Summer is right around the corner, and that means sunny skies, road trips, and well-deserved relaxation. Whether you’re dreaming of a weekend in the mountains or a beach vacation with the whole family, smart financial planning can make your getaway both memorable and stress-free.

Instead of relying on last-minute credit card charges or personal loans, use this simple, step-by-step savings plan to build your vacation fund and enjoy the summer without financial regret.

Step 1: Estimate the Total Cost of Your Trip

Before you can save, you need a clear idea of how much your trip will cost. Start with the basics:

Transportation:

• Gas or airfare
• Rental car or ridesharing
• Parking fees

Lodging:

• Hotel, vacation rental, or campground
• Resort or cleaning fees

Meals:

• Daily meal estimates (dining out vs. groceries)
• Treats and snacks

Activities:

• Tours, museums, amusement parks
• Gear rentals (kayaks, bikes, snorkels)
• Event tickets

Extras and Emergencies:

• Souvenirs and gifts
• Tips or service fees
• Emergency fund buffer (always a good idea)

Add everything up and aim for a slightly rounded number to give yourself some cushion. For example, if your vacation comes out to $1,820, try to save $2,000.

Step 2: Set a Realistic Savings Timeline

Once you know how much you need, divide that number by the number of weeks or months between now and your trip. This will show you how much you need to save regularly to reach your goal.

Example:
If you’re planning a $2,000 trip in 4 months, you’ll need to set aside $500 per month or about $125 per week.

If that amount seems out of reach, consider adjusting your travel plans, cutting some extras, or pushing your trip out by a few weeks.

Step 3: Create a Dedicated Travel Savings Account

Keeping your vacation savings separate from your regular spending money helps reduce the temptation to dip into it. Consider opening a secondary savings account, or sub-account,  with Members 1st and labeling it something fun like "Summer Trip" or "Beach Fund." To learn how, click here.

With your funds in their own account, it is easier to track your progress and stay focused.

Step 4: Automate Your Contributions

One of the easiest ways to stay consistent is to set up automatic transfers from your checking account to your travel savings account. You can set it for payday, weekly, or monthly, whichever fits your budget best. To learn how to setup recurring automatic transfers in your members 1st account, click here.

This “set it and forget it” approach means you are paying your future self first. It also takes away the pressure of manually saving, especially when life gets busy.

Step 5: Cut Small Expenses for Big Impact

Look for short-term savings in your daily routine to help fund your trip faster.

• Skip takeout once a week and redirect that money.
• Pause a streaming subscription for the summer.
• Host game nights at home instead of dining out.

Even $10 or $20 saved here and there can add up to hundreds over a few months.

Step 6: Avoid Last-Minute Debt Traps

When time is tight and excitement is high, it is tempting to just charge the last few expenses, but no one wants to be paying for a vacation after it ends!

Tips:

• Finalize your travel and accommodation plans early to secure better rates.
• Book refundable options so you are not stuck if things change.
• Build a 10% buffer into your savings to handle surprise costs.

Step 7: Enjoy Your Vacation!

By planning and being diligent, you will not only make your summer vacation happen, but you will also enjoy it knowing it is fully funded. No guilt, no stress, and no post-trip regret!

Start today by estimating your travel budget and setting up your summer savings account with Members 1st Credit Union. Your future self will thank you, preferably while lounging in a hammock.