The Less Frequently Individuals Travel, the More They Are Likely to Overspend When They Finally Escape
“Yes, we’re quite thrilled,” stated the woman grasping the cart laden with four large suitcases for just two people. “This is our first genuine vacation in four years.”
Evidently, they required a significantly larger wardrobe than I did for their trip to Los Cabos, a location that seldom falls below 75F degrees. Yet, extra baggage charges weren’t the main issue. I calculated based on current airfare and where they mentioned staying, concluding that their infrequent getaway probably set them back at least $5,000, likely much more.
“We reunite with our old friends every four years at some beach resort. We always claim we’ll venture somewhere else on our own in between, but there always seems to be something else that requires our money. So it rarely happens. Thankfully this one is planned, which forces us to leave the house and take off.”
Goodness. I was merely overhearing this dialogue while in the customs line at the airport, so I didn’t interrupt, but I had countless questions I would have loved to pose. Like what are you using all your money for that permits only a vacation every four years? Why not just take a shorter trip each year within driving distance? Or choose a different destination that costs a fraction of Los Cabos?
What do you do with all that accumulated vacation time from your job? Stay home and watch television?
Depending on the study referenced, the average American couple on vacation spends between $3,800 and $5,200, with most trips lasting a week or less. To me, that seems like an astounding sum of money. Most of those average couples could take two or three vacations with that budget if they were simply more astute about discovering great travel deals and making better choices. Even looking at standard vacation packages, there are far better deals available.
More Travel on a Limited Budget
No individual who truly enjoys traveling would postpone their escape for four years. As I’ve journeyed around the globe, I’ve encountered people with very modest incomes who are on the road for weeks. I’ve met bartenders, social workers, and teachers who have explored dozens of countries. The difference is, they’re not lodged in places like this:
I do stay in such establishments occasionally as part of my travel writing job, covered by someone else, but there have only been a handful of instances when I’ve opened my wallet for them. Like most unconventional travelers, I know how to use a calculator and I understand the importance of avoiding the crowds.
I don’t believe that the way “most people” travel is the smartest approach. If a million people are willing to pay $600 a night for a hotel (in Los Cabos, which wouldn’t even be a luxurious option), then I’m going to redeem points or locate the place where I can enjoy a comparable experience for $150 a night or less instead.
Those hotels aren’t hard to find. They might not feature six pools with a swim-up bar and rooms larger than your apartment, but they can be quite pleasant if you’re in the right location. In the World’s Cheapest Destinations book, I’ve highlighted numerous spots where that price is actually on the higher end. Even in neighboring Mexico, I’ve frequently paid under $50 for a cozy hotel room with a private restroom, daily maid service, and air conditioning. This was my $36 accommodation in Playa del Carmen, complete with a swimming pool:
Speaking of Mexico, selecting Mazatlan or Puerto Escondido will significantly reduce your beach vacation budget compared to the premier resort areas. Venture inland and your budget can plummet by another third or half. Travel to Guatemala or Honduras, and costs will drop once more. Reduce the star rating of your hotel, and before you know it, that $5,000 will allow two individuals to travel for a month or more instead of just six nights of sunbathing and paying for overpriced excursions.
I completely understand the allure of simply lounging and unwinding for a while. I’ve personally spent my money on an all-inclusive resort to satisfy the family. Moreover, after winning stays at such resorts in Puerto Vallarta and Ixtapa from travel writing contests, I was happy to accept. We had a fantastic time, and few things bring me more joy than an uninterrupted open bar.
However, if I had to wait four years to experience a vacation just to enjoy that kind of isolated experience? No thanks. I’d prefer to vacation eight times and cut back on the marble and infinity pools. Savvy travelers possess a different perspective and a readiness to get away regardless of the situation.