The warmer months are finally just around the corner, which means it’s almost time to break out the suitcases and sunscreen, as the summer travel season is finally here. Like many other couples, you’ve probably been daydreaming about another vacation since you got home from your last one. No matter the destination, if you and your partner are itching for a romantic getaway this summer, it’s crucial to factor in the financial impact of your travel plans before you stamp those passports.
1: Start With Open Communication
The first step toward planning the perfect couple’s vacation is transparent communication amongst partners about where you stand financially. Whether you’re dealing with debt or have near-perfect credit, it’s important to be honest with one another upfront so you can make smarter travel decisions and avoid potential headaches down the road.
Once you and your partner have had this conversation, you can work together and support each other in maximizing your financial health before your vacation. Whether you’re looking to settle differences about money habits or could simply benefit from a comprehensive travel budget, these decisions should be made together.. While uncomfortable, having the money conversation now will help hold both yourself and your partner accountable should you need to improve things before booking your trip.
2: Choose a Realistic Destination
While many couples would love to visit dream destinations like Paris or Hawaii, the reality is that many can’t afford to do so in the current economy. That doesn’t mean you’ll never get there, but for now, it would be wise to choose a destination that more accurately fits your budget. If you’re thinking of traveling internationally, pay close attention to exchange rates as certain destinations can make a trip abroad much more affordable than even some domestic travel.
For travel within the U.S. you should consider the difference between driving and flying, both in time and money. Depending on the location, flying may be less time consuming and more affordable than driving, especially to a place where there’s many options between airline providers. On the other hand, if you’re thinking of going somewhere that wouldn’t require many stops for gas and lodging along the way, driving might be the clear choice towards saving time and money. No matter where you go with your partner, take the time now to research everything about your destination. A vacation that may appear cost-effective could end up costing more than you think down the line.
3: Share in Itinerary Decisions
In the essence of a couple’s vacation, choosing where to go and what to do once you get there should be a shared effort. Neglecting to tackle the planning process together is a common mistake made by couples when deciding on travel arrangements. This can create an awkward situation where one partner feels like everything must be done their way and their significant other resents all of the choices made without their input. Money can be wasted on things that don’t add value to your trip and you might end up spending in excess trying to make up for your partner’s unhappiness.
You can avoid this all together with an inclusive planning process where both people have a say in the itinerary and get to choose certain daily activities according to their desires for the trip. Breaking it down daily or by activity is a great way to ensure fairness and the happiness of both partners. This will create a stronger, more romantic dynamic between the two of you during your getaway.
4: Make Smart Funding Decisions
When it’s time to pay for a vacation, credit cards are often the first option people turn to. Just because it’s the most common doesn’t mean it’s the best for you. Lately, more consumers have been turning to alternative funding sources to cover outstanding travel costs. Funding options, such as a personal loan, have become increasingly popular in the travel space. Both loans and credit cards will have their own benefits and drawbacks. Loans often have more flexible repayment terms and lower monthly interest rates, whereas credit cards offer perks and rewards to repeat spenders, which can be used on travel in the future. Whatever you decide, make sure to make smart funding decisions that work for both you and your partner.
Regardless of how you decide to fund, it’s never a bad idea to focus on reducing your spending prior to your trip. Simple lifestyle changes such as going out less, cooking at home more, or making your own coffee in the morning can go a long way towards cutting down your expenses. If you find during the vacation planning process that you have a knack for budgeting, use that towards creating monthly or even weekly budgets.The precious funds you will save from a few minor changes to your habits can add up quickly towards your next vacation.
5: Control The Controllables
After you’ve booked, it’s crucial that you find peace with the decisions you’ve made. Just like it’s counterproductive to overspend on a vacation just to return to more stress than when you left; there’s no use in spending time stressing over money when you should be relaxing. Once you finally get to your destination, find balance knowing that you’ve budgeted out your trip and stick to it. Try not to sweat the small stuff and trust in your planning. All that’s left for you and your partner is to enjoy!
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