For some, winter is full of skiing and snowboarding trips, skating, sledding, and cozy nights around the fire. But for others, the cold, dark months of the year can bring on a darker mood. Many factors contribute to the winter blues such as gloomier days and a lack of sunlight, which can affect everything from your sleep to your hormones.
So, what can you do to beat the blues? Consistent exercise routine, a diet consisting of lots of fresh, healthy foods, and maybe even a little time sitting in front of a light therapy device can bring relief. Additionally, having a trip to look forward to can be an exciting way to beat the winter blues. Whether you’re planning a quick weekend getaway or a full-blown vacation trip, time away from winter can brighten your mood.
Destination ideas include sunny spots like Florida, Hawaii, California, or perhaps even a Caribbean cruise. But, they’re not the only options. After all, ski resorts get plenty of sunshine too, and in the northwest, they are plentiful, budget-friendly, and easy to get to.
Here are 10 tips to help with planning your winter escape:
- Plan Far in Advance: The sooner you begin planning your winter getaway, the sooner you can start saving. Sit down with a financial coach to make a plan to start saving up for your trip. You can even set up a separate savings account for trip travel and start building your budget with every deposit you make. Be sure to set money aside for trip’s unplanned expenses too (they’re bound to come up.)
- Consider Travel Insurance: No one can blame you if you are hesitant to add another expense after paying for airfare, hotels, meals and activities. But, if you can’t afford to lose the non-refundable money you’ve paid, travel insurance can be a smart investment.
- Choose Your Destination: Look for locations that offer affordable accommodations and activities. Consider lesser-known gems where you can still experience the beauty of winter (or sunny beaches and fun on the water) without the high price tag.
- Timing is Everything: Look for off-peak periods to snag the best deals on accommodations, flights, and activities. Mid-week stays are often more affordable than weekends and a trip just before or after holiday seasons can save you bank.
- Not All Accommodations Are Created Equal: Lots of us would choose a five-star hotel every time if we could afford it. However, it pays to look into alternatives like rental properties, cabins, or vacation homes. Websites like Airbnb and Vrbo offer a range of choices, allowing you to find a cozy spot that suits both your preferences and your budget.
- Look for Budget-Friendly Options: Many destinations offer free or low-cost winter adventures, such as snowshoeing, ice skating, or hiking. Check for local events like winter festivals or community gatherings to add a touch of seasonal charm to your getaway without spending a fortune.
- Free Your Inner Chef: While many of us might choose the best restaurant we can find, saving money by cooking for yourself can be both budget-friendly and fun. Look for accommodations with kitchen facilities, local farmers markets can be a great source of fresh, interesting ingredients.
- Bundle Up: Take advantage of travel bundles and discounts to maximize your savings. Many websites offer package deals that include accommodation, transportation, and activities at a discounted rate.
- There’s More than One Way to Get There: Cut down on transportation costs by opting for budget-friendly travel options. Consider driving if your destination is reasonably close and the roads are safe. If prefer to fly, book your tickets well in advance and explore budget airlines for potential savings.
- Enjoy Your Trip: Be sure to relax and try to leave your day-to-day concerns at home so you can enjoy your time away.