Few things stoke wanderlust like long summer days and the heat of summer. Before you get started on your summer travel plans and festivals and spend more than you planned—check out these tips that can help you have fun in the sun without breaking the bank.
1. Set a Realistic Travel Budget Before you hit the open road (or sky…or seas…) consider all the expenses involved in any travel, including transportation, accommodation, meals, and activities. Allocate a portion of your budget for unexpected expenses like excursions or big fancy dinners. Having a big picture overview of your financial limitations will steer your decision-making process and make overspending less likely. 2. Travel Off-Peak Take advantage of off-peak seasons or even weekdays when prices are often lower. Avoiding popular travel periods can help you secure better deals on flights, accommodations, and attractions. Moreover, you'll be able to enjoy destinations with fewer crowds, thus enhancing your overall experience. 3. Explore Alternative Accommodations Instead of opting for traditional hotels or vacation rentals that often come with cleaning fees or limitations, explore alternative accommodations to save money. Consider options such as hostels (single rooms are often still an option), house-swapping or even house or pet-sitting for friends if your dates are flexible. 4. Be Flexible with Your Destination Explore different destinations based on affordability. Lesser-known or up-and-coming locales can offer rich experiences without premium rates thereby helping you save money. Spend some time and research affordable destinations—by being flexible on the ‘where,’ you can uncover hidden gems without shelling out a ton on airfare. 5. Embrace Free and Low-Cost Activities Many destinations offer walking tours, public parks, museums with discounted admission rates, or specific days when attractions offer reduced entry fees. Take advantage of natural wonders, public beaches, and hiking trails and engage with locals to discover hidden gems and receive insider tips on affordable attractions and events. 6. Plan Your Meals Wisely Splurging on food and drinks is easy to do while traveling. One way to combat overspending on food is to opt for accommodations with kitchen facilities or ones that have access to a shared kitchen. This allows you to prepare some of your meals instead of dining out for every meal and frequent local markets to purchase picnic-style fare. The reward of travel lies in the experiences, connections, and memories you create, and these don't have to come with a hefty price tag. This article was developed by our Financial Wellness Partner, GreenPath Financial Wellness, a trusted national non-profit and free resource for Premier America members.
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