How to Take Your Family on Vacation... On a Budget!
With warmer days fast approaching, I know many of my friends and followers are anxious to get out on a family vacation. But is it possible to travel in a budget-friendly manner, despite rising costs? How can you be fiscally responsible and still enjoy some time off with your family?
Thankfully, I have some tips that have helped us through the years. With three children, a family vacation is never a cheap endeavor, but I have learned plenty of money-saving tips that keep a vacation a reality in our household - just like it can be for yours, too!
Plan and Book Ahead
My first tip for you to plan a vacation on a budget is to take that action verb into consideration: “PLAN!” By mapping out your trip well ahead of time, you can do your research and save money. Knowing your goals, shopping around for good prices and deals, and giving yourself time to book your final choices will make the entire process smoother.
Additionally, you can often find better discounts and deals if you plan months ahead of time. Last-minute scrambling will mean paying a higher dollar amount in the end. Consider keeping your dates flexible. If you have some wiggle room on your vacation dates, you also give yourself some flexibility on securing the best possible travel rates.
2. Consider Alternative Accommodations
These days, you have plenty of options when it comes to lodging. Try renting another home through programs like AirBnB or VRBO, which often offer lower pricing than traditional hotels. These homes will also often include a kitchen, where you can do your own meal preparations - again, saving you money.
If you’re up for it, camping is another cost-effective way to get away. From cabin rentals to tents, and even recreational vehicle rentals, you have many options outside of the traditional hotels and motels.
3. Location, Location, Location
As they say in real estate, it is all about location. Once you arrive at your destination, have you mapped out what you want to do and where those activities will be located?
This step is crucial for a few reasons, when trying to save money. Selecting an optimal location will reduce your travel expenses such as car rentals, public transportation tickets, or taxi fares. And choosing a spot that has built-in recreation or activity is ideal when saving pennies.
When you book a spot on a beach, near a pool, or within a state park, you’re also choosing activities that are accessible and potentially free with your lodging.
So, where would you and your family like to go this year? By thinking ahead, considering alternative stays, and wisely picking your hotspot, you can make a family vacation - even on a budget - a reality for you and your family!
