A long vacation to a far off destination is the perfect way to spend summer, but that can be expensive. Trying to stick to a budget? Then, this year, you may want to modify the family vacation. After all, kids don’t care about fancy perks or exotic locations. They just want to spend time with you.
Try the Staycation
Instead of packing up and leaving town, consider the staycation. Save money on airline tickets and expensive hotel rooms by staying at home. Then, become a tourist in your own town.
You don’t have to be from a big city or a tourist destination for this to work. Even if you live in a small town, there may be museums, restaurants, spas, or other fun places you need to try. What about signing up for a class? Maybe the whole family would enjoy learning to paint, trying tie-dye, or embracing another new skill.
Stay in the Area
If the staycation doesn’t appeal to you, consider going somewhere in your general area. That way, you get out of the house and get to try new things, but you also avoid expensive plane tickets and high gas costs. If you have small kids, a hotel room in your hometown can even feel like a relaxing break from regular life.
Scope Out Last Minute Deals
Most tour operators, cruise ships, or airline carriers offer last minute deals, and that can get you a vacation for well under regular prices. However, this strategy requires a bit of flexibility about location and timing.
If you are using paid time off from your job, you can check for deals in the days before your vacation and just grab the one that looks the best. Alternatively, if you are self-employed or have flexibility about when you take the time off, you may want to set the money for your vacation aside in a savings account. Then, you can set up alerts on a number of different travel sites. When the right deal surfaces, you pack the bags, grab the family, and hit the road.
Get Off the Beaten Trail
You can also save a lot of money by going places that aren’t that popular. For example, hitting the rides at a state fair tends to be cheaper than going to Disney World. Similarly, a week on the beach in Biloxi, Mississippi tends to be less expensive than a week on the beach in Tahiti or Fiji. If you’re dying to go to a popular destination, consider going during the off season.
Focus on Freebies
You can also save money if you focus on freebies. Many local attractions, such as zoos and museums, will often have special days for children that are free or provide generous discounts. Your local paper will also reveal many festivals and events put on in your community that often have free admission.
Vacation Outdoors
National parks are a great option for creating fun, family memories. The entry fees are usually low and the price to camp overnight is relatively inexpensive. Campfires, fishing, and hiking…these are memories every child enjoys.
We’re Here to Help!
Summer vacation doesn’t have to be an exotic getaway that leaves you in debt for years to come. It’s about spending time with your children and enjoying your time as a family. A little preparation can go a long way in creating the perfect summer vacation.
If you have questions on budgeting or saving more money, stop by or give us a call at 800.782.4899.
Each individual’s financial situation is unique and readers are encouraged to contact the Credit Union when seeking financial advice on the products and services discussed. This article is for educational purposes only; the authors assume no legal responsibility for the completeness or accuracy of the contents.