I just returned from a fantastic weekend getaway to the beach in North Carolina. My boyfriend and I wanted to go somewhere smaller and keep things budget friendly and low-key for a relaxing long weekend. If you're like me, you can't plan for the perfect vacation without a million lists. There's always a packing list, an "places to see" list, and if I'm really on top of things, there's normally even a full itinerary.
Thankfully, I had the budget checklist below to help me think of everything I might have to pay for and keep myself in check. Because otherwise, unexpected expenses that we hadn't prepared for could have made our budget-friendly weekend getaway quite expensive.
One of the best parts of preparing for a summer vacation is planning all the fun activities you’ll participate in. What might seem less enjoyable is figuring out some spending parameters for your getaway. But think of it this way: sticking to a cost limit can help you truly relax on the trip because you know you’ll have less regret when the bills come due.
By putting together a budget now, you can prioritize the things that matter most to you on your trip and hopefully avoid buyer’s remorse. Here are some items to consider including in your spending plan, if applicable:
Expenses before the trip
o Passport and visa
o Vaccinations
o Flight
o Cruise package
o Vehicle rental
o Travel insurance
o International phone plan or SIM card
o International plug adapter
o Luggage/travel gear
o Checked baggage fees
o Emergency cash
o Money belt
o Pet care
o Activities and tours
o Warm weather clothing
o Beach bag
o Footwear (sandals, flip-flops, hiking boots)
o Swimming/water sports equipment
o Beach towels
o Beach rentals (jet ski, boat, umbrella, etc.)
o Sunblock
o Equipment for activities (hiking poles, helmet for mountain biking)
o Toiletries
o Books, movies, or other entertainment during travel
Expenses on the trip
o Airport parking
o Taxi and other local transportation
o Money changing or banking fees
o Food and drink
o Museum entrance fees
o Massage or spa expenses
o Cover charge for nightclubs or live music
o Gifts or souvenirs
o Tips for tour guides or other staff
o 10% addition in the activities category for spontaneous splurge adventures
If controlling spending on your trip sounds about as fun as a 5-hour layover, you can console yourself with the fact that the money you’re not spending on this trip can be put toward making future trips a little more fantastic. Or maybe saving on this trip means adding an extra trip next year.
