Save Money on Travel

Everyone looks forward to a vacation. It is a time meant for relaxation and forgetting life's daily stresses. So why is it that so many people end up more stressed out after their vacation than before they left? Oftentimes, consumers are left worrying about how they are going to pay for it all. Many consumers justify their vacation spending by telling themselves "I'm on holiday, I deserve to enjoy myself." This mentality can wreak havoc on their financial situation once the credit card bill arrives.

According to a 2005 survey conducted by the AAA, on average, a family of four on vacation spends approximately $1700 on accommodations and dining - not including travel costs, activities and buying souvenirs. Many consumers are unaware of what to expect, and so they do not budget properly. The good news is that budgeting help is available from Consumer Credit Counseling Services (CCCS) like ours who offer personalized help whether you are budgeting for an upcoming trip, or are trying to dig your way our of credit card debt from overspending on vacation.

Consumer Credit Counseling Services Say Budgeting is Key

Before you even consider taking a vacation, you should assess your financial situation. Professional Consumer Credit Counseling Services (CCCS) agencies can help you develop an effective budget that will help prepare you for everyday expenses and planning for your dream vacation.

When is comes to planning your vacation, consider all the options. Consult with friends and family members for good destination ideas and money saving tips. Sometimes they can offer suggestions that can really save you money.

Our Consumer Credit Counseling Services (CCCS) agency advises that it is never too early to start saving for vacation. Cut back on a few luxuries, such as restaurant meals or shopping sprees, and put that money in savings to enjoy when vacation time comes around.

Credit Counselors Say Research & Planning Make All the Difference

One of the best ways of ensuring that you don't overspend during your vacation is to plan well ahead of time. Make a list of all possible expenses, and always give yourself a bit of a cushion for unexpected expenses that may arise. Our Consumer Credit Counseling Services agency offers tips on planning all aspects of your trip and saving money along the way.

• Price of ticket/Method of travel – Since the cost of transportation can be prohibitive, it is important to shop around to find the best rates. Search internet sites such as www.expedia.com or www.travelocity.com to see competitive rates from various airlines.

  Consider other methods of transport. If flying is out of the question, consider train travel or renting a car. Remember though, to factor in expenses such as taxi cab fares or gas and insurance.

• Accommodations – Internet websites like the ones listed above also provide competitive rates on hotel or motel accommodations. Sometimes booking transportation and accommodation together can save you a good amount of money.

  If possible, consider staying with friends or relatives during your trip. Be considerate by bringing sleeping bags or taking them to dinner - and remember to reciprocate the favor if they come to visit.

• Dining – One of the biggest expenses during a vacation is the cost of meals. Try to pack snacks whenever possible, such as crackers, and sandwiches, and when you run low, shop for more snack items at a local grocery store rather than dining out for every meal.

  If you are staying a hotel, take advantage of the free continental breakfasts that are sometimes included in the hotel charge. This can really save you a lot of money, especially when you are traveling with a family.

• Senior & Family Discounts – If you are over the age of 62, you've earned a bit of a break! It never hurts to ask about senior discounts that may be available through organizations such as AARP or AAA.

• Low Cost Activities—Be Resourceful – Find out what low-cost activities your destination city has to offer. Visit the local Chamber of Commerce to ask about discounts available. Look into low-cost activities such as parks or walking tours, which can really be enjoyable and give you a great insight into the city.

  Avoid tourist traps by speaking to the local residents in the area to see what activities are available and affordable. They will often give the best advice!

• Miscellaneous Expenses – It can be so easy to rack up debt on credit cards through miscellaneous expenses. Things like parking and hidden credit card fees. And, don't forget those souvenirs! Try not to be tempted into buying souvenirs by staying away from the shops all together.

  Also, beware of hotel long distance charges. The cost is often really inflated. Instead, buy pre-paid phone cards or use your cell phone to make any necessary telephone calls.

De–stress After Your Vacation With Help from Our Consumer Credit Counseling Services

A Consumer Credit Counseling Services credit counselor with our NFCC-approved agency can help you realize your vacation dreams. An expert will help you establish a realistic budget so that you can fully enjoy your trip and not have to worry about dealing with a large credit card bill afterwards. If you have already gotten into financial trouble, we can also help you establish a debt management program to repay your debt to creditors and be on your way to a stable financial future.