anyone mentioned it yet, but I would do most of your food shopping in Kahului. Go to Foodland (90 Kane St, Kahului, HI 96732 (808) 877-2808) or Ah Fook's (65 W Kaahumanu Ave # 3A Kahului, HI 96732-1611‎ (808) 877-3308).

Lahaina can be a real tourist trap, although there is a safeway that can be convenient.

There's also a Sports Authority and a Walmart near the airport where you can pick up some cheap tackle if you decide not to mail your gear out there. A fishing shop I like is called Maui Sporting Goods (92 N Market St
Wailuku, HI 96793 (808) 244-0011) and the folks there may have some good gear and location suggestions for you (and bait recommendations).

A good cheap lunch option is a bento (japanese boxed lunch) and these can be had for $5-$8. They make great lunches on the go and should be easy to find at the local markets. I like the ones from TJ's Warehouse Outlet (http://www.tjswarehouse.com/).

Good times can be had on Maui with little or no planning. Just drive around and explore land or sea as you see fit.

I hope you enjoy your trip!

Since it looks like you're condo is in Lahaina I would recomend a spot called Aloha Mixed Plate for cheap eats (http://www.alohamixedplate.com/). I'm always there on my work trips because it has good prices for decent food.

I'm not sure if anyone mentioned it yet, but I would do most of your food shopping in Kahului. Go to Foodland (90 Kane St, Kahului, HI 96732 (808) 877-2808) or Ah Fook's (65 W Kaahumanu Ave # 3A Kahului, HI 96732-1611‎ (808) 877-3308).

Lahaina can be a real tourist trap, although there is a safeway that can be convenient.

There's also a Sports Authority and a Walmart near the airport where you can pick up some cheap tackle if you decide not to mail your gear out there. A fishing shop I like is called Maui Sporting Goods (92 N Market St
Wailuku, HI 96793 (808) 244-0011) and the folks there may have some good gear and location suggestions for you (and bait recommendations).

A good cheap lunch option is a bento (japanese boxed lunch) and these can be had for $5-$8. They make great lunches on the go and should be easy to find at the local markets. I like the ones from TJ's Warehouse Outlet (http://www.tjswarehouse.com/).

Good times can be had on Maui with little or no planning. Just drive around and explore land or sea as you see fit.

I hope you enjoy your trip!

The Costco near the Airport comes in handy as well..

First two stops for us on any island is Costco and Walmart..

Check out Old Lahaina Luau, when in Lahaina.. rated number 1 with Frommers..

Cheap eats at Bruce McCullicuddy's.. want better, work up from there..

The restaurant at Old PeCocks lets you dine and watch the Feast at LeLe for no extra charge.. front and center almost..

The Costco near the Airport comes in handy as well..

First two stops for us on any island is Costco and Walmart..

Check out Old Lahaina Luau, when in Lahaina.. rated number 1 with Frommers..

Cheap eats at Bruce McCullicuddy's.. want better, work up from there..

The restaurant at Old PeCocks lets you dine and watch the Feast at LeLe for no extra charge.. front and center almost..

I know that some WalMarts carry groceries and some don't. Does the Maui WM have grocery items?

I know that some WalMarts carry groceries and some don't. Does the Maui WM have grocery items?

IIRC.. Its not a Wal-mart super center, but does have a small grocery section in the center front of the store.. dry goods shelves, fridges and some freezers for quick heat ups..

Foodland ... Ah Fook's

Not sure about the second one, but Foodland has a frequent shopper card program that gets you much lower prices. Just ask for the card and you can get the discount right then. It's essentially a two-tier pricing system: one for locals and visitors in the know, and one for unsuspecting visitors.

You can earn HawaiianMiles at Foodland.

http://www.foodland.com/maikai-card/earning-hawaiianmiles-foodland/faq

You can earn HawaiianMiles at Foodland.

http://www.foodland.com/maikai-card/earning-hawaiianmiles-foodland/faq

Funny, as a tourist I've signed up for the Maikai' (I think that's what the Foodland program is called), probably 5 times over the years..

Phone number never brings up my card for some reason..

Foodland is convenient where we stay on the Big Island.. in the Mauna Lani Shops..