Archives

What’s a HELOC? And Why It Might Be Right for You

If you’re a homeowner, you’ve probably heard the term “HELOC” tossed around—but what exactly does it mean? At Vicinity Credit Union, we’re here to break it down in a way that makes sense. A HELOC, or Home Equity Line of Credit, is a revolving line of credit that lets you borrow money using the equity in your home as collateral. Think of it like a credit card—but with typically lower interest rates and much higher limits. So how does it work?Let’s say your home is worth $250,000 and you owe $150,000 on your mortgage. That means you have $100,000 in equity. With a HELOC, you may be able to borrow a portion of that equity—giving you access to funds when you need them. What can you use it for?That’s the beauty of a HELOC: it’s flexible. You, your family and your home all grow and change. A Home Equity Line of Credit can change with you. Use it for: Why choose a HELOC with Vicinity Credit Union?We keep it simple, personal, and affordable.✔️ Competitive rates✔️ Only pay interest on what you use✔️ Local decisions and personalized service✔️ No pressure—just smart borrowing The best part? You don’t need to take all the funds at once. You can borrow what you need, when you need it, and repay as you go. Still have questions?That’s what we’re here for. Whether you’re new to HELOCs or just want to learn more, our team is happy to walk you through it and help you decide if it’s a good fit for your goals.

Make the Most of Summer Without Breaking the Bank

Summer in Chicagoland is something special – block parties, backyard BBQs, lake trips, and time with the people who matter most. But all that fun can add up fast if you’re not careful. At Vicinity Credit Union, we’re here to help local families enjoy every sun-filled moment without worrying about overspending. Here’s how to plan a memorable summer that’s also financially smart. Backyard Fun Without the Big Expense You don’t need to leave town to feel like you’re on vacation. Spruce up your backyard with budget-friendly updates – think string lights, secondhand patio furniture, or a kid-friendly sprinkler setup. Check local community groups or neighborhood swaps before heading to big box stores. A cozy backyard setup brings the fun home. Shop Smart and Skip the Guilt Impulse buys love summer as much as we do. Avoid them by sticking to a list, setting a budget, and unsubscribing from “sale alert” emails that tempt you to spend on things you don’t really need. Take your time, price compare and keep your spending in line with your goals. Budget-Friendly Family Fashion Kids grow fast, and summer styles change quick – but that doesn’t mean you need to spend big. Look to consignment stores, online marketplaces, or even neighborhood swaps for gently used clothes and gear. It’s wallet-friendly, eco-friendly, and often filled with gems you can’t find in stores. Plan Ahead for Stress-Free Summer Fun Grab a calendar and map out your family’s summer plans – trips, camps, gear, outings. From there, set a realistic budget and look for early-bird deals or off-peak pricing. When you plan ahead, you get more time to enjoy the season and fewer surprises on your credit card statement. Vicinity Credit Union Is With You Every Step Whether you’re saving up for summer adventures or just trying to get more from your money, we’re here to support you. Our team is ready with friendly guidance, budgeting tools, and personalized options to help you stay on track. Let’s make this summer full of fun, family, and financial peace of mind – together.

Fresh DIY Ideas That Help Your Budget Bloom

Spring in Chicago is a time to refresh and maybe even roll up your sleeves and try something new. At Vicinity Credit Union, we believe in helping you make smart financial moves, especially when they can start right at home. From home projects to hobby-based side hustles, here are some family-friendly ways to save money and maybe even bring in a little extra. Turn Hobbies Into Income Got a knack for fixing things or creating something useful? Consider light woodworking projects, small home repairs, or restoring secondhand finds. These can turn into part-time income streams, especially when sold locally or online. It’s a great way to involve the family too – teach the kids while you build something together. Upcycle Gently-Used Gear Don’t toss out old boots, jackets, or gear just yet. A little patching or polishing can make them look new again. Whether you keep them or flip them at a resale shop, you’re saving money and reducing waste. It’s a small, smart step toward sustainable living. Breathe New Life into Old Furniture That old nightstand or wobbly chair? With a little sanding and paint, it could be your next weekend win. Refurbishing furniture is a fun and low-cost way to refresh your home or earn extra cash. List it on Facebook Marketplace or gift it to a neighbor – it’s a project with heart either way. Grow Savings Right from the Garden You don’t need acres to start gardening. Herbs on the windowsill, tomatoes on the patio, or a backyard veggie patch can all lower your grocery bills and feed your family fresh, healthy food. Got extras? Share with neighbors or local swap groups. It’s a great way to build community. DIY Energy Fixes for a Greener Home Ready to cut utility costs before summer? Here are a few ideas: Some fixes you can do yourself, others might require a pro. Either way, the savings are real. Build More Than Projects – Build Possibilities At Vicinity Credit Union, we’re all about helping local families thrive. Whether you’re trying a new side gig, refreshing your home, or setting a financial goal, we’re here to help make it happen. Have a DIY project in mind? Let’s build a budget that supports your goals.

Fraud Awareness: Protect Yourself and Your Finances

At Vicinity Credit Union, our members’ financial security is our top priority. Fraudulent activities are constantly evolving, and it’s crucial to stay informed to protect yourself and your hard-earned money. Whether you’re banking online, using your debit card, or making payments, knowing how to spot fraud and take action quickly can save you from serious financial loss. Here are some valuable tips to help you recognize and prevent fraud: 1. Recognize Phishing Scams Phishing scams are one of the most common forms of fraud. These scams involve fraudulent emails, phone calls, or text messages that appear to come from trusted organizations—like your bank, credit union, or even government agencies. They often ask for personal information such as your account number, Social Security number, or login credentials. Red Flags: What to Do: 2. Watch Out for Identity Theft Identity theft occurs when someone steals your personal information to open accounts or make unauthorized transactions. It can happen when you least expect it—especially if you’re not keeping track of your accounts. Red Flags: What to Do: 3. Secure Your Online Banking Online banking offers convenience, but it also requires vigilance. Cybercriminals are always looking for new ways to steal information online. Protecting your online banking account is a must. Tips for Secure Online Banking: 4. Protect Your Debit and Credit Cards Fraud can also happen when your debit or credit card information is compromised. Criminals may use your card details for unauthorized purchases or transactions. Red Flags: What to Do: 5. Keep an Eye Out for Impersonation Scams Impersonation scams involve someone pretending to be a representative from a legitimate company—often claiming they need to confirm your information or offer you a prize. They may ask you to send money or provide confidential details. Red Flags: What to Do: 6. Stay Informed and Report Fraud Immediately The faster you act, the less likely you are to suffer from fraud. If you suspect that you’ve been targeted or have fallen victim to fraud, immediately report it to us. Our team is ready to help you take the necessary steps to protect your accounts and resolve the issue. What to Do: Conclusion: Staying Safe with Vicinity Credit Union Fraud is a serious concern, but with the right precautions, you can significantly reduce your risk. At Vicinity Credit Union, we’re committed to keeping your financial information safe. By staying aware of common scams, safeguarding your personal information, and acting quickly if you suspect fraud, you’ll be better equipped to protect yourself. If you have any questions or need assistance, don’t hesitate to reach out to our team. Your financial security is our priority. Stay informed, stay protected, and stay safe with Vicinity Credit Union!

Building Better Together

Hello, Valued Members! We hope you’ve found this page with a sense of excitement, wonder, and curiosity. At Vicinity Credit Union, our goal is to provide the exceptional financial service you need. And to achieve that, we would like to invite you to join us in Building Better Together! This page will fill you in on all the exciting updates and improvements in store for your Credit Union. We are so thrilled to share these updates with you, and we hope you’ll share in all the excitement with us. Stay tuned to this page for updates, and remember to follow us on social media! Pulaski Branch Renovation Exciting News: Our Pulaski Branch is Open and Ready to Serve You!   As part of Vicinity Credit Union’s ongoing commitment to improving our services, we’re thrilled to announce that our Pulaski Branch has been beautifully renovated! The branch is now open and ready to serve you, and our drive-thru remains available for your convenience. We’re excited to welcome you back. We look forward to assisting you! Frequently Asked Questions When will the lobby renovation start? Construction will begin Monday, July 29, 2024. The lobby will be closed starting July 29th until all renovations are completed. Will the Pulaski Branch be open during the lobby renovation? Access to the branch will be by appointment only. Members will need to call (773) 376-6000 to schedule an appointment with a representative from our Pulaski Branch. Where can members conduct transactions during the renovation? We encourage members to visit our Hyde Park Branch or Evergreen Park Branch during the renovation. Most transactions can also be performed using Online Banking or Mobile Banking. How can I apply for a loan? You can apply for a loan from the comfort of your home using our online loan application. How long is the lobby renovation expected to last? There is no completion date at this time, but it’s expected to go through the end of the year. Will the renovation impact operating hours? No. Our operating hours will not change. Will the renovation impact other services at the Pulaski Branch? Yes. Access to Safe Deposit Box will be by appointment only. The Night Deposit Box will not be available. Bank By Phone PDF United Credit Union is now Vicinity Credit Union Our name and look may have changed, but our commitment to serving our members remains the same. Click below to view a message from our president on how this change will make us a stronger credit union tomorrow and any changes that may effect you today. Message From The CEO Dear Vicinity Credit Union Members,Happy New Year! As we step into 2025, it’s thrilling to begin this journey together as Vicinity Credit Union—your Community Champion. This transformation reflects our mission and vision to better serve you and the places we call home. Our mission is simple yet powerful: to serve our members as the neighbors you are, with warmth, dedication, and a commitment to making a real difference in your lives. Our vision is to create a community where financial services are accessible to all, improving lives and strengthening connections. Over the past year, we embraced significant changes to move closer to this vision. Some, like our updated website, exceeded expectations, while others, such as our online banking upgrade, presented challenges. Despite the bumps, these experiences have made us more confident in our ability to meet your needs with innovative, reliable solutions. Beyond the digital realm, we’ve also prioritized the spaces where we meet face-to-face. For example, our Pulaski Branch is currently undergoing extensive renovations, including a new roof and lobby upgrades, aimed at making it safer, more welcoming, and better equipped to serve you. Last year was a year of transformation, and 2025 will be a year of results. Thank you for your trust, patience, and unwavering support during this exciting journey. You inspire everything we do, and we look forward to continuing to serve you and our shared community in the year ahead. We invite you to explore our new offerings and experience the difference of being part of Vicinity Credit Union. Warm regards, **Mario Aguirre**President & CEOVicinity Credit Union How will the name change impact me? While a lot is changing, we would like to outline a few items that will not be affected by our name change and rebrand. Direct Deposits/Payments — You do not need to make any changes to your direct deposit or automatic payments. Debit & Credit Cards — Your debit and credit cards will not be affected. You can continue to use your cards until they expire. When new and replacement cards are issued, then they will be updated to Vicinity Credit Union. Account Numbers — Your account numbers will not change and will remain the same. Routing Number — There is no change to our routing number. We will continue to use the routing number: 271081502. Checks — If you still have United Credit Union checks, they will be honored. There is no need to immediately order replacement checks, and we encourage you to use your United Credit Union checks until they run out. Shared Branching — When visiting our shared branching partners, you need to say that you bank with Vicinity Credit Union. Online Banking & Call24 — Until October 3rd, both our Online Banking and Call24 services will continue using the United Credit Union name. Once our new banking system launches on October 3rd, both systems will update to using Vicinity Credit Union. We understand you may have questions, and we are happy to answer them. Please contact us online or directly at 773.376.6000. Banking System Upgrade On Thursday, October 3, 2024, we underwent a banking system upgrade. This upgrade included key improvements to our existing digital services, security measures, and technology integrations. We thank you for your patience during this process. If you need assistance registering for online banking or bank by phone, please call 773-376-6000. View Important Announcement Winter 2025 Newsletter Open PDF

Hit the Gas on Savings

Finance or Refi with Vicinity CU & Get a $100 Gas Card!* Apply Now Find a Branch Save on Payments & at the Pump Financing from Vicinity Credit Union means affordable payments and getting the right vehicle at the right price. Because finding your next car or truck can be challenging, but it doesn’t have to be expensive. Now, when you finance a new or used auto loan, you can save extra with a $100 Gas Card!* Low Rates for New & Used Flexible Terms up to 84 Months Personalized Application Process Find your next car or truck and hit the road with even more savings from Vicinity Credit Union today. Apply Now Find a Branch Pump the Brakes on High-Interest Payments Not everything goes right the first time, but that doesn’t mean you can’t find something better down the line. Why settle for monthly auto payments that leave you stressed and your wallet empty? Refinance with Vicinity Credit Union for a $100 Gas Card!* Bringing your loan from another lender means getting all the same benefits of a Vicinity Credit Union auto loan, and you could: Lower Your Monthly Payment Save Hundred in Interest Pay off Your Loan Faster Give your wallet a break and leave your old loan payments in the dust. Refi Today Find a Branch *Members must meet loan qualifying criteria. All auto loans are subject to credit approval. The member receives the gift card after 90 days as long as they are in good standing. Rates may vary depending on each individual’s creditworthiness, history and underwriting factors. Current Vicinity Credit Union auto loans are not eligible for incentive. Membership eligibility required. Vicinity Credit Union reserves the right to extend, alter, or cancel this promotion at any time without notice. Additional terms and conditions may apply. See credit union for details. *Members must meet loan qualifying criteria. All auto loans are subject to credit approval. Borrowers whose auto loans meet qualifications can claim their $100 Gas Card once their first auto loan payment posts. Rates may vary depending on each individual’s creditworthiness, history and underwriting factors. Current Vicinity Credit Union auto loans are not eligible for incentive. Membership eligibility required. Vicinity Credit Union reserves the right to extend, alter, or cancel this promotion at any time without notice. Additional terms and conditions may apply. See credit union for details.

Financial First: Making Your First Budget Plan

How many times do we set a New Year’s Resolution with the full intention to stick to it only to have it flop a month into the year? This year, we’re starting strong and planning to be financially savvy all of 2023. And one of the first steps to a financially successful year is to create your first budget plan! We promise it’s not as stressful as it sounds, especially with Vicinity CU on your side. By creating a budget, you will be able to see where your money is going, where you will be able to save money, and how to have a clear mind when it comes to your finances. Today, we’ll explain two popular budgeting methods for you to consider: the “Zero-Sum Budget” and the “50-30-20 Method.” One of Dave Ramsey’s philosophies for financial success is the zero-sum budget. Essentially, it is your monthly income minus expenses equals zero. So, if you make $3,000 a month, that $3,000 should be allotted to food, utilities, transportation, housing, insurance, miscellaneous expenses (giving yourself a buffer), debt, etc. This way, every dollar you make is being put to good use—either by spending or saving. Follow this link to the Ramsey website and see how you can make your zero-sum budget for free. This source will take you through a series of questions asking your current financial goals, your monthly income, your monthly payments and debts and savings, and will calculate it all for you. It’s free, and it does the math for you – sounds like a win, win! Another budget plan that could work for your 2023 savings plan is the 50-30-20 method. That is, 50% on needs, 30% on wants, and 20% on savings. The “needs” department includes rent, mortgage payments, utilities, food, and transportation. The “wants” area is designated for dining out, vacations, entertainment, new electronics, and fancy coffees. And the “savings” is allotted to exactly what it is named: savings and investments. This can be your regular savings account, an IRA account, or investing in the stock market. Take the time to write down all of your expenses and categorize them within these three departments, and you will thank yourself later. With either of these budget plans, you will go from wondering where your money went over the month to where it went, when, and how. Life should be enjoyed without the looming stress of your financial status. Start the new year off right while also looking out for your future self and start your budget today! Need an extra set of eyes for your budget? Don’t hesitate to reach out to our team for advice or financial help! Sources:  https://savvybudgetboss.com/budgeting-tips-for-beginners https://www.ramseysolutions.com/budgeting/how-to-make-a-zero-based-budget#:~:text=Zero%2Dbased%20budgeting%20is%20when,%2C%20a%20job%2C%20a%20goal.

Tax Returns: Everything You Need to Know in 7 Steps

Tax returns are an essential part of every individual’s financial life. It is the process of submitting information about your income, deductions, and credits to the government to calculate the amount of taxes owed or refund due. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you understand the tax return process: 1. Gather all necessary documents: Before you start preparing your tax return, make sure you have all the required documents such as W-2 forms from your employer, 1099 forms from any freelance work, receipts for any deductions you plan to claim, and any other relevant information. Employers have the responsibility of ensuring that you receive your documents by a set date every year, making it crucial to stay aware of document deadlines annually. 2. Choose a tax filing method: There are two main options for filing taxes: you can file your taxes online using tax preparation software or you can file a paper return. 3. Determine your filing status: Your filing status determines the amount of your standard deduction and tax bracket. The five filing statuses are single, married filing jointly, married filing separately, head of household, and qualifying widow(er) with dependent child. 4. Calculate your taxable income: This is done by subtracting any eligible deductions from your total income. Common deductions include mortgage interest, charitable donations, and state and local taxes. 5. Calculate your tax liability: Once you have determined your taxable income, you can use the tax table or tax calculator to calculate your tax liability. This amount is the total amount of taxes you owe to the government. 6. Check for tax credits: Tax credits are a dollar-for-dollar reduction of your tax liability and can result in a larger refund. Some common tax credits include the Earned Income Tax Credit, the Child Tax Credit, and the American Opportunity Tax Credit. 7. File your tax return: Finally, you can file your tax return either electronically or by mail. If you owe taxes, you will need to make a payment by the tax deadline. You will receive a refund within a few weeks of filing if you are due a refund. Preparing and filing your tax return can be an intimidating process. However, with proper preparation and resources, tax season can be relatively straightforward. Understanding the steps involved and gathering all the necessary information can ensure a stress-free tax season. Need more assistance? Sources: https://turbotax.intuit.com/tax-tips/tax-pro/what-documents-do-i-need-to-bring-to-my-tax-preparer/L9MsmLTSq https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/taxes/tax-filing https://www.investopedia.com/terms/t/taxableincome.asp https://www.investopedia.com/terms/t/taxliability.asp https://www.investopedia.com/terms/t/taxcredit.asp

Securing Financial Freedom: A Guide for Young Adults

Entering adulthood often comes with a myriad of responsibilities, and one of the most significant challenges faced by many young people today is managing student debt
while striving for financial stability. However, with careful planning, discipline, and the
right strategies, it is possible to eliminate student debt, save money, and lay the
foundation for a prosperous financial future. In this blog, we will explore practical steps
that young adults can take to alleviate the burden of student debt, build savings habits,
and establish a strong, lasting financial footing. Understand Your Student Debt:Start by gaining a comprehensive understanding of your student debt. Review your loan
terms, interest rates, and repayment options. Calculate your monthly payments and
identify if there are any opportunities for loan forgiveness or refinancing. By having a
clear picture of your debt, you can develop a more effective repayment strategy. Create a Budget:
Establishing a budget is crucial for managing your finances effectively. Begin by
tracking your income and expenses to identify areas where you can cut back and save
money. Prioritize essential expenses and allocate a proportion of your income toward
debt repayment. By adhering to a budget, you’ll be better equipped to control your
spending, avoid unnecessary debt, and save for the future. Increase Your Income:Finding ways to increase your income can significantly accelerate your journey to
financial freedom. Consider taking up a part-time job or freelancing to supplement your
earnings. Alternatively, explore opportunities for career advancement, additional
certifications, or education that can lead to higher-paying jobs in the long run. Devoting
extra income toward debt repayment will help you eliminate student debt faster. Explore Loan Repayment Strategies:Take advantage of loan repayment strategies that suit your financial situation. The two
popular options include the snowball and avalanche methods. The snowball method
involves paying off the smallest debt first while making minimum payments on others.
Once the debt is paid off, move to the next smallest debt. The avalanche method
focuses on paying off debts with the highest interest rates first. Choose the strategy that
aligns with your preferences and stick to it. Prioritize Savings:
While paying off student debt is crucial, it’s equally important to save money for
emergencies and future goals. Establish an emergency fund that covers at least three to
six months of living expenses. Set up automatic transfers to a savings account, treating
it as a non-negotiable expense. Consistent savings habits will provide you with a safety
net and financial stability. Minimize Expenses:
Cutting unnecessary expenses can free up funds for debt repayment and savings.
Consider evaluating your monthly subscriptions, dining out habits, and entertainment
expenses. Look for cost-effective alternatives, such as cooking meals at home,
exploring free recreational activities, and leveraging student discounts. Develop Financial Literacy:
Invest time in expanding your financial knowledge. Read books, listen to podcasts like
The Dave Ramsey Show, and attend workshops that focus on personal finance.
Understanding concepts like investing, retirement planning, and credit management will
empower you to make informed financial decisions and optimize your resources
effectively. Eliminating student debt, saving money, and building a solid financial foundation
requires dedication, discipline, and a well-planned approach. According to the Federal
Reserve, Americans owe over $1.7 trillion in student loans, and this debt can be
overwhelming for young people who are just starting out their careers. However, by
understanding your student debt, creating a budget, increasing your income, and
prioritizing savings, you can take control of your financial situation and pave the way
toward a brighter future. Remember, financial freedom is not achieved overnight. It requires perseverance and a
commitment to make smart financial choices. Embrace the journey, stay focused, and
celebrate the milestones along the way, knowing that you are taking control of your
financial well-being and your future. If you need help with any step along the way, come
talk to us at Vicinity Credit Union. Sources:
https://www.federalreserve.gov/publications/2022-economic-well-being-of-us-households-in-2021-student-loans.htm https://www.nber.org/system/files/working_papers/w18412/w18412.pdf  https://www.ramseysolutions.com/debt/25-things-to-know-before-you-turn-25

Tales of the Thrifty Traveler: How to Conquer Adventures Without Breaking the Bank!

Ahoy, fellow travelers, and welcome to the wonderful world of thrifty travel! You may think that to have the BEST vacation you will have to spend a lot of money and go into a lot of debt. That’s simply not the case. So, prepare your imagination for an exciting journey filled with money-saving tips and unforgettable experiences. That’s right, we’re unraveling the secrets to unlocking epic adventures while keeping your wallet happy. Grab your things and let’s embark on your vacay without breaking the bank! 1. Unleash the Power of Planning:As with many things in life, planning is the key. It’s how you’ll have an amazing AND budget-friendly trip. The internet is a great tool for this. Dive into the realm of travel research and unearth the hidden gems waiting to be explored. You can plan attractions, accommodations, and even restaurants in advance. This is also a great step if you need a flight to get to your destination. If you plan far enough in advance, you can track ticket prices and get the best deal. Pro tip: Some services you may already subscribe to can get you travel discounts. For instance, if you’re a AAA member, you can get discounts of up to 10% on travel and attractions. With a little groundwork, you can lay the foundation for an epic adventure while saving those precious pennies. 2. Embrace the Offbeat and Off-Peak:Sure, there are some things that you must do when you visit certain destinations. You know those things you need to take a picture of so you can say “I’ve been there.” However, you shouldn’t fill your trip with these kinds of activities. Sometimes, it’s best to leave the crowded tourist trails behind and venture into the land of offbeat destinations. Seek out charming towns, tranquil beaches, or picturesque countryside escapes that offer the perfect blend of beauty and budget-friendliness. Embrace the allure of off-peak travel by exploring during weekdays or outside the high-season rush. You’ll find lower prices, shorter queues, and a chance to experience destinations in their authentic glory. 3. Creative Accommodations:Yeah, we all want the Plaza experience where we stay at a five-star hotel and have all of our whims catered to. But, if we’re being realistic, that can’t be every vacation we take. If we want to save some money, we’ll have to break free from the shackles of traditional hotels and embrace the world of creative accommodations. When it comes to your stay, you have options. You can uncover unique stays like cozy homestays, budget-friendly hostels, or the thrill of camping under the stars. You can also explore sites like Airbnb and VRBO to find nicer options at lower prices. These alternative options will add a touch of adventure to your journey and create lifelong memories. 4. Savor Local Delights on a Budget:Traveling on a budget doesn’t mean compromising on culinary experiences. Get some local flavor and explore the world of street food, bustling markets, and local eateries to tantalize your taste buds. Seek out hidden culinary gems where authenticity meets affordability. Plus, when you plan, you can budget the meals you plan to spend a little more on. Don’t forget to make reservations. 5. Transportation Tactics:Master the art of budget-friendly transportation to maximize your savings. Embrace the charm of public transportation, hop on local buses or trains, and embark on exciting adventures that blend seamlessly with the locals. For longer distances, explore budget airlines, compare prices, and take advantage of flight deals. With a bit of flexibility and savvy planning, you can navigate the world without burning a hole in your pocket. 6. Free and Low-Cost Adventures:Uncover the hidden treasures of your destination without splurging on expensive activities. From wandering through lush parks to hiking breathtaking trails, there’s a plethora of free or low-cost adventures waiting to be discovered. Seek out free walking tours, cultural events, and discounted museum days to immerse yourself in the local culture without denting your travel budget. To the budget-savvy wanderers, remember that the heart of travel lies in the experiences and memories you create. Adventures need not be synonymous with empty wallets. By incorporating these travel tips, you’ll embark on an unforgettable journey where savings and wanderlust go hand in hand. Go forth, explore, and let your inner adventurer thrive while embracing the joy of budget-friendly travel! Sources:https://upgradedpoints.com/travel/summer-travel-save-money/https://www.cnbc.com/2023/05/07/summer-travel-how-to-save-during-a-busy-expensive-season.html