Bank Harlingen: 7 Summer Budget-Friendly Tips from Your Credit Union

We understand the importance of making the most of your summer while staying financially savvy when you bank Harlingen. That’s why we’ve put together these seven budget-friendly tips to help you have an amazing summer without stressing over your wallet. Check out what our local federal credit union, Harlingen branch had to say!

Start with a Vacation Budget

Vacations can take a while to plan and if your finances are not in order, it could take a bit longer. Set your budget early and create accommodations for your vacation and check out more possible ways for create a budget savvy tips for your vacation. You can plan for your vacation budget by: 

• Identifying fixed costs 
• Estimating variable expenses 
• Setting aside a vacation emergency fund
• Prioritizing experiences

Plan Ahead of Time

Taking the time to plan for your vacation has its fair share of advantages. You can do so by taking time to narrow down how you can plan for your vacation and see what you can do to save money in the process. Plan for your vacation within months in advance and check out different ways you can save. Plan for your vacation by : 

• Destination selection 
• Time of travel
• Booking transportation 
• Package deals 

Choose Budget-Friendly Vacation Destinations

When considering planning for your budget, there are a few things to keep in mind. Don’t just configure the prices of the travel expenses but consider the place you will be traveling to. You can budget around the place of interest and not only find potential savings around your vacation but plan more for your budget. Here are a few tips in order to plan for you vacation destinations : 

• Cost of living 
• Cultural events 
• Visa and entry fees 
• Exchange rates 
• Local transportation

Choose Budget-Friendly Accommodations

Once you find your budget and plan around the destination, you will also need to consider a place to stay. A few ways you can find better solutions is by looking at online platforms that offer short term vacation rentals, and find hotel deals online or by phone.

Do Your Own Driving

In terms of transportation, this is also a factor that you must consider when traveling to a new place. While traveling is important as the destination itself, be sure to plan for those accommodations and check out the best deals that are more viable for your trip. Always configure options for your destination such as: 

• Flying 
• Road trips
• Renting a car

Consider Inexpensive Activities

Not only should you only consider the place and or travel expenses of your trip but the expenses towards the more fun parts of your trip as well. Everyone likes to spend while on vacation, so when planning to spend, consider a budget just for spending and other expenses for your trip. You can plan for budget-friendly activities such as:

• Nature walks and hiking 
• Local markets 
• Museums and cultural centers 
• Self-guided tours 
• Workshops and classes 

Use VFCU Mobile Banking

VFCU is changing the way you do mobile banking! With VFCU, you can receive lots of member benefits just for signing up for their mobile banking app! Getting the mobile banking app is easy and doesn’t hurt your wallet in the process. You can get member benefits such as, free credit scores (for first time signers), and more! 

Bank Harlingen

Summer fun doesn’t have to come with a hefty price tag. By following these budget-friendly tips from VFCU can enjoy all the season has to offer while keeping your finances in check. Remember, a little planning and creativity can go a long way in making this summer both enjoyable and affordable when you bank Harlingen.