Plan the Vacation. Keep the Peace. Protect the Budget.

Here’s the truth: I love a good vacation.

I also know how fast a “budget-friendly” family trip can spiral into something that costs more than a month’s rent and leaves everyone exhausted.

The goal isn’t just to go somewhere. It’s to come back feeling recharged, not regretful—financially and emotionally.

So today, I’m giving you my favorite tools and mindset shifts to help you plan a vacation that supports your joy and your budget.

✈️ Step 1: Be Real About What You Can Afford

Before you book a thing, know your limits. Pull up your recent transactions and take a quick look at how you’ve been spending.

💡 Need help? Use my free ChatGPT Spending Analysis Cheat Sheet to get a fast snapshot of your spending trends.

📥 Download the cheat sheet here

🧳 Step 2: Plan Around Priorities, Not Pressure

Social media will try to convince you that summer isn’t complete without luxury beach resorts, matching outfits, and excursions that require a personal loan.

Ignore it.

What matters most to your family?

Game night in a cabin? Long drives with good snacks? Visiting cousins across state lines?

Build the trip around your values—connection, exploration, rest—not someone else’s aesthetic.

🍽 Step 3: Cut Costs Where You Won’t Feel Them

Here are some of my favorite swaps:

💬 Step 4: Talk About the Budget—Out Loud

Whether you're traveling with a partner, friends, or kids, talk about the money. Set shared expectations early so nobody feels resentful mid-trip.

Try language like:

“We want this trip to feel good while we’re on it—and after. Let’s plan something we can enjoy now and afford later.”

✈️ P.S. Want to Travel Smarter, Not Just Cheaper?

If you're ready to level up your vacation planning (and maybe score a few travel deals you didn’t know were possible), here are a few of my favorite Instagram accounts to follow for travel hacking and affordable family adventures:

📍@travelmomsquad – Realistic tips from moms who travel often and do it smart
📍@moneywithkatie – Great breakdowns of credit card points, travel perks, and maximizing your money
📍@thepointsguy – The OG for using credit card rewards to upgrade your experience without upgrading your costs

And if you’ve ever wondered what card I use for nearly every travel expense?

💳 My absolute favorite is the Chase Sapphire card. It’s helped me book flights, hotels, and car rentals with points—while still earning more every time I swipe.