Saving a wad on your vacation

The costs linked with going on vacation soon add up - and can spiral out of control in no time! After scrimping and saving all year long to be able to afford that precious time away with family, friends and loved ones in the first place, the last thing you want is to be forced to watch every nickel and dime once you get away. It’s supposed to be, after all, a time to relax, kick back and have fun and forget all about the bad stuff going on in everyday life. However, if you’re irresponsible with your money, you can quickly end up in debt. Fear not, though, as help is at hand in the form of this selection of handy hints and tips.

Don’t be lazy Get off your behind and walk as much as possible during your vacation as getting about can be expensive on public transport or in your own vehicle. There will obviously be times when it’s not possible and no-one is suggesting that you walk everywhere, but just think about when you can factor it into your plans. It can often be the best way to explore and the exercise and the fresh air will do you good.

Stay logged on The Internet is packed solid with ways to save money – like this very blog, for instance! – so try and ensure you stay logged on in case there are any relevant online discounts and vouchers of which you can take advantage. Tourist attractions tend to offer reductions in admission prices if you book online, while last-minute websites may have exclusive offers.

Be prudent Just because you’re away from home doesn’t mean it’s an excuse to go crazy and waste money for the sake of it. Try and be sensible and possibly even budget yourself to a certain amount of spending money for every day that you’re on vacation. If there’s a big group of you thinking of going away,then it may be wise to buy and prepare as much of your food as possible yourselves, as dining out will be costly if you’re doing it two or three times every day.

Get covered Having travel insurance is important, just in case something goes horribly wrong. It’ll ensure that should anything happen to your belongings then you’ll have the funds to go out and replace them, or you’ll be in line for compensation if any other unforeseen problems arise. Buying insurance will obviously involve a small expenditure at the start of your vacation, but consider it a necessary investment.