Holidays are the best time to getaway, to enjoy the sun, to explore new places and create memorable experiences. The last thing you should do is let a limited budget stand between you and a good time.

Summer is fast approaching, and if you haven’t made arrangements, there is still time to do so. The key is strategic planning. With our guide of resourceful tips, you’ll have your plans set in no time and have plenty of money to spare for all the little things.

Plan Ahead

Planning is integral to vacationing on a budget. There is nothing worse than travelling and running low on funds. To prevent any financial scares, you should anticipate all of your traveling expenses. First pick a location. If you know you want a sun and sand holiday then think about budget-friendly beach destinations like the Canary Islands, Turkey and Greece. The earlier you decide, the more likely you are to score cheap holiday deals on flights, accommodations and activities on sites like HotelsCombined. If you’re looking for steals, consider going somewhere during the off-season. For example, mid-April to mid-December is the low season in the Caribbean, which means there are huge savings and fewer tourists.

Transportation and Accommodations

These are the most costly expenses, so look for ways in which you can land great deals. Instead of using a travel agent, book everything yourself. Remember that airline ticket sales are early in the week and that it’s cheapest to fly on Saturday and Sunday is the most expensive. Instead of paying for hidden resort fees and special amenities, look into other places to stay like a vacation rental or hostel. Choosing a place away from the center of town can also save you money. When booking, take advantage comparison sites, mileage points with airlines or membership discounts with chain hotels.

Research Your Destination

If you know which attractions and sites you want to visit, evaluate whether or not you want to purchase a holiday package or do everything on your own. Weigh the pros and cons. Building your own itinerary gives you more freedom and flexibility, and there are apps that will help you keep track of everything. Plus, knowing about the area means you can skip the expensive tour groups. However, a package is convenient – everything is taken care of and you get an expert’s guidance. It comes down to your preference and how much you are willing to pay.

Keep Track of Your Money

Once you arrive at your destination money just seems to fly out of your hands. Despite having taken care of transportation, accommodations and some activities, there are all the extra expenses – and they can add up quickly. Food is among those. To cut on costs, avoid dining at major tourist spots, try street food and buy basics at the local market. At the end of each day, take note of how much money you spent and what is left. Always remember to budget some extra money for the unexpected.