Budget Like a Boss
- Ellen Holley
- May 13
- 2 min read

✈️ Budget Like a Boss: How to Plan for Your Dream Vacation (Without Blowing All Your $$$)
Let’s be real — you probably already have a vacation spot in mind. 🌴☀️
(I mean, who isn’t daydreaming about crystal-clear water and tropical drinks right now?)
But here's the kicker: most people don't have a real budget for their trip when they start planning. 😬
And guess what? According to the Detroit Free Press, 68% of Americans overspend on vacation because they didn’t plan their money right.
That’s a big oof.
As your favorite travel advisor (hi, that’s me! 👋), I want to help you travel smarter, not harder — and definitely without that post-trip “What did I just do to my bank account?!” feeling. 🫠
📝 Quick Questions Before You Book:
👉 How do you decide how much you should spend?
👉 Where does all your travel money actually go?
👉 How do you avoid blowing your whole budget halfway through Day 2?
Don’t worry — we’ve got answers. Let’s break it down so your next trip is smooth sailing! 🚢✨
🎯 Step 1: Set a Realistic Overall Budget
First thing’s first: How much should you spend overall?
A simple rule of thumb: Budget about 10% of your annual income for travel.
(Most Americans spend somewhere between 5%–15%.)
⭐ Pro Tip: Already have a big dream trip in mind? You might want to save on smaller trips now so you can go big later!
🌎 Step 2: Know Your Destination
You’re already daydreaming about it, right? 😍
Cool.Now it's time to get real about it. Different destinations come with very different price tags — and your travel advisor (that’s me again 🙋♀️) can help you figure out a realistic number for your specific dream spot.
💵 Step 3: Split Up That Budget (The Fun Way)
Here’s where the magic happens. 🪄
Instead of winging it, follow our easy Stay Salty Travel Budget Rule:
(Spoiler alert: it's a twist on the classic 50/30/20 rule — but better.)
✨ 50% = Transportation + Accommodations✈️
Flights, ferries, trains, hotels, resorts — the basics to get you there and stay comfy.
✨ 30% = Food + Activities🍕
All meals, drinks, snacks, excursions, tours, event tickets — the fun stuff!
✨ 20% = Incidentals🎒
Resort fees, baggage fees, souvenirs, pre-trip shopping (new swimsuits are a need not a want)
✨ 10% = Emergency Fund🆘
Always. Always. Always. Set aside a little emergency cushion (and yes, get travel insurance — it’s a non-negotiable).
Also: Guess high. If you think something will cost $100, budget for $120.
Trust me, Future You will thank you. 🫶
🎉 Ready to Start Dreaming AND Budgeting?
By now, you should have a pretty good handle on how to budget like a pro. 🏆
But if you're feeling a little 🤯, don’t stress — that’s why I’m here! Your vacation consult is the perfect time to talk about your travel dreams and your budget reality.
Let’s make your next vacation fun, fabulous, and 100% stress-free. 🏝️

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