Cheap Trips: How to Plan a Fun Yet Affordable Vacation

No one says you have to travel far from home to go on a trip. One great way to save money on travel is to stay local and do a StayCation.

You can even team up with a group of friends or relatives to rent a short term property, so you can stay together without spending a bundle.

Renting a vacation home also gives you the option to cook your own meals so you won’t have to spend money on eating out all the time. Find a vacation rental near the activities and attractions that interest you most.

If you want to get farther away, you’ll need to do some research in order to get the cheapest flights. To really save, you need to be flexible about when you fly.

If you’re willing to take a red-eye or very early morning flight, you can find discounts. Of course, you should avoid peak travel times and holidays.

Also, book your flight on the days that are most budget-friendly. NerdWallet recommends the Best Days to Fly are on Thursday or Friday, and extending weekday trips into Sunday to get the most bang for your buck.

If you are going to be traveling out of the country, be careful not to get hit with expensive overage and roaming charges.

Your best bet may be to purchase a prepaid unlimited plan from your wireless provider. This way you can stay in touch with family and friends while traveling without having to worry about costly fees.

You can also save money on travel by being willing to take a road trip rather than fly. When you drive, the journey can sometimes be as enjoyable as the destination.

Use the GasBuddy app to find low-cost fuel wherever you are on the map, and pack lunches and snacks rather than stopping at restaurants.

When looking for accommodations on the road, sometimes it’s best to make arrangements at the last minute rather than booking in advance. Not only will this promote a flexible itinerary, but you also might be able to snag a room at a deep discount, as hotels don’t like leaving any rooms empty.

Beyond hotels and apartments, you can find a place to stay in a number of other ways, if you are willing to get creative.

• Go camping – Rent a camper or RV, and stay in a park under the stars. RVShare suggests the Recreation.gov app if you’re throwing together a camping adventure at the last minute.
• Stay on a farm – Farm stays allow you to learn about agriculture and animals, do a little work, and get an affordable place to stay.
• Volunteer abroad – Do volunteer work in exchange for lodging in hundreds of countries around the world by using a service like HelpStay or Worldpackers.

Taking a break from work and the pressures of daily life every once in a while is essential for your physical and mental well-being.

Whether you take a staycation near home or travel around the world, you can find ways to save money.

With some research, creativity, and flexibility, you can truly enjoy your vacation without breaking the bank. Enjoy Your Trip.