The weeks are flying by! Before we know it, Fall Break will be here. Whether you’re planning a full week adventure, a weekend away, or a staycation, the time to plan is now. With rising prices, we’re all hoping to make the most of every penny we spend, especially when it comes to extras like vacations.
Choose a Destination with Affordable Options
Most travel destinations come with hidden costs. After you spend money on gas or airfare, you still have to have a place to stay. And then after that, throw in entertainment options and dining and you’re looking at a hefty price tag. Intentionally choose a getaway that has plenty of free entertainment options. From parks to community museums to historical landmarks or free community concerts, there are plenty of ways to have fun without spending more cash. Head to a city’s Visitors’ Bureau to begin researching your options. Here in Indianapolis, we have a calendar of free events you can view on Visit Indy. Other cities have similar sites that offer coupons, travel ideas, and more. Do some research and put together a basic itinerary of fun options.
Check Your Rewards
Before you book a hotel anywhere, log into any and all rewards accounts. You may have accrued enough points for a free night’s stay somewhere. And if you’re not using rewards points, sign up now. You may also want to check other Rewards apps you use (Swagbucks and Fetch (the code XP4EV gets you at least 2000 points right now) are two of my favorites) to see if you can cash them out for gift cards now to use for travel expenses or food expenses.
Plan to Visit the Grocery Store
Also important in choosing lodging is whether or not there is a grocery store or big box retailer within a short distance. You’ll save a few bucks by eating some meals and snacks from your hotel or Airbnb. If you can book a room with a microwave and a refrigerator, you may also be able to reheat restaurant leftovers, too. From bottled water to breakfast, you can shave a few extra dollars off your trip by hitting the grocery store instead of getting everything at a higher price in restaurants or convenience stores. Grocery stores are also the perfect place to stretch your legs on a long road trip and pick up anything you realized you’ve forgotten, too.
Use Cash Back Portals
I’ve talked plenty of times about using sites like Rakuten for online shopping. But you may not know that you can use them to rent cars and book hotels, too. 1 or 2% back when you are booking $100s of dollars in hotels really adds up quickly. Do a quick search to see if your hotel destination of choice is on the site!
Check Airbnb and VRBO
We love staying in rentals when we can. You have more options for cooking and private spaces when traveling with kids. You may want to skip the hotel altogether and opt for a vacation rental from somewhere like VRBO or Airbnb. Your host might have some flexibility in rates since you’re booking at the last minute. Reach out to a property owner, explain your limited budget and see if they will discount their rates. Most owners would much rather have a guest than let a property sit empty. Again, the worst someone can say is no. It’s worth a try.
Travel Midweek
Not everyone can afford to take an entire week off from work, nor can they afford lodging for that many nights. You’re likely to find better deals on hotels or vacation rentals during the midweek. If you can, travel Tuesday – Thursday to save a few bucks.
Go on a College Visit
If you have older kids, you may want to consider hitting a campus this week. Whether you choose to head to your old stomping grounds or tour a nearby university you’ve never been to, it’s a great idea to get a feel for college. For high school kids, it’s never too early to begin investigating their next steps. Contact the admissions office for an official tour, browse the bookstore, grab a sweet treat, and enjoy the space many campuses have. Bonus points if you visit a student you know and feed them dinner!
Take a Hike a Day
Staying home? Fall weather is prime hiking weather. You may choose to hit the trail close to home or head to a park you’ve never visited. Planning out a daily hike is a great way to get exercise and do something out of the norm without dropping a ton of cash. Pack your own water and snacks. Google interesting spots within an hour’s drive. Play on the playground. Create your own photo scavenger hunt. Listen to a great playlist or audiobook on the road.
Go to a Local Museum
Outdoor historical sites, special exhibits, and even local small museums. You can learn a little something, spend less than a pricey vacation, and support the efforts of local institutions. Be sure to check out Visit Indy and the destination’s website to look for discount days and coupons. You may also need to purchase tickets in advance as audiences may still be limited.
No matter where you go or what you do, keep tabs on your spending. You’ll be glad you did when you come home!
My book is now available: Slaying the Debt Dragon: How One Family Conquered Their Money Monster and Found an Inspired Happily Ever After. You can also check out The Debt Free Devotional
This post contains an affiliate link. That means when you get a great deal, learn about a way to save, or maybe even something for free, I may end up making a small commission. All prices are subject to change.
