Going on a cheap vacation for a few weeks is possible. If you focus on the planning process, you can maximize the positive effects a vacation can have. Planning a vacation is much easier than it used to be. Spending all of this time and energy dreaming about, planning, and preparing for your vacation doesn't have to cost a lot (and in some cases, it won't cost you anything at all).
So you only have a short amount of time and money. You can often save even more money taking an à la carte approach to arranging your travel.
Here's how to save up while enhancing your overall experience:
1. Buy only one new outfit for the trip
The limit is one or none if buying new clothes for a trip isn't something you ever do. Imagining where you're going to wear all of your cute clothes is definitely something that can bring you happiness during the pre-trip planning process. Decide ahead of time what you'd get the most use out of.
Imagine the clothes you already own in a different context. You don't have to buy a whole wardrobe. You don't want to find yourself acquiring new clothes for a trip, only to find you don't wear them in your everyday life. For example, you buy shorts, and it is cold most of the year, and in summer you like wearing dresses more often than shorts.
2. Be flexible in choosing your destination
Money is a determining factor for many people when it comes to travel. You certainly don't need tons of money to travel, but you also want to feel comfortable and be flexible with the destination you choose. Instead of selecting a specific destination, enter potential dates and a location of origin to see flight prices for options across the country and around the globe.
Websites list featured deals and discounts for various destinations at the top of their pages.
Off-season travel can save you a lot of money. Know which countries are more affordable with a favorable exchange rate.
3. Stay in cheap accommodations
Opt for hotel alternatives like Airbnb. Airbnb vets their hosts and allows community reviews, as well as awarding premium properties the title of "super host." Only stay at Airbnbs that have lots of reviews, and where you feel comfortable communicating with the host beforehand.
Staying in a youth hostel is also an inexpensive and fun way to travel. These can be an excellent hotel alternative for budget travelers of any age. They have opportunities for socializing too. You can often get a basic private room at a hostel for significantly less than the cost of a low-end hotel.
If you're a frequent traveler, you can rack up points, miles, and status in a big hurry if you tend to stay with a specific chain of accommodation. You will benefit from loyalty programs.
Are you ready to get planning?
