The first thing people think about when it comes to traveling is money. Most people would love to travel, but they claim they don't have enough money. Now of course some money is necessary, but probably not as much as you think. Here are some ways around spending your life savings on the vacation of a lifetime!

First and foremost plan ahead and try and find the cheapest flight possible. It's likely this could be the most expensive part of the trip just depending on how far in advance you book the flights, what deals you find, etc.  Bus rides are always an option too, but obviously much more inconvenient.

Do your research ahead of time! The Yucatan Peninsula from Cancun down to the boarder of Belize is filled with amazing sights and activities. The Yucatan has some of the nicest areas and sceneries in the world, and just being here and taking it in is more than most vacations can offer. There are beautiful beaches, cenotes, Mayan ruins, snorkeling areas, diving spots, jungle excursions, and anything else you can possibly think of. Whatever it is you want to do, know ahead of time so you can leave behind the expensive tour guides. Snorkeling with turtles in Akumal is a great example. People come to Akumal beach and pay good money for a guide to take them out to see the turtles, when in reality you can bring your own goggles and simply go out into the water and have the same experience. Just swim to where the crowd is because that's probably where the turtles are! That's just one example and there are many, many more. The point is, just have a plan ahead of time of activities you want to do and the cheapest way to do them. The locals love charging money for things that anybody could do own their own if they just knew more about it ahead of time.

Know where to stay! This region is a huge tourist area, so hotels and resorts are abundant. It's knowing which one fits you to really make your vacation. Now if you want the 5 star resort by all means do so, these places are incredible! We can personally recommend Mahekal Beach Resort  and The Royal. Both are located in Playa del Carmen. However we really recommend finding good HOSTELS. Hostels are very popular in this region and are very cheap! You can stay at many of them for as little as $5 USD per night!! There are more upscale and expensive ones as well, either way you can't beat hostels. You will meet so many people and learn the area and culture so much more than at any hotel, and this is what often leads to finding more awesome activities for cheap that "regular tourist" don't know about.

How to get from point A to B! Okay now you've got your plane tickets booked, hotel or hostel reserved, and an agenda of sights to see, so what else is there? Transportation can really give you a headache and throw a wrench in your plans if you don't prepare. Buses are best for very long distances, but for most of the little day trips and just getting around in general COLLECTIVOS are the best bet. They are basically vans that you can find anywhere and transport people in groups of 10 or so. They are very, very cheap and will drop you off at the entrance of any place you want to go in the area you are in. Try to avoid taxis as much as possible because they will overcharge you and the ride is a pure nightmare.

This is simple and basic, yet it can be very helpful, and ensure you have the vacation of a lifetime without draining your bank account!