How You Can Afford a Spectacular Summer Vacation ...

Unless your parents are giving you money, you can't take a spectacular summer vacation unless you have a job and money. Decide how much you need for your vacation, and then decide how much to save each week. Once you get your paycheck, pay yourself first by setting aside cash for your trip.

Don’t keep vacation funds in the same account as bill money. Open a designated savings account, preferably with an online bank so the money isn't easily accessible. Shop around for a high-yielding account. If you can get a higher interest rate, you'll earn more off your deposits and grow your account faster.

A summer vacation fund isn’t going to grow unless you put cash in the account. Since saving money is easier said than done, automate your savings. Your employer might offer direct deposit. If so, direct deposit a percentage of your earnings into your savings account. Or set up automatic transfers from your checking to your savings account on specific days of the month to ensure you're putting money in your account.

You don't have to sell all your belongings to afford a spectacular summer vacation. But if you have clothes, shoes or electronics taking up space in your closets or room, you can unload these items for cash. Have a yard sale, take these items to a consignment shop or sell online.

Sometimes, money can fall out the sky. If you receive free money, such as a graduation gift, a birthday gift or even a work bonus, save this money for your summer vacation. Free money gives your account a big boost, making it easier to hit your savings goals.

Saving for a summer vacation doesn't mean you can’t have fun in other ways. You can continue to go out and have a good time. The trick is finding free ways to entertain yourself. If you can reduce your weekly entertainment budget, you can save more cash for your vacation. Rather than spend your weekends at the movies or eating at restaurants, look for free activities like a free concert in the park or play sports on the beach.

You can also make a summer vacation happen by planning an inexpensive trip. Going on vacation doesn't mean you have to break the bank. Choose a destination close to home so you can drive instead of fly. Also, look on Groupon for getaway or hotel deals, as well as restaurant deals in the area where you're traveling. If you can plan a cheap vacation, that's less money you have to save.

Going on a summer vacation with your friends might be the trip of a lifetime, and it might be one of the last opportunities you have to spend with friends before entering the real world. With these savings tips, you can save money and have a vacation you’ll remember. What are other ways to save for a spectacular summer vacation?