In this post, we will talk about how to plan a weekend getaway on a budget. Sometimes, we just need some time away to relieve ourselves or a change of scenery to decompress. However, the cost of going on a weekend getaway might mean higher travel packages, flights, or hotels.
But, with a little plan in place, you can get started on a frugal adventure. If you are looking to go on a weekend getaway on a budget, then consider these tips to help you save money.
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How To Plan A Weekend Getaway On A Budget
Learn easy tricks to save on weekend trips. Start planning your affordable getaway today! Let’s get started 😉
The Budget!
When planning a weekend getaway on a budget, you start deciding on your budget for the trip. This means you decide on the money you intend to spend on the vacation.
After booking a hotel and buying plane tickets, and other necessities for the trip, you might discover that you have little money left, which might result in getting loans for the trip or getting in debt. Knowing the amount of money you have available is the best.
I start saving for a vacation at least 6 months to a full year in advance. That way, I know exactly how much money I have for the vacation and I even put aside some ‘extra‘ cash just for emergencies.
We all know that things do happen and that is why I set aside a bit of money for ‘just in case‘. It has helped me a ton in the past because that way I am accounting for everything, not just the trip itself.
Have an Itinerary
An itinerary is a list of activities you want to do during your weekend getaway. It should also include the attractions or landmarks you intend to explore. Remember to consider the cost of your activities before you choose them (check your budget!).
Having a travel itinerary is important for several reasons. It helps with your time management, allowing you and your family to make the most out of the time you have, and make the most of your trip
Plus, a well-planned itinerary helps you to stay organized with all activities during your fun travel adventure. This will allow you to have a more enjoyable and stress-free vacation with your family and/or friends.
Choose The Hotel And Accommodations
Next up on the list is choosing the means of transportation and the hotel that aligns with your budget and destination. There are luxurious hotels and resorts that you can stay in, and there are also cheaper hotels that can suit your budget more.
If you budgeted for a nicer hotel, then you are all set. But, if you did not budget for a more expensive hotel, go with a lower-cost hotel to stay within your budget.
Also, be sure to check out travel websites for the destination you are traveling to to see what fun things are happening. It is also very helpful to go to the hotel you will be staying at and read the reviews to find the best accommodations for you and your family.
Sometimes, booking your hotel online can save you money. I have done it both ways, in person and online, and usually online is cheaper for some reason.
Make sure they have a hot free breakfast, free wifi, workout room, pool, and spa, if that is what you need to feel comfortable. I know that for us personally, we have to have a pool and spa because I have kids and that is something we enjoy doing when traveling!
Consider exploring deals
As stated above, a great way to save on a weekend getaway trip is to find deals on third-party websites or hotel sites. Such bargains usually offer discounts on reservations. And the offers mostly include brand-name hotels.
Consider a road trip: How To Plan A Weekend Getaway On A Budget
A weekend getaway doesn’t have to include flying out of your country or even to the next state over. You can enjoy a staycation in your own city or have a road trip to a nearby city. The cost associated with traveling is one of the reasons why Canadians are choosing staycations.
Road trips usually require less planning and you could make a lot of fun memories in the car traveling to your next destination.
Remember to also remember to book your hotel room in a nearby town or city and take advantage of any discounted prices. You can also consider camping at state parks to save accommodation costs.
We love camping and always find these to be one of the best family vacations because no wifi and we all just sit and talk! No electronics allowed!
Plan your packing list
When you have your budget in place, you should make a packing list of every item you are planning to take with you. The packing list helps you know what things are left out and what you should have before leaving on your trip.
Sometimes, you might get caught up in the excitement of making your vacation plans, that you might forget to bring something really important. I literally have done this before! One time my family and I were headed to the beach, a quick getaway for the night, and guess what? I left ALL of my clothing inside the dryer at home and all I had was the clothes on my back!
Yep, let’s just call that ‘mom brain‘. However, all my kids had everything they needed because I packed it for them. That is why, from then on, I have a packing checklist that goes on my kitchen counter and I check things off one by one, to ensure I am not ever leaving anything behind again! Ugh!
To stay on track with your money goals, use these tips to plan a relaxed vacation for you and your family. By following these suggestions, you can have fun on inexpensive weekend trips by adjusting your plans and finding the cheapest places to stay, travel, and other expenses.
Do you have any tips or suggestions you want to add to this blog post? Please share them in the comments below! I love hearing how other people plan and budget for their vacations!