Smart Budgeting Moves and Strategies for Your Next Vacation

By: Susan Sherren for Couture Trips
Published: September 21, 2002  9:35 AM

It's no mystery that the economy's current tumultuous state has the potential to impact the travel industry negatively. According to the statistics released by the Bureau of Economic Analysis, GDP decreased to 1.5% during the first quarter. Inflation plus demand is fueling the soaring travel costs. While travel seemed robust this summer, you must factor in two years' worth of canceled or postponed trips squeezed into this summer's travel season.
 
The primary concern these days is- how can you still enjoy an incredible vacation but keep your expenditures within your budget? We are releasing Couture Trips' top budget-friendly tips and advice to our clients and followers. If you make these small incremental changes today, you'll likely be headed off on a fabulous vacation sooner than you think. 

• Instead of a two-week vacation, trim it a bit by a few days to ten days. You will save four days' worth of food and accommodations while still enjoying some quality time away.

 

• Avoid or reduce the number of days you stay in big cities where costs can be astronomical, smaller European cities can offer more affordable options. For example, food, transportation, and tours can be more reasonable outside of heavy hitters like Paris. We have a list of “B+” grade cities that offer fewer crowds and lower prices but just as much atmosphere as the larger, more expensive cities.

 

• If you have always dreamed of a European vacation but aren't sure how to make it happen in today's environment, then forego some less important domestic getaways. Short weekends away from home, while less expensive than a two week trip, still affect your overall vacation budget. So, plan carefully throughout the year and have a strategy.

 

• Meals out aren't getting cheaper. It's not surprising that eating in can positively impact your bottom line. The money savings from dining in can go towards your "big trip." So, plan some delicious and creative meals at home.

 

• While traveling, book a tour that includes a food experience. You are killing two birds with one stone, touring, and eating a necessary meal. You can also opt for a more extensive lunch which is usually more affordable than a dinner meal. Alcohol also can drive up the cost of a meal- so dial back the amount of alcohol you consume to save a few bucks. 

 

• Public transportation offers a more affordable option than private transportation or a car rental. Travel to an area with excellent public transportation connections to bolster your budget.

 

• Grab a good guidebook and dial back on paid tours. Group tours are less expensive than private tours too.

 

• Take advantage of "free entrance" dates. You might have to fight the crowds a bit, but with some advance homework, you can discover when entrances to certain museums and public venues are complimentary.

 

• Travel in the off or shoulder season. Prices can dramatically fall off the cliff during the fall, winter, and spring months. It depends on the destination to determine when the off-season is. So, do your homework to find out the low season of a particular spot. Flight costs, in general, follow this pattern too.

 
 

• Use a reputable travel consultant to help you hunt for the best " vacation deals." Make sure to communicate to your travel consultant that you are looking for the best values. Travel consultants can negotiate some add-ons you, as the consumer, can't do. We focus on partnering with small businesses and avoid third-party travel partners. In the end, this results in direct savings for our clients.

 

• Be realistic in your expectations. If your budget doesn't allow for luxury accommodations across the board, you can still have an incredible time. Instagram has distorted our impressions to a certain extent. There are many quality and amazing three- and four-star properties.

 

• Prepay for the majority of the trip's expenses before departing. You won't find yourself having as many budget-breaking surprises. You can allocate your funds more precisely for food and incidentals. Coming home to a whopping credit card bill doesn't bring you happiness. Also, pre-order foreign currency before you leave home and budget the remainder of the trip’s expenses in cash.

 

• Skip on vacation souvenirs. They will most likely collect dust after they arrive at your home. Focus on having experiences and engaging the locals. Making new friends and connecting with people is much more rewarding than hauling home a refrigerator magnet. 

 

• Eat like a local. Eating in small, family-owned restaurants is usually cheaper and a more authentic experience.  Open markets in Europe can offer some of the best fresh fruits and vegetables. Avoid or limit budget-busters like Michelin-Starred restaurants. 

 

• Purchase travel insurance. While it is an added expense, it could save you money in the long run. Ask a reputable travel consultant about comparing different options and insurance plans.

 

• Pack your own snacks from home for your journey. While airport shops may offer great snacks and other items, they are not cheap or necessary. Make sure to pack your refillable water bottle too. You’ll be traveling environmentally friendly and can save some money simultaneously.

 

• Avoid the expenses associated with a checked bag. Consider signing up for a credit card or airline loyalty program that allows free checked bags. If not, you can save money by just taking a carry-on along for your trip.

 

• Travel to destinations where your currency takes you further. 

 

• Use a credit card that doesn't have foreign transaction fees associated with it.

 

• Avoid traveling without an itinerary. It's a waste of time and money just to aimlessly wander around and stand in line because you didn't think ahead. We help our clients develop a strategy for their trip. Remember, most museums these days have adopted timed entry ticketing.

 
 
Remember being frugal isn't being cheap. Stick to wise and sound principles; a penny saved is a penny earned, or a penny saved means you will likely be taking more vacations in the future.
 
Contact us today to schedule your complimentary travel consultation. We are leaders in luxury travel realm. Upgrade your vacation experience with the help of our services. Visit www.couturetrips.com.
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