I am BEYOND glad that summer is soon. For me, summer is just TWO WEEKS away. During the summer, I plan to do some traveling. My idea of vacation is simply going to another state just to relax all day. Living in Miami is enough everyday adventure for me, so my vacations usually consist of enjoying some nearby scenery and spending time with friends.
With summer coming up, it is important to plan wisely for a vacation. To save and budget exactly what you want to do. Traveling can be tons of fun without spending loads of money, depending on what activities you like to do.
Traveling on a budget does not mean sacrificing quality or missing out on memorable experiences. I actually think it means the opposite. For my vacations, I do not like to miss out on the quality or memorable experiences. With some strategic planning and a bit of creativity, you can enjoy a fantastic vacation without breaking the bank. Below are some ways to not break the bank for vacation.
Accommodation: Look for budget-friendly accommodation options. You can see if getting a hotel or splitting an Air BnB would be cheaper. Lately, AirBnB’s have seemed to be the cheaper option for my friends and I. When going out of the country, some people will try hostels because they are cheaper. I have never had and am not sure if I will ever try a hostel honestly, but it is a popular option if you are comfortable with it! Consider booking accommodations with kitchen facilities to save money on dining out by preparing some meals yourself or with your friends. This can create sweeter memories to make meals with others and split the groceries.
Transportation: Save money on transportation by opting for cheap airlines. I have to admit, as a college student, if I am paying for my own flight, I will always choose Spirit or Frontier. I have no shame saying it. I will switch to Delta for free snacks and a movie MAYBE, when I get a job after graduating. Traveling on public transportation can also be a cheaper option once you get to your destination. In some states, public transportation is only a couple dollars a day. Even with a car, my friends and I will sometimes opt for public transportation because it can save a lot of gas if you are wanting to go to many different places.
Activities: Take advantage of free or low-cost activities at your destination, such as exploring public parks, hiking trails, museums with free admission days, or attending local festivals and events. Look for discounts or deals on attractions, tours, and activities through online booking platforms or tourist information centers. If you are a student or in the military, do not be afraid to ask for discounts!
Food and Dining: To save money on food and dining expenses, consider packing snacks and meals for travel days, shopping at local grocery stores for affordable picnic supplies, or seeking out budget-friendly eateries and street food vendors. Street food can be SO good depending on the area, especially street tacos or ice cream. Look for specials and dining discounts to enjoy delicious meals at a cheaper cost!
With all of this being said, I CREATED MY FIRST PRODUCT ON THIS WEBSITE! YAY! It is a customizable timeless travel planner. It also includes a budget sheet with a built in calculator, along with MANY other things! It is a call to action to get your vacation organized. Click the image below to check it out!