That annual vacation isn’t a right; it’s a luxury. Here are some simple ways to break the costly “vacation entitlement” habit—and start saving now for next summer’s outing.
Our income barely covers the bills, we just financed a new SUV, the kids need braces, and there’s $5,000 in consumer debt—but darn it, we work hard and we deserve a vacation! Sound familiar?
As summer rolls around and friends and coworkers share stories of cruises and road trips, it’s easy to feel like a vacation is a right. That’s often when the temptation to swipe the credit card starts to feel “reasonable.”
In today’s instant gratification culture, many people believe they’re entitled to a big summer getaway. The reasoning often goes: “I work hard and I need a break for my mental health, so I’ll just put the trip on my credit card and pay it back later.”
But what if something unexpected happens—a family emergency, a broken heat pump, or another big expense? Vacations financed on credit can quickly become a financial burden. And let’s be clear: a vacation is a luxury, not a necessity.
That doesn’t mean skipping fun altogether. It simply means vacations should be planned and paid for responsibly. If you can’t afford the dream trip this year, consider a more affordable alternative and start preparing now for next summer.
Here’s a three-step plan for breaking the vacation entitlement mindset:
Step 1: Find fun ways to recharge this summer without breaking the bank.
- Be a tourist at home. Explore local attractions you’ve never taken the time to visit. You may be surprised at how much fun is right in your own backyard.
- Take long weekends instead of a full week. Go camping, hiking, or enjoy a few nights at a nearby bed and breakfast.
- Try a house swap. If you’re near the mountains but want the beach (or vice versa), swapping homes with someone else can be an affordable adventure.
- Brainstorm with the family. Sometimes a day at the local water park is just as fun for kids as an expensive theme park vacation.
Step 2: Start saving for next year right now.
- Create a budget. After covering essential expenses and setting aside money for savings and debt reduction, dedicate a portion to your vacation fund.
- Cut unnecessary spending. Daily coffees, brand-name products, or unused memberships can add up quickly.
- Choose lower-cost entertainment. Renting a movie instead of going to the theater, for example, can save a family $40 in one night.
- Follow the “48-hour rule.” Delay impulse purchases by two days—you’ll often realize you don’t really need that item.
- Remember hidden costs. Flights and hotels aren’t the only expenses. Think swimsuits, dog boarding, taxis, and extra meals.
Step 3: When you are ready for your dream vacation, stay cost-conscious.
- Use debit, not credit. Set a budget, leave only that amount in your account, and stick to it.
- Travel light. Avoid overweight luggage fees.
- Plan ahead. Know your routes to and from the airport to avoid overpriced “detours.”
- Limit souvenirs. One keepsake per person is plenty.
- Ask locals for tips. Front desk staff often know the best food and entertainment spots that aren’t tourist traps.
- Skip the extras. Room service, mini-bars, and hotel phone calls can eat up your budget.
- Allow downtime. Don’t overpack the schedule. Relaxing is the whole point of a vacation.
Vacations shouldn’t be about keeping up with the Joneses. Even if you don’t realize it, comparing your plans to neighbors or coworkers can lead to overspending. And if you have to charge it, you can’t really afford it.
Instead, plan ahead, save steadily, and keep your expectations realistic. When the time comes, you’ll enjoy your vacation guilt-free—without the financial stress following you home.