4 Tips for Budgeting Your Summer Vacation

BY Micaela June 22, 2021

Tired of scrolling through your social media feed and feeling vacation envy? Maybe it’s time to prioritize yourself and take some time off. Vacation costs vary depending on whether you are road tripping to a campsite; setting sail on a cruise; hopping on a train, taking a party bus, or jet setting to an all-inclusive resort so we put together a list of questions to ask yourself when you are coming up with summer vacation plans on a budget. 

Where will you go?

Know when and where to go. If you have always dreamed of a tropical vacation without the crowds but you weren’t sure it was in your price range, think again! June through November is hurricane season from Florida to the Caribbean making it the great time to avoid the packed beaches whether you are on a cruise or at a resort. Depending on where you are on the coast, you can anticipate rain showers for an hour or so in the afternoon before the weather generally clears giving way to sunny skies by late afternoon. 

How will you get there? 

Getting to your destination can be half of your budget. The cheapest way to travel is by travel by bus. For example, a day trip to the casinos in Wendover from Salt Lake City is a $20 roundtrip if you book online. Road tripping is still the most popular way and one of the least expensive ways to travel unless you have the unfortunate luck of your car breaking down on vacation in the middle of nowhere. Check your car’s battery, inspect your tires, top off fluids, change your air filter, and replace your windshield wipers before hitting the road. If you are looking for a more upscale vacation and you have time to spare, a rail experience could be a fun adventure. A 6 day 2 destination Coastal Rail Experience from LA to Seattle is $949 per person including 4 nights’ hotel accommodations and 1 night onboard Amtrak.

What will you eat?

If you are road tripping or taking the train, meal prep some of your food in advance so you don’t have to dine out for every meal or snack. Bring a small cooler bag and refillable water bottles to stay nourished and hydrated. Choose lodging with complimentary breakfast to start each vacation day without having to pay for the first meal.

What will you wear? 

Think beyond the OOTD (Outfit of the Day) and create a capsule wardrobe for your entire trip. By taking 7 or 8 items of clothing with you that you can mix and match, you can maximize your luggage space while minimizing your shopping budget before the trip. Choose 2 pants, skirts or jeans, 3 tops, 1 sweater, 1 dress or a smart shirt and a jacket, then throw in beachwear, sports gear, and some socks and underwear. Update accessories such as jewelry, belts, and hats to create a new look without breaking your travel wardrobe budget.