The clock rings, and it’s time to get up. So—you wipe your eyes, stretch, and head over to the bathroom to take a shower. You get dressed and eat breakfast. Now it’s time to trek down the road to work, where you spend eight hours crunching numbers or producing results. Five o’clock is finally here, and it’s time to go home, sleep, wake up, and do it all over again.
But wait! You start to feel a great disturbance in the force! There is something missing. After all of your hard work, you certainly deserve a vacation; but you’re on a budget.
Traveling can be as expensive as you make it, and breaking the bank certainly is never ideal. So, here are some tips and tricks on indulging in a much needed, relaxing vacay while on a budget.
Luggage
Have you ever packed your bags for a trip and get to the check-in line at the airport only for them to tell you that you’re over the luggage weight limit? Let’s not even talk about the charge itself—ridiculously expensive! That. Is. All.
One good way of saving money is to make sure you’re within the luggage limits. Thankfully—you don’t have to wait until you get the airport to weigh your luggage or struggle weighing it at home. There are handy gadgets that make it easy for you.
If you’ve ever been on a trip and realized when you got that there you have too many items you really didn’t need; make sure you plan ahead. Don’t pack the night before—spread it out over the upcoming weeks if possible. When in doubt, do without!
Hotels
Who doesn’t want to stay in a luxurious hotel and live like the rich and famous, even if it’s only for a week? The reality is—many people with 9 to 5s can’t afford that expense.
As they say—the best things in life are free. Why not try home exchange? At least you can get a nice homey, environment that’s comfortable in the heart of the city you’re visiting. Check out websites like Airbnb. It is 10 times better than scouring Craigslist for hours on end and much cheaper than a hotel room.
Food
When traveling, it is always good to look up restaurants you may want to dine at and budget how much you intend to spend. If you can research local grocery stores in the area, pick up some snacks or light meals you don’t mind cooking to save cash. That money can be used on other activities.
Gift-Giving
Never… I repeat never buy gifts at the airport! Big mistake, big …HUGE—as Julia Roberts would say in Pretty Woman. They are too pricey. Make a budget for gifts/souvenirs and stick to it. But one small token of advice…your friends and family might appreciate you bringing a little taste of the town back home.
Put on your chef’s hat and prepare one of the famous, succulent local meals for them. Or—buy some elegant printing paper, print the recipe on it, and wrap a beautiful ribbon around the paper.
I think they would appreciate that more, as opposed to shot glasses, key chains or postcards.
Inexpensive Things To Do
It’s time to explore and enjoy the city. Don’t stay cooped up in your hotel all day. Get out and absorb the beautiful sun rays. Check out our list of cool things to do:
Rent a bike and ride around town
- Go to a free concert
- Museum
- Picnic in the local park
- Farmers market
- Beach
- Go hiking
- Free wine tasting or beer tour
This is your time to explore and relax. Take your mind off your job and have fun! You deserve it you hard worker you. 😉
