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!

Start Planning Your Holiday Feast Now

Food prices are up across the board, but you can still feed your family and friends a great #holiday dinner for not a lot of money. Pork and poultry make for inexpensive main dishes, and bulk-purchased root vegetables such as potatoes, carrots and onions can contribute to filling and crowd-pleasing sides. For an easy and plentiful main, serve a hearty seasonal soup and finger foods; or go for a more traditional sit-down meal. Plan ahead — and stick to the plan — to keep food costs in check. Stuck for inspiration? Delish offers 65 classic recipes to get you started. #HolidayTips

Plan Ahead to Keep Food Costs in Check

Plan ahead to make your #holiday #feast thrifty but memorable, says Good Cheap Eats. Knowing what you’ll cook ahead of time allows you to shop the grocery-store specials for the best prices on ingredients. And while people often expect turkey and ham on Thanksgiving, the December holidays more often rely on family traditions that emphasize hearty favorites such as tamales, stews or lasagna. Or you can think outside of the box for your feast, serving all finger foods, hot sandwiches or anything else your friends and family enjoy. Make things ahead if you really want to relax and enjoy the company. #HolidayTips

Have a Holiday Potluck to Save Time and Money

If you’re hosting a crowd but don’t have the time, energy or money to do everything yourself, a #potluck #holiday #feast is the way to go. Just set up a Google signup sheet so that your meal doesn’t wind up with duplicate dishes, says Kitchn— or worse, starve any guests with dietary restrictions. You can handle the main course and/or a signature beverage, then proved mise en place for all of the donated dishes. Not only can a potluck keep a large meal simple, it can help groups share holiday favorites and become a centerpiece of the festivities’ conversation. #HolidayTips

Make a Memorable Holiday Feast on the Cheap

Is it your turn to host a #holiday feast? To make things memorable without breaking the bank, streamline your menu, says GoBankingRates. Pick a hearty main course, a couple of side dishes and a dessert. “A full menu may look appealing and easy to accomplish now, [but] remember that you may be busier when it’s time to begin cooking,” the story warns. You can feed family and friends on $5 to $15 per person if you plan ahead and work backward from an established budget. Keep the guest list small to keep costs — and the labor necessary to cook, clean and entertain — at a minimum. #HolidayTips