Whether you’re planning a far-flung getaway to the beaches of Italy or a quick staycation closer to home, here’s all you need to know about planning for summer travel without going into debt.
If You’re Going Abroad…
From the hiking trails of South America, to the outdoor festivals of Europe, to the white sand beaches of Asia—summer is a spectacular season to go beyond the borders of the United States. However, as any international traveler knows, costs during an overseas vacation can add up fast.
To save money, consider traveling at an off-peak time (such as early June or late September) to get better flight and hotel deals. You can also look for cheaper alternatives to the most expensive destinations. For example, consider Portugal or Spain instead of Italy if you’re seeking fun in the continental sun, or opt for Taipei or Ho Chi Minh City rather than Singapore for an Asian city getaway.
If It’s a Family Vacation…
The first step to saving money on a family vacation is to set expectations early. Sit down as a family and make a budget, taking into consideration the cost of transportation, accommodation, meals, fun activities and souvenirs. Having this conversation ahead of time means that if kids (or parents!) suddenly want an expensive extra, it’s easier to explain why that spending isn’t possible.
Another tip for saving money on a family vacation is to prepare one or two meals per day at your accommodation. Eating in can save a big chunk of change, plus it means fewer chance of meltdowns from jetlagged kids (or parents!) at the end of a busy day.
If You’re Taking a Road Trip…
With gas prices hitting a four-year high, it’s natural to be concerned about the cost of fueling your summer road trip. Find a fuel rewards program to cushion the blow to your pocketbook, or consider a credit card that offers cashback on gas. Some ways to reduce gas usage include maintaining the manufacturer-recommended tire pressure, changing your air filter and coasting to slow down rather than going so fast you need to brake suddenly.
Besides the fuel issue, road trips offer many cost benefits—including no airplanes and no expensive items to purchase in the airport! You can further reduce your spending by packing food from home and planning accommodation ahead, so you’re not choosing the closest (and possibly most expensive) hotel when the sun starts to set.
If Time Is Limited…
When you’re short on time, limiting the distance you travel is critical. Enter: the staycation. A staycation means escaping your ordinary living quarters and routine, without traveling too far from home. Staying at a luxury hotel locally is a popular choice, but it can also be pricey.
Instead of paying for accommodation, see if a friend or neighbor is willing to do a house swap for a few nights. That way you’ll get a change of pace with no nightly fee. With the money saved, you might treat yourself to a nice dinner or a small shopping trip. Or, visit some local nature you haven’t been to before to enjoy a little relaxation for zero dollars!
If You’re Travelling With Friends…
Booking a rental home instead of hotel rooms is a great way to save money (and spend more time together!) while traveling with friends. Try setting a budget beforehand, so everyone has a chance to say what they’re comfortable paying for shared accommodation.
Preparing meals as a group can also help to keep costs down, as long as everyone is aligned on budget. Visiting a discount grocery store and choosing generic-brand items can also make a huge difference to the bottom line. As for recreation, look out for free events in the place where you’re traveling and bring plenty of board games from home, for a few fun (and free!) nights in.
If There’s an Event…
If you’re traveling for a special event such as a festival or concert, book your flights and accommodation as soon as possible. You might also check online event forums, to see if anyone’s got a hotel room they booked beforehand but no longer need.
Depending on your timing and budget, consider arriving a day or two before the event, and either leaving early or staying a day or two later. You may be able to secure a cheaper flight deal or snag an extended stay accommodation discount.