The Thrifty Colorado Family’s Guide to Travel Must-Haves

Big travel plans for your family? After the plane, hotel, and transportation are paid for, many families are surprised to learn that the spending isn’t quite over. A travel budget can quickly get out of control, sometimes even before you leave for the airport. From new clothing to luggage, the cost of travel must-haves can be a large cost.

Use this guide to plan your trip by staying on budget for all the extra must-haves.

Borrow From Family and Friends

If you and your family don’t travel often, it might not make sense to go out and purchase all new travel gear. Ask an extended family member or friend if you can use their luggage. However, keep in mind that luggage can get worn, even on a single trip. You might have to replace any broken pieces should they not make it through the trip.

You could also borrow clothing from siblings or friends with a similar style. Offer to let them borrow from your wardrobe for their next big event. Family members may even lend you kids clothing items, so you don’t have to purchase brand-new wardrobes for the whole family. Even though the items aren’t brand-new, they will feel new to you and your family.

Check Out the Local Thrift Store for Travel Gear

Your local thrift store can be a great resource for budget-friendly travel gear. Whether you need new luggage, a pair of comfortable travel shoes, or a whole new wardrobe for a coastal vacation, you can find a lot of what you need at the thrift shop.

Thrift store prices are usually much cheaper than buying new. While the clothing items are used, many thrift stores do a great job of cleaning them up. Thrift stores can also be a great destination for used equipment. Take a skiing trip with gently used ski equipment, or get the kids sandcastle-making toys for a memorable vacation.

Need help finding a great thrift store? A quick ‘thrift store near me’ search can help all US residents find the best thrift stores in their areas.

Repurpose Travel Clothes

The temptation to go out and build a whole new wardrobe is common when traveling, especially when going to a new climate. While shopping for an upcoming trip can be a part of the fun of travel, you can save money by buying items that can be repurposed. For example, choose a bathing suit that you can wear on vacation but also comfortable wearing when at home. Choose colors, materials, and items that you can wear again, even after you have returned from your vacation. Neutral colors, including brown, tan, black, and white, are great for repurposing your wardrobe at a later date.

Buy in the Off-Season

Travel is more common during certain seasons, and purchasing the items you need off-season can help you save money. For example, if you’re planning a tropical vacation over the winter, wait until the end of summer to stock up on beach clothes. Stores will drop the prices to clear the shelves and make room for winter items. If you plan a ski trip to the mountains, consider waiting until spring to stock up on a ski suit or boots.

Go With a Capsule Wardrobe

Rather than buying a completely new wardrobe, consider creating a capsule wardrobe. A capsule wardrobe is a collection of clothes that can be mixed and matched to create multiple outfits. Not only can this save you money by stocking up on the essentials, but it can also limit the amount of clothes you have to pack. Fewer bags and less weight can reduce your travel costs, too. Parents will also find it easier to dress their kids when choosing items that meet the capsule wardrobe theme.

Hit the Sales Racks

Stock up on your vacation must-haves by hitting the local sales. Check out outlet stores and even sales at local thrift stores. Sale items are usually pieces still in good condition but are from last year’s season. No one will know the difference as you flaunt your new outfit on vacation. It may even be possible to score some high-luxury brands at a discount.

You might even find that many of your favorite stores have sales racks year-round. These may be items with minor imperfections or that are not selling as planned. You could also ask about any coupons or discounts. Some stores may offer a discount simply for signing up for emails.

Don’t forget that saving money on these extras may even mean affording more vacations for your family.

Keep your travel costs low by using these tips to acquire the must-haves, like luggage and a new outfit. Try to repurpose items, hit the sales racks, and find the best thrift stores in your home state. Some families may even find value in borrowing travel gear or sporting equipment from others.