3 Pro Tips For Saving Money On Longer Vacations
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There’s a concept in business called “economies of scale,” that is, the more you buy of something, the more of a good financial proposition it is. We can see this in our own lives. If we bulk purchase food from a wholesaler, for instance, we can store it at home and on average, the long-term cost of buying so much is reduced.
That concept doesn’t seem so plausible or applicable when we head on a vacation. After all, it’s not as if a hotel will drastically reduce their nightly rate just because you booked more than two weeks. They can, but it’s not commonplace for the most part outside of auto-generated quotes, which may take this into account from a website booking system.
But let’s say you plan to stay longer than you may have originally thought of doing. How hard is it to save money o longer vacations, making use of the “economies of scale” mindset? Well, you may wish to consider some of our tips.
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Pro Tips For Saving Money On Longer Vacations
Look Into Short-Term Rentals Instead Of Hotels
Many vacation spots now have a healthy stock of short term rentals available, which can be a much better option for longer stays. Once you get beyond the five- or seven-day mark, a flat weekly rate or month-long booking tends to work out better than hotel pricing stacked night after night. Usually, rentals often offer more space, better kitchen access, and a more “settled” feel too, which is useful if you’re planning to actually live a little while you’re away rather than just sleep and sightsee.
You’ll usually find options to suit different budgets too, such as studios or perhaps even full homes with multiple bedrooms. Just make sure to read reviews carefully and check things like cancellation policies, so you’re not locked into something that doesn’t suit you.
Go For Self-Catering Where You Can
Restaurants are a joy when traveling. Let’s face it, we all eat our fill when going abroad because travel calories don’t count, but eating out for every single meal is expensive. Self-catering facilities allow you to cook and prep meals for the week, potentially saving you hundreds or even thousands in restaurant bills and fast food costs. It’s healthier too.
Even if you only cook one meal a day, you’ll probably notice the difference by the end of the trip. Some travelers even find it more relaxing as well, especially when you’ve had a long day and just want to settle in with something simple as opposed to going through the rigamarole of heading out again.
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Don’t Ignore Package Deals (Or Booking In Stages)
Although package deals sometimes get a bad reputation, they can offer excellent value, especially for longer trips. Bundling your flight and accommodation together can help you save a lot of money, particularly when compared to booking everything separately. While not all packages are created equal, it’s worth comparing deals to see if this route could save you more money in the long run.
Additionally, consider booking your trip in stages. For example, staying two weeks in a city apartment, followed by a week at a rural retreat, could be more cost-effective than staying in one location for the entire duration. This approach also helps break up your trip, preventing the monotony that sometimes sets in after staying in one place too long.
Takeaway
With the right planning, longer vacations don’t have to break the bank. You can enjoy a more affordable and memorable trip by considering short-term rentals, preparing your own meals, and utilizing package deals. These tips not only help stretch your travel budget but also give you a chance to experience a more relaxed, immersive vacation.
Have you ever tried saving money on a longer trip using these methods? What are your top tips for making a long vacation more affordable? Let’s hear your thoughts in the comments—share your experiences, or ask for more advice from fellow travelers!
There’s nothing quite like the thrill of embarking on a once-in-a-lifetime adventure. Whether it’s a luxurious escape to Bora Bora, a cultural deep dive in Kyoto, or an off-the-grid trek through Patagonia, this is your chance to turn dreams into reality. But to truly savor every moment, preparation is key.