With #winter storms sweeping the nation last week, you may be feeling the need to take a quick trip to see friends or bask in the tropical sun. The good news is that there is still time to book a jaunt, says Thrifty Traveler. Some of the best airfares of the year are available now, making beach destinations outside the United States such as Cancun, Cabo San Lucas and even Costa Rica are surprisingly affordable. What’s more, the dollar is currently quite strong against many foreign currencies, meaning you can spend less on the vacation essentials — hotel, food and fun — once you land. #WinterGetaway
Tag: travel
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!
Plan a Perfect Summer Vacation
What would a perfect #summer be without a #vacation? Start by blocking out a time period on your calendar, and make reservations early. Set a realistic budget and watch for online airfare and hotel deals, or check to see if your camping equipment is in usable shape. If you wish to make your trip less stressful and more #sustainable, pick a location with good public transportation or tourist amenities. Finally, right-size your luggage and pack accordingly: “You want enough room to bring back souvenirs and any shopping you might do without traveling with too many bags,” Travelpro says. “Everything you pack at the start of your trip should have a purpose.” #PerfectSummer
Celebrate the Season Your Way
The Organizing Blog offers a lot of advice throughout the year to inspire readers to lead #tidy, #organized and #productive lives. During the #holiday season especially, we suggest ways to save money, reduce waste and cut #clutter even as you celebrate and give gifts.
But the #holiday season can be overwhelming and inspire just as much anxiety and stress as it does joy. That’s why we urge you to celebrate in a way that’s true to yourself this year — even if you have to put your #decluttering goals temporarily on hold.
The holiday season exposes us to lots of unusual demands and expectations, CBC says. Don’t overcommit or try to live up to unrealistic ideals, or you’ll burn out before you unwrap your first gift.
Many traditions were delayed, cancelled or otherwise upended during COVID, and it’s OK to mourn their loss. But you can use your creativity to can create new traditions, Psychology Today says, that help you relax and get in the spirit of the season.
That might mean baking cookies, relaxing by a fire, candlelight yoga, putting up decorations or hosting a #Christmas movie marathon. Or it might mean none of those things — there’s no wrong answer when it comes to treating yourself to a happy holiday.
Some people prefer to skip the gift exchange and family feast altogether, says Refinery 29. One woman — a retail worker — likes to get Chinese food after the holiday rush, and another uses vacation days every December for a bucket-list trip. Another writes a letter to herself every year.
Don’t forget yourself and your needs as you make holiday plans. There’s only so much of you to go around, and celebrating in the way you wish ensures that everyone who does get a little of your attention sees you at your very best.
Here’s to a safe and happy holiday season from ClothingDonations.org!
Make (or Adjust) Holiday Travel Plans Now
#Holiday #travel is costing more than it did last year, according to a report from CBS News. With demand up and capacity still decreased from pre-pandemic levels, airfares will rise 4% per week through Christmas, experts say. To get the best possible prices, book your tickets now, shorten trips or adjust your plans to accommodate alternative dates after the holiday rush is over. And even though #Christmas falls on a Sunday, plan to start and complete your travel on Mondays and Tuesdays, when airfares, rental cars and hotel lodging tend to be cheaper. This year — if you’re up for the challenge — hosting may be the cheapest option. #HolidayTips