Traveling during your summer vacation can be a fun adventure for you, or for the whole family, but it can also be a huge drain on your wallet. You could find yourself returning home to a pile of vacation bills. If you’re like many, something strange happens to you when you travel. You’re a Scrooge-like penny-pincher all year, but when you go on vacation, you suddenly become a Vanderbilt and can’t spend your money fast enough.
If this is you, don’t worry; it doesn’t have to be this way. Vacation can indeed be the time of your life without spending your life savings.
Before you leave on your trip, set a reasonable travel budget that includes an amount for your entire trip as well as how much you want to spend each day. This will help you avoid blowing your whole budget on the first day. Be reasonable with your budget though, and be sure to include money for things such as snacks, tips, and transportation costs. Remember that things will always pop up that you didn’t consider, so it’s better to overestimate a little and give your spending some wiggle room. Let’s jump into some tips.
It’s not the end of the world if you go over budget one day; just plan something free the following day such as a hike or a trip to the beach to get back on track. Search for local museums that offer free or discounted days, or look for online coupons.
Another way to stay on budget while you’re out enjoying your vacation is to download a travel budget app to your phone. Apps such as Trail Wallet and Trip Coin can help you keep track of your travel spending with very little effort, and without taking time away from the fun and relaxation.
By having a reasonable budget and a good plan, you can relax and enjoy your summer vacation without worrying about going over budget.
