How to vacation on a budget
How to vacation on a budget
By Jalyn Ignont
Redstone Federal Credit Union
Warmer weather is here and thoughts of getting away may be kicking in. Food, entertainment and travel costs have continued to rise year over year, but you can go on that vacation while staying on budget. Here are a few tips to make your money go further.
Plan ahead and book early
Flights and accommodations tend to get more expensive as the travel date approaches, so locking in your bookings as soon as possible can help you score lower rates. If you book now, you’re still a couple of months ahead to take advantage of early bird deals. Plus, booking flights during less popular times, like mid-week or off-peak seasons, can often save you a lot of money.
Choose a staycation instead
If you’re in need of a quick, refreshing weekend instead of a long vacation, a staycation may be perfect for you! Explore the city you live in by visiting a restaurant or store you’ve never been to before. With a staycation, you eliminate the need for flights, long-distance driving and other travel costs. And you’d save money through reduced accommodation costs like a tourist destination hotel.
Embrace local eats over tourist traps
When vacationing on a budget, food can be one of the biggest expenses. Instead of spending a fortune on overpriced meals at tourist hotspots, seek out local restaurants where you can sample authentic food at a fraction of the price. Or, if you’re staying somewhere with kitchen facilities, consider grocery shopping and preparing your meals.
Find free or low-cost activities
You don’t need to spend a lot of money on expensive excursions or tickets to enjoy your vacation. Many destinations offer free or low-cost activities, like hiking, visiting local parks, or exploring museums with free entry days. Take a walk around town to enjoy the architecture or local markets. Beach days, picnics, and sightseeing don’t have to cost a dime and can still offer amazing experiences. Check out community boards or local tourism websites for free events.
Use travel rewards and credit card points
If you’re someone who uses credit cards often, consider using one that offers travel rewards or cash back on purchases. Many cards offer points for every dollar spent, which can be redeemed for flights, hotel stays, or even car rentals. Signing up for a travel rewards card well before your trip can help you accumulate points and save money on big-ticket items like flights. Just be sure to read the fine print to avoid high interest rates or hidden fees.
The early bird gets the worm
With a little bit of planning and creativity, you can have a fantastic getaway without blowing your budget. Remember, the key is to plan ahead, stay organized and be mindful of your spending along the way. Happy travels!
