Cutting the Cost of a Vacation
Plan for only one admission-based activity. Don’t assume that every activity has to come with a steep admission price. Scout out free attractions such as national parks, beaches, monuments, museums and factory tours and you’ll save a ton without cutting back on the fun.
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Take a mini-vacation. Many families enjoy what could be termed a mini-vacation. This is simply a one-night stay in any city and in any hotel with a swimming pool and/or other amenities. Even if you are only a few miles away from home, just being out of your native environment for one day and night has the ability to revive the spirit. This same idea works for couples and anyone with limited time and money.
Driving vs. Flying. This really depends on the situation. Research this one carefully as car expenses and motels may add up to more than the cost of an airline ticket. Remember that if you fly you probably will need to rent a car at your destination.
Stay in your own state or limit your vacation plans to a state that touches yours! Don't forget the wonderful tourist possibilities in remote locations of your very own state. There are bound to be attractions in towns you've never been to, or better yet, never even heard of! By driving a few hours to a bordering city in another state, you can get the feel of an exciting adventure with both little time and monetary commitment.
Take entertainment. Take games and movies from home so you won't have to spend money on new things or activities while traveling.
Pack snacks. If you’re going to be in the car for a long time, be sure to pack some snacks and drinks so you won’t be stuck paying convenience store prices once the munchies set in. If you’ll be traveling over lunch, pack a few sandwiches as well. This also holds true if you will be flying to your destination. Don’t get stuck paying airport prices for your snacks.
Free and discount vacation packages (the timeshare promotion).
Timeshare resorts offer discounts and vacation packages to potential buyers. Crammed with freebies and incentives—tickets to tourist attractions, meals or gift vouchers—these "vacations" include an ownership tour and sales presentation. Don't go, if you can't take pressure.
Before you agree to this “discounted” vacation you should:
- Get the details before you buy. For example, find out what accommodation is included in a package and check it out before you book. Check with the hotels to make sure that they work with the promoter. If meals are included, find out what restaurants they use, and any limits or restrictions on what you may order. If the package includes a rental car, find out what rental agency they will use and the model of car you will receive. Find out what airport and airline they will use for any air travel.
- Check out similar packages with other, legitimate travel agencies and services. You may find that you can get this "spectacular deal" for less money through a reputable travel service.
- Get it in writing. If the offer comes over the phone or by email, ask them to send you a full description of the package and all terms and conditions.
- Make sure you know all date restrictions on any travel package—if there are so few days available that you can't schedule a vacation, you're throwing your money away.
- Make sure that you are dealing with a genuine travel promoter or agency before giving them a credit card number by telephone, email or through a website.
Bring a tent and take the family camping. Most campgrounds are much nicer than they were just 10 or 15 years ago. Usually, water and electrical hookups are standard. Many campgrounds have cable TV at every site. Some places even have WiFi access for those who can’t resist peeking at your e-mail. If you don’t own all the camping equipment you may be able to borrow from friends and family who have items stored for years in attics and garages. You can enjoy a stay in pristine forests and untouched landscapes for much less than a hotel. Rates for a campsite are around $20--$30 per night. Check out the National Park Service website at www.nps.gov.
Visit relatives or friends. If you have hospitable relatives or friends in a different part of the country you might consider visiting them and seeing the sights in the area they live. There's no better way to get to know your extended family members than to stay a few nights in their home. Plan your vacation according to where they are located, and of course, get their permission to come first and consider that you may need to reciprocate.
Vacation with friends. This is not always an option but if you have good friends or extended family members it could save you significantly. Sharing a beach house for a week could result in some wonderful memories plus cut the cost in half for everyone.
Limit souvenirs. Have you ever ended up shopping at gift shops for much of your vacation? If shopping takes up too much of your vacation, maybe you want to re-think how you spend your vacation time and money!
One way to avoid bringing too many souvenirs home is to decide on the amount of money you will dedicate to souvenirs. This way, you will also stay within your budget. You could also decide to just say no to souvenirs.