The average cost of a one week vacation in the U.S. is in the thousands, according to a survey, with estimates hovering at $4,536 for just two people. A former soldier who today helps others plan getaways is sharing how working with a travel expert can save military families from breaking their budgets.
The importance of vacations – no matter what the destination may be – cannot be overstated, according to Michael Capps, owner of Dapper Travels.
“We need to unplug from the daily grind to gain perspective and objectivity about how to approach our routine challenges,” he explained. “The military occupation can be some of the most stressful, unpredictable, and dangerous work anyone can do. Taking time off helps you to perform optimally in your professional life and ensures that you’re getting a bit of a work/life balance.”
Capps served for more than 20 years, retiring in 2021, and is a member of the Veterans in Travel program.
“I still think of all the trips I plan as a military operation,” he says, “and I approach the planning process in the same way I would if I were receiving orders from higher headquarters.”
Delving into vacation planning alone, he cautioned, can be costly.
“In the military, we used to say that the NCO was supposed to account for all of the implied tasks of any mission, and then conduct all of the pre-combat checks, and pre-combat inspections before crossing the line of departure,” Capps said. “Having an expert help you craft the vacation of your dreams is kind of like having that quality NCO on your team who will make sure the mission is a success.”
Capps was eager to share a few tips that any military family can use to prepare for their own getaway.
Plan and book as early as you can
“You get the best prices if you book well ahead of your travel dates,” Capps acknowledged, “but even if prices go down, you have a good chance of being able to take advantage of a special offer, even if you have already booked.” His advice? “Turn in that leave request as soon as you can!”
Consider ancillary fees
Vacations will cost travelers more than just airfare, room, food, and entertainment, Capps said, pointing out that travelers tend to forget about parking fees, luggage fees, in-destination transportation, local tourist taxes, credit card foreign transaction fees, international cellular data, or other costs that creep their way into your vacation.
Visit the MWR office
“Your installation MWR office will be full of brochures and special offers to experience local attractions,” he told us. “Because you actually live in these destinations, you can take small, bite-size trips over long weekends or short breaks, and wind up seeing so much of Europe, the Pacific, Asia, or even North America without having to break the bank.”
Do food tours
“Local food tours are some of the best things to experience while in a new destination,” Capps said, explaining that these tours sometimes combine transportation, historical commentary from an expert guide, and lots of interaction with locals. “We try to experience a food tour every time we visit a new location,” he proudly shared, “and I always include one when planning trips for clients.”
