My family of 3 just booked a 6-night Bahamas vacation for $400. Here are our 8 secrets to getting the best travel deals.

I've traveled all over the world to destinations like Santorini on a strict budget.Michelle Maves

• My husband and I travel on a budget — we once went to London and Paris for $600.
• Signing up for credit cards at the right time and being flexible with travel dates saves us money.

I've traveled the world on a shoestring budget.

My husband and I once spent five nights in London and Paris for $600 — which included airfare, hotels (one being the five-star Churchill in London), and the Chunnel train. My family's next stop is the Bahamas, where three of us will fly down and spend six nights at Baha Mar resort for $400.

And the upcoming trip would've essentially been free if the taxes/fees/expedited security could be paid for in points instead of cash.

After years of learning the ropes, here are eight of my best tips for saving money on amazing trips around the world.