After spending so much time indoors due to COVID-19, many families are looking for opportunities to get outside and travel. However, as any parent knows, planning a trip can be expensive, especially for larger families. Being able to find a destination you can afford to visit, in addition to paying for attractions and food along the way, can be tricky.
It can be difficult for families that want to save money to plan a quality vacation, but fortunately, there are more resources available online than ever before for anyone trying to take a trip on a budget. Keep reading for a few vacation hacks that can help you save money on your next family trip.
Choose lesser-known destinations.
One of the best ways to make your trip more affordable is to choose lesser-known destinations and avoid overpriced tourist traps. By staying away from the busier and more popular locales, you’ll be able to save money and have a more relaxing vacation. Oftentimes, you can find an incredible place to stay that’s just a short drive from a larger city, and drive in for a day or two, rather than spending a fortune to stay in the most expensive city in the area throughout your trip.
Vicksburg, Mississippi, known as the Key to the South, is one example of a hidden gem that many people miss. The American south is one of the most scenic parts of the country, in addition to being home to a number of historical sites, sports teams, and cultural events that you can’t find anywhere else.
Look for discounts on attractions online.
Planning how to get to and from your destination is only half the battle. You need to decide what you want to do when you get there Websites like Travelin Coupons offer families the ability to have their dollar go farther when planning activities on their next vacation. No matter what city you’re visiting, you’re likely to be able to find some pretty steep discounts on some of the most popular museums, restaurants, and nightlife in the area.
Consider a road trip.
One classic vacation option that will always help cut costs is a road trip, but not every family can handle a cross-country drive. It also may not be the best idea for anyone with younger kids or infants. However, if your family is up for it, you can save a significant amount of money by avoiding paying for plane tickets on your next vacation. Families that own RVs or campers have an even easier time hitting the road so you may want to think about investing in one if the lifestyle sounds appealing to you.
While it can seem like travel is prohibitively expensive for families, there are several ways you can reduce the cost of your next trip. Your choice of destination is one of the most meaningful factors in the price of a vacation, so choosing a lesser-known city to visit is a great way to save money. You can even stay within a short drive of a more popular tourist spot, so you can visit local attractions without paying a premium to be in a big city for the entirety of your vacation.
The internet has also made it easier than ever to find discounts on everything from food to museums to sports games, so take the time to see if you can save money when you’re planning your itinerary. You can also always skip the airport and hit the road if it’s a realistic option for your family. No matter how you decide to travel, it’s worth crunching the numbers so you can afford to make new memories on an exciting family trip.