Family vacations are rewarding but can become expensive fast. Between airfare, meals, and entertainment, it’s easy for a family trip to stretch beyond the budget. But here’s the good news: with some smart planning, you can have an unforgettable family adventure without draining your savings. Here’s how to save money while traveling with kids-without skimping on the fun.
- Choose Budget-Friendly Destinations
Some destinations are more affordable for families. You want to consider the cost of transportation, lodging, kid-friendly attractions, local cost of living, and exchange rates if traveling abroad.
Tips:
- Choose nearby smaller towns instead of major cities. For example, stay in Pigeon Forge instead of Gatlinburg, Sacramento instead of San Francisco, or Kissimmee instead of Orlando. You could save big by just driving into town to certain attractions.
- Consider driving destinations. Road trips can be significantly cheaper than flying with a family. Break up long travel days with stops at scenic, free attractions to add a sense of adventure and give everyone a chance to stretch, recharge, and enjoy the journey.
- Search travel deal websites, such as Google Flights and Skyscanner for example, and search flexible dates and “Everywhere” as the destination to see which destination has the best flight deals.
Need Inspiration?
Use social media for inspiration.
Instagram – use the search bar to find relevant travel information using hashtags like:
- #BudgetTravel
- #TravelHacks
- #FamilyTravelOnABudget
Facebook – use the search bar to find posts, pages, or groups like:
- Traveling with kids on a budget
- Family Travel Tips & Hacks
- Budget family travel USA
YouTube – Use the search bar with phrases like:
- Travel vlog + budget + kids
- Budget family vacation ideas
- Affordable hidden gems in [state/city]
Search location-specific hashtags if you have a destination in mind. Sort results to get most recent up-to-date travel ideas.
- Plan Ahead for Big Savings
One of the easiest ways to save money is to start planning early. Booking flights, rental cars, and accommodations in advance often guarantees better rates. For searching flights, use fare trackers like Skyscanner, Google Flights, or Hopper to monitor prices and secure deals when they dip.
Planning to travel during off-peak seasons (such as Spring or early Fall) can stretch your dollars further by taking advantage of lower prices during that time and another plus is enjoying fewer crowds.
- Find Free or Low-Cost Activities
You don’t have to splurge on expensive theme parks every day to keep the kids entertained. Public parks, nature trails, and beaches can offer hours of fun for free. Many museum and cultural centers also offer free admission days or discounted family rates.
- Search for local event calendars during the dates you will be traveling for low-cost activities and take advantage of early bird ticket prices by planning ahead.
- Search Groupon for deals on local attractions and activities
- Search Trip Advisor for best budget-friendly things to do in (insert destination), to get a list of budget-friendly attractions, tours, and activities.
- Save on Food Without Sacrificing Enjoyment
Eating out three meals a day adds up fast. Booking accommodations with a kitchen or kitchenette access allows you to prepare simple meals and save money. Pack snacks and water for outings. Picnicking is a great option and memorable experience when coupled with a scenic view at a local attraction.
For meals out, look for restaurants with family deals or “kids eat free” promotions. Consider casual and fast-casual dining at local restaurants for lower prices and no tip expectations or policies. To keep the dining experience exciting choose a restaurant that you haven’t tried.
- Be Smart About Lodging
Lodging is often one of the biggest travel expenses but there are plenty of ways to cut costs.
- Vacation rentals can be more affordable and practical than booking multiple hotel rooms, especially for larger families. They also give you the space to spread out and ability to cook meals.
- Take advantage of loyalty points, family travel packages, and discount sites like Expedia, Airbnb, or Booking.com to score great deals.
- Consider staying just outside tourist hotspots- accommodation prices drop significantly a few miles away.
- Look for extras included in lodging like free breakfast, parking, or shuttle services to help stretch your dollar further.
6. Opt to Cruise
Cruises are budget friendly options, sometimes even at a lower cost than land-based vacation options. The convenient and all-inclusive vacation experience includes accommodations such as meals, entertainment, transportation between ports, and allows you to explore multiple destinations all included in a per person price.
Search and compare deals on cruise deal websites:
- CruiseCritic.com
- VacationToGo.com
- CruiseSheet.com
- CruiseDirect.com
These sites often have last-minute deals, repositioning cruises, Kids Sail Free offers, and flash sales and deeply discounted interior cabins.
Filter destination by budget on these websites:
- CruiseSheet.com
- VacationsToGo.com
- CruiseDirect.com
These sites allow you to search travel destinations by your budget.
Choose cruises departing from U.S ports close to home to avoid spending money on airfare. Watch for hidden costs such as port fees and taxes (that may not be included in advertised price), gratuities, drink packages, excursions, and WiFi and onboard spending that are an additional fee.
Memorable family vacations don’t require a luxury budget. With a bit of research, flexibility, and smart planning, your family can explore the world, create amazing memories, and still come home with your finances intact.
Embrace the journey, cherish the moments, and don’t forget-sometimes the best adventures come from the simplest experiences.