Category Archives: Vacation and Traveling Finances

Family Fun for Less: Tips to Help Cut Costs on Your Next Vacation

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Rising prices can make planning a budget-friendly family vacation challenging. In fact, the average cost for a week-long vacation for a family of four to a theme park can easily run upwards of $6,000.1 Consider these saving strategies when planning your next family getaway.

Set a budget. Your first step should be to set a realistic budget for your vacation. Start out by determining the amount of money you are able to spend on your trip. Next, identify your vacation expenses. These include travel to and from your destination, accommodations, food, and activities. Don’t forget to include a little extra for any unexpected costs that may arise.

A good way to make sure that you stay on budget is to set expectations for vacation expenses ahead of time. Start with a family meeting to discuss the overall budget and how much you are willing to spend on each component of the trip, such as food, activities, and even souvenirs. It may also help to create a daily vacation budget for your family to help manage expenses and prevent overspending.

Plan ahead. Book flights, accommodations, and tickets to attractions well in advance to secure the best rates. Sign up for price alerts and use online comparison tools to find deals and track price fluctuations.

Be flexible. You might save big on your vacation if you’re flexible with your travel dates and destination. Be open to traveling during the off-season or at off-peak times, and consider traveling to lesser-known destinations in order to maximize your savings.

Look for additional ways to trim expenses. If you find that your vacation might run over budget, consider these ways to further reduce expenses:

  • Explore alternative options for accommodations by searching online websites for vacation home rentals or think about staying with family/friends.
  • Try to save money on food by shopping at a local grocery store and dining in and/or looking online for restaurants that offer dining specials and discounts.
  • Look for affordable or no-cost activities, including discounted or free entry to local museums/festivals, or enjoy outdoor recreation (e.g., beaches and hiking) in the area.
  • Reduce transportation expenses by comparing the cost and feasibility of flying versus driving to your vacation destination. Consider utilizing public transportation or ride-share apps instead of renting a car once you arrive.

Questions about saving and planning ahead for your financial future? Contact First Financial’s Investment & Retirement Center by calling 732.312.1534. You can also email mary.laferriere@lpl.com or maureen.mcgreevy@lpl.com

Securities and advisory services are offered through LPL Financial (LPL), a registered investment advisor and broker/dealer (member FINRA/SIPC). Insurance products are offered through LPL or its licensed affiliates. First Financial Federal Credit Union (FFFCU) and First Financial Investment & Retirement Center are not registered as a broker/dealer or investment advisor. Registered representatives of LPL offer products and services using First Financial Investment & Retirement Center, and may also be employees of FFFCU. These products and services are being offered through LPL or its affiliates, which are separate entities from and not affiliates of FFFCU or First Financial Investment & Retirement Center.

Securities and insurance offered through LPL or its affiliates are:

Participation in a 529 plan generally involves fees and expenses, and there is the risk that the investments may lose money or not perform well enough to cover college costs as anticipated. The tax implications of a 529 plan can vary significantly from state to state. Most states offering their own 529 plans may provide advantages and benefits exclusively for their residents and taxpayers, which may include financial aid, scholarship funds, and protection from creditors. Before investing in a 529 plan, consider the investment objectives, risks, charges, and expenses, which are available in the issuer’s official statement and should be read carefully. The official disclosure statements and applicable prospectuses contain this and other information about the investment options, underlying investments, and investment company and can be obtained from your financial professional.

The information provided is not intended to be a substitute for specific individualized tax planning or legal advice. We suggest that you consult with a qualified tax or legal professional. LPL Financial Representatives offer access to Trust Services through The Private Trust Company N.A., an affiliate of LPL Financial. Content in this material is for general information only and not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual. All performance referenced is historical and is no guarantee of future results. All indices are unmanaged and may not be invested into directly. CRPC conferred by College for Financial Planning. This communication is strictly intended for individuals residing in the state(s) of CT, DE, FL, GA, MA, NJ, NY, NC, OR, PA, SC, TN and VA. No offers may be made or accepted from any resident outside the specific states referenced.

1) NerdWallet, 2025

Prepared by Broadridge Advisor Solutions Copyright 2025.

Jet-Set on a Budget: Money-Saving Travel Tips

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Let’s face it—this cold weather has all of us dreaming of warmer days, perhaps somewhere near the equator or across the world. Although your winter escape might be just a few clicks away, it’s definitely an expense you might not be able to swing right now. It might be hard to avoid certain travel expenses entirely—think airfare, lodging, or meals, but there are still several ways to save on travel. Whether you’re planning your next long weekend getaway or the once in a lifetime trip of your dreams, consider using these money-saving tips to travel more and spend less.

Be Flexible with Travel Dates, Times, and Even Layovers

Rumor has it that Tuesdays were generally the best day of the week to book flights, historically saving travelers a pretty penny on airfare. While this long-believed advice doesn’t necessarily hold up in every scenario, there are various ways to save money on airfare if your schedule allows for it.

  • Travel Dates: The price of airfare can change drastically from day to day. If the dates of your trip are flexible, see how leaving one or two days before or returning home one or two days after your “target dates” affects the price.
  • Travel Times: The early bird gets the worm, or in this case – cheaper flight options. You probably don’t want to fly in the wee hours of the morning, but cheaper flights are typically at less appealing times. Try looking at late night flights if you’re willing to stay up past your bedtime, too.
  • Layovers: Direct flights offer the added benefit of getting to your destination as quickly as possible, and that benefit doesn’t come free of charge. Many passengers are willing to pay extra money to spend less time in the air and in the airport, typically making flights with layovers comparatively cheaper.

Consider Using a Smaller Airport or in a Neighboring City

Whether it’s your departing or arriving home flight, consider flying to or from a smaller airport or an airport in a neighboring city to increase your options. Airports with more traffic increase airline demand and airfare prices along with them. Airport demand can change due to different factors, such as peak travel seasons and regional or cultural events. For example, flying right into Miami International Airport will be more expensive during college spring break season than the weeks leading up to or weeks immediately following it. It might be less expensive to fly into a smaller airport in the area, and use an additional mode of transportation to get directly to your destination.

Don’t forget to consider the cost of the additional transportation if you choose to fly to or from an airport in a neighboring city. Consider the following situation: You are taking a trip to New York City and debating flying into JFK or Newark airports. The flight to and from Newark airport may be cheaper round trip, but you will have to take additional transportation to get into New York City. This is something to keep in mind when comparing travel costs.

Hotels Aren’t the Only Answer

Consider alternatives to well-known hotel chains, such as AirBnB or VRBO. These accommodations are more unconventional, as you would likely be booking an apartment or house instead of a traditional hotel room. This could even encourage you to cook your own meals and save more money on food during your trip.

… But if a Hotel is the Only Option: Join the loyalty program of the hotel you plan to stay at to save on this trip, or the next. Some hotel chains offer discounted room rates to members of their loyalty program, and many are free to join. If they do not offer discounted room rates your first go-around, they might offer you discounted rates down the line as you accumulate points or as a special offer to members of the program.

What’s in Your Wallet?

Don’t forget the power of your credit card – some credit cards offer added benefits for traveling (like the First Financial Visa Signature Cash Plus Card*), such as additional cash back or points if you book the purchase using your credit card, or discounts on partner chains or resorts.

Additionally, if you have a AAA membership for your vehicle – consider using AAA when booking your trip. Having this membership gives you access to AAA Travel Services from vacation planning with their travel agents, to passport services and discounts on cruises, tours, and vacations.

Savor the Savings on Meals

Depending on where your travels take you – food might be the largest travel expense. Although an unavoidable one, there are various ways to limit just how much this expense has to cost.

  • Lunch is the New Dinner: When comparing lunch to dinner, lunch is almost always the cheaper option. Additionally, Happy Hour is typically the time between lunch and dinner. Even if you’re not looking for a cocktail, certain food items are typically discounted during Happy Hour. Take advantage of this timing to save when you dine out. You can also bring any leftovers back to your lodging and make a dinner out of it, too.
  • Restaurant Tourist Traps: Avoid restaurants that have overly translated menus, menus with more pictures than words, and ones with few dishes native to the area. Additionally, steer clear of eateries that are near main attractions. These establishments are looking for tourists who might not know of a more authentic or affordable option, or who are looking for convenience.
  • Eat Outside of Your Hotel: Unless your hotel offers free breakfast, it is typically cheaper to eat outside of your hotel. The prices of menu items at hotels are usually more expensive than the same items at a local eatery.

Here at First Financial, we hope you can use some of these tips to take that much needed and well-deserved trip. A budget-friendly vacation is possible if you plan ahead and spend wisely. For more personalized assistance and tailored solutions call 732.312.1500, visit a branch, or explore our services online.

*APR varies up to 18% for purchases, when you open your account based on your credit worthiness. The APR is 18% APR for balance transfers and cash advances. APRs will vary with the market based on the Prime Rate. Subject to credit approval. Rates quoted assume excellent borrower credit history. Your actual APR may vary based on your state of residence, approved loan amount, applicable discounts and your credit history. No Annual Fee. Other fees that apply: Cash advance fee of $10 or 3% of the total cash advance amount—whichever is greater (no maximum), Balance transfer fee of $10 or 3% of the balance—whichever is greater (no maximum), Late Payment Fee of $29, $10 Card Replacement Fee, and Returned Payment Fee of $29. A First Financial membership is required to obtain a Visa® Credit Card and is available to anyone who lives, works, worships, or attends school in Monmouth or Ocean Counties. Your First Financial Visa® Cash Plus Credit Card will earn cash back based on your eligible purchase transactions. The cash back will be applied to your current credit card balance on a quarterly basis and be shown cumulatively on your billing statement. Unless you are participating in a limited time promotional offer, you will earn 1% cash back based upon eligible purchases each quarter.

5 Simple Ways to Save Money on Holiday Travel

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The holidays are a magical time for reconnecting with family and friends, but traveling during this season often comes with steep costs. Fortunately, with a bit of planning and strategy, you can enjoy your holiday travels without overspending. Here are five simple ways to save on holiday travel in 2024 while making the most of the season.

1. Use Miles or Points for Flights and Hotels

Reduce your travel expenses by redeeming credit card points, airline miles, or hotel rewards you’ve accumulated throughout the year. Many cards and loyalty programs allow you to book flights, hotels, and even rental cars with points – saving you from dipping into your savings.

Key Tip: Don’t hold onto your points for too long, as “points inflation” can devalue them over time.

First Financial’s Visa Signature Cash Plus Credit Card offers 1% cash back on all purchases and uChoose Rewards, which can be redeemed for flights, hotels, and cruises.* Additionally, some hotel loyalty programs provide perks like free nights when booking with points — perfect for extended holiday trips.

2. Be Flexible with Travel Dates

Timing is everything when it comes to holiday travel savings. Flights tend to be cheaper on less popular travel days, such as the holiday itself. For example, flying on December 24th or 25th could cost significantly less than flying on the 22nd. Similarly, shifting your arrival or return date by a few days can help you snag better deals. Depending on your work situation, try to travel early and see if you can work remotely from your destination before and after the holiday. Being flexible with your travel dates can make a noticeable difference in cost.

3. Consider Travel Insurance

Protect your travel investment by purchasing travel insurance, which can cover unexpected disruptions such as cancellations, delays, or lost luggage. While it’s an added cost upfront, travel insurance can save you significant money and stress in the event of unforeseen issues. It’s especially helpful if your plans involve non-refundable bookings or international destinations. Compare policies to find one that suits your needs and provides peace of mind.

4. Lock in Currency Exchange Rates

If your holiday travels take you abroad, consider locking in favorable currency exchange rates. First Financial offers convenient foreign currency exchange services, allowing you to secure your currency at a branch or have it delivered to your home. Currency price protection ensures that fluctuations in exchange rates won’t cost you extra, making it easier to stick to your travel budget.**

5. Use Apps to Monitor Flight Prices

Stay on top of flight deals using tools to track airfare changes. Apps like Expedia and Google Flights allow you to set alerts for price drops, ensuring you book your tickets at the lowest possible cost. If your travel dates are flexible, these tools can help identify the most budget-friendly options. Signing up for travel newsletters or airline sale alerts is another effective way to catch last-minute deals.

Enjoy Stress-Free Holiday Travel

With these simple strategies, you can save money on your holiday travel and focus on what truly matters — spending time with loved ones. At First Financial, we’re here to help you make the most of your finances all year round.

For personalized financial advice or assistance, call us at 732.312.1500 or visit a branch today. Don’t forget to subscribe to our First Scoop blog for more money-saving tips and financial insights.

*APR varies up to 18% for purchases, when you open your account based on your credit worthiness. The APR is 18% APR for balance transfers and cash advances. APRs will vary with the market based on the Prime Rate. Subject to credit approval. Rates quoted assume excellent borrower credit history. Your actual APR may vary based on your state of residence, approved loan amount, applicable discounts and your credit history. No Annual Fee. Other fees that apply: Cash advance fee of $10 or 3% of the total cash advance amount—whichever is greater (no maximum), Balance transfer fee of $10 or 3% of the balance—whichever is greater (no maximum), Late Payment Fee of $29, $10 Card Replacement Fee, and Returned Payment Fee of $29. A First Financial membership is required to obtain a Visa® Credit Card and is available to anyone who lives, works, worships, or attends school in Monmouth or Ocean Counties. Your First Financial Visa® Cash Plus Credit Card will earn cash back based on your eligible purchase transactions. The cash back will be applied to your current credit card balance on a quarterly basis and be shown cumulatively on your billing statement. Unless you are participating in a limited time promotional offer, you will earn 1% cash back based upon eligible purchases each quarter.

**You may purchase Currency Price Protection (CPP) for an additional $10.00 in order to protect the purchase rate of transaction. The protected dollar amount may vary based on selection of currency. There is also a purchase/shipping cost for $14.50 per transaction.

8 Tips for Planning a Budget-Friendly Vacation

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It’s summer and vacations are a wonderful way to create lasting memories with your family, but they often come with a hefty price tag. At First Financial, we understand the importance of balancing fun and finances. Here are some practical tips to help you plan a memorable vacation without breaking the bank.

1. Set a Realistic Budget

Before you start planning your vacation, it’s essential to determine your overall budget. A good rule of thumb is to follow the 50/30/20 rule: allocate 50% of your income to fixed costs, 30% to discretionary spending (which includes your vacation), and 20% to savings. This approach helps you identify how much you can afford to spend on your trip. Next, outline all vacation-related expenses including travel costs, accommodations, food, activities, and souvenirs. This will give you a clear picture of the total trip cost and how it aligns with your budget. Don’t forget to set aside funds for unexpected expenses!

2. Plan and Book in Advance

Booking your travel and accommodations in advance can save you a significant amount of money. Airlines and hotels often offer early-bird discounts. According to Hopper, airfare prices tend to rise as the travel date approaches – so it’s best to book your tickets early to secure lower rates. Additionally, consider traveling during the off-season or mid-week to take advantage of cheaper rates.

3. Use Credit Card Rewards

One of the best ways to save on vacation costs is by utilizing credit card rewards. First Financial’s Visa Cash Plus Credit Card, linked to the uChoose rewards program – allows you to earn points on everyday purchases that can be redeemed for travel expenses like flights, hotels, and rental cars.* Make sure to check your rewards points and use them strategically to offset vacation costs.

4. Choose Affordable Accommodations

Instead of staying at expensive hotels, consider more affordable options like rental houses, Airbnb, or even camping. Traveling with friends or family and sharing the cost of accommodations can also reduce expenses. If you prefer hotels, look for deals on third-party travel sites or book directly with the hotel to take advantage of any special offers.

5. Save on Food and Drinks

Eating out for every meal can quickly add up. Save money by bringing food, groceries, and drinks if possible, especially for breakfast and snacks. If you’re flying, consider stopping at a local grocery store once you arrive. Cooking some of your meals can be a fun way to spend time with those you’re traveling with too. When dining out, be aware of prices before ordering and research restaurants and menus beforehand.

6. Plan Budget-Friendly Activities

Look for free or low-cost activities at your destination. Many cities offer free museums, parks, and public attractions. Hiking, beach days, and exploring local landmarks are great ways to enjoy your vacation without spending much. Research which activities are available in advance and prioritize those that fit your budget. Facebook events and town/city websites are great places to find lists of free and affordable upcoming local events.

7. Manage Souvenir Spending

Souvenirs can be a fun part of your vacation, but can also lead to overspending. Set a strict budget for souvenirs and consider using cash to avoid charging them to your credit card. Limit everyone to one souvenir each (and think about – do you really need to buy any souvenirs at all?) and before purchasing – make it a point to think about whether it is something the recipient will use and cherish, or if it will end up gathering dust on a shelf.

8. Consider Travel Agents

If planning a vacation feels overwhelming, consider using a travel agent. They often have access to exclusive deals and can help you stay within your budget. Provide them with a clear budget, and they can plan a trip that meets your needs without the stress of overspending. Often, travel agents do not charge you anything for their services as they are compensated by the companies they book with.

A budget-friendly vacation is achievable with careful planning and smart spending. By following these simple tips, you can enjoy a memorable vacation without financial strain. Start planning your next getaway with this advice in mind and make the most of your time away without breaking the bank.

For more personalized assistance and tailored solutions call 732.312.1500, visit a branch, or explore our services online.

*APR is 18%, when you open your account based on your credit worthiness. This APR is for purchases and will vary with the market based on the Prime Rate. Subject to credit approval. Rates quoted assume excellent borrower credit history. Your actual APR may vary based on your state of residence, approved loan amount, applicable discounts and your credit history. No Annual Fees. Other fees that apply: Balance Transfer and Cash Advance Fees of 3% or $10, whichever is greater; Late Payment Fee of $29, $10 Card Replacement Fee, and Returned Payment Fee of $29. A First Financial membership is required to obtain a Visa® Credit Card and is available to anyone who lives, works, worships, volunteers, or attends school in Monmouth or Ocean Counties. uChoose Rewards is a registered trademark of Fiserv Inc. Login to uChoose Rewards through Online Banking, by clicking on your Cash Plus Credit Card account to view current offers.

7 Tips to Keep Your Money Secure While Traveling this Spring Break

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As spring break approaches, the anticipation for a much-needed getaway grows. This time of year marks a popular time for students and families to embark on travel adventures – seeking sun, relaxation, and time away from daily routines and colder weather. However, amidst the excitement of choosing destinations and packing essentials, it’s paramount to prioritize one critical aspect of your travel preparation – ensuring the security of your money.

Traveling, especially to unfamiliar destinations, can expose you to risks such as ID theft and fraud. Protecting your finances requires thoughtful planning and practice. To help you maintain peace of mind during your spring break travels, follow these comprehensive tips for keeping your money safe.

1. Bring Only What You Need

Simplify your wallet by carrying only the essentials. Select one or two credit cards that offer broad acceptance and robust fraud protection for your main expenses. A debit card is useful for accessing cash at reputable ATMs if necessary. Lighten your load by leaving behind any cards or documents not needed for your trip, reducing the risk of significant personal information exposure.

2. Notify Financial Institutions & Enable Account Alerts

Before you set off, inform your bank and credit card issuers about your travel plans. This pre-emptive step helps prevent your accounts from being frozen due to unexpected transactions outside of your usual location, which could be flagged as fraud. Enhance your financial security by setting up alerts for transactions, withdrawals, or activities that deviate from your typical spending patterns. These alerts can be a lifeline, enabling you to respond swiftly to unauthorized access to your accounts. You can easily manage your cards and create travel notifications in our mobile banking app, so you can enjoy your itinerary without worry.

3. Use Credit Cards for Big Purchases

Leveraging credit cards for significant expenses not only offers convenience, but also adds a layer of financial protection. Credit cards generally come with comprehensive fraud protection policies, minimizing your liability in case of unauthorized transactions. Additionally, using credit cards can provide benefits such as reward points and travel insurance, enhancing the overall value of your purchases. Remember to keep track of your spending to avoid post-vacation financial surprises. Our VISA Cash Plus Credit Cards offer travel rewards and benefits like travel accident insurance, and can be a great option for both safety and perks!

4. Use Only Reputable ATMs & Avoid Frequent Visits

ATMs can be a hotspot for skimming devices and other fraudulent mechanisms designed to steal your card information. Prioritize using ATMs located in secure, well-lit areas such as banks, airports, or hotel lobbies. By planning your cash needs in advance, you can minimize the number of times you need to withdraw cash, thereby reducing your risk exposure. If an ATM appears tampered with or offers an unusually complicated user interface, trust your instincts and find another machine.

If you are traveling abroad, First Financial offers convenient foreign currency exchange. You can have the currency delivered to your home or a branch before your trip, and easily avoid foreign ATM use.

5. Beware of Pickpockets and Thieves

Tourist areas are often targeted by pickpockets and thieves due to the high concentration of distracted travelers. Stay vigilant by keeping your cash and valuables in secure, hard-to-reach places, such as money belts or inner jacket pockets. Consider using bags with tamper-resistant features such as RFID-blocking materials and locks. Regularly check your belongings, especially in crowded places – and practice situational awareness.

6. Be Mindful of Scams

Scammers often exploit the vulnerability of tourists, employing various tactics to deceive them out of their money. Familiarize yourself with common scams at your destination – including fake tour offers, counterfeit goods, and overly aggressive street vendors. Always exercise caution when engaging with strangers and verify the authenticity of any service or product before making a purchase. By staying informed and skeptical of too-good-to-be-true offers, you can avoid falling victim to scams and identity theft.

7. Travel Insurance

Investing in travel insurance with coverage for theft or loss of personal items can be a prudent decision. Such policies not only provide financial compensation in case of unforeseen losses, but can also offer assistance that can be invaluable during stressful travel situations. Review different travel insurance options to find a policy that best suits your needs, ensuring it covers the specific risks associated with your travel itinerary and activities.

First Financial is here to keep you informed and ensure your finances are kept safe. For more financial tips and advice, be sure to subscribe to our First Scoop blog. For member travel questions and assistance related to an upcoming trip, call 732.312.1500 or visit a branch today.

Tips for a Last Minute Vacation on the Cheap

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There are (unfortunately) just a few more weeks left of summer. If you’re looking to plan a last minute getaway without breaking the bank, follow our money saving vacation tips!

Stay with Family or Friends – Do you know any family or close friends who live in or near a great vacation spot or a city you’ve always wanted to visit? If so, staying with those you know gives you a chance to catch up and spend time with them, as well as it’ll spare you the cost of paying to stay in a hotel. Be sure to not wear out your welcome though. During your stay – offer to buy groceries, help out around the house, clean up after yourself, and cook for or take your host out for a decent meal or two. Another idea is to rent a house or cabin with friends or family. This will allow you to split the cost of wherever you decide to stay with however many other groups there are in your party.

BYO Food – Dining out during a week of vacation can rack up a hefty bill fast. While it’s nice to not have to cook for yourself and eat out at a trendy restaurant or two while on vacation, if you do so three meals per day for a whole week – it can really blow your budget. If you’re staying with someone you know or renting a house/condo for the week, bringing your own groceries is easy and will help you keep your costs down. Even if you’re staying in a hotel, you can still pack some food items to keep on hand so you don’t have to buy extra during your trip. For example, if your hotel has a small refrigerator – you can bring some small groceries to store in there (think milk for cereal or coffee creamer to make your own coffee in the room), or stretch your restaurant leftovers out and have them for lunch the next day. You can also bring some non-perishable snacks like protein bars, to keep on you for during the day to avoid having to purchase a big breakfast or lunch out. If you find that you are dining out quite a bit, try to make dinner a lower cost meal such as checking out one of the local pizza spots. You’ll spend less money on dinner, and who doesn’t love pizza?!

Hit up Free or Low Cost Attractions – If you’re visiting a new city, sometimes it’s fun to just walk around and explore the area without spending a dime. Or if you’re near a beach, lake, or park – this is usually a relatively inexpensive day if you plan it out right and bring your own drinks, food, and snacks in a cooler. Some beaches charge entrance or parking fees for the day, but they are generally pretty affordable. Local museums are another low cost alternative, which also will provide an educational experience and fun for the whole family. Do some research before your trip, and find out which attractions you’d like to see and how much they cost. Community calendars or area Facebook groups may also help give you some more ideas from locals.

Transportation – Is it absolutely necessary to rent a car on your trip? If you’re staying with someone you know, can they let you borrow theirs for the day or drop you off and pick you up? Also, look into whether there are modes of public transit like a bus you can take to get around, train, rent a bicycle – or are there things to do within walking distance? If you do need to rent a car, see if there’s an online promotional coupon code you can use when you book or a first-time customer discount.

There you have it, you can still plan an end of summer vacation and save money in the process. To stay updated on the latest financial insights as well as money saving tips and strategies – be sure to subscribe to our First Scoop blog or our monthly e-newsletter. Wishing you enjoyable end of the season travels!