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Planning a dream vacation? Whether you're headed to Disney, exploring Europe or hiking through national parks, trips can come with big price tags. Between flights, accommodations, meals and activities, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed before you even start packing.
The good news is that we’ve got your back when things get stressful. With a clear plan and a few smart habits, you can take that trip without putting unnecessary strain on your budget or dealing with post-vacation regret. It just takes a little preparation and consistency.
Here’s how to make it happen:
Before you book anything, get a realistic idea of how much your trip will cost. Expenses can add up quickly, even for solo or couples’ travel.
Break your budget into three key categories:
Be sure to include a buffer of at least 10% for the unexpected. A last-minute upgrade or an unplanned expense is almost guaranteed and important to prepare for.
Once you have your total estimated cost, divide it by the number of months until your trip. If your goal is $6,000 and you’re traveling a year from now, that’s $500 per month that you should plan to set aside.
Then, consider how to make that monthly savings goal manageable:
It’s best to keep your vacation savings separate from your checking account where it’s too easy to spend. And since this is a short-term goal, it’s not ideal to risk your money in the stock market either.
A high-yield savings account is a smart option. It keeps your money secure, easily accessible and earning more interest than traditional savings accounts.
Our BridgeBuilder High Yield Savings is designed to support this kind of goal. With competitive rates, your vacation fund can grow steadily while you plan, helping you get closer to your dream destination without added financial pressure.
You don’t have to chase every deal, but timing does matter. Booking early often means lower prices on flights, lodging and activities. It also gives you more time to make informed choices.
When my fiancé and I traveled to Iceland, we booked during the off-season. Not only did we save on airfare and accommodations, but the experience was more relaxed with fewer crowds. You can set up price alerts for flights and if your dates are flexible, consider mid-week departures or shoulder-season travel to get more value for your money.
It also helps to research where you’re going ahead of time. Knowing what to expect for ticket prices, dining options and transportation can help you avoid overspending once you arrive and lets you enjoy your vacation without worrying about unexpected costs.
Category: Budgeting & Debt Reduction
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Planning a dream vacation? Whether you're headed to Disney, exploring Europe or hiking through national parks, trips can come with big price tags. Between flights, accommodations, meals and activities, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed before you even start packing.
The good news is that we’ve got your back when things get stressful. With a clear plan and a few smart habits, you can take that trip without putting unnecessary strain on your budget or dealing with post-vacation regret. It just takes a little preparation and consistency.
Here’s how to make it happen:
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