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Hi Val,

We’ve wanted to go away over Christmas, but never seem to have the funds to do so. What are your thoughts on a layaway plan?

Thank you!

– Craig

Hi Craig,

Layaway travel plans are particularly handy if you’d rather not pay an entire trip off all in one clip. Typically, you’ll have to pay a deposit and make monthly payments between the time of booking and your departure date – though the final payment may be due 30-45 days prior to the start of your trip.

Sears Vacations offers a layaway program for more than 3,000 cruises and 5,000 land-based trips. You can put as little as 20 percent down and pay at least $49 per month.

You don’t necessarily have to look for a travel agency that deals with layaway travel programs. Another option is to look into travel packages that allow you to put down a deposit and pay the rest off at a later date. However, instead of waiting to pay off the balance, set a reminder on your phone to notify you to make a monthly payment on your own terms – preferably one that fits comfortably into your own budget.

Happy travels!

-Val