How to Save for Summer Vacation: A Practical Guide

How Much Do Summer Vacations Really Cost?

Summer vacations represent the biggest leisure expense of the year for most families. On average, a household spends between $1,500 and $3,000 for a two-week vacation. Transportation, accommodation, restaurants, activities, souvenirs — the bill climbs fast.

The good news? By starting to save in January, you can fund your vacation without touching your regular budget or resorting to credit.

1. Define Your Vacation Plan

Before saving, you need to know how much. Ask yourself the right questions: domestic or international? Rental, camping, or hotel? How many days? What activities? Estimate a realistic budget, even a rough one.

Break down your estimate by category: transportation (30%), accommodation (35%), food (20%), activities and extras (15%). These proportions help you adjust if the total exceeds your savings capacity.

💡 Tip with Plan & Multiply
Create a 'Summer Vacation' envelope with a goal and target date. The app tells you how much to save each week to get there.

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2. Automate Your Savings from January

The secret to successful saving is automation. Set up an automatic transfer on payday. Even $50/month from January to June = $300. If you start in September for next summer, $50/month × 10 = $500.

The trick: round up your everyday purchases to the next dollar and transfer the difference to your vacation envelope. These micro-savings add up effortlessly.

3. Reduce Your Vacation Costs

A few tips to save without sacrificing fun: book early (prices increase 20-40% last minute), travel on weekdays instead of Saturday, choose accommodations with a kitchen to avoid eating out every meal.

Also consider home swaps, camping, or lesser-known destinations. There are stunning spots off the beaten path, often much cheaper than tourist hotspots.

4. Manage Your Budget During the Trip

Vacation is when we spend most freely. Set a daily budget and track it. For example: $100/day for a family of four including activities and meals.

Pay cash for small purchases: watching bills decrease is a natural psychological brake against impulse buying.

💡 Tip with Plan & Multiply
Track your vacation spending in real time in the app. Categorize each expense to see exactly where your money goes and adjust if needed.

5. After Vacation, Capitalize

When you get back, take stock. Did you stick to your budget? Which categories went over? These insights will help you be more precise next year and start saving even earlier.

Why not start saving for next year's vacation right away? Starting in September gives you 10 months ahead.

Conclusion

Successful vacations start with good financial preparation. By saving regularly, anticipating expenses, and tracking your budget on the go, you fully enjoy your time off without the anxiety of coming home.