Easy Swaps to Help Save for Vacation

Planning a family vacation in the near future? One of the first things on your to-do list may be setting aside money for the trip. Once you get planning and narrow down a date, destination and activities, prices begin to add up. While this may seem intimidating, don’t worry, you can easily make a few lifestyle swaps for short or long term, and set aside a healthy vacation fund.

Eating

As any head of the household knows, family food costs can really pile on. There are a few ways to cut back and start saving. First and foremost, try to avoid going out to dinner. If your family typically orders in once a week, try to make it once or twice a month. If your family tends to go out for dinner a few times a week, try to cut it down to just once or twice. Dining out is a sneaky and costly endeavor you can easily cut back on by cooking more at home. Get the kids involved and encourage everyone to work together on the meal. It will be a fun project that encourages their creativity — not to mention, a great way to save and enjoy a great meal.

Family baking together © Standret | Dreamstime.com

Shopping

Before you turn your home kitchen into the set of Top Chef, you’re going to need to go shopping. Grocery shopping can be a stressful and costly task, so be sure to cut coupons and shop sale items. By purchasing seasonal items and produce, you’re able to get the best price available.

Feel free to shop around and say no to frivolous snacks and extras. Stick to the necessities and be sure to read the label and size — you can easily spend too much on the biggest jar of peanut butter for the whole family when you can take advantage of two-for-one deals and actually end up with a greater quantity and price.

If you are able to shop produce, cheese and meats at farmers markets, do — it’s a great way to buy fresh, local items for a great price.

Cleaning

A way to save without having to spend: cleaning! Go through your closets, storage and anything else taking up more space than it’s worth. Once you have a few piles of sell, donate and trash, you can get a little extra cash for all your hard work.

Selling used or unwanted goods can be a great way to save while decluttering. Go through clothes and accessories first, whittling down what you don’t need or wear. Bring everything to a local consignment shop, a Plato’s Closet or send to online shops like ThredUp.

For bigger household items or clothing you know you can get a better price on, try having a garage sale and inviting neighbors and friends. Take advantage of the Facebook Marketplace, offering a quick and easy way to sell obscure items without opening an eBay or Craigslist account.

You’ll have some extra cash set aside in no time and the vacation will feel all the more worth it in the end.