If you want to take a vacation but don't have a lot of money, there are many offbeat ways to save money. Vacation isn't something that only the rich can enjoy. You work hard and you deserve a break. If it's difficult to drum up cash to get away, here are seven offbeat ways to save money for vacation.
Renting out a room in your house is one of many offbeat ways to save money. Whether it's a finished basement, a converted garage, or an extra bedroom, getting a renter puts extra cash in your pocket every month. After setting aside taxes for rental income, the rest of the money can go into your vacation fund.
If you want to make a little extra money, apply with Uber and provide transportation to people who live in your city. According to the website, drivers can make up to $20-$25 per hour. Any funds earned from this side gig can go directly into your vacation fund. Check out the website and read the details before applying.
If you're able to pay your bills working five days a week, talk to your employer about temporarily adding a sixth day, if possible. If not, look for a part-time job one day a week on the weekends. All funds earned from the second job can go toward your vacation fund. If you work a sixth day and make $60 a day, that's $240 a month for vacation.
This might seem a little drastic, but if you're thinking about cutting your hair anyway, consider selling your hair to a wigmaker. If your hair is at least 10 to 12 inches long and contains no chemicals, a wigmaker might purchase it for top dollars. Earnings may not cover the entire cost of your vacation, but it can increase your savings account.
I know plenty of people who've paid for vacations using credit card reward points. They were able to get airline tickets and hotels without spending a dime. For this to work, you need to use a rewards credit card as much as possible to accumulate points or miles. Just make sure you pay off your balance in full every month to avoid long-term debt.
Everyday after work or school, empty your pockets and put loose change in a jar. Spare change adds up quickly. If you save your change everyday for a year, you might save hundreds toward a yearly vacation. Also, when you're walking around town, keep your eyes on the ground. You never know what you might find. I have a friend who constantly watches the ground in parking lots, and in one year she found about $200.
In all likelihood you don't wear half the stuff in your closet. These shoes, clothes and jackets simply take up space. If you need to make room in your closet, have a yard sale and get rid of some of your designer styles. You can also sell these at a consignment shop, or list the items for sale online.
Saving money for vacation is easier said than done. But if you get creative, you can drum up the cash you need. What are other offbeat ways to save money for a vacation?