How to save on summer vacations and staycations

I’ve been meaning to do a series of posts called “Save or Splurge.” I thought I’d show different vacation and family venues, and then compare what a total, full price splurge would cost (and it’s ok to do that sometimes, just not all the time!) and highlight ways to save money while doing that same activity. I still haven’t gotten around to starting it….maybe next week, and maybe it’s time to retire Garbage Day posts in lieu of this new theme. But anyway, until I get to it, there is something else I wanted to share with you.

I was recently introduced to The Coupon Guide and I’ve been poking around there. They highlight different online coupons and ways to save on entertainment. Philadelphia is one of their top cities, but you should be able to find tips and discounts for just about any place. I can’t believe….I’ve lived in southeastern PA for 40 of my 42 years, and I’ve NEVER done the Philadelphia thing for July 4! I’m considering doing it this year, but my kids are maybe a bit too young and we’re having a serious heat wave. But I’ve been perusing the different Philly discounts they have, and it looks pretty good. Go see for yourself.

Have a great holiday week everyone!

 

Vacation on a Budget

You hear everyone talking about that phenomenal trip they took – a cruise, Disney, some all inclusive resort, and even more foreign and amazing, international travel.  You are jealous. Good grief, you haven’t had a vacation without kids, let alone WITH kids for longer than you can remember. Those $$$ signs mount in your head and you envision maxing out your credit card just attempting to DREAM of vacation.

STOP!

Okay, reality may be you CAN’T afford a vacation. I don’t recommend going into debt for one but over the next few weeks I want to bring you some ways you can vacation for under $150. Sure, most of them will be day trips, but a day vacation is better than no vacation and offers that break that, well, keeps us from breaking.  I refuse to go into debt for a vacation. One day of fun is so not worth that bill hanging over my head, leaving me stressed out. This is all part of our quest to be debt free and to live within our means. Buy now, pay later does not afford our dream or give us peace.

First some tips – 

1) Set a budget AND STICK TO IT. Only do what you can afford.

2) Go local. Explore your city, your state, the surrounding area – save gas, hotel, and food expenses.

3) Be creative.

4) Have fun and don’t stress.

Stay tuned for a post later today on where your first adventure could take you.