Travel savings tip: Buying gift cards at a discount to save on your trip

The key is to buy the gift cards at a discount from wholesale clubs, so that when you use them to book a flight, you’re getting a ticket for less money.

Costco currently offers a $500 Southwest Airlines gift card for about $450, both in-store and on its website. When you book a flight with one of these gift cards, it can save you $50.    

(Photo by Bruce Bennett/Getty Images)

But Rosen says you can stack up more savings.

SUGGESTED: How to save money on gas during spring break

Sam’s Club members can buy discounted gift cards for Southwest, Disney, and Airbnb.

United Airlines has a MileagePlus Gift Card Exchange program for cards from 100 retailers, including Starbucks, Target, even Southwest Airlines.  The website says for a $100 gift card, you’ll get at least 2,660 miles on United.  The cards must have at least $15 in value, there is a 7.5% federal excise tax, and the MileagePlus account must have been open for at least 90 

Southwest Airlines offers its members 1000 Rapid Rewards bonus points if you file your taxes through TurboTax.  

Check your airline loyalty program for discounts that you may be able to cash out before you check in.

The airline gift cards do not expire, but they are usually non-refundable.  Make sure you plan to fly that airline before buying a gift card.