This post is sponsored by Expedia.com. All thoughts and opinions are 100% our own!

I can’t believe there was a time in my life when vacations weren’t a part of my lifestyle. Even though I had a high stress job that came with a fantastic PTO benefit, I’d stay at home instead of planning a trip. It wasn’t because I didn’t want to go away. I used to be a big traveler. My father was in the military, so I’ve been all over the world. As a college student, my friends and I would hop in a car or on a plane at the drop of a dime.

When I became a mom, though, money was tight. I didn’t think I could afford it.  

Thank goodness for my husband who showed me a different way of life! He comes from a family that has always vacationed. They schedule it, save for it, and it happens every year. This practice has completely changed my life. 

There is such a change in me and the way that I approach my work knowing that I’ll be able to rejuvenate at some point. Vacationing helps me to slow down and remember what’s important as a mom, a wife, and in my work. I’m grateful to be able to get away.

That’s why I’m a huge advocate for families going on vacation, even when funds feel tight. I’m not suggesting that you go into debt, but over the years I’ve learned that where there’s a will there’s a way. You can afford to travel!

1. Go local.

You don’t have to go far away to take a vacation. Obviously, a European trip sounds amazing. However, if you can’t afford it, why not check out that sweet little German-inspired town that’s 3 hours away from you? One of my most favorite get-aways with my daughter was when we took a train an hour away to the beach and stayed for a couple of days. You don’t have to go big in order to get away from home.

2. Take a short trip.

Like I mentioned about my favorite trip with my daughter to the beach where we went away for a few days, shorter trips still count as vacation. Just because some folks go on two or three week trips, that doesn’t mean that you have to if you can’t afford it. Think about taking off on a Friday or Monday so that you can take long weekend trip. Or take a few days in the middle of the week. The best part of that plan is that prices for area attractions are often lower during the week, too! 

3. Be flexible.

If you’re not able to be flexible financially, but you can be flexible with time, you can always find a last-minute deal on a vacation. Whether you’re looking to go far away or stay close to home, Expedia.com can save you money and share activities at every price point! 

This post is sponsored by Expedia.com.