Save Money with an Affordable Vacation Plan
Summer is right around the corner. While summer may be a little different this year, we can’t help but think about vacation – an affordable vacation! It’s safe to say we ALL need a vacation after the last few months. Money is probably tight for most us; read the tips below about vacationing on a budget. Traveling doesn’t have to break the bank.
Know Your Preferences
Before deciding where you want to go, know your preferences. Keep an open mind. If you have in your head that you want a five-star luxurious vacation, you may need to save up more money before you can book. If your preference is just relaxing, exploring a different culture, trying new foods, etc. you can definitely be successful on a budget-friendly trip.
Set a Budget
It’s easy to overspend when planning a vacation. That’s why it’s so important to know your budget so you don’t exceed your spending limit. Don’t let the internet tempt you with cheap fares, hotel reviews and various attractions. Those add up quicker than you think. There are many sites out there that allow you to set your budget so they show you only what you can afford. Take advantage of that!
Travel During Off-Season
Traveling during off-season is actually a better time to travel! Less crowds and more relaxation. If you travel during the summer months, you are likely to spend way more than you would in off-season. The best time to go is early in the year to early autumn. The holidays may seem like a good time, but prices go up during this time.
Explore Various Hotel Options
There are a variety of lodging options out there. You don’t have to spend a ton of money on a traditional hotel. Some other options include:
- Hostels
- Vacation Rentals
- Staying with Friends
- Airbnb
These are all very affordable options. Plus, when on vacation, how often are you in your room anyways? You want to be out exploring! So, remember that when looking for your place to stay.
Plan Shorter Trips
If you have a long list of places you want to visit, booking shorter trips may be better. This allows you to explore more places without spending as much. You can even drive to these places which will save you airfare expenses.
Watch for Deals
Trying to plan a last-minute vacation, take advantage of last-minute deals! As long as you have flexibility, you can plan a very affordable vacation. You can’t be as picky about where you’re going if this is the route you want to take. You can find deals for any vacation you want to go on, last-minute or not. So, be on the lookout.
Travel with a Group
Group rates can make things a lot cheaper! Airfare, hotel expenses, and attractions will be way more affordable with a group of people. So, call your friends and family and get them on board! If you’re booking several rooms at the same hotel, you will likely get a deal.
Crowdfunding
Crowdfunding may be better for a special occasion. If you want to take a trip for graduation, honeymoons, birthdays, etc. Ask your friends and family for help. You can have a set amount and they can donate money to you! You may not get exactly the amount you had in mind, but anything helps.
Take a Volunteer Vacation
For these, you still have to handle your travel expenses, but the rest will most likely be paid for. Some examples include:
- Habitat for Humanity- can do a trip to Mexico for $1200 to build structures for 9 days
- STA Travel- 15-day Costa Rica trip for $749 working in turtle conservation
- International Volunteer HQ- working in an orphanage in Cambodia for $550 for a month
This may not be your ideal vacation, but if you are dying to go somewhere and just can’t make it happen with your budget, this may be the best option for you.
Traveling is something we all want to do! It’s even better when we don’t have to break the bank. As long as you have your priorities set and you keep an open mind about your trip, you will be able to achieve a budget-friendly vacation. Use these tips as your guide when planning and you will be on your way to booking your get-away.
Let us know if Eastex can help!
