Summer vacation time is just around
the corner. Planning ahead can keep your
vacation from blowing your entire budget for the
summer.
Time
it right
Picking the right time for your family vacation is difficult. There are several schedules to juggle, after all! When you're selecting the best dates, keep pricing in mind to save money.
Hotel rates fluctuate with supply and demand, so it really pays to go against the flow. In many popular summer resort destinations, prices peak between July 4 and mid-August.
Consequently, vacationing in June or late-August can translate into significant savings.
Tourist attraction admission prices fluctuate in much the same way. If you're flying to your destination, keep in mind that it's typically less expensive to fly on Wednesdays than on Fridays.
Watch
for freebies and coupons
Whether you're selecting a
hotel/resort or setting up your itinerary, be on the lookout
for cost-saving bonuses. Free continental
breakfasts and cheap transportation to attractions or
tourist destinations add up.
Before you leave, look for coupons
for activities and events near your destination.
Planning your vacation around the savings - rather than
trying to find ways to save on events or activities you've
already committed to - will make keeping the budget in
check easier.
Pack
your own meals
Packing your own meals is one of the
most effective ways to save money on a vacation.
Eating out for every meal will cost hundreds of dollars
each week. If you plan to stay at a hotel or resort
that provides cooking space, simply plan to go grocery
shopping on the day of your arrival; just have a meal
plan prepared so you don't over-shop!
If you don't have access to a
kitchen where you are staying, you can get creative
and still save on food. For example, if you are going to the
beach or the park for the day, instead of buying
lunch, pack a picnic in a cooler. Head to a grocery store or
deli before you reach your destination and pick up the
basics for sandwiches plus some fruit and other snacks.
Vacation locally
Finally, you can get the most bang
for your vacation buck by avoiding travel altogether.
If you plan sightseeing trips and activities that
are within a few hours' drive of your home, your
hotel costs disappear and you definitely save on gas.
Peoples State Bank, Member FDIC
