When you hear the word ‘vacation’, you probably imagine dreamy days on sun loungers and endless cocktails. Or is that just me? However, as someone who attempts to maintain a frugal lifestyle, it can be difficult to fit a standard vacation in with my dreams of spending very little. It is possible, though, and here are four ways in which you can maintain your frugal ways on vacation.
Plan Your Meals
If you can get a reasonably priced holiday that is either half board or all-inclusive, jump at the opportunity. This will ensure that you are not going to be spending extra on meals when you are there. However, if you leave the resort, the chances are you will need to buy food and drink while out, so there will be a small cost.
Some hotels and complexes offer to make packed lunches, which might be worth asking about. If you are self-catering, try to plan ahead when it comes to your meals.
Never pay for breakfast out as you can do a small shop in the local supermarket and save lots of money this way. Likewise, try to cook meals as often as possible, reducing the extra costs significantly.
Book Ahead
Going on excursions and visiting places of cultural interest often come at a premium if you book on the day of your visit. Booking ahead of going can save a large chunk of money.
There’s not much point in going on a vacation if you are just going to be stuck at the resort the entire time, but the costs off-site can accumulate quickly. The hotel may offer their own coach trips to nearby attractions but try to book these in advance to allow you to budget better.
Wants v Needs
It’s quite common to see souvenirs and cultural items when on vacation and consider how much you want them and where they might fit in your house. In reality, you return home with them and maybe put them on display for a few months and then they slowly make their way into a drawer or cupboard, never to see the light of day again.
When making any purchase, try to consider whether you need this item or just desire it. Of course, if it has special sentimental value, you may wish to overlook the wants v needs rule, but otherwise, try to avoid spending on things you won’t want long term.
Take Plenty
Often finding the items you have run out of when you are on vacation can end up costing you more. For starters, you might not be able to find your usual brand of sunscreen, for example, and if you are in a foreign country, you might struggle to read the labels.
Taking plenty of the items you are going to need is imperative. Toiletries, clothing, towels, books and particularly medication should all be carefully planned before you go, ensuring you do not get stuck in a situation where you are relying on local shops.
