Affordable vacation strategy

winnietrey wrote:
"save and splurge at the same time" I like that. Pretty much what we try and do.

One question we do ask ourselves, is, when something looks fun to do, like a tour, or going in a cave or whatever. But it seems kind of pricey, we remind ourselves, we won't be back this way for a long time. And maybe we never will get back.

So 95% of the time we will go ahead and do it. Usually always glad we did

I agree with the above. We all have budgets, but a once in a life time trip will ultimately cost a bit extra. That doesn't mean "No holes barred spend every penny".
But is does mean you may participate in an unplanned, un-budgeted adventure if the opportunity presents itself.
I don't think you travel 100's of miles not to do an activity you would enjoy strictly due to cost.
Keep in mind splurging on one event may result in a budget cut back on another activity.
At some point you will earn more money, but the opportunity/moment will be gone forever.
A cross country trip often requires a different approach vs. a routine family vacation to the lake/beach.