By Alfred Stallion
Is your budget too tight for a cruise in the Caribbean? Do you want to enjoy the perks of a relaxing vacation but can’t find money to spare? No worries; believe it or not, you can benefit from the best getaway without breaking the bank. We all love to travel, but we often give up the idea because of a low budget. Rather than explore favorite locations and then come back home in debt, many people prefer to stay at home. However there are ways to travel extensively and return with money in your pocket. You just need to adhere to a couple of (very important) rules.
Have a budget in mind
Prior to choosing a travel spot, you must settle on a realistic budget. Make a plan and write down average amounts you can afford to spend on accommodation, food, entertainment, etc. Don’t forget to add an extra amount for emergency situations. Have some priorities and do your best not to go over budget. Stay away from dining in restaurants every night, and cut back on daily shopping sprees.
Make detailed lists
Last minutes purchases can ruin your vacation budget in an instant. If you want to enjoy a relaxing getaway, you need to go frugal on daily expenses. Make a list with everything you need to pay; then write down things you might be interested in buying. Have a budget on paper and stick to it. It might be a good idea to write down prices for entering museums, galleries and parks. Hunt for weekend deals and discounts to save cash. Outline prices for accommodation, cab fares (or buses), city passes, etc. This way you can calculate the average amount of money needed per day.
Smart shopping
Some people go on holidays with a budget in mind, and come back home only to realize they’ve spent with 50% more. This happens when you shop for souvenirs, eat out, and wander around cities with the cab. Take some time to hunt for smart deals. Last-minute trips, discounts and vouchers for dining, accommodation, and gas, and advance bookings can save you important sums of cash. The better prepared you are, the higher chances you have to refrain yourself from overspending. Check discount websites like Amazon Local, Groupon, https://www.voucherlab.net/ and Living Social for sweet deals.
Travel off-season
Why do people travel in mid-season? The summer season can be just be just as hot at the end of August too, not just in July. When planning a holiday, it is important to be smart. Most travel agencies lower their prices when seasons end because they don’t want to lose customers. Be wise when selecting a destination and keep an eye on discounts. An all-inclusive holiday in Greece for 4 people will cost you $1,200 in mid-July. That same package can be acquired at $600 at the end of August, beginning of September.
An even better solution is to avoid spring and summer completely. Autumn and winter can be just as enjoyable in European countries. Packages for countries like Poland, Spain, Greece, the Netherlands, Sweden and Norway are extremely convenient during this time of the year. The weather may not be that warm, but still you’ll have at your disposal all kinds of activities and places to see.
Pay with credit cards
Traveling to a foreign country can be expensive, and not necessarily because prices for food and accommodation are high. It’s because of ATM fees; to avoid throwing money out the window, you should pay with your credit card. Some places like supermarkets, restaurants and hotels charge 0 commissions when paying with a credit card. Also, not having money in your pocket will stop you from buying useless things at street fairs and flea markets.
Don’t let a low budget ruin your holiday! There are ways you can make the most of a vacation without worrying that you’ll get home penniless. Stay organized and have a budget range in mind for every vacation day. Adhere to it strictly and you shouldn’t have problems. Make reservations in advance and you’ll pay a lot less for accommodation and flight tickets. Last but not least, avoid expensive hotels and restaurants in city centers, and by all means don’t take the kids to the mall.
Images: https://www.flickr.com/
Alfred Stallion
Author Bio: Alfred Stallion has travelled to many destinations around the world. He also loves writing about his travelling experiences and the places he has explored.
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Author: Maralyn
Maralyn Dennis Hill, The Epicurean Explorer, is president emeritus of International Food Wine & Travel Writers Association, member of Society of American Travel Writers, and Society of Professional Journalists. She is Executive Editor of Luxe Beat Magazine and contributes to other publications. She also speaks and is a guest on many shows. The majority of Maralyn’s articles are now geared to the luxury market, spas, corporate retreats, business events, and culinary tourism, from simple to gourmet. Maralyn’s description of herself: I was born to travel and tell the tale. I’m energized by different cultures in every aspect of their lives, from food, wine, and destination, to how they conduct business. Travel represents a continual geography lesson.
