It's way too easy to bust your budget on vacation. 

There are so many wonderful things to do, foods to eat, souvenirs to buy and reasons to say "It's fine! We're on vacation!". 

And hey - we aren't here to say no to that. 

Vacation SHOULD be a time when you can relax, enjoy a few great meals out, and indulge. That being said, we do have some tips that will help you avoid a nasty surprise on your credit card when you get home. 

Here is a list of common vacation budget-busters (and how you can avoid them). 

Budget Buster #1: Eating every meal at a restaurant. 

Solution: Take advantage of your vacation rental kitchen! 

Go to the local store, stock up on groceries like fruit, veggies, chips, sandwich stuff, cereal, milk, and ice cream. By limiting the meals you enjoy out on the town, you will save a TON of money. 

Learn more about meal planning in this great blog, How to Meal Plan For Your Beach Vacation in 4 Easy Steps.  

Rent 111 Sandy Paws, located on North Shore Drive in Sunset Beach. 

Budget Buster #2: Paying for drinks while out and about. 

Solution: Enjoy your coffee, soda, beer and wine at your home-away-from-home. 

It's awesome to grab a delicious coffee drink at a local spot. And you should definitely have a glass of wine with your dinner if you want! But, if you are on vacation for a week, it's smart to use your vacation rental for your morning coffee routine, or crack open a bottle of wine to share at home. Don't forget to pack reusable water bottles for the whole family (we like Takeya or Hydroflask) so that you can avoid buying bottled water on the go. 

Budget Buster #3: Buying last minute items for the beach

Solution: Plan (and buy) ahead. 

You know that there are certain things you will need once you hit the beach. It's smart to take some time to research and purchase these items before your trip. You are probably going to find a better price and be less likely to make impulse purchases. Try the local dollar store for pool noodles. Run to Target for sunscreen, floats and sand toys. Browse Amazon for fun items like a boogie board, mesh shelling bags, and a great sun hat. 

Budget Buster #4: Not packing correctly for the weather

Solution: Check the weather before your trip, and pack layers. 

You are sure to spot people wearing Sunset Beach sweatshirts! Some were purchased as souvenirs, but others were bought out of necessity. The weather is very volatile here on the coast! It will be hot one day, but windy and chilly the next. 

Check the weather before your trip, and we recommend packing layers for every family member. This should include a waterproof windbreaker, sweatshirts, and long pants in addition to shorts, t-shirts, and dresses. Don't forget great footwear too ... you will need some good tennis shoes in addition to your flip flops. 

Budget Buster #5: Spending too much on activities

Solution: Take advantage of free fun.  

You might be surprised that some of the best things to do in Sunset Beach are very inexpensive (or even free). While it's cool to book at least one of the more expensive outings while you are on vacation (like a charter boat for fishing, or a day trip to Myrtle Beach), we think a day at the beach, a game night at the rental, or a walk around town are great ways to relax. 

Here are some Free Things to Do on Your Sunset Beach Vacation. 

Budget Buster #6: Waiting too long to book your rental

Solution: Start planning early. 

When you are planning your vacation, you have a certain type of vacation rental in mind. Maybe you want an oceanfront property with four bedrooms. Perhaps you are searching for a home with a pool, or one that will accept your dog. The problem is, the homes that most fit your criteria might book up early. The longer you wait to book your home, the fewer will fit your needs (and you might have to spend more money to get what you need). Avoid this by starting your search early! That way, you are sure to get the dates, location, amenities and home that suits your budget. 

Our blog is full of great ways to save money! Here are 12 Ways to Save Money On a Beach Vacation. And, here is How to Find Sunset Beach Rentals On a Budget. If you ever need help finding a Sunset Beach rental, feel free to contact our team. We would love to help!