You MUST (and can) get away, now!

Now, I know what some of you think: “Vacations are for dudes who have more money than me — I can’t afford fancy resorts and all-you-can-eat buffets.” But I’m here to tell you that you don’t need a big bank account to take a break and recharge. You CAN have an incredible experience, make memories, and return feeling like a million bucks—without actually spending a million dollars.

We all need to travel because every place gets boring after we’ve lived in the same city for too long, so it’s the most predictable of all. Seeing new places, trying new foods (or just eating out more), and doing something different every day gives us energy and can be an escape.

Travel to see new things, get out of your comfort zone, and learn. If you don’t travel, it’s easy to fall into stereotypes or become ignorant, thinking your culture is better than others, despite being unable to compare. See how others live and escape how you do for a short time to shake things up. Even if you stay around your area, you can escape from day-to-day stressors, chill and relax, and take a break from life.

You’d be shocked at how many cool spots you’ve never explored in your own backyard. Museums, parks, historical sites, local food joints—spend a weekend acting like you’ve never been there before. Take photos, try new restaurants, and even book a cheap hotel or Airbnb across town to make it feel like a real getaway.

Nature, fresh air, and that rugged masculine energy—yes, please! Grab your tent, a cooler, and your best flannel to go camping. Whether it’s hiking, fishing, or just sitting by a fire with some good music and conversation, reset mentally and physically. Plus, most park fees are minimal, especially compared to a hotel.

Nothing screams freedom like hitting the road with your buddies (or your significant other). Load up on snacks, make a killer playlist, and hit the highway. Choose a few destinations within a few hours, and explore small towns, scenic routes, and roadside diners. It’s budget-friendly and incredibly satisfying.

Here’s a little Alpha tip—traveling off-season is where the real savings are. Flights and accommodations drop in price, and you avoid the crazy crowds. Want to go to the beach? Try September. Want to hit the mountains? Go in spring. It’s the same experience with half the cost and none of the lines.

Know someone who lives in a different city or even a different part of your own? Do a house swap for a weekend. You both get a change of scenery without the cost of hotels. Just make sure you’re both responsible and leave the place how you found it—Alpha style, baby.

Do a DND weekend—ditch the errands, the emails, and the Netflix marathons. Pick a few days, turn your phone on Do Not Disturb, and treat your home like a luxury retreat. Cook amazing meals, try meditation, read, workout, and just be. Your mental health will thank you, and your wallet won’t even notice.

Here’s a win-win: volunteer vacations. Many organizations will provide you with food and lodging in exchange for work, like helping build homes, teaching kids, or working on farms. You get to travel, meet amazing people, and give back. That’s next-level Alpha status right there.

This one’s for the savvy gents—credit card reward points, travel apps, and discount sites can seriously stretch your dollar. You don’t need to be a financial guru; you need to be a little strategic. Stack those deals to sip margaritas on a beach for less than you’d spend on a weekend bar tab.

Everyone talks about New York, LA, or Miami—but some of the best food, culture, and scenery are hiding in small towns. Pick a spot a few hours away and dive into their local vibe. Farmers markets, diners, festivals, even quirky roadside attractions—it’s all part of the adventure.

Hear me out—cruises and all-inclusives can be affordable if you plan smart and book during sales. You get food, lodging, and entertainment in one package. Just avoid all the upsells and excursions designed to bleed you dry. Stick to the basics and feel like a king without the royal budget.

The bottom line is, don’t travel for happiness. Travel for fulfillment by setting a comfortable pace. Plan new and interesting experiences and seek out views and spaces that help you appreciate the world around you. Happiness isn’t ‘found’—we usually stumble upon it by accident. The key is to appreciate that happiness when it finds you.

Vacations don’t have to cost a fortune to be amazing. Whether traveling far or staying close, it’s all about the experience, the mindset, and who you’re with. So don’t wait until you’re rich to live richly—get out there, recharge, and live like an Alpha. You deserve it.