You can picture the beautiful sunset looming over the blue ocean of a tropical island as you relax on the sand, sipping a pina colada. The dream of a fun, relaxing vacation has never left you as you've made your way to work, paid the bills, and shopped for groceries. The dream can come true as soon as you learn how to make your money last, how to stick to a budget and how to earn extra cash.
Figure out how much your trip will cost you, including travel, food, and hotel expenses, then calculate how much money you need to save each month to meet those vacation expenses. Create a budget that includes your essential living expenses: food, utilities, rent or mortgage payments, car payments and other mandatory bills.
Eat out less. According to Jennifer Mulrean of MSN Money Central, the average yearly savings of people who stay away from fast food and restaurants is $1,900. That's a lot of money that could be spent on an incredible vacation. Shop for groceries and restrain yourself when the urge comes to hop in the car and go to a restaurant. You'll be rewarded when vacation time comes around.
Refrain from driving as much as you can. Try public transportation to get to your job if it is less costly than driving your car. You can also participate in a carpool, ride a bike or even walk to get around. You will find that you save a lot of money every month by staying away from the car.
Enjoy fun and inexpensive activities at home or in your hometown. Pull out boardgames and puzzles from the closet, and include the whole family in the fun. Find local art and music festivals to attend when you feel the need to leave the house. You don't have to be bored when saving for vacations; just choose wisely regarding how much money you spend.
Work extra hours or take a part-time job to earn extra money for the vacation budget, and perhaps enough to do more things during your holiday. Consider opening a savings account to keep vacation savings so you are tempted to spend it.
Sell your stuff through a garage sale or online via Web sites such as Craig's List, Amazon or Ebay. If you sell online, be sure to include shipping fees in the cost.
Rid your life of costly habits, including smoking, drinking, and gambling to free up cash permanently.
