David Bosier, a personal finance and money-saving enthusiast, shares some great tips for vacationing on a budget.
There’s nothing quite like the anticipation of an upcoming vacation. Just thinking about all the relaxing, playing, eating, sleeping, and exploring you’ll be doing is enough to lift anyone’s spirits. But if it’s been a while since your last trip, the reason is probably money. Hotels and airfare can get pricey fast. However, there are ways to enjoy a vacation without breaking the bank. The key is knowing where to find those great deals and making them work for you.
### Book Off-Season
Travel is very cyclical, and big hotels and airlines know it. To keep a steady flow of income, many will offer discounts during off-peak times to fill rooms and seats. This can be a great opportunity if you’re flexible with your travel dates. For instance, a colleague of my wife gets a fantastic deal on their annual Disney trip by going around Thanksgiving when prices drop.
### Maximize Your Credit Card Offers
If you have a credit card, ideally it’s a rewards card that helps fund your vacations. Unlike standard cash-back cards, travel rewards cards often give better returns for things you can use like plane tickets or resort stays. Also, many cards offer substantial sign-up bonuses, which can sometimes equal free flights. Just be mindful of any high fees associated with these cards.
### Compare Lots of Travel Sites
Thanks to the internet, finding great vacation deals is easier than ever. You no longer have to rely on a travel agent. Now, you can compare airfare and other factors online to determine the best travel dates. For example, when I plan a trip to Mexico, I first check flight prices which can range from $500 to $1,500 per person. After finding the best price, I then compare resorts on sites like Expedia, Travelocity, and others to get the best deal.
### Think Direct
Have you ever searched “time share” on eBay? You’ll find plenty of people trying to sell their timeshare spots for various reasons. This can be a fantastic bargain since you might snag a nice two-bedroom suite for less than a hotel’s smaller room.
### Try All-Inclusive
Why overspend on food, drinks, and entertainment when you can get it all for one price? All-inclusive resorts are ideal for budget-friendly vacations since everything is covered in the initial cost, from food and drinks to shows and activities. If you haven’t considered an all-inclusive trip to Mexico or the Caribbean, it’s worth checking out. You might find it to be a better deal than other destinations like Hawaii.
Many people think they save money by skipping vacations, but this isn’t always true. Planning exciting getaways can be beneficial for your well-being and relationships. Vacations are a time to have fun, laugh, and make memories. Considering all the hard work you put into your job and other responsibilities, don’t you deserve a break?
