5 Tips for Savings Money on a Big Vacation

Everyone deserves at last one big vacation. Unfortunately, these vacations can be pricier than many think. If you're looking to save a little on your big trip, you'll want to look at the advice below.

Look for Deals

One of the best ways to save money on a big vacation is to look for great deals. Major theme parks run specials during certain times of the year, for example, while some hotels might have greatly reduced prices if you visit during the off-season. 

Changing up the dates on your trip can save you more money than you might expect.

Plan Ahead

The better you plan, the more that you'll save. Know your route ahead of time, make reservations before you get on the road, and have a good idea of what's going to be available to do and to eat any time you stop. 

If you can have a plan for what you're going to spend, you'll be less surprised by your final totals.

Prioritize

A big vacation can be an amazing experience, but that doesn't mean you should expect to do everything. Think about the things you want to do most on your vacation and prioritize those when you're budgeting your money. 

If you can set your priorities, you can stop yourself from spending money on unnecessary additions before you get to the things about which you care.

Think Outside the Box

Don't follow the same paths as other tourists when you're on vacation. If everyone else is staying at an expensive hotel, you might want to look for a cheaper - but still amazing - vacation rental in the same area. 

Choosing activities and lodging that are off the beaten path can give you time to enjoy your vacation without breaking the bank.

Budget for Emergencies

Finally, make sure you put away money for emergencies. If you have a set amount put aside, you'll be able to avoid the kind of panic spending that comes when things go wrong. The best part about setting aside this money is that you'll still have it in your pocket if things go smoothly.

Big vacations are much less expensive when you put a little thought into how you'll spend your money. If you have the right plan and the right budget, you can go on vacation without worrying about what it will do to your bank account. 

Even better, your plans will let you enjoy the time you spend on vacation rather than requiring you to think of how you'll have to pay when you get home.

3 Tips Retirees Can Use to Budget for a Vacation

You've looked forward to traveling once you retired, and now you're there. Unfortunately, while retirement may free up time, it might also restrict certain expenses. This doesn't mean you can't see the world; it just means you're going to have to carefully plan to make it happen.

1. Consider Travel Options

When it comes to travel, there are some forgotten options that are budget friendlier, and in some ways, a nicer way to go. For example, consider Amtrack, the national rail company here in the United States. The travel itself could be the vacation. But, if trains aren't your thing, there are some very comfortable Greyhound busses that can get you just about anywhere you want to go in the United States.

If you decide to take the great American highway, you can save some money by packing your meals. Too many stops at McDonalds add up quickly. But if flying is your thing, consider internet sites like Travelocity or Expedia. Also, if you travel at odd flying times you can save money. 

2. Plan in Advance

Say you want to enjoy one of the many Caribbean cruises that leave port this fall. Plan ahead and break the cost down — then decide how much you need to set aside each month so that, come vacation time, you're more worried about running out of margaritas than the cash in your pocket.

There are computer programs you can use, not to mention special accounts you can open at your bank, to help you budget and save money. Some people put the change in their pockets into a jar. But it's just a simple budgeting principle to put a bit aside. You probably did something similar when kids were still in the house. During retirement, it will still work the same way.

You might also check on any senior discounts offered at places you visit. It couldn't hurt and it just might save on your overall expenses. But do this in advance, don't take off hoping to find these offers en route.

3. Remember: Where You Stay Affects Eating Options

One of the best parts of the vacation is eating out. Once again, advanced planning can help you meet your budget goals. First of all, decide how much money you will need to eat out during your trip, and save up accordingly. If done right, you can eat out every night if you want to.

Another option has to do with where you stay. If you have access to a time-share condo, they come with kitchens. You can generally buy food cheaper than it costs to eat out, you'll just have to make them yourself and clean up after. This is not as convenient, but could be even nicer and a bit more intimate.

There are really many ways to save on the costs of a trip, or to save up for a great get away. Remember to plan ahead and understand how your planning relates to every step of the trip. The more consolidated ideas you can come up with, the more money you can save.