How to budget based on your holiday

Here are tips on how to approach budgeting for different holidays based on your financial situation.

The coastal holiday

Sun, sand and swimming can do wonders to boost your mood. Beach accommodation options range from luxurious beachfront resorts to self-catering accommodation, so consider what you’re able to afford and what you want out of the experience.

Getting there: Planning your transportation expenses, whether by car or plane, is key. If you’re lucky enough to live within 3–4 hours of the beach, you’re likely to drive, so your transport budget needs to cater for fuel and road tolls, but remember to have your insurance up to date in case you have an issue on the road. If you live inland, you’ve got the option to fly, so consider the cost of airfare and how you’ll be getting around while at your destination.

Where you’ll stay: Accommodation will likely take up a big portion of your budget. Soaking up the sun is free, but the roof over your head probably won’t be. When you’re considering accommodation, think about where you want to be located, how much space you need and what you need to have included.

Top tip: Self-catering accommodation vs staying in a hotel or at a resort will help cut down on dining costs as you can prepare meals for yourself. You also won’t be spending money on tips, drinks and other convenience amenities that hotels offer.

Having fun: Include spending money for nights out and day trips. There’s so much to experience in coastal areas, but activities, dining and drinks out can add up quickly.

The bush break

If you’re looking to connect with nature, there’s plenty of options for wild adventures in South Africa’s nature reserves and game parks. Spotting wildlife is priceless, but there are plenty of considerations that could be costly if you’re not prepared.

Getting there: Many of the best bush breaks are situated remotely; therefore, the average person’s budget would include driving to get there and the road tolls. Also remember that you might be visiting a malaria area and you’ll need special medication to protect you.

Where you’ll stay: There are plenty of choices that cater for every wallet, from luxury lodges to self-catering accommodation and tented camps. Remember that you’ll also probably have to pay conservation/park fees, which will add to your costs.

Top tip: Consider going out of season and/or opting for a package deal that includes your meals and game drives to make it more economical.

Having fun: Once there, if you want to go on safari, you need to either have your own vehicle or pay for game drives. Similarly, if you want to do a walking tour or animal interaction, that’s extra, so factor it in before you go so it’s not an unexpected expense.

The cross-border getaway

Visiting a neighbouring country can be a fun and unique experience that also offers cultural immersion. Plus, depending on where you’re located, it might be a quicker and easier holiday option. For example, Gaborone, Botswana, is less than 5 hours away from Johannesburg, and Maputo, Mozambique, is about 2.5 hours away from Nelspruit.

Getting there: Transport considerations include either fuel and road toll costs for driving or air tickets for flights. There are tour options that will include the transport to get there. Check what the visa requirements are and how much they cost. Also factor in the currency exchange, and if you’re driving, remember your vehicle cross border letter.

Where to stay: Hotels and lodges are likely to be more reliable options or consider a booking agency to help you find accommodation deals and packages. Remember that some lodges have local and international rates, and South Africa still falls under international, so it will be more expensive to stay there. Also consider the location of your stay in terms of proximity to the border and medical care.

Having fun: Decide beforehand what you want to experience in the area or whether there are certain activities that you want to explore. As far as you can, try booking these before you go. This way, you create provision for it in your budget and won’t be as affected by the exchange rate.

Top tip: Look out for travel specials in the off season and check whether your accommodation comes with complimentary or discounted access to attractions.

General budgeting tips for any getaway

• Set a budget and stick to it.  
• Have a plan of what you want to do, know how much it will cost and make provision for it.  
• Compare prices and look for specials.
• Look out for what’s not included and what the extras are that you have to pay for.  
• Consider loyalty programmes and see whether you can’t use rewards programme points.

_{Disclaimer: This article is solely intended for information. It does not constitute financial, tax or investment advice or recommendation. Please speak to a financial advisor or registered financial professional before making any financial decision(s).}

_{Standard Bank, its subsidiaries or holding company, or any subsidiary of the holding company and all of its subsidiaries make no warranties or representations (implied or otherwise) as to the accuracy, completeness or fitness for purpose of the information provided in this article or that it is free from errors or omissions.}