[I]t’s getting about the time of year when people start planning their summer vacation. If you’re stuck in a dead-end job and have a bad credit history, you may think taking a vacation is just a pipe dream. However, it is still possible to enjoy a short trip, and it’s better not to charge everything on a credit card.
Making Reservations
One of the challenges people run into with bad credit is not having a credit card to reserve hotels and rental cars. You do have the option of using your debit card or a prepaid card as long as it’s a MasterCard or Visa. Just know the money will likely come out for the reservation as soon as you book it so make sure you have a balance to cover the cost.
Take Your Own Vehicle
If you have a reliable vehicle, take it instead of renting one. You can also ask to borrow a friend’s car for the trip. You can find car rental places that will accept a debit card instead of a credit card, but you should ask ahead of time. Some of them will have additional requirements if you don’t provide a credit card.
Get a Secured Credit Card
To make reservations and buying tickets and passes easier, plan early for your vacation and get a secured credit card. You’ll have to pay a deposit for the card, but it is classified as a credit card rather than a debit card. It will also help you build credit, which will be a bonus for the long-term.
Plan a Day Trip
If you don’t have money or credit to take a real vacation, plan for mini-trips this summer. You can find a lot of places you’ve never visited just a few hours away. And if you like camping, you can even make it an overnight trip with very little cost.
Don’t let limited funds and lack of good credit keep you from enjoying some time away this summer. There are ways to enjoy a vacation with minimal money and credit.