Won free airline ticket.. nice problem to have, right?

[Eurotexan]

So, this is definitely a first world problem but would appreciate some advice.

Last week at work I won an AA roundtrip ticket to anywhere in the US, Canada, Mexico or the Caribbean; to be used by December 4, 2014. (I won it by decorating my desk at work, it looked like England had thrown up on it, at least England won something.. ha ha!)

Ideally I need to use it this summer as my daughter will be with my family in England and I'll have the time. However, I fear this trip is going to end up costing me quite a bit of unbudgeted money, but on the other hand, wouldn't I be crazy not to use it? Even if the flight is free and I stay with a friend, the weekend will still cost my parking, boarding my dog, meals out etc.

I have thought of giving it to a friend in need but none of my friends are in need right now. I have even thought about giving it to a charity but how do I know it's legitimate? Any thoughts on this really appreciated!

[Mayan]

If it's transferable, you might be able to sell it.  If I won a free ticket, I would definitely use it and just try to keep other expenses low (do you have any friends you can trade dog sitting services with?).   Whether you should do so depends a lot on your current financial situation - are you trying to pull yourself out of a large amount of debt, or are you in a good place but working towards FI?  Will the stress of going over your planned budget diminish the enjoyment you get out of the trip?  Good luck figuring it out and have fun if you do travel somewhere!