Saving Money for that upcoming Post COVID Trip
You have a big trip coming up, one that you have been waiting for in anticipation since COVID-19 shook the world and made everyone stay indoors.One of the other hurdles that you must conquer (besides picking your destination) is saving money to travel and enjoy your trip. Nothing is free, after all.
Here are a few tips that can help you save money (and stress) as you begin planning your dream getaway:
1) Book big purchases ahead of time
There are several benefits to planning and booking the items for your trip ahead of time. Anytime between 6-8 months should be enough time, whereas if you try to book before then, those desired dates might not be open yet. For one, it will be significantly cheaper than waiting until the last minute and settling for those insane price hikes. Your credit card might hate you now , but trust me, it will thank you later. Secondly, your stress levels will be significantly reduced since you will reserve all the big purchases (flights, hotel, car rentals) without worrying about them further down the road. You will also need to plan your purchases around when other significant payments are due (rent, utilities, groceries) as you do not want to burn up all your resources simultaneously.
2) Save vacation spending funds in a separate account
Set aside your vacation spending into a separate account to avoid burning through all your funds too quickly. Having multiple bank accounts is important, especially if you’re trying to resist the temptation of spending all your money at once. A savings account is great for putting aside extra cash for your vacation fund. Check-in with your branch to see if there are any additional savings or promotional offers. An additional perk, depending on your banking institution, you might even get cash back on certain credit card purchases,, which you can also set aside for your vacation.
3) Cutting Down/Restricted Spending
If you are one of those people that, as part of their daily routine, go to your local Starbucks to grab your regular drink order, then you should hold off for a few weeks. Simple cutbacks can save a lot of money in the long run. Analyze your expenses from the last two months to give you a head start on where your savings could be who knows? You could save hundreds of dollars to invest in your ultra-fun vacation by getting rid of several subscriptions.
4) Review Travel Policies
For some of us, it is nearly been two years since we took our last trip. Since that time, travel policies have significantly changed. Some changes have been implemented for the better, but others have only become headaches. As a precaution, please review your most up-to-date travel guidelines for airlines, hotels, rentals, and other expenses. Also,, consider travel insurance for all your purchases, especially with the unpredictable nature of cancellations in modern times.
5) Timing is Everything
Do you want to enjoy your vacation? More specifically, do you have the time to enjoy a vacation? If you have time as a luxury, you should consider having a flexible travel schedule. That way, you don’t have to worry as much about making anything on time. Additionally, if you travel off-season, the prices will be massively reduced.
6) Immerse Yourself in the Culture
If you are like me, you travel to escape and enjoy another location's culture and surroundings. A couple of things you need to know that could help you save some funds and stress can be found in your activity lineup. For example, go out on the streets and eat the local cuisine rather than order takeout or go to chain restaurants. Not only will you support mom-and-pop shops, but you will also be more immersive in your surroundings during your vacation. Regarding attractions, consider visiting low-cost or free spots: museums, art galleries, parks, historic states, churches, libraries, and local beaches are among some recommended spots to explore without blowing your budget. Who knows? You could get much more out of your vacation and get a bang for your buck!
If you implement these tips and tricks, you will be one step ahead of all other travelers. Most importantly, if you take the time to carefully plan everything, as well as utilize the funds that you have saved, your vacation will be more worthwhile in the end.
