What can you do if you want to go on vacation but don’t have a big budget?
According to one study on domestic tourism in the U.S., approximately one-third of Americans go on two or three vacations annually. Vacationing close to home can keep costs down versus traveling internationally, but it might still strain your finances if you’re short on cash.
Of course, there are times when you should put discretionary spending on hold. If you’re struggling with high-interest consumer debt, have debt in collections, or are considering bankruptcy, now might not be the time to go on a vacation.
Here are five vacation ideas to keep in mind if you want to travel on a shoestring budget.
1. Stay closer to home
As the study above notes, many people go on trips close to home. That’s one way to save money. Instead of spending big bucks on a plane ticket to a foreign destination, you can enjoy a road trip. It’s nice to explore some of the world’s top tourist attractions. But that might not be in the cards if you don’t have the financial wherewithal to fund a trip to another country or continent.
A road trip in your state or a neighboring state can be enjoyable. Many people know more about countries they’ve previously visited than they do their home states. So, if you want to go on a trip without overspending, consider a road trip to explore someplace closer to home.
2. Choose accommodations wisely
Another way to save money on a vacation is by selecting your accommodations wisely. If you’ve ever priced out hotel stays, you know they can cost an arm and a leg. That’ll add up quickly depending on the duration of your trip. In fact, it might make vacationing cost-prohibitive. Even cheaper hotel chains with few amenities sometimes charge excessive rates. That’s especially true in major markets. Finding good deals is possible, however. It’ll just take some digging.
If accommodations are necessary, you can save by being selective. A motel is generally cheaper than a hotel, and a hostel is usually cheaper than a motel. But yet another cost-effective option to consider is a vacation rental platform like Airbnb. Going this route can make for a more affordable vacation. Whatever direction you go, find affordable accommodations for a cheaper trip.
3. Travel with a group
Yet another way to plan a cost-effective vacation is to go as a group. Splitting costs multiple ways can make a vacation relatively cheap versus shouldering all the expenses independently. If the plan is to go on a group road trip, consider renting a vehicle, securing a home using Airbnb, and buying and preparing your meals rather than spending a ton of money at restaurants. Group travel can make for an affordable getaway since you can divvy up expenses.
4. Take advantage of special promotions
You can also make vacations more affordable by taking advantage of special promotions. For instance, you could redeem points collected from credit or debit card purchases for reduced rates at hotels or car rental companies. You can also check out websites that advertise discounts that you can take advantage of. If you’re diligent, you can travel for less using discounts.
5. Plan shorter trips
Another way to save money on vacation is to plan shorter trips. If a hotel stay costs $250 per night, staying two or three weeks might be cost-prohibitive. But a weekend visit could make it more doable. You can fit many fun things to do and places to see in your itinerary over a short trip.
You can enjoy a great vacation even if you’re short on funds. Getting away and getting some relaxation is good for everyone. As long as you can do it without going deep in debt, it’s worth doing. And if finances make it hard to justify an excursion, consider a staycation instead.
The article Five vacation ideas when you’re short on cash first appeared in TravelDailyNews International.
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