How to Vacation for Less Money

Some people save all their lives and never can afford a vacation. It is possible to save less and vacation more if you just learn a few tips that will let you vacation for less money.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Travel With Family

1. Rent a condominium (with a fully furnished kitchen) and then split the costs of the rental. Make sure you find out what your guest limits are and then pack that rental to the maximum. You’ll save money and get re-acquainted with your extended family.
2. Stock the pantry. Instead of eating out or ordering from the nearest fast food restaurant, use the kitchen to prepare all of your meals in house. You can split the cooking duties with the other members of your party or trade up cleaning duty instead. Eating-in can save you a large part of your vacation budget.
3. Buy your staples away from the tourist spots. It may take a few more minutes to drive in from the beach, but it could end up costing less money.
4. Purchase your non-perishables at home (while on sale and preferably with coupons) and bring them with you. Items like cereal, crackers and snacks should all travel well.
5. Look for free events in the area where you are traveling. Most tourists areas have state or national parks, museums or educational exhibits that are completely free (or only cost a nominal amount) to enjoy.

Take a Trip Out of Season

6. Go to the beach in October. The water will usually still be warm enough to enjoy but the rental prices will have dropped dramatically. You get more vacation for less money and the beaches aren’t nearly as crowded.
7. Enjoy the mountains in the spring time. The snow may be gone but there is still plenty of wonder to behold. The added bonus is that you can stay longer for a lot less than you could during the peak season.
8. Wait until school is in session to plan your vacation and then travel during the week. The hotels will be less crowded and you should be able to find some great, inexpensive packages.
9. See the sights for much less out of season. Because the numbers dwindle, many places will offer discount rates to attract the locals. Take advantage of the discounts and you will find you can vacation for less money.

Tips & Warnings

• Stay with family if you can, just don’t be a burden.
• Travel last minute. Many hotels and airlines will offer large discounts for the last minute shopper. Check the Internet regularly for the best deals.
• Ask a local where they like to eat. The out-of-the-way establishments (hidden from the tourists for the most part) usually offer the best food and the best prices.