Guest post from Asheritah of One Thing Alone
Are you looking for a cheap weekend getaway before the busyness of the holidays sets in? Here's how my husband and I went on "vacation" for less than $2 and had a blast:
1. We Stayed Local to Save Time and Gas
Although our total vacation cost was less than $2, we originally started with a budget of $250 for a two-night vacation. Even with a $250 budget, we knew would would need to get creative and stay locally.
I asked friends for local recommendations and settled on a nearby national state park. Staying local meant we saved on transportation and maximized our limited time frame. And due to our fuel-efficient Corolla, we got great mileage on our short drive. It's a win-win.
Total spent on fuel: $14.50
2. We Searched For Amazing Lodging Deals
During my online search for local vacation destinations, I found a resort offering a free 3-day/2-night stay.
Though I was suspicious at first, I called the number provided and was greeted by a courteous customer service rep who confirmed the deal if I sat through a 2-hour, no-obligation presentation. I agreed!
Total spent on lodging = $0
3. We Packed Our Own Food
The cabin we stayed in had a fully-functional kitchen, complete with fridge, stove, microwave, pots, pans, and dishes.
Since I knew this ahead of time, I packed cold cuts, tomatoes, cereal, milk, and leftovers. We also enjoyed homemade brownies, my mom's baklava (both of which I packed from home), and ice cream on the ranch as desserts.
Unfortunately, I forgot to pack water, so we ended up paying a premium for two gallons of water. Lesson learned.
Total spent on food = $13
4. We Enjoyed Simple Entertainment
Since we were saving on housing, transportation, and fuel, I wanted to splurge on activities we wouldn’t normally do.
We rented a canoe (which was a first for my husband) and we planned to go horseback riding, but the stable had to cancel for whatever reason. So instead, we hiked the trails, went mountain biking, played ping pong, table pool, Scrabble, watched America's Ninja Warrior, went star-gazing, and swam in the pool and the lake.
We also had LOTS of good conversations about what we want our lives to look like after we pay off the house. Sometimes it's good to remember what we’re aiming for so that we can stay on track.
Total spent on activities = $24
5. We Asked for Extras
Remember earlier, when I call the resort’s customer service number to inquire about the free 3-day/2-night stay? Well, when I was on the phone with them, I asked if there were any additional perks.
They quickly offered to throw in an extra $50 gas card if we attended the presentation that weekend!! Done and done!
Total SAVINGS = $50
After we factored in the FREE $50 gas card, our vacation cost us less than $2!
While it wasn’t the most spectacular getaway we’ve experienced, it definitely was a lot of fun to spend time together without breaking the bank. And it brought us into the homestretch to fulfill our dream of financial independence.
Saving money doesn’t mean depriving yourself of fun experiences. With a little work and a lot of creativity, you can enjoy the best of both worlds: a tight budget AND a great vacation!
Asheritah is a writer, speaker, and blogger who helps overwhelmed women find joy in Jesus through her blog One Thing Alone. There she offers written encouragement, short video devotionals, and beautiful Scripture art. She'd love to share a streusel blueberry muffin and hear your story there.
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