Cruising to a Vacation

So my sister, Amy, just kicked off her summer vacation when she and her husband and 2 children went on a 4 day cruise to the Bahamas. On the ship there was so much to do for children as well as grown-ups! She and her husband got much needed alone time while her children went to the camp. Once the ship docked in the Bahamas they swam in the ocean, my niece got her hair braided, and lots of pictures were taken!

They just recently returned from their trip and Amy said the crystal clear waters, the white sand on the beach and the relaxation she felt not having to cook or clean for 4 days was amazing. I can see why she would not have wanted to come back, but because of her amazing experience she is trying to convince myself and my parents to go on a cruise too. I would love nothing more than to go on a cruise, but Amy and her husband make a few more dollars than I do. But she convinced me it’ll be worth it, so I am going to start planning one!

Since I don’t make as much money as Amy and her husband, I am going to create a savings plan. First, I am going to find out the cost of the cruise, and any amenities that are offered at an additional charge. I think scuba diving would be a blast. Second, I am going to put back X number of dollars away in my Truliant vacation club account, and watch the money grow. With the vacation club, I can save money in addition to what I’m already putting aside, and I get one withdrawal every three months. I can plan for my cruise any time of the year!

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Tips for Enjoying Summer Vacation While Saving Money

With a few savvy spending tricks, consumers can keep money in their pockets during vacation

The weather has turned warm and the kids are out of school, that means it’s time for summer vacations. Fortunately, there are plenty of money-smart strategies and options that families can use to enjoy memorable summer vacations that don’t cost a fortune.

Hopewell Federal Credit Union  is offering the following tips to help families make the most of their money and summer vacations:

Make use of gas perk programs.  Traveling by car is pretty much inevitable, whether enjoying an out-of-town getaway or stay-cation this summer. Many retailers, such as grocery stores and gas stations, offer gas discounts that can amount to significant savings, especially if you plan ahead and amass the rewards over the months leading up to your vacation.Bring your own food and snacks.  Whether traveling for a week-long or simple day trip, bring your own food and snacks. Food and beverage prices are typically higher in “touristy” areas, so save your money by bringing bottled water and sodas, and packing snacks and lunches.Have a budget when on-site.  Many people budget for the travel and hotel costs of their vacations, but forget to consider meals and activities when on-site. Think carefully about what activities your family might want to experience – water skiing or zip lining – and what meals you’ll want to enjoy out, and budget appropriately before you leave.Look for local excitement.  Summer is the season for local festivals and activities throughout Ohio, and most are free. See what’s happening in your local area by visiting www.DiscoverOhio.com. A plethora of kid-friendly and kid-free events await.Leave unnecessary financial instruments at home.  Before going on vacation, look through your wallet and purse and remove any financial instruments that you won’t need, and leave them at home. Why bring your checkbook or other less-used payment methods on vacation and risk them being lost or stolen? Only bring the forms of payment that you plan on using, plus one back up.

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