Show Notes
Summer travel is something most of us look forward to all year.
But without a plan, it can leave you with a maxed-out credit card and a lot of financial stress to come home to. In this episode of Financial Feminist, I'm breaking down exactly how to budget for summer travel so you can enjoy your trip without the money anxiety hanging over you the whole time. I'll walk you through how to set a realistic trip cap before you ever open a flight search tab, why travel is a known predictable expense and not just a fun splurge, and how to build a sinking fund so the money is already there when it's time to book. If you’re craving a getaway this summer, I'm giving you a step-by-step framework, plus my favorite money-saving tools and practical tips, so you can travel well and come home financially intact.
*Important note: this episode was recorded in January 2026,before the increase in gas prices
My favorite tool for finding flight deals: https://going.sjv.io/c/1408818/3039272/10802
Get my Bill Breakthrough scripts: https://herfirst100k.com/bill-breakthrough
Compare offers for Auto Insurance: https://herfirst100k.com/auto
Visit https://herfirst100k.com/ffpod to get my free Travel Budgeting Spreadsheet!
See my credit card recommendations: https://herfirst100k.com/credit-cards
Intro
Why Summer Travel Feels So Expensive
Step 1: Set Your Total Trip Cap
A Budget Is Not a Killjoy
Let Flight Deals Decide Where You Go
Step 2: Break the Trip Into Real Categories
Step 3: Plan Backwards
Step 4: Cut Costs Without Ruining the Trip
Book Experiences in Advance & Pick Your Splurges
Use Credit Card Points
What to Do If You Can't Afford the Trip You Want
Travel Is Part of a Rich Life
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