Summer Vacation Savings Tips

Sun, Jun 28, 2009

It’s officially summertime. The grills are fired up, swimming pools are active and families are looking for some fun in the sun. Even in a recession you can enjoy some family rest, relaxation and entertainment and stay within your vacation budget.

So, how do you do that without going over the top? Well, the fun may just be around the corner, so think about these money saving summer vacation tips.

Money saving summer vacation tips

1. Plan ahead before running out the door with your bags packed

Take some time and determine how much your vacation is going to cost. If you’re ideal vacation is going to cost more than you’ve saved this year for fun in the sun, find a cheaper alternative. A large credit card bill at the end of your vacation will make you quickly forget those fun memories.

2. Investigate local attractions

This year is a great year to look to entertainment or places to see within driving distance from your home. Overall, gas prices are considerably lower than they were this time last year so it’s more feasible to drive which is almost always cheaper than booking a flight.

3. Avoid expenses on the road

Of course if you’re going to drive, you’ll have expenses while on the road. Investigate hotel deals and make reservations ahead of time to avoid last minute reservations. Or, think about a day trip. Leave early Saturday morning and spend the entire day at a destination a few hours away from home.

4. Pack lunch and snacks

If you like the idea of a local vacation, make sure you pack some food and drinks in a cooler to take with you. Sandwiches and chips on the road will save money for souvenirs and other costs while at your destination.

5. Look for coupons

Spend some time on the internet studying the places you want to see and determine if there are specials running for certain weekends out of the summer months.

6. Set spending limits

Determine how much spending money each person in the family is going to have before setting out on the trip. Setting expectations ahead of time will help avoid over spending and give everyone an opportunity to make decisions about how they want to use their money. Also, take cash versus using a credit card. WIth credit cards you can easily forget about your monthly budget.

7. Share a room

If you’re going to spend the night, consider sharing a room with the kids. Yes, I know, it can be an interesting experience. However, consider the fact that we’re talking about a local vacation and at the most it might be for a few nights, so make some fun of it!

8. Limit the eating out

This one is similar to #4, but while you’re at your destination (and if staying overnight), try to eat in the room for two meals out of the day. Eating one meal out will still let you enjoy having someone else prepare the food for you.

Do you have any money saving tips based on your summer vacation experience?