As summer approaches, and schools let out, you may be wondering how you will entertain your children over the next few months. If you’re working on a small budget, planning a vacation may be difficult. While you may not be able to handle the expense of jet setting across continents or traveling to a beach resort in the Caribbean, a small beach town that is only a few hours from your home, may be just what you can make room for in your budget. It’s more important who you’re with, than where you go!
Packing up the car, heading out on an adventure with the people who matter most, has the makings of an incredible summer vacation. So, why not start planning today?
Handling Money Stress
Money has always been a stress for me, as I am sure it is for many other parents out there. Between monthly expenses, like utilities, rent and mortgage, and the daily essentials like food shopping, school tuition or expenses, and clothing, your budget can get extremely tight. There is usually not much money left for entertainment and adventure. When that happens, you may find yourself disappointed and frustrated with your current living situation. I know I did and still do. Not that my children need name brand attire, and the latest technology that hits the market, but I have always wanted to make sure that we enjoyed our time together. Making memories that last a lifetime has always been a goal for me. While you can do that playing a board game or taking a walk to get ice cream, I wanted to do more. You, and may others may feel the same.
Making Memories
Rewarding my children, as much as myself, for a long school year, and their excellent behavior was and still is important to me. While my children are now in college or have started their career, I still enjoy spending time with them and creating new and memorable experiences. If that means a vacation to the beach, or a day at an amusement park, or even a night out to dinner and a stage show, then I will always make sure that I find the money to make it happen.
Trying To Do It All
Some may think that I put more stress on myself than I should, by planning such events, but that is just who I am. It seems, the more on my plate, the better I function. Do you work better under chaos? It may sound crazy, but after living with three girls in a house that never seems to have a dull moment, I find it hard to relax when things are quiet. My mind is always on working overdrive. Some may say that people with a personality like mine, or yours if you can relate, set themselves up for failure or disappointment because we cannot do it all. I disagree. It seems that when I have something that I would like to accomplish, I work harder to get it done. When I have nothing in front of me to work toward, I get lazy. Lazy is never a good thing.
Making It Happen
No matter how I made it work, and every year was different, I managed a family vacation with my children over the summer. Some years it was with the help of my family contributing to the summer rental, or a side hustle that provided me with enough cash to plan a vacation, or even eating out less and making sure that I brought food to cook during our time away, I always made it happen. I am in no way saying it was easy, but we managed to get a break from the normal someplace that we could enjoy ourselves. I may have even taken out an advance on my pay a time or two with the help of a payday loan. Like I said, I made it happen.
Whatever I did, it was always worth it! Spending a fun day on the beach, building sand castles, jumping the waves, or getting a tan with my daughters are priceless memories that have brought many hours of joy to my life and theirs. Is there a tourist spot that you have enjoyed, or would like to enjoy?
Planning A Vacation Your Budget Allows
Forget the plane tickets and venture out into your own backyard. There are so many places close to home that offer the excitement and fun that you are looking for, for half the cost. Take the time to research or ask your friends and family if they know of any great vacation spots within driving distance. You may find that one of their recommendations is just what you need this summer. If you don’t drive or own a vehicle, then by a bus ticket, pack up the kids and head out to experience the unknown.
Don’t worry if money is too tight to swing a getaway this summer. There is always next year. If you start saving just a few dollars here and there, or saving up your change, next summer will be just as good as this summer. There are tons of day trips that you can take for minimal or no cost to you. Pack a lunch, and outdoor games and have a picnic. It is all about finding out what is going on in your community or even a neighboring area.
Day Trips You Can Afford
If it is a holiday weekend you are planning on enjoying, then take a look at the social events happening near you. Most cities and states have a calendar full of entertainment for their residents and visitors. Whether it is a 4th of July celebration, or just a regular summer weekend, you can usually find a movie in the park, live music and food at a venue, concerts, and craft shows. It all depends on you. What type of event are you hoping to plan?
Enjoy making memories this summer!