Summer is the perfect time to create unforgettable memories with your family but without a solid budget, vacation costs can sneak up on you. At TFNB  Your Bank for Life, we’re here to help you plan smart, save confidently, and enjoy your summer getaway stress-free.


Why You Need a Travel Budget

Between hotels, gas, flights, food, and fun, the cost of summer travel adds up quickly. You don’t want to skip that spontaneous late-night ice cream run—but you do want to plan for it. Without a budget, it’s easy to overspend and come home to financial regret, or worse, lingering credit card debt. A clear spending plan helps you stay in control while still leaving room for joy and spontaneity. Read on for tips that will help you stay on track.


5 Easy Steps to Budgeting for Summer Travel

Creating a budget doesn’t have to be complicated. Follow these five steps to start planning your vacation the smart way:

1. Set Your Spending Limit

Decide how much you’re willing (and able) to spend overall. Then break it down into categories: travel, lodging, meals, activities, and extras. Be realistic about your priorities and costs.

2. Open a Travel-Specific Savings Account

Separate your vacation savings from your day-to-day funds. This makes it easier to track progress and avoid dipping into your trip money for unrelated expenses.

3. Automate Your Savings

Set up automatic transfers from your checking account to your travel savings account. This hands-off approach keeps your travel fund growing with minimal effort.

4. Get the Whole Family Involved

Let kids participate in planning and saving for the trip—it’s a great opportunity to teach money management. Encourage them to set trip savings goals, like an extra special activity or souvenir, and then teach them how to save toward it.  

5. Track and Adjust as You Go

Keep an eye on your spending before and during the trip. Use mobile apps to manage your accounts in real time and stay within your set limits. It's also wise to contact your bank before you travel and alert them that you are out of your usual location so as to not have your card flagged for suspicious activity and potentially frozen.

 

Need a Quick Refresh on Budgeting?

If it’s been a while since you reviewed the basics—or if you’re new to budgeting—TFNB offers a free 5-minute budgeting module through our Knowledge Center. It’s a fast, helpful overview of how to build a solid financial plan, whether you’re saving for a trip or just trying to get ahead.

It’s a great starting point before diving into your summer travel budget, and it can help you feel more confident about making smart money decisions.

 

These resources are designed to empower you with the knowledge to make informed financial decisions—not just for summer, but for life.


Travel Smart with TFNB—Tools to Help You Stay on Track

You deserve a vacation that doesn’t come with financial worry. With thoughtful planning and help from TFNB’s financial tools, you can travel with confidence, knowing you’re in control of your money.

We offer several simple, powerful tools to help you plan and save for your next trip:

  • Personal Savings Accounts: Set aside funds specifically for your summer getaway with accounts that are easy to manage and come with no monthly maintenance fees (when minimum balances are maintained). This is a great way to keep your travel money separate from everyday spending.

  • Edge Ahead Savings: Boost your savings faster with up to 0.75% APY on balances up to $100,000 when paired with a qualifying checking account. It's a smart option for families who want to grow their vacation fund faster without taking on risk.with up to 0.75% APY when paired with a qualifying checking account.

  • TFNB Mobile App: Stay in control no matter where your travels take you. The app lets you monitor balances, transfer funds, pay bills, and even deposit checks—right from your phone. It’s your pocket-sized budget tracker for the road.

  • Kids Life Savings Club: Turn vacation planning into a learning opportunity. This savings account is designed for children and offers fun incentives that reward regular deposits. It’s a great way to get kids engaged in saving and help them feel involved in the family’s travel goals.

Don’t Let Vacation Debt Follow You Home

Overspending on vacation can lead to financial stress long after the fun ends. By sticking to a plan and using the right tools, you’ll protect your family’s financial well-being and set yourself up for success even after the sun starts to set on summer.


Start Planning Today—Reach Out to a Friendly Banker.

Visit a TFNB Your Bank for Life location to learn more about our savings options and digital banking tools. 

Let’s make this summer one to remember—for all the right reasons.