Secrets to a More Affordable Vacation

Article contributed by Affinity Federal Credit Union from their quarterly magazine, Affinity Connections. For more information about Affinity or to view Affinity Connections in its entirety, visit www.affinityfcu.org/ connections.

Are you making reservations for your family vacation this summer, later this year or, like many, planning to postpone it to 2011? In today’s uncertain economy, many people are nervous about spending money on travel that could otherwise be allocated to pay bills or save for upcoming expenses, like college tuition.

The good news is that there are a variety of ways to lower the cost of a vacation to fit your budget — and still get priceless memories that your family can share for years to come. Here are some secrets to help you get away for less.

SECRETS TO VACATION SAVINGS
BUDGET Step one is to decide on your budget and stick to it. Don’t just look at your bank account, though. Also review your reward card points and put them to use. Sometimes, the best values can be found in cruise or travel packages. Be sure to ask what is included before you book your trip — and make sure there are no hidden fees that might sink all of your savings.

SAVE NOW, PLAY LATER
A family of four that eats out or orders in once a week can save hundreds of dollars in only a few months by cooking at home and eating leftovers. Also, streamline grocery shopping to once a week. Extra trips can result in more impulse buys that will cut into your vacation savings. Make coffee at home, instead of buying it at the local Starbucks. Small sacrifices now will have a big payoff when it’s time to get away. You can make it fun by creating a vacation jar where you put all these savings, so you can watch that extra money add up.

USE TECHNOLOGY
Vacations are about unplugging, but that doesn’t mean you can’t use technology to get a good deal. Websites like Orbitz.com, Expedia.com and Priceline.com all post discounted package deals. You can also visit couponshack.com, which has discount codes for travel packages, hotels, airfare and amusement parks.

If all you need is a flight, try itasoftware.com, which provides a comprehensive, unbiased list of fares from all major airlines. Once you find the best deal, go to the respective carrier’s website to book.

Look for discount websites on popular destinations. For example, anyone planning a trip to Disney needs to visit mousesavers.com. Make sure to sign up for the e-newsletter and receive exclusive deals. Other sites to consider are dwtickets.com and greaterorlandotickets.com.

AVOID HOTELS
Consider renting an apartment, house or condominium. Popular sites such as craigslist.com will have good deals but also try Vacation Rentals by Owner (vrbo.com). Not only will you pay less, you’ll most likely have a refrigerator at your disposal. Keep it stocked and your wallet will remain fat because you won’t eat every meal at a restaurant.

THINK SHOULDER SEASONS
Popular locales have peak and off-peak times. You can get a great deal by vacationing immediately before or after a peak season. Try Orlando in October, Bermuda in late March, or the Rocky Mountains in April. You’ll avoid crowds and long lines as well.

ENJOY THIS SUMMER WITH A 'STAYCATION'
Another way to stretch your vacation dollar is to plan a staycation. You can stay local and “escape” at a fraction of the cost while helping your local economy. Staycations also don’t take long to plan. Here are six quick ideas to still get the most out of this summer:

1. Home Spas — Invite friends for a weekend retreat in your home. You can find recipes for facials and other treatments online and buy their ingredients at health food stores or supermarkets. If a friend practices yoga, have them lead a class. If not, pick up a DVD.
   
   
2. Behind-the-scenes tours — Local factories (go to factorytourusa.com), and fire and police stations are usually happy to give tours to children. Also consider out-of-the-box places, such as a movie theater projection room, or television and radio stations.
   
   
3. Museums, zoos and aquariums — Learning can be fun, as well as convenient and inexpensive. Discounts for admission and select exhibits can often be found at the website of your destination of choice.
   
   
4. Scenic train rides — Take a romantic ride back in time with a loved one. For the family, some trips come with a “train robbery” or other show. Visit traintraveling.com for your best options.
   
   
5. Water/amusement parks — With more than 400 amusement parks¹ and 1,000 water parks² in the United States, quenching your children’s thirst for fun is likely only a short drive away. Many parks will offer discounts if you purchase tickets online. Plus, a visit to the park’s website can help you plan your trip.
   
   
6. Great outdoors — Enjoy the beauty of nature by retreating to a state or national park. You can hike during the day and camp out at night. Stock up on food and water. Also, don’t forget sun screen, mosquito repellent and rain gear—just in case. Visit www.nps.gov/findapark to find parks close to you.

June 30, 2010