This has probably been the longest time we have spent indoors without the possibility of travelling. What we would give to be on holiday! However, with a glimmer of hope on the horizon in the form of level 1 which has unlocked interprovincial travel you can now start preparing your getaway.
Here are some handy tips to help you kick back and relax on a budget.
Create a budget beforehand
The idea of throwing caution to the wind and hitting the road the same day you have the idea of a holiday is something that can only be done in movies. The reality is, planning for a holiday in advance can save you from coming back with money problems instead of good memories.
Aim to book your holiday in advance by planning how much you will be willing to spend on accommodation, transport costs, food and entertainment. A handy tip to keep in mind is to look for deals on apps such as Bookings.com or travel sites. Don't forget to leave some room in your budget for emergencies that may pop up.
Travel before the rush
A rookie mistake that most people make is to travel to holiday destinations when everyone else is going. While there may be an upside to this, such as meeting up with friends and going to places that have an entertaining atmosphere attached to them, it can be heavy on the pockets.
Do your research on when it will be the ideal time to travel to your holiday destination. Due to the pandemic, you may find that most locations have reduced their prices which can be beneficial to you. Booking beforehand on off-peak seasons can see you saving a couple of Rands.
Split the costs with a loved one
It may not be hard to find someone who will be willing to make the great escape with you. Just make sure that you ask them in advance so that they can get their finances in order. Tagging a friend, partner or family member along with you and splitting the costs can make the trip more affordable than travelling alone. Always remember to stick to the set COVID-19 guidelines to avoid getting into trouble with the law.
Cook your own meals
While ordering take-out is much more tempting than having to cook your food, it can be an expense that can easily take a huge bite into your budget. Before you know it, you are exceeding the set budget. Cooking your meals can be fun as you can set the mood and take your time since there is no rush to go anywhere.
Make sure that the important things are sorted
Create a checklist of the important things that you need to check off before jetting off for your holiday. Check if your life cover and insurance premiums are up to date, the bills are paid and that you have switched off all the necessary lights and taps to avoid coming back to an exorbitant bill.
