Just because summer is quickly slipping by, does not mean you have to rule out that family vacation. Trips can be a big financial burden, but with some planning, you can still have a fun getaway with the whole family! There are a few ways to plan your trips that can help make for a more enjoyable and finance-friendly vacation.
First things first, create a budget. While intimidating for some, a budget is a great way to understand how much you can afford to spend on hotels, meals, activities and of course a souvenir or two. Once you have a guide to your finances, it will make planning the rest of the trip much easier. There are free downloadable templates available online.
Once summer’s end draws near and schools reconvene, you can sometimes find cheaper lodging, flights and entertainment, as well as fewer crowds. Being flexible on travel dates and destinations will better position you to score deals when booking. So try to plan far enough ahead that you can choose between a few weeks versus a set date. Staying in lesser-known cities or towns may also be a cost saver. If taking to the air, booking flights on weekdays typically will be cheaper.
Who says you have to travel long distances to go on vacation? Look for towns and activities closer to home to save on your transportation costs. You may find unique places and attractions within a short driving distance that you have not visited before. Transportation is typically a large portion of travel expenses, so this is a great place to start when trying to lower costs on a trip.
Another excellent area to save on is food. If you are like me, you love to experience a region through its culinary features, so try mapping out “must stops” and planning additional meals around that. For example, if you choose a high-end restaurant for dinner, you may choose fast food or a simple sandwich for lunch. You may want to book lodging where food can be prepared on-site. Packing ample snacks and drinks also can make a difference. Simply cutting back on drink purchases by packing a water bottle or bringing your own can create more room in the budget for activities and entertainment.
Before you leave for your trip, create a packing list and check things off as you go. Being prepared can help you avoid buying things that you forgot to bring, such as toiletries, over-the-counter medicines, or rain gear. No need for duplicates of items you already own.
It may feel somewhat restrictive to travel on a budget, but there is a lot of good that can come from it. In addition to keeping money in the bank, you may find joy in being creative when planning your destination and discovering your new favorite places. You don’t have to let your financial situation get in the way of creating lasting memories. Safe travels!
Allison Tomlinson, WVU Extension Agent, Monroe County
Financial Literacy Education Team