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Home / News & Financial Education / Saving on Summer Vacation
Saving on Summer VacationBy Raquel Tolman on 5/2/2025

Saving on Summer Vacation

Summer is right around the corner! Before you know it, you’ll be running through sprinklers and complaining about the humidity. You may also be taking a vacation. That means the time is now to figure out ways to make the trip more affordable. Here are some ways to save on summer vacation:

Book Ahead of Time

If you’re planning on flying, the best time to book depends on your travel dates and destination. As a general rule, you’ll want to book within 2-3 months of departure for domestic trips and over 90 days out for international travel. For more details, click here. You can also set flight alerts to keep you posted on airline prices so if a good deal pops up, you can take advantage.

Save on Transportation

Consider alternatives to renting a car at your destination. Use public transportation, rent bikes, or look into ride-sharing apps to get around. In some cities, walking or using a scooter is a fun and affordable way to explore. When I visited California, my friends and I used the Lime Electric Scooters to get around the city. It was both a fun and affordable way to travel.

Plan (and Book) Activities in Advance

Popular attractions can sell out quickly – or charge more at the last minute. Research your destination ahead of time and see if any tours, events or tickets can be booked in advance. You might even find discounted rates for early reservations or bundled passes that include multiple activities. On my most recent vacation, we made a list of everything we wanted to do and booked most of it before the trip. It not only helped us save money, but made the trip feel less stressful since everything was already taken care of.

Bring Snacks and Reusable Items

Airport snacks, hotel bottled water, and convenience store runs can add up quickly. Packing a reusable water bottle, some snacks and a travel-friendly cooler can help you save while keeping your energy up on the go. Bonus: it’s better for the environment too!

Stick to a Budget

Setting a spending limit before your trip can help you avoid impulse purchases and post-vacation regret. Try breaking it down by day or category – like food, activities and transportation. This will help you have a clear idea of where your money is going. I like to use the notes app on my phone to track daily expenses while traveling. It keeps me mindful of my budget without taking away from the fun.

Summer vacations are all about making memories, and saving money along the way just makes those memories even sweeter. With a little planning and flexibility, you can enjoy your trip without overspending. So, whether you’re heading to the beach, the mountains, or somewhere in between, give these tips a try – and enjoy every minute of it!

Start Saving for Your Next Trip

 

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Category: Budgeting & Debt Reduction



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