A summer vacation is a great time for your family to get away and enjoy some fun together. It’s a break from school, from work, and from your normal routine and it’s a wonderful way to spend quality time together and get to know one another. However, vacations can be very expensive, depending on where you go and what you do. They don’t have to be out of the question for your family if you just do some careful planning first.
Here are six ways to take a summer vacation on a budget:
Plan In Advance
It’s never too soon (or too late) to start planning, but the earlier you begin, the more savings you will be able to get. You can save more on airfare and other travel, as well as lock in good rates for accommodations when you book early.
Visit Less Popular Place
All the typical tourist spots are going to be loaded with people and overpriced. Everything will be marked up from travel, to lodging, and even food. You might enjoy a less popular place more. You can save money and you won’t have to fight the crowds.
Look Into Budget Activities
What are some things you can do for entertainment once you arrive that won’t cost a bundle? Are there activities in your vacation destination that are free or low cost? Do your research and build an itinerary. Check Groupon while you are there for meals and entertainment. Also, when booking a place to stay, sometimes it’s cheaper to book a house or condo through sites such as Airbnb and Homeaway then staying in a hotel and then you have a kitchen to cook a few meals. If you are staying in a hotel, always look for hotels with free breakfast, internet and parking. Those additions add up quickly.
Do Odd Jobs Throughout The Year To Save
The whole family can get involved in saving for a summer vacation, even on a tight budget. You can have a yard sale, get rid of old clothing and junk you will no longer need. You can take on odd jobs like mowing lawns, etc. Choose to eat out less and put all of your spare change into your vacation fund. It will add up more quickly than you think if everyone commits to it.
Choose Your Times and Dates Carefully
If you fly midweek, it’s cheaper. Staying away from holiday weekends will also save you money. Taking time to research the times and dates can save you a big chunk on your vacation expenses.
Consider a Staycation Instead
Sometimes you can have just as much fun if you stay home (or close to home). You could build a staycation around your own home, or stay in a neighboring city or hotel in your own town. Pick a place with a pool and great room service, or a place with a spa and golfing for dad. You could choose to make the rounds at nearby museums and art shows, for example. Or maybe take the kids to local theme parks and zoos. There are many things you can do to enjoy summer vacation without actually needing to go far and it can help you save money, too.
With these ideas in mind, you’re ready to start planning for your summer vacation. Remember, you don’t have to have a lot of money to have a good time, especially if you plan in advance.
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