Over the last few years we’ve been taking more vacations, getaways and adventures. Doing this as a family of 5 becomes very stressful with packing, traveling and of course the high expense. I’ve been doing some independent research for some low cost, low stress, low maintenance trips. Whether it’s finding ways to stretch the dollar or find destinations that don’t require many extras or “outside the box” ideas.
Use Alternate Transit
Traveling by air is definitely the fastest way to get from point A to point b but lately with all the extra fees and high costs airfare can take a huge bite out of your travel budget. Look into traveling by train or bus. Depending on how far your destination is and the final cost of airfare, fees, luggage and parking you can hop on a train for less money. The travel time is definitely longer but train rides tend to be more quiet and comfortable, have less waiting around time(terminals) and offer many amenities like dining cars, amazing scenery, plenty of restrooms, ample leg room and space to walk around.
image provided courtesy Gene Bowker via Flickr
Kids Eat Free
When you’re choosing you final vacation location use the internet to your advantage to find hotels where kids eat free. This can drastically reduce your overall budget especially if you have multiple children. Complimentary breakfasts are a bonus too for the entire family.
Kids Stay Free
If you are going for all-inclusive resort vacationing take it a step further and look for Kids Stay Free programs. Since activities, beverages and food are already included in your package imagine the money you can save when you find one that offers kids under 12 stay free.
Skip the Hotel
Hotels are plentiful and are usually the first thought when planning a vacation. Did you know that there are plenty of homes, condos and cabins for rent that not only get you in the same area but also offer comforts you won’t get in hotels or motels. Patios, comfy furnishings and having a full kitchen are great homelike accommodations. Some are also great ways to cut costs on meals and snacks. Making a quick run to a grocery store and having the ingredients for a simple breakfast is a great way to save money for something more fun like attractions.
Ask for Extras
Call ahead to the hotel or rental property you are visiting and ask about what extras they do and can provide. If you are headed to a beach location ask about sand toys, chairs and umbrellas. Strollers, bicycles and wagons are some things that are supplied upon request only and often at no extra charge.
image provided courtesy of Megan Meza via Flickr
Who needs a souvenir?
Do your kids really need another stuffed animal, inflatable character on a stick or bag of beach glass? Snap pictures of the family in front of a famous tourist attraction, add a magnet and you have an instant souvenir for the fridge that can last a lifetime.
Have a Staycation Instead
Staycations are a great way to become a tourist in your own backyard. Visit the local historic cities , museums and zoos that you may not have visited in recent years. Don’t forget to check out the deal sites for reduced admissions, parking and even meals.
No matter if you decide to stay close to home or venture across country there are steps you can take to save some money or spend that money on the fun things when you reach your destination.
