Think a full-blown summer vacation is out of reach this year? Think again. Planning your travels around off seasons and certain types of activities can bring many vacation itineraries into your budget range. Here are four savvy strategies to make that happen.
Ski Resorts
Booking ski vacations isn’t your only option when it comes to making the most of the world’s top resorts. These venues offer outdoor fun throughout the entire year, including summer which is their down season. Hiking trails, concerts, artisan crafts and more are available in towns like Breckenridge, Whistler, Park City and Beaver Creek. Many trails are fee or can be accessed inexpensively, providing an affordable avenue of family fun.
The Caribbean
Since winter is the high season in destinations throughout the Caribbean, summer is a great time to experience them and save. The warm weather will enable you to travel light, and those who don’t live near large bodies of water and beaches can enjoy sun, surf and sand at a fraction of the costs during this year’s summer break schedule.
Mother Nature
There’s no doubt about it, nature getaways for families represent a large slice of the affordable vacation pie. Whether you’ll be hitting the national parks, planning a weekend at the lake or taking the family camping in the mountains, getting away from it all is a great value. Tents and campers help control accommodation costs, while bargain hot dogs and other items you can pack in a cooler making preparing your meals a natural part of the vacation activities. Just the two of you? Try one of these romantic picnic ideas on for size.
Desert Adventures
More Summer Fun
Exploring world-class desert destinations in during the summer is a savings opportunity for sure. If you think you can take the heat, then going camping in Jordan’s Wadi Rum, touring Petra and even touring the temples of Egypt can cost markedly less at this time of year. For those who would prefer to stick closer to home, there are options right here in North America. Arizona and New Mexico have numerous desert vacation option, including star gazing, saguaro spotting and the exploration of various Indian ruins and old-fashioned wild west towns.
Summer travel doesn’t have to be a financial burden. There are plenty of ways you can get away with your family or significant other without breaking the bank. What are some of your favorite ways to save on seasonal summer vacations?
A lifelong money cruncher who can squeeze a nickel ‘til it cries, Myscha is a syndicated columnist, best-selling author, and founder of Trek Hound and We Be Sharin’.