Wanna getaway? We all at some point in our lives need to take a nice well deserved vacation but does that dream bucket list destination seem just out of reach due to the price tag? Turning that dream into a reality starts with solid financial planning, patience and a little luck. Here are 5 must do practices to help make your dream vacation more attainable than ever.
Tip #1: Do Set a Realistic Budget.
Before you start planning, know your financial limits. You want to go on a fabulous trip but you also want to be able to pay your bills when you return. Factor in everything from transportation and accommodation to food and activities. Along with those common items, think about things like baggage fees if you’re flying or resort or destination fees which many hotels and resorts charge. Resort and destination fees are not usually included in the final price when booking the accommodations, it’s charged once you arrive to the hotel and this fee is a daily charge so be sure to read all the fine print before you book or call the hotel to see if they charge a resort or destination fee and factor that into your cost. Many people are surprised by this so be realistic and leave room for unexpected expenses. By creating a detailed budget breakdown, you’ll have a clear understanding of where your money is going, helping you stay on track throughout your trip.
Tip #2: Do Start Saving Early.
The sooner you start saving, the better. Don’t get discouraged if it takes you some time. If it takes you 2 years then in 2 years you could be going on a wonderful vacation…or wishing you saved to go on a wonderful vacation. Consider setting up a separate savings account specifically for your vacation fund. Even small, consistent contributions can add up over time. Whether it’s skipping that daily latte or opting for homemade meals over dining out, every little bit counts towards your travel goals.
Tip #3: Do Research and Compare.
Don’t settle for the first option you come across. Take the time to research and compare prices for flights, accommodations, and activities or save yourself the hassle and use a travel agent. Remember, being flexible with your travel dates can also save you big bucks. Going to Disney in September can be much more affordable then going in June or July. And book early as prices for things such as flights and hotels tend to go up as the date gets closer. Here’s an extra tip with flights, fly out of an airport hub where flights are less costly save you a ton of money on airfare, simply by looking at an airport that might be a little farther away but still yield a discount, gas and parking included, this is not logical for everyone but if you have additional airports within driving distance be sure to look at their fares as well.
Tip #4: Do shop for holiday deals.
Sale events like Black Friday, Cyber Monday, and New Years aren’t just for the retail sector, it’s also a great time to book that dream vacation at a discounted rate. Have an idea of where you want to go before the holiday season approaches. Set alerts on your favorite travel websites for those specific destinations and dates so you can be notified when there’s a price drop which is usually very significant during the holiday season. With the alerts set you won’t miss out on any deals. I myself book most of my personal travel for the upcoming year during Black Friday, it’s where you see the most exclusive and reduced price travel deals. But again be sure to have your alerts set because these offers are very time limited. Tip: do your research on the price of that vacation before the holiday sales because some companies will inflate the price before the sale making the discount look more attractive. So if you already know what the price of that vacation has been throughout the year you’ll know if that holiday deal is authentic or not.
Tip #5: Do Keep an Eye Out for Discounts and Deals.
Take advantage of discounts, loyalty programs, and special offers whenever possible. Set text message or email alerts for flights or hotel deals on your preferred travel sites. Sign up for travel rewards programs, use cashback apps, and follow your favorite travel companies on social media for exclusive deals and promotions. Every penny saved is a step closer to your dream getaway!
And there you have it! With these budgeting tips in your arsenal, you’re well on your way to making your dream vacation a reality. With a little planning and creativity, you can explore the world without breaking the bank. If you want to go the easy route use a travel agent and have us do the work and the research for you! Safe travels, and until next time, happy adventuring!
