Couples’ Guide to Affordable Travel Goals
On Wall Street, I built businesses by setting ambitious targets but hitting them with disciplined execution. Couples can do the same with travel: dream big, spend smart. With the average vacation costing $1,919 per person (TravelPulse, 2023), strategy makes all the difference.

1. Set a Shared Travel Fund
- Automate monthly savings.
- Even $200/month = $2,400/year, enough for a getaway.
- ROI: removes financial stress before takeoff.
2. Pick Budget-Friendly Destinations
- Think Mexico, Portugal, or Southeast Asia.
- Cost of living is 30–50% lower than Western Europe.
- More value for every dollar.
3. Travel Off-Peak
- Shoulder seasons (spring/fall) cut airfare and hotels by 30–40%.
- Smaller crowds = better experiences.
4. Maximize Rewards & Points
- U.S. households hold $692 in unused credit card rewards (ValuePenguin, 2024).
- Redeem for flights, hotels, or rental cars.
5. Embrace Affordable Stays
- Airbnb rooms, hostels, or house-sitting.
- Save 50%+ compared to hotels.
- ROI: more budget for experiences.
6. Choose Experiences Over Luxury
- Street food, local tours, and free attractions.
- Builds richer memories at lower costs.
Final Word
On Wall Street, success came from aligning goals with disciplined execution. For couples, affordable travel works the same way: save together, plan smart, and focus on experiences. The result? Adventures that pay dividends in memories, not debt.