Enjoy Your Dream Vacation On A Budget

Ever dream about going on a stunning, sunny, dream vacation during the summer, but think you can’t afford it? Your wallet doesn’t have to keep you home. There are ways to vacation on a budget and still have a blast.

Choose A Budget-friendly Destination

Location, location, location doesn’t necessarily apply when choosing a vacation destination. The world is full of hidden gems, and as long as you are with the people you love, you can make anywhere an adventure with a little bit of research. There are plenty of vacation spots you can plan for a reasonable, budget-friendly price.

Cheaper Alternatives

Instead of going to the big, touristy, Instagram-worthy vacation spot, think about alternatives. If the goal is to visit a beautiful beach, instead of an expensive place like the Maldives, try Mabul Island, Malaysia. Or, to find breathtaking mountains, try Patagonia. Find new places to discover and make the most of them!

Book Early

Planning is key to any vacation. So, as soon as you know you want to go, start booking. Last-minute decisions cost more and affect planning. Many airlines and hotels offer discounted rates for booking in advance. A good rule of thumb would be to book at least three months in advance to secure lower costs versus booking last minute.

Be Flexible With Dates

Most people leave on a Friday, stay for a week, and return on a Sunday. Since so many travelers do that, flights and hotel rooms are usually more expensive on those days because there is more demand. Next time you plan a vacation, try starting it on a different day of the week, like a Wednesday, and returning on the following Tuesday.

It’s also good to note when “peak” times are at your chosen destination. If you plan to visit Florida, avoid late March and early April, when children are on Spring Break and families are flocking south for warmer weather for the week. The beach will be crowded, and your booking prices will be almost double any other time of the year. There are 52 weeks in a year. Find a week that has good weather and is less popular.

Set A Daily Spending Limit

While you are on vacation, it can be easy to get sucked into buying souvenirs and eating out for every meal. Before you leave, create an overall budget for your vacation, paired with daily spending limits. Daily limits may vary from day to day based on the activities planned for the day. This way, you are more likely to stay on track and stick to your overall budget.

Enjoy Local Community

In peak tourist destinations, there are recognizable chain restaurants you may prefer for some home comfort. These can be pricey compared to the small, local restaurants of the town you are staying in. Or, instead of visiting expensive places like theme parks, you can attend a local festival or visit their local zoo or museum.

With these tips and tricks, you will be en route to your next vacation in no time without breaking the bank!