12 Tips for Taking a Vacation this Summer

These days, everything costs more: gas, restaurants, groceries, hotels and the list goes on. If you want to go on vacation, first review your budget to know what is possible. This will help you live within your means, aware of all the facts. Then, make enlightened choices :

Plan ahead as much as you can to draw on special offers and discounts

Like any other project, a summer vacation requires careful planning if you want to be prepared on time.

• By booking accommodation weeks in advance, you’ll save money.
• Set aside a fixed amount each week to cover your expenses (such as gas, accommodation, food, activities, souvenirs, travel insurance and unforeseen events). You’ll have peace of mind when your vacation begins.
• If you’re travelling last minute, be open about your destination choice. Shop by price, not location, and you could track down special offers.

Use public transportation to get around

You’ll save on gas. And what could be more energizing and enjoyable than exploring a new town by biking or walking?

Be a tourist in your own town

Staying at home doesn’t mean you can’t have fun!

Many towns in Quebec have very convenient bicycle path networks. Check out the Route verte website.

Take breaks in parks you otherwise wouldn’t have time to visit. Spend a day at the nearest beach and relax under a sun umbrella while the kids play ball. Rent a stand-up paddleboard or kayak. Sometimes it takes very little to relax and disconnect from everyday life!

Travel within Quebec!

When you choose to spend your vacation in Quebec, you support the local economy while also benefiting from beautiful landscapes. Gaspésie, the Eastern Townships, Charlevoix and Québec City are just a few locations that are worth exploring. SÉPAQ parks and nature reserves are also magnificent, affordable playgrounds in the great outdoors. You can pitch a tent or sleep in ready-to-camp accommodation for a guaranteed change of scenery!

Avoid travelling to the U.S.

The current political situation has strained relations between Canada and the United States. Furthermore, the exchange rate may make your trip down south more expensive. This year, it’s best to avoid any trips to the U.S.

Book weekends rather than a long vacation stay

To spread out your budget, plan activities over several weekends rather than a full week. For example, allow yourself $100 for one weekend. If you have children, involve them in choosing the activities. This will be an excellent opportunity to make them aware of what a budget is. At the same time, you get to avoid being blamed for leaving them out of decisions!

Take a group holiday

A great way to save on your vacation is to go away with friends or family. By sharing all the expenses, you’ll save a lot of money.

Swap babysitting with friends

Ask other parents if they’d like to do a babysitting swap. Ask grandparents and other family members too. This will reduce your expenses and make people happy!

Take advantage of affordable or free activities

A multitude of free activities are available throughout the summer. Many towns offer passports that give you access to a wide range of activities for several days.

Use your rewards points

Use your credit card rewards points to purchase attraction or entertainment tickets.

Prepare your meals

If your accommodation has a small fridge or kitchen, eat in as often as you can rather than going to a restaurant. When heading out, take snacks with you.

Avoid vacations on credit!

Never give in to the temptation to leave for vacation at all costs. In the current context, it could be very expensive, especially if you decide to pay for your vacation on credit. You could end up paying a large debt when you return.

In short, in order to enjoy your vacation, the best thing to do is to prepare and plan your summer based on your means. Remember, the most important thing is to share moments with those you love. And for that, there is no need to go far!