Vacations can be expensive, especially family vacations. However, you do not need to empty your bank account to have a great time. With some planning, research, and a little budgeting, you will create an unforgettable vacation.
Start With Your Budget
Be realistic about how much money you can spend on your vacation. You do not want to be paying for your holiday months or years later. Your budget should include everything you can think of, including travel expenses, hotels, food, entertainment, souvenirs, and more.
Plan Early
Start planning as soon as possible. Experts suggest planning your vacation at least ten months in advance. If you are flying, set up alerts to track flight prices. One of the best ways to save money is to travel during the off-times. For example, do not leave on a weekend. Go on Wednesday instead. Instead of traveling to Europe in the summer, go in the fall.
How To Get A Good Deal
There are several tricks for getting deals on car rentals, lodging, and more. Besides setting flight price alerts, there are other ways to save money. For the best deals on hotel rooms, contact hotels directly. Hotels can be more flexible with their pricing. Be honest about your budget and ask about value days or if rooms are less expensive during their off-season.
To get a deal on rental cars, start by joining AAA. They offer discount codes on car rentals. Over time, your rentals will more than pay for your membership. AAA offers other travel discounts as well. Another way to save on rental cars is to use corporate codes from your company. Members of USAA also qualify for discounts on rental cars. Do not forget to check your credit cards to see if they offer rental car discounts. Restaurants, attractions, movie theaters, and more frequently offer discounts to older adults and kids.
Some research online can help lead to finding discounts. Websites like Groupon Getaways, TripAdvisor, Google Flights, Expedia, and Kayak are great resources for locating discounts on amusement park tickets, hotels, and more.
Be Creative For Meals
Meals, especially for families, can eat up a budget. Instead of eating out for all your meals, be creative. Head to the grocery store and get snacks and breakfast and lunch items. If your hotel does not provide a complimentary breakfast, consider buying microwavable breakfast items to eat in your room. Most grocery stores have popular items like roast chicken and other family favorites to make dinners easy and delicious. To save money, keep restaurant eating to a minimum.
The Best-friendly Sightseeing Tips
Research the area around your destination. Check to see if museums offer free or low-cost admission. Is there a local state park that offers swimming or activities within the park? Plan a picnic and explore nature. Talk to local people. They may know some fun places the entire family will enjoy. Check out the local tourism website and visit the local branch if you are a AAA member. They will have maps and other information. Soon, you will be on the best vacation while staying within your budget.
