TruWest Credit Union’s Rachel Caballero sees it all the time. Members returning from their dream vacation glowing with memories, but grimacing at the maxed‑out credit cards.
Caballero — TruWest’s designated development educator and its community development and PR manager — said there’s a solution. It just takes the right plan.
According to WalletHub, 35% of Americans say a “good vacation” is worth going into debt — and nearly half worry about their credit card balance while they’re on the trip.
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Caballero offered these tips:
The vacation budget that works
The first step is simple: set a realistic budget before booking the trip. Make sure this is a “real” number.
“A lot of people think they’re living paycheck to paycheck, but when we sit down and look at the numbers, they’re actually just spending willy‑nilly,” she said.
Usually, her clients spend too much on eating out and other nonessentials. In that case, she finds small ways to save — negotiating a cheaper internet plan, cutting back on dining out, or landing a side gig.
Caballero suggests setting up a dedicated travel savings account and automatic transfers from each paycheck, even if it’s $20 or $50 at a time. Name the account something motivating, like Italy 2027 or Detroit in August.
When the time comes, the money is already there. There is no debt hangover or freaking out when you get home.
She offered another tip: plan meals and activities ahead of time. Trade convenience for affordability. Hotel dining is one of the biggest money sucks.
Instead, scout restaurants and deals before the trip, she said. Groupon is a great source for discounted meals and activities, and even hotels. Dining locally is a way to discover a neighborhood bakery, a quirky museum, a sunset kayak rental, without paying full price.
Retailers know that souvenirs are emotional, spur-of-the-moment purchases. That’s why a hoodie that costs $28 at home is $68 in a gift shop. Caballero puts a twist on it: buy the memory later.
“If you want a Hawaii shirt, order it on Amazon when you get home,” she says. “You’ll still remember the trip, but without the markup.”
