Does a beach vacation sound good this year? If so, you have already done some research, found a destination and even researched what you will need for the trip on BeachRated. However, now that you are getting things in place, you may have also figured out that this is going to be quite a costly adventure.
If you are worried about the high costs of your trip, then all you need is a few helpful tips that will give you insight on how you can save money while still enjoying your beach vacation. Keep reading to learn how to save your sand dollars all while having a great beach vacation with your kids and family.
Bring Along Your Own Food
Did you know the average American spends $33 per day, per person on food? If you are planning to visit the beach for three days with three family members, that’s just under $400 on food alone!
One of the best ways for you to save money on your beach vacation is by bringing along a cooler and preparing your food ahead of time. You can bring along sandwiches, cold drinks, chips and fruit. Simply pack your cooler each morning and you are set for the day. What’s even better is that you can save a significant amount of money.
If there’s no way for you to bring along your food, then consider buying meals away from the beach you are visiting. You can purchase groceries and go back to your hotel to eat. The fact is, most eateries near or around the beach (regardless of where you are) have a premium on their food due to the convenience of their location. Don’t fall into this trap!
It’s ok to Be Cheap when it Comes to Accommodation
The whole point of going to the beach for vacation is to spend time outdoors in the sunshine. As a result, you don’t need to spend a ton of money on a fancy beachfront hotel.
Consider renting out a friend’s summer house or just choosing a nearby motel. These are both much more affordable options. You can also camp. Most beaches have campgrounds set aside where you can pull an RV or just set up a tent. These locations cost a fraction of what a luxury hotel would.
If you absolutely must stay in a hotel, then find one that isn’t beachfront. Again, you are going to pay a premium for the convenience of being on the beach and the view.
Research Free Activities in the Area
There’s a good chance that you are tempted to book a scuba diving adventure or to rent a jet ski for the day. While those can be fun, they are also pretty expensive.
Rather than focusing on what you can’t do, try to find things that you can enjoy, even with a limited budget. For example, you could purchase some cheaper snorkeling gear and get up-close-and-personal with the ocean life that way.
Just remember, if you are buying this gear, avoid the beachfront stores. These stores are also going to charge a convenience fee due to their location, which can be avoided if you go a bit further inland.
If you are ready to head to the beach, it doesn’t mean you have to spend a small fortune to do so. Use the tips and advice here to have an amazing beach vacation without breaking the bank. You will still have a great time with your family, and you won’t be struggling to make ends meet when you return home.
