I didn't realize what a luxury vacations are until I became an adult. As a kid, I took it for granted that my parents and I would spend a week somewhere fun every single summer. Heather and I have taken maybe three vacations in ten years together, plus our honeymoon. Why? Because we rarely have the money to go where we want to go. That's lame, right? But vacations are a luxury. The thing is, though, everyone needs time off. Seriously, for your mental health, you need to take time off work. So if you, too, have trouble saving for vacations, try these tips. Trust me.
Snapshot Survey
Snapshot Survey
1. Put Your Cash in a Jar
I know this sounds silly, but it works. Heather and I have an Adventure Jar right now. In addition to adding loose cash and spare change, we also put in money when we argue or get bitchy with each other. Which we're doing way less since we now have to pay penalties.
2. Shop with a List Only
This one probably just sounds self-explanatory, but it also works. Compare how much you spend when you shop without a list versus shopping with one, and you'll see how much extra money you spend on crap you don't really need.
3. Put Your Cards Away and Use Only Cash
If you don't have easy access to money, you're more aware of what you have and where it's going. That's always helpful.
4. Carpool to Work
You gotta save where you can, right? Carpooling with colleagues is a great way to save gas, plus it's nice to give your car a rest.
5. Hustle at a Side Job
Get something part-time or simply monetize a hobby.
6. Facebook Yard Sale Sites
These are great. You can sell off old clothes, furniture you no longer use, and all the clutter you clean out of your closets. You might not make a fortune, but you can certainly add to your vacation fund.
7. Be Flexible on Flights
A little flexibility can save you more than you'd ever imagine.
8. Ditch the Gym Membership, Work out at Home
Getting and staying healthy is important. Exercising is important. I know that. But if you can work out at home, why not try it? This is especially helpful if you don't use your gym membership as much as you'd like.
9. Cable Vs. Netflix
Do you really need cable or satellite TV? Maybe you can downgrade and just watch Netflix or Hulu instead.
10. Use Groupon
Contrary to popular belief, you don't have to cut out your luxuries just because you're saving for something big. Look for restaurant and entertainment deals on Groupon. For that matter, you might even find a deal on your dream vacation.
11. Sign up for Email Alerts
For airlines, hotels, or even just the places you shop – try this! Save money wherever you can, save money on anything.
12. Off-Season Booking
Think about it. Do you really need to visit your dream destination at the height of tourist season or can you go at another time?
13. Consider an All-inclusive Trip
These save big. There are some hassles and annoyances, admittedly, but getting to enjoy a vacation while saving a ton of money will make the annoying things easier to handle.
14. Streamline All of Your Expenses
You'll have to take the time to look at all your expenses first. This isn't fun when you're doing it, but once you start seeing your savings build up, you'll appreciate it more.
15. Take Your Time
Saving money takes time. That's just the way it is. Don't rush yourself or you'll just get discouraged.
16. Invite Your Friends
Because then you can share the expenses and you have built-in vacation buddies! What could be better? Just make sure these are friends you really like, otherwise you'll have a terrible time.
17. Let the Kids Earn Some Miles
If you have kids, don't feel bad about signing them up to earn miles. Whatever works, right?
How do you save for your big luxuries? Do you make it a point to take a vacation every year?
Sources: money.usnews.com money.usnews.com thepennyhoarder.com
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