Summer Getaways on a Budget

Take Charge America Offers 6 Tips for Travelers Who Are Stretched for Cash

PHOENIX, Ariz. (April 28, 2006)…Are you ready for another sizzling summer? Whether your goal is to beat the heat or dive right in, your summer getaway doesn’t have to burn up your budget.

Mike Sullivan, director of education for Take Charge America, a non-profit credit counseling company, says even if you’re stretched for cash, you can still indulge in some much-needed R&R.

“A vacation doesn’t have to break the bank. With some careful planning and budgeting, you can take that summer getaway and still have cash left over,” he said.

A recent survey from the travel Web site Expedia.com shows 31 percent of employees didn’t use all of their vacation days in 2005. Now, it looks like many are trying to make up for it. Thirty two percent of employees surveyed are planning to travel more this year.

“Everyone needs a break from the daily grind once in a while,” said Sullivan. “Money doesn’t have to be a barrier between you and a vacation.”

Sullivan has six tips for finding affordable and fun summer getaways:

• Do Your Research – Start researching possible destinations in advance. Compare a variety of hotels and travel options, and keep in mind that these aren’t the only major costs associated with a vacation. You need to look into the prices of meals, where you will be eating, entertainment expenses and souvenirs. You may also want to consider an all-inclusive vacation, so you can pin down exactly how much you will be spending.
• Start Budgeting Now – If you budget for vacations throughout the year, you won’t feel the pinch when it comes time to take off. Set aside a small amount of money each week or month to use for vacations. When you are on the trip, create a maximum-dollar-per-day spending limit, and stick to it. You should resist the temptation to “charge it.” Credit card bills can add up quickly while on vacation, and falling deeper into debt can make life on the home front much more stressful.
• Plan Ahead... or Procrastinate – If you plan on flying, purchase your tickets either far in advance or at the last minute to find discounted prices. This also applies to all-inclusive vacations and cruises. For last-minute deals visit www.lastminutetravel.com.
• Be Flexible – It is easier to find discounted flight and hotel packages if you are flexible with dates and times. Consider taking a red-eye flight or book your flights on off-days. Flying on Friday or Sunday is often more expensive than flying on a Tuesday or Wednesday. Rates are also higher on holiday weekends.
• Coupon Clip Your Vacation – Go where the deals are. You can get discounts on hotels and flights if you book them together. Search for hotels that offer perks such as complimentary breakfasts or free long distance and Internet. If you need a rental car, select a small economy vehicle to save on gas. Another money saver: pack your own snacks.
• Jump on the Bandwagon – Travel in a large group with friends or family. Many vacation destinations offer group discounts. You can also split the cost of gas, food and entertainment. If you can’t afford to pay for lodging, visit friends or family in another part of the country and stay with them (offering reciprocal accommodations in your hometown!). They should also have tips on tourist and local hotspots.

About Take Charge America
Founded in 1987, Take Charge America, Inc. (TCA) is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization headquartered in Phoenix, Ariz. TCA offers a variety of services including financial education, credit counseling, and debt management. TCA’s programs are utilized by tens of thousands of families and individuals each year. To learn more about TCA or its programs please call 1-800-823-7396 or visit www.takechargeamerica.org.