Plan Now for Summer Vacation
Planning a summer vacation can be both exciting and overwhelming. To ensure a memorable trip, here are some tips to help you get started planning!
Set a Budget
Before you book anything, take some time to figure out what you can realistically spend. Think about travel, lodging, meals, activities, and a little extra for unexpected expenses. Setting a clear budget early can help you avoid over-spending and enjoy your trip without extra financial stress. If you’re not sure where to start, try using a simple vacation budget worksheet. Here are some great options to help get you started. If you already have a budget set, utilize our Goal-Based Savings Account to help you automate the saving process!
Plan Ahead
Popular destinations fill up quickly in the summer. “Approximately eighty percent of American adults travel for their summer vacation, with over fifty percent flying to their destinations. Travel prices can rise quickly when so many people compete for airline seats and hotel reservations. To get the most out of your summer vacation, we recommend planning well in advance and booking early.”1 Consider making a checklist based on your budget, for things like airline tickets, lodging, vehicle rental, or event tickets. Doing this ahead of time can help you avoid last-minute stress.
Utilize Credit Card Rewards
Do you have a credit card that offers travel points or cashback rewards? Now’s a great time to use them! Check if you can redeem rewards points for flights, hotels, or even gift cards for gas and food. If you don’t have a credit card check out CNB’s Visa Credit Card. Each dollar you spend is a reward point for you to use, and each quarter, you’ll get 5x bonus points for different spending categories. Points you earn can be redeemed at uChooseRewards.
Be Flexible and Open-Minded
“If possible, try to be flexible with your travel dates. Flying mid-week or during off-peak times can often lead to substantial savings compared to weekend or peak holiday travel.”2 These options are often cheaper and more stress-free. Keep an open mind while you’re travelling; sometimes the best memories come from unexpected places so don’t be too strict following an itinerary, relax and enjoy the journey!
By thoughtfully planning and considering these strategies, you can enjoy a fulfilling summer vacation that also aligns with your financial goals. The less you stress, the more you can relax and enjoy what you’ve planned!
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