Saving money is an important part of planning a trip. Travel can become very costly if poorly planned, but also can be surprisingly inexpensive if done properly. In the modern age of technology, planning a vacation on a budget is easier than ever. Here are five of the top tips for saving money while planning.
1. Pick an Atypical Destination
While tourist destinations are popular for good reason, planning a trip to a less-traveled location can be well worth the extra research. Places that get less tourist traffic cost less in every aspect: flights are cheaper, accommodations are more readily available and less expensive, and daily expenses like food and shopping do not suffer from hikes in price due to tourists. These atypical destinations also will be less crowded and more easily explored. Instead of planning a vacation to a specific city, pick a desirable area and see other destinations that are nearby or similar. Or, if you’re feeling unattached to your location, check out some lists of countries with few tourists. Just be sure to check any travel advisory warnings so that you know as much about your atypical destination as possible.
2. Pack light 
While it’s tempting to pack for every possible situation you might encounter on your vacation, try to resist. Over packing can lead to extra fees at the airport. Instead, make a list of the core items you need and take only those. Choose luggage that is the appropriate size and weight for air travel, and on the way to your destination, remember to leave some space in your bags for the souvenirs you’ll be bringing back home after your fun holiday.
3. Hire a Freelancer for Pet and House Care
Freelance pet sitters, walkers, and boarders all are bound to be cheaper and better for your pets than a standard kennel. They also can be hired to do extra tasks such as watering plants or taking care of small household chores. The security of knowing a certified sitter is caring for your pets, and possibly your home, will work wonders for keeping your vacation stress-free.
Studies of flight booking trends have revealed that 54 days before departure is the best time to get inexpensive plane tickets. Furthermore, these studies also have shown that the best departure days are Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays. Of course, this requires plenty of planning in advance. You should begin checking ticket prices early to get a gauge of standard prices. From there, you will be able to recognize a great deal when you see it and capitalize. Online booking also usually will offer hotel packages to accompany your flight, eliminating the need to shop for similar deals with hotel
While most visions of vacations involve a flight to a sandy beach, you may have an incredible trip waiting just beyond your back door. Before dedicating your savings account to a vacation in the Bahamas, check out what your own area might have to offer. Camping, hiking, trips to monuments or landmarks, and even visiting a nearby city can constitute a fun, relaxing getaway.
Saving money while planning a trip is predominantly a matter of planning in advance and thinking ahead. If you were to decide to leave for the Grand Canyon tomorrow, you would spend far more on your trip than if you had started planning your vacation to several months ago. While tips and tricks can help conserve your spending, the most important aspect of traveling on a budget is careful planning.
Aimee Lyons is a twenty-something free spirit who loves crafting, painting, building, and anything else that lets her exercise her creative muscles. A born do-it- yourself kind of girl, she started DIYDarlin.com to inspire others to embrace their inner creators and tackle projects with confidence. When she isn’t crafting, you might find her vintage shopping or taking her Corgi Champ out exploring in her hometown.
Image Credits: 1. annstreetstudio.com 2. Instagram: @foundnlast 3. Bloglovin.com 4. Instagram: @harleyandco_
THANKS for AMAZING tips for saving money while PLANNING for travelling.