Camp or Glamp for Labor Day

Labor Day is this weekend, and many Americans will have three full days off in a row to relax, visit with family and friends, and otherwise have fun. Why not take a short weekend exploring nature in a nearby state or national park? Camping is cheap and enjoyable for the whole family, so pick a location, check the weather, make a reservation and hit the road, Curated says. Just be sure to pack the appropriate shelter, coolers and cookware, clothing, and plenty of water and sunscreen — and be sure to leave on time, because you might not be the only people on the roads. And if you’re more into “glamping,” you have plenty of options. #LaborDay

Summer Travel That Won’t Break the Bank

Inflation was up about 5% between March 2022 and March 2023, according to Bankrate.com. And while that’s the smallest year-to-year increase seen in almost two years, the damage is done: Higher prices are making many consumers rethink their #summer #travel plans.

While more people are planning to take a #vacation this summer, a NerdWallet survey says that almost all (92%) are trying to save money by picking accommodations based on price instead of amenities (39%) or driving instead of flying (35%).

All is not lost, however. There are ways to economize and still change up the scenery.

For domestic travel, you can adjust your plans to save on hotels, flights and necessities. Check sites such as Kayak.com to compare prices if you have a destination in mind, or use Google Flights “Explore” function if you have dates in mind but are flexible about a destination.

Better still, use any airline miles you banked during COVID. You may be able to get a free flight to a preferred destination, and spend the money you saved on food and lodging once there. For tips on making the most of airline, hotel and credit card loyalty programs, visit The Points Guy.

One relatively inexpensive option is to take a road trip. Whether visiting friends or exploring a new destination, driving can be more economical than flying, especially if you plan on taking the whole family. If you really want to save, avoid hotel costs altogether by going camping for part or all of your time away.

For those whose wanderlust takes them further afield, there’s more good news: The dollar is currently strong against most currencies worldwide. There may never be a better time to visit the seven continents — even many destinations that are usually considered expensive such as London, Iceland and South Africa.

“Right now, everywhere is ‘discounted’ if you’re an American,” says blogger Nomadic Matt. “Your dollars will go much further than in years past, so you should really take advantage of that opportunity, because you don’t really know how long this will last.”

You can economize if you feel the need to get away this summer. Perhaps the worst news is that you won’t be alone — pent-up demand means that flights are crowded and hotels are filling up fast. Plan your #vacation now to keep things as #thrifty as possible!

Use Labor Day Weekend to Organize

Bittersweet as it may be, #summer is drawing to a close. While The Organizing Blog encourages you to do little that qualifies as “work” on Labor Day weekend, one thing that can enhance your overall mood and prepare you for #fall is #decluttering. Start #organizing and putting away those summer supplies, says Simplify Experts, tossing anything that’s too worn to justify keeping for another year. That includes grilling tools, camping supplies, pool toys, gardening equipment and even old bottles of sunblock. If there’s anything that you didn’t use but might still be of use to someone else, you can donate it to ClothingDonations.org. #LaborDay

Outdoor Ideas for Labor Day Weekend

Labor Day weekend is a great time to enjoy the great outdoors while the weather is still warm. Taking a hike, camping and kayaking are great ways to get some fresh air with together with family and friends safely during #pandemic times, MyDomaine says. If you’re the more indoorsy type, you might check out a new museum or have a staycation at a nearby hotel, the story says — but be prepared to wear a face mask and show proof of vaccination to enter indoor settings such as restaurants and concert venues.