After a long winter, many of us have one thing at the forefront of our minds — summer vacation.
Breaks from everyday life are important, but as you plan your summer vacation, the expenses can quickly add up.
This year, make your vacation even more enjoyable by doing what you can to save money. By following these eight tips, you’ll be able to afford your well-deserved getaway.
BUDGET, RESEARCH, AND PLAN
One great way to save money on your summer vacation is to budget, research, and plan. Once you determine your budget, you can research where you want to go, when you’ll travel, where you’ll stay, and what you’ll eat and do while you’re there.
USE A TRAVEL AGENT
Many travel agents charge affordable fees or don’t charge a fee for their services because they get compensated primarily by travel vendors. Travel agents know how to find the best deals and can use their expertise to help you save money on your summer vacation. Using a travel agent is especially helpful if you’re traveling somewhere you’ve never been — such as out of the country — or are booking a very important vacation like a honeymoon.
TAKE ADVANTAGE OF TRAVEL REWARDS
A variety of rewards programs may offer travel discounts or compensation. Credit cards, hotel chains, and airlines have programs that can help you save money on certain travel costs. If you aren’t currently a part of any rewards programs, take this summer vacation as an opportunity to join some – maybe you can reap the rewards next summer!
ALL-INCLUSIVE RESORTS AND CRUISES
Opting for an all-inclusive resort or cruise for your summer vacation can also save money. The initial total price may seem more expensive, but once you start adding up vacation costs separately, you’ll often find the all-inclusive price to be more affordable.
HAVE FLEXIBLE TRAVEL SPECIFICATIONS
You may be able to save money by being flexible in your travel specifications. If your exact arrival and departure dates can be flexible, you may be able to secure cheaper flights.
Being flexible about your lodging location can also save money. For example, the nightly rent will be cheaper at a vacation rental a few blocks from the beach than somewhere oceanfront.
If you’re open to it, you can also get creative with where you want to travel to. Opting to travel somewhere that’s less popular in the summer can save you even more money. Flights, lodging, and other expenses are often cheaper during off-peak travel times.
TRAVEL WITH A GROUP
When it comes to accommodations, finding a vacation rental that’s large enough for everyone can be a great way to combine costs. When you divide the total cost of a vacation rental by the number of people, the price per night usually costs less than everyone having individual hotel rooms.
COOK MEALS AT HOME
Eating at restaurants throughout your vacation can add up in a hurry, especially if you have a large family and go out for three meals a day. If you’re staying in a vacation rental with a kitchen, consider shopping for groceries when you arrive and cooking meals during your vacation instead of going out for every meal.
If you book a hotel for your vacation, your cooking options may be limited. Many hotels offer a complimentary continental breakfast, and you could have sandwich and snack options available in your hotel room refrigerator. Dining at a restaurant only for dinner each day is a great way to cut costs.
RESEARCH FREE THINGS TO DO IN THE AREA
Wherever you’re spending your vacation, there are likely plenty of free things to do in the area. Visit the local tourism board website to find parks, hiking trails, landmarks, and other attractions. You can also search local event schedules to find free and affordable events like outdoor concerts in the park and festivals.
FLY WITH US
Wherever you decide to fly for your summer vacation, the South Bend International Airport would love to help you get there!
We offer nonstop flights to 12 destinations and convenient connections worldwide. Wherever you want to go, we’re committing to helping you get there safely. Learn more about flying with us and call us with questions anytime at 574-282-4950.
