Tips for Planning a Summer Getaway

These beginning months of the year can sometimes seem like a drag, with the seemingly endless winter before us. There isn’t a lot to do this time of year that doesn’t involve school and work functions for many of us. Here is a solution to combat those winter blues: start planning for your summer vacation. With your mind on tropical getaways and endless sun, it’s a little hard er to feel the cold sting of winter.

There are many options for trips that you can take with your friends or family this summer. Most of the time a vacation involves budgeting and planning. To help combat the not-so-fun parts about vacation planning here are some tips to get the most out of it without breaking the bank.

If you are looking to go to the beach this summer, there are several options to help you save. Experts recommend that you begin budgeting as soon as possible. You need to take into account all the expenses, from hotel fare to plane tickets. But the money doesn’t just stop there; make sure that you take into account public transit, rental car fees, along with miscellaneous items like shopping, dining out, and fees for parking and entrances into attractions. It’s a lot to take stock of, but not worrying about small costs adding up can add a whole new dimension of relaxation to your vacation.

Maybe you can’t really afford to go the beach this year. You still may be able to enjoy and partake in a beach vacation. If you or someone you know lives close enough to a beach you can always plan a day trip. If you find yourself many miles from a beach there is always the option of throwing your own beach party in the pool with festive decorations. See if you can say with friends, or split costs with them, to snag a vacation that you might not have had the opportunity to enjoy, otherwise.

Avoid planning your vacation at peak times during the season. Prices will be significantly higher if you try to set your getaway during summer holidays or over a weekend. Experts recommend planning to stay during the week and away from holidays. Some even say to plan a vacation during the late summer and early fall when prices are lowered significantly.

Once you have most of the deals straightened out, consider renting a condo or a vacation home. This way you will not have to pay for an extended stay in a hotel. Also, rates are cheaper if you plan to stay for the week and have a large group. The added bonus of a kitchen and beach access can drastically affect costs.

If you are looking for tips for a cruise or air fare, we also have you covered. For cruises, pick an amble time of the year to go. There may be some price variation depending on when you go, and some cities may not be available certain times of the year. It is important to educate yourself on cities and cruise options available. Read reviews online from trusted sources and take the time to speak to a travel agent if you can. You can get some great deal if you are open to the idea of taking cruises at less conventional times of the season.

Airfare is a bit trickier. Experts suggest searching for tickets one person at a time to see about the lowered cost. It is also recommended that you search for tickets between Tuesday and Thursday, as most airlines are running deals that time of the week. The most important thing is to book your tickets well in advance to get a lowered price. Those who travel by air frequently know just how much savings can help. Follow these tips and budget intelligently, and before you know it you’ll be having fun in the sun, while winter will be a distant memory.