Can’t take a break?
How to afford a family holiday when money is tight
ISERIOUSLY can not remember the last holiday I had, it seems like so long ago.
With school costs, living costs and a mortgage to pay, my money always goes on all of the important things in life, like eating and paying for a roof over my head.
But we all deserve a nice holiday – so I thought I’d share the research I have done on how to afford a family holiday when money is tight.
◗ Use lay-by to pay off a holiday: Paying off a holiday with lay-by is such a smart idea, and I love it. Many travel companies will now let you lay-by a holiday months before you go. This means you have a good period of time to be able to put a few dollars aside from every pay and put it towards a holiday. Just make sure you check the fine print thoroughly before booking.
◗ Set up a holiday account: I have set up a direct debit with my bank for things like rates and electricity so I’m not stung with a huge amount when the actual bill arrives. This same logic can be used to save for a holiday. Just open a separate account and set up a direct debit for whatever you want to put aside, and don’t touch it. You’ll find that it very quickly adds up.
◗ Use holiday deal sites: There are so many holiday deal sites now in Australia that it is mind boggling. Pretty much all through the year they have different specials that allow you to save big on your potential holiday. If you’re really keen, then sign up to a couple or simply keep an eye on them and watch for sales.
◗ Look at all-inclusive packages: When it comes to holidays we often budget for the big things only to be totally unprepared for the many “little extras’’ that you accrue. Food and beverages for example can be a massive cost. The good news is there are all-inclusive resorts all around that allow you to properly budget for your entire holiday. Alternatively, you could go on a cruise.
◗ Book your holiday really late: This one is tough if you have kids, and there’s a risk involved for sure. Still, if you have some cash tucked away and know the places to go to save money for holidays on short notice, waiting for the last-minute specials is a great way to get up to 50% off the cost of your holiday.