Do you get the feeling that you are working harder for less these days? We are not just talking about a rate of pay but also how far your money will go. It isn’t your imagination, the fact of the matter is your money simply isn’t buying what it used to. The cost of living continues to rise while the average consumer struggles to adjust their already strained budget. For many, this day-to-day battle with finances makes the mere thought of vacation planning migraine inducing. Be that as it may, vacations are not just about fun in the sun but also taking the time to cleanse your body and mind from the stresses of home and work. Your vacation should be a reward for all your hard work and an opportunity to unwind and spend time with those you love. To get this well deserved break without losing sleep over how you will pay for it, consider the following vacation budgeting tips:
Budget Review
To ensure your vacation plans do not bust the budget you must first determine how much you can afford to spend. Do you already have savings set aside for a vacation? Do you have the ability and opportunity to increase your income for additional savings? If not, how much more can you save before your vacation? These are important questions which must be answered before you can take the next step in vacation planning. Without a figure in mind, you will surely go “over-budget” when planning a vacation. Once you determine what you can afford to spend, you can begin the actual planning.
It Pays To Be Flexible
Unless you are traveling to a specific destination for a specific event, flexibility in travel plans will save you money. Consider traveling during off peak times to cut expenses by as much as 50%. Price accommodations as well as airfare and other travel expenses to determine the cheapest time to travel. A Wednesday through Tuesday vacation week may be less expensive than a Sunday through Saturday week. Be sure to learn of any special events which may be taking place in the area during your stay. High demand periods will cost significantly more than “regular” periods.
Get Creative
If you want to have a unique experience and one which is often less expensive than traditional vacations, consider going off the beaten path. Can’t afford a rental house steps away from the beach? Consider turning your beach trip into a camping adventure. You still get the sand and surf while incorporating a different element to your trip. Look for accommodations which allow for storage and preparation of food to cut back on expenses from dining out. Instead of pricy entertainment, explore the local community for less well known but equally impressive entertainment options. There are plenty of ways to cut costs and still enjoy a fantastic vacation. A bit of research on your part and a willingness to try unconventional vacation plans can significantly reduce the cost of your vacation making it possible to enjoy the time away without the stress of wondering how you will pay.
Debbie Dragon is a writer for Cheap Hotels where prices are low and there’s no nasty booking fees for cheap hotels in Sydney and just about every other city in the world!
