Tips and Tricks to Making and AAPT National Meeting More Affordable
 

1. Registration Savings

  • Early Bird Discounts: Register as early as possible to take advantage of lower rates. As the conference approaches, prices go up. 

  • Get Involved: AAPT has travel funds available for members in leadership positions such as community chairs, section representatives and members on the Board of Directors
  • Student or Member Discounts: If you're a student, a K-12 Teacher or a retired teacher, there are discounts available.

  • Apply for awards and grants: AAPT has several awards and grants available for K-12 educators that include funding to attend a national meeting.

2. Travel on a Budget

  • Book Travel Early: Book travel early and look at different forms of travel such as train, bus, airplane or even a roadtrip with some teacher friends. 

  • Take advantage of AAPT National Meetings in your area: There is no cheaper travel than not traveling! If there is an AAPT meeting in your local area, be sure to take that opportunity to engage at a lower cost.

3. Cut Hotel Costs

  • Share a Room: Split a hotel with a friend or colleague.

  • Use the Group Rate: AAPT has secured a group rate at the conference hotel. Be sure to book your accommodations under that rate.

  • Book Early: Hotels near the venue fill up fast—secure a cheaper rate by booking early.

4. Save on Food & Drinks

  • Leverage Free Meals: Take advantage of included breakfasts, networking events, and vendor receptions.

  • Grocery Stores Over Restaurants: Buy or order snacks, drinks, and simple meals at local grocery stores instead of eating out.

  • Find the more affordable restaurants: Consider using food delivery platforms or walking to nearby restaurants instead of eating meals at the hotel

5. Reduce Local Transportation Costs

  • Use Public Transit: Instead of taxis or ride-shares, check if buses or subways are an option.

  • Carpool or Share Rides: If multiple attendees are going to the same place, share a ride.

6. Seek Financial Assistance

  • School or District Sponsorship: Ask your administration if they can cover part or all of your expenses. Use the template available in the Funding Toolkit.

  • Local Business Sponsorship: Ask a local business if they can cover part or all of your expenses. Use the template available in the Funding Toolkit.

7. Plan Ahead & Budget Wisely

  • Make a Budget: List all expected costs and look for ways to cut unnecessary expenses.

  • Use Conference Apps & Social Media: Follow official conference pages for last-minute discounts or giveaways.

  • Network & Connect: Partner with others to split costs on hotels, rides, or even meals.