Around 62% of Americans go on a vacation away from home. That’s a little over 200 million people. There’s also a good chance many of them broke their vacation budget when they did it.
It’s an easy thing to do. You run across a cool event you didn’t know about. There’s a credit card in your wallet.
You think, “I’m on vacation. Why not?”
Of course, you can face some serious buyer’s remorse when that next credit card bill arrives.
Sticking with your vacation budget doesn’t mean abandoning fun. Keep reading for some tips on keeping your vacation enjoyable and on budget.
1. Ticket Shop for Flights
Domestic flights cram economy passengers in like sardines. International flights treat their economy passengers better. You typically get enough leg room and a screen for films and music.
That means you can take a pass on the high priced first class ticket and use that money for activities or a hotel upgrade.
2. Fixed Cost Activities
One way that vacation budgets get trashed is through activities with unpredictable costs. While some of that is unavoidable, you can offset it by planning activities with a fixed cost.
For example, you could book tours at wineries. Some wineries offer tours for free and others charge for them, but you know the price going in.
Museums, amusement parks, and major tourist attractions frequently provide prices on their websites. Many even let you purchase tickets, vouchers, or tours ahead of time.
3. Cut Back on Your Schedule
Many people stuff their vacation full of activities and events. They want maximum value for their trip. That approach not only drives up the cost, but it can make your vacation stressful.
Trim some things out of your schedule. That can save you a lot, especially if you’re an ambitious scheduler.
It also gives you time for enjoying the things you do and see. You can linger in that cool cafe or spend an extra hour talking with colorful local.
4. Give Yourself an Allowance
You can’t spend what you don’t have on you. Give yourself an allowance for each day. Take that much with you when you go out for the day.
Leave the rest of your cash and credit cards in the room safe.
5. Take Advantage of Exchange Rates
If you don’t plan too far in advance, you can pick your destination based on exchange rates.
Pick a place where the dollar has high value compared with the local currency. You literally get more for every dime you spend.
Parting thoughts on Staying within Your Vacation Budget
Staying within your vacation budget doesn’t have to prove agonizing.
Bargain shop for international flights. Buy tickets for fixed cost events ahead of time.
Trim activities out of your schedule. It lowers the final price of your vacation and reduces stress.
Give yourself an allowance and leave the rest of your money behind in the hotel safe. If you’re more spur of the moment, pick a destination where the exchange rate favors the dollar. You wring more value from your money there.
Planning a UK vacation but not sure what to do? Check out our post on things you should do while in the UK.
