Summer is here and everyone’s aching to throw a dart at the map and make the trip. After a long working year, it’s finally time to wind down and kick the feet up, however, we all know that vacations tend to get expensive.
The place you decide to travel to will ultimately dictate the expenses. Traveling to a large metropolitan city will likely see you forking out money on a certain experience that is otherwise much cheaper in more rural areas.
For example, a vacation in Europe can cost up to $4000. But, that doesn’t mean that you have to fall in that category. If you approach vacationing the right way and pragmatically, you can save money and experience a blissful vacation without breaking the bank. Here are five money-saving tips for you.
Plan Your Finances
When traveling, it’s easy to overspend. You can get mesmerized by the different opportunities at fun centers, cinemas, and theaters. However, it’s best to plan a vacation budget to ensure that you don’t spend what you can’t afford. However, researching the best banks for savings accounts can help you plan a vacation budget, ensuring you spend within your means.
The best way to manage your finances while abroad is to take things online. With an online bank, you can have financial access anytime you need to make a payment or withdrawal and on top of that, you will keep track of your financial situation at all times.
On the other hand, if you decide to go with the cash option, you might find that you are overspending and that you have no control over your finances. Opting to use cards and online banking might even make your trip more convenient. During travels, things tend to get lost, especially bills and change, but with instant access to your bank accounts, you won’t have to worry about heavy pockets full of change.
Experiencing Versus Splurging
Oftentimes, tourist attractions can captivate you, and in just a matter of seconds, you’ll find that you went over budget that day. That being said, you aren’t exactly experiencing the essence and spirit of the place you visit. By visiting tourist attractions, the only benefit you gain is bragging rights.
However, if you want to experience a town or a place to its fullest, consider talking to locals about their favorite places. By hanging out with locals, you will see a different picture of the whole area. You will have insight into how they live and how they like to spend their time.
Plan The Accommodation In Advance
The largest part of your vacation money will likely be spent on accommodation. But, if you plan and book an apartment rather than a hotel, you will save a lot of money. If you wait till the last second and rely on hotels, you might even end up without a roof over your head.
Hotels in big cities can get pricy and for that reason, consider booking apartments in areas where you can actively interact with locals and get to know their culture.
Experience The Local Cuisine
Another way to save money while traveling is to eat locally and seasonally. For example, going to Italy trip and opting to dine in a French restaurant is not the best course of action. Restaurants can get pricy, especially fine dining ones. But that being said, an exorbitant price tag will not always mean an authentic experience.
If you want to have an authentic experience and save money, consider eating locally and seasonally. Each country has specific and delicious cuisine. Local fast food stands are also a great option. You can experience local food but with a fast food twist.
Use Public Transport
It might be tempting to rent a car as soon as you land at the airport. However, gas costs and vehicle rental fees can be substituted for vacation experiences. If the country you plan to visit has public transport, don’t hesitate to use it. Using public transport will save you a lot of money while also taking you to places that you want to see.
Or, if you are in a smaller place where everything is within walking distance, there’s no need to drive around wasting money on gas.
Final Thoughts
Vacations can be pricy, but, with the proper plan and financial management, you can ensure that you are not splurging on unnecessary activities and products. Consider the tips we shared with you today, and make the most out of your vacation.