Budget Priorities - Travel

Do you ever see someone walking with a large Starbucks coffee and think, "Wow, that's a lot for a little caffeine!" We’ve all been there—making quiet judgments about the financial decisions of others. But at the end of the day, it's all a matter of priorities. Some people love to indulge in daily treats, whether it’s their coffee, dining out, or attending concerts. For us? Our splurge is on travel. But here’s the thing: travel doesn’t have to be a budget-buster. Over the years, I’ve found a few strategies that have made our family adventures both frequent and affordable.

Here’s how we soften the blow of travel on our budget:

1. Start Early
   One of the best ways to save money on travel is to plan ahead. I start looking for vacation properties as early as October for trips we’ll take in June. Doing this gives me the most options to choose from, and I can snag those early-bird deals before prices start rising closer to peak season.

2. Spread Out Payments
   Paying for a trip all at once can feel overwhelming, so I like to break up the cost. I’ll pay a deposit when we book and then settle the remaining balance a month or so before we travel. Some travel sites, like Uplift, even offer 0% financing options depending on the vendor. It’s worth checking out!

3. Travel During Off-Peak Times
   Avoiding the crowds can also help you avoid peak prices. We love to travel mid-week, usually between Monday and Wednesday when flights and accommodations tend to be cheaper. If your schedule allows, fall travel can be much more affordable than summer or winter breaks.

4. Use Travel Reward Programs
   Sign up for reward programs with airlines, hotels, or credit card companies that offer travel points. Over time, you can accumulate enough points to score free flights, upgrades, or discounted stays. It's an easy way to save on costs while still enjoying quality travel experiences.

5. Consider Alternative Lodging
   Instead of always staying in hotels, we sometimes opt for vacation rentals or even home exchanges. These options not only save money but often come with amenities like kitchens, where we can prepare our own meals, cutting down on dining expenses.

6. Be Flexible with Your Destination
   Keep an open mind when choosing where to go. If you're flexible with your destination, you can often find great deals on flights or accommodations by selecting less popular locations or choosing places that are more budget-friendly.

7. Pack Light to Avoid Extra Fees
   Overpacking can cost you in more ways than one. Many airlines now charge for checked luggage, so packing light and using only carry-ons can save you a bundle in baggage fees.

8. Bring Your Own Snacks
   Whether you're flying or taking a road trip, food costs can add up. We like to bring our own snacks and drinks for the journey to avoid overpriced airport or rest-stop food. It’s a small but effective way to cut down on unnecessary spending.

Travel is our passion, but it doesn’t mean we have to spend a fortune to enjoy it. With a little bit of planning and some smart decisions, we’re able to prioritize family adventures without sacrificing our financial well-being. After all, it’s not about how much you spend—it’s about the memories you make. Happy travels!