Who doesn’t need a vacation!? But if your bank balance is telling you to skip the trip and source props to mock up some dreamy Instagram pics instead, think again. It doesn’t have to be that way.

With a little research and smart planning, there are other ways to escape on a dream getaway without emptying your wallet.

Here are four ways to keep your costs down and still experience a memorable vacation to somewhere beautiful.

1. Find low-cost flights for a US city break

Getting a cheap flight is a big first step to an affordable vacation. Powerful travel search engines like Skyscanner, Kayak, Expedia, and Google Flights can be your best friends here – especially when they have an option to choose 'Travel Anywhere’, ‘Any Destination’ or ‘Explore Everywhere’.

Flights to cities in the US are frequently among the cheapest options due to shorter distances and higher volume. For instance, you can often find cheap flights to destinations like San Francisco (around $130-$200 roundtrip) or Fort Lauderdale (approx. $280-$350 roundtrip) during off-peak times.

If you live anywhere near the border, flying out of Seattle can be a cost-saving gateway to the rest of the US, as internal flights can be good value. Just make sure you factor in the expense of getting to Seattle-Tacoma International Airport and remember to start your travel insurance coverage from the beginning of your journey.

2. Snag a package deal to Mexico, Central America or the Caribbean

You know how you can bundle your phone, Internet and TV? The same cost-saving principle applies to travel. Often you can wrap the costs of your flight, resort, meals and fruity tropical drinks into one decent package price.

Mexico, Central American and The Caribbean Islands are common destinations for all-inclusive package deals offered by websites like Sunwing Vacations, Funjet Vacations, CheapCaribbean.com, CheapTickets, and All Inclusive Outlet (which includes cruises).

Agent sites like SellOffVacations also offer last-minute deals which can save you a lot of cash. Keep an eye on their social media channels for their latest discount deals. If you’re looking for the chance to laze around a pool without the stress of choosing where to eat a dinner, this kind of trip is for you!

Looking to customize your own vacation package? Check out BCAA’s Trip Planner – where you can find the best value flights, hotels and transport and bundle them together.

3. Live the good life on a shoestring budget in Southeast Asia

Yes, long-haul flights can be pricier. However, if you can find a flight that fits your budget, once you've arrived in Southeast Asia, you can eat, drink and entertain yourself more at a much lower cost than you can at home.

For instance, if you use the website BudgetYourTrip, which helps price up your daily travel expenses, you’ll only spend this much (all in $CAD) on food, transport and accommodation:

• Thailand — average daily spend $29
• Cambodia — average daily spend $29
• Vietnam — average daily spend $30

And if you do your research, it’s not like you’re sacrificing the quality of your trip. You’ll find breathtaking beaches, crystal-clear waters, spectacular scenery and some of the tastiest food on earth!

4. Want to travel Europe? Hit up some budget-friendly destinations

If you’re craving a trip to Europe, fair warning. Trips across the pond from Canada’s West Coast are usually very expensive. But instead of visiting the usual EU hot spots like the UK, Italy and Greece, consider zigging while everyone else is zagging.

Check out the Balkan countries where your money can go a long way compared to more tourist-heavy spots. Beautiful under-the-radar destinations like Albania, Bulgaria, Croatia and Montenegro offer you stunning landscapes, rich culture and affordable prices.

For some context, according to BudgetYourTrip, the average daily cost accommodation, food, local transportation and sightseeing in France is $345 per day. In Montenegro, it’s $154 a day. To save even more on travel costs, look for accommodations that come with a kitchen so you can prepare meals and save on dining out.

5. Bonus booking tip: Fly when most people are at their 9-5

Avoid the weekend prices and long lineups by booking your departures during the week. Flights tend to be cheaper—and airports less busy—from Monday to Thursday. Keep an eye out for good midweek deals at YVR Travel that posts deals out of Vancouver and YYJ Travel that posts deals on flights out of Victoria.

And for even more budget travel tips, check out our blogs on Budget travel hacks for an affordable vacation and How to save money on travel this summer.

Protect your holiday budget

Remember to always check international travel advisories before you book and make sure you’re protected from additional expenses. The best way to avoid extra costs (and unexpected medical bills or stressful cancellations or early flights home) is to make sure you’re covered with travel insurance.

Bring BCAA Travel Insurance as your trusted travel partner

BCAA Travel Insurance gives you peace of mind when you’re planning your next big trip. You can get optional trip protection coverage, with instant cash payouts for travel delays, comprehensive emergency medical coverage including 24/7 Virtual Care and FREE coverage for kids – and potentially save big on unexpected hospital bills or flight cancellations.

If you’re a BCAA Member, you’ll save 10%* on BCAA Travel Insurance, so get your quote today. 

A few trips planned? Consider whether the affordability and flexibility of annual multi-trip travel insurance is for you.

There you have it: by choosing smart destinations, watching for flight deals and pouncing on affordable package offers, your next vacation can be affordable and unforgettable. Start planning your budget-friendly adventure today and happy travels!