You might not think that going shopping while on vacation is the hallmark of frugality. The puka shell necklace that will break within a week or the cheesy T-shirt branded with the name of an amusement park or attraction doesn’t exactly seem like a wise purchase. You’d be right, of course.
But that doesn’t mean the only way to stay thrifty while soaking up the sun involves snapping your wallet shut. There are some purchases you can make during a vacation that will prove to be the most worthwhile finds.
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GOBankingRates talked to Alejandra Rojas, finance professional at The Money Mindset Hub, to get her advice on the goods you should always look for while you’re having a great time.
“Being frugal is about being mindful of your spending with a clear goal or lifestyle in mind, so take advantage of your vacation to buy things that you otherwise can’t have or won’t enjoy once you leave that place,” she said. Here are four things even frugal people buy on vacation.
Local Fare
Why not use your time in a hotspot to get the very cool art, crafts, clothing, decorations and jewelry you simply can’t find anywhere else? Picking up work by local artisans not only helps support smaller businesses but also allows you to get truly rare, unique items at prices that won’t have you succumbing to sticker shock.
Even better, investing in local products helps you feel more connected to the culture and community of the place you’re vacationing.
“I’ve found the best pieces of art made by local people. This is more than just a piece of something; it’s getting to know a way of living and understanding life through the lens of that place and its people,” Rojas said.
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Local Food
If you’re one of the many frugal people who save money by cooking at home, there’s no reason you can’t still keep the habit while on vacation. However, Rojas also shared that you should make a point of trying the local cuisine — not only for the experience of savoring new foods but also to get some fresh recipe ideas.
“If part of your frugal lifestyle is to cook at home, that is awesome! Spend 80% of your vacation doing that, but remember to try local things. You can always gather more ideas on what else to cook when you return home,” she said.
Practical Seasonal Items
In a two-for-one of cost savings and practicality, Rojas recommended shopping for the right clothes for your destination at your actual destination. Not only are you getting all the benefits of shopping among local stores and vendors, but you’ll also lighten the load of your luggage when you’re flying there. Saving space in your luggage can sometimes translate to cheaper flights, helping you save at various stages of your trip.
Experiences
If there’s one thing you should absolutely prioritize on a vacation, it’s enjoying experiences you can’t have anywhere else. That’s why Rojas recommended thrifty vacationers investigate the kinds of experiences and adventures that you can enjoy — not only as a tourist but as a local.
Rojas said that you might be surprised to find that many of these opportunities are actually free. But even if you have to spend a little, you’ll gain a lot.
“Live life through the lens of the place and its people, if only for a few hours; that will make a remarkable experience,” she said.
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This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com: 4 Things Frugal People Always Buy on Vacation
