Opening a vacation savings account could be a very useful part of going on the trip you deserve, all without ending up with debt. We found what we thought was the best available information on the internet. It provides a useful introduction. Unfortunately, neither of them talk about how travel agents actually know a thing or two about budgeting for vacations, and saving money on them overall!

Our favorite online resource for vacation budgeting comes from Thrivent Financial.

It’s called “How to budget for a vacation: Make the most of your travel money.”

Here’s a quick summary:

Creating a vacation budget helps you prioritize what matters most, reduce financial stress, and fully enjoy the experience you’ve worked hard for. Start by defining your travel goals: Where do you want to go? How long will you be away? What experiences are most important to you?

From there, research your costs like lodging, transportation, meals, activities, and travel insurance. Also build in a small cushion for the unexpected. Do some of this first, then reach out to your friendly neighborhood travel agent.

Then be sure to set a monthly savings goal based on your timeline, and consider keeping your travel fund in a separate account to stay on track. Once you arrive on vacation, make sure you have a daily spending guide with a few smart habits.

We also really like another article from Reader’s Digest.

It’s called “Traveling on a Budget: Here’s How to Plan a Memorable—and Affordable—Vacation”

This one is organized into bullet points. Here they are:

1. Set a budget

2. Seek out an affordable destination

3. Plan ahead as far as possible

4. Let cheap flights lead the way

5. Be flexible with your timing

6. Hit the road

7. Fly midweek

8. Reserve hotel stays on the right day

9. Explore different lodging options

10. Don’t forget the freebies

11. Consider an all-inclusive resort or cruise

12. Rent an Airbnb or Vrbo

13. Eat like the locals do

14. Hunt for free things to do

15. Get around for cheap

16. Travel for free with points

17. Snag reward deals early

18. Score luxury for less

19. Jump on last-minute bargains