Traveling with the family is a fun way to create life-long memories. Traveling can also prove to be a very costly adventure. With a little research, planning, and these tips, you can indeed afford a family trip.
Planning Early Pays
Planning in advance and doing a little research can save you hundreds of dollars. Make your first stop the local library and check out their selection of travel magazines and guidebooks to help you decide where you’d like to go.
Call the tourist office or Chamber of Commerce in areas you’re considering visiting. Ask about the slowest days at family-friendly attractions, and also inquire about hotels and restaurants in the area that offer deals.
Check out the Internet as an additional resource. Many destinations have websites offering deals, and other travel-oriented websites can point you in the direction of a money-saving travel option, as well.
Get the Best Deal
Travel off season. Most families travel during the summer months, and destinations increase their prices accordingly. Price can be as much as 70% lower during the off season.
Book packages. The big three: Orbitz, Travelocity and Expedia offer hotel and flight packages that usually end up costing much less than if you were to book them separately. If you combine it with an expedia coupon code or a travelocity promo code, you can save even more.
Never pay retail. Ask about discounts and packages everywhere you go. Check the local newspapers, and call attractions to find out where you can obtain coupons for the venue. Lastly, utilize those frequent flyer miles if you have them.
Penny-Pinching Souvenirs
You can’t take a child anywhere without expecting them to ask for a souvenir from the trip. Encourage your children to seek out lower-priced items, such as decals, postcards, or T-shirts. Here are some other ways to allow your children to collect souvenirs without breaking the bank:
-Give your children their budget to spend on souvenirs. They’ll think long and hard before making a purchase.
-Bring a blank scrapbook and steer your kids towards free items, such as brochures, paper coasters, and maps.
-Stop at a local discount store and have your child select an article of clothing that will be suitable for school. They will remember the vacation every time they wear it.
Eating on the Go
Bring a cooler and fill it with snacks, and items appropriate for making lunches on the go.
Seek out restaurants advertising “Kids Eat Free” promotions.
Eat at restaurants with kid’s menus. The items on these menus are generally low in price.
Wallet-Friendly Lodging
One of the most expensive parts of a vacation can be the lodging costs. Use these ideas to save considerably on the costs of hotels and motels.
-Don’t stay in the city. Find a motel on the outskirts of the city, and enjoy the reduced cost.
-Many place offer family discounts. Be sure to call ahead and ask.
-Look into “budget” motels. These places don’t have the frills of fancier hotels, but they offer reduced rates; some as low as $40 a night.
-Look into home exchange programs. This will completely eliminate lodging costs.
We’d love to hear your favorite travel tips. Post your comments and help others save.