Holidays give us some of our happiest memories, yet they can also be very, very expensive. Many of us suffer from holiday credit card bills long after the event. Yet there are many ways to make going on vacation more financially manageable.
Decide what your priorities are: What do you enjoy doing on holiday? Are you hoping for luxury accommodation or is that unimportant? Are you focusing on activities suitable for young children, or maybe teens? Do you plan to eat out or are you hoping to self-cater? These are just some of the questions you might consider before choosing a venue and accommodation.
Plan ahead: Research things you would like to do online or by visiting a travel agent. Make a rough list of likely expenses and start setting aside funds.
Learn about your destination: Check weather reports in the weeks before you travel so that you are well-equipped with appropriate clothing, sunscreen, etc., and aren't forced to pay exorbitant prices at the other end. Will you have a car? If not, is there a grocery store withing walking distance? Will you have access to a kitchen? A cot? A highchair? Will you need to provide or hire bedlinen?
Pay ahead as much as possible: If you can pay for accommodation one month, for example, and airfares a month or two later, well before you make your trip, you are less likely to feel burdened by holiday costs.
Expect to need some splurge money: Holidays are meant to be fun, and should have some spontaneity. Have some funds available so that you can eat out on a whim, or take an extra tour, or buy souvenirs, or whatever else takes your fancy.
Do you have any other suggestions on how to manage a holiday budget? Please leave a comment?
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