Although #gasoline prices have surged, short trips in the car may still be the most economical #summer #vacation option for many #travelers, Fortune says. Some 87% of those traveling for the Fourth of July opted to drive, choosing destinations close to home to save money. If you’re eager to get away for a few days and deciding whether or not to drive, run the numbers on your itinerary. “The more people in your car, the more driving makes sense,” says TravelPirates. “The closer you live to a beach, national park, mountain town or cruise port, the better the numbers look.” #TravelTips
Tag: budget
Budget to Make Your Summer Trip a Reality
Four out of 10 consumers won’t take a #summer trip this year, according to Current, with 52% saying they can’t afford it. Maintain flexibility to avoid skipping a much-needed adventure — schedule for late August and September, when travel demand starts to ease, or “let the deal decide your destination” to get the best price. Consider locations that require less than single tank of gas to get to, or plan a short break of just a few days rather than a week or two. Estimate the total costs and create a daily spending target, building in a 10% buffer for unexpected expenses. #TravelTips
Keep Your Travel Costs in Check
#Airfares are ticking up due to increases in #fuel costs related to the Iran War, making many people scale back on their #summer #vacation plans to avoid overspending. Overall #travel costs are up 11% from 2025 and airfares are up 6.9%, according to NerdWallet, so plan ahead to keep costs in check. Book airfares sooner than later, or fly using airline points and miles. And when budgeting, factor in increases in the prices of all travel needs, including lodging, rental cars and even meals. Do some grocery shopping and bring snacks from home rather than dining out for every meal. #TravelTips
Start Budgeting Money for a Summer Trip
Your #budget will likely determine the length and scope of any #summer trip, so start budgeting — or saving — early. Often, the best way to save money is to see where the crowds are and head the opposite direction; tourist-targeted restaurants, for example, tend to have more expensive and less authentic food, so seek out places the locals eat. Use public transit whenever you can; it’s cheaper and more #sustainable than car rentals. Start planning early by setting “alerts that match your travel plans,” TravelPro recommends — and clear your browser ahead of each search to ensure that the algorithm doesn’t increase prices based on interests. #SummerVacation
Book Summer Travel Now to Lock in Prices
No matter your destination, booking a #summer #vacation early and booking it yourself is the cheapest way to go. A good cancellation policy is worth a small upcharge, says Scary Mommy: “You never know when something will come up and put a halt to your plans, making that extra few bucks spent upfront pay off in the form of an often full refund.” You can might choose to #travel slightly outside the peak season or visit places “off the beaten track” to avoid the crowds — and the higher prices they bring. Now’s the time to book, especially if you want to travel overseas. #SummerVacation