For a lot of families, providing food on the table and meeting their child’s needs are more important than a vacation. After all, going on vacation costs a lot of money on food, accommodations, and petrol, among others.
Fortunately, with a little planning and perseverance, you and your family can go on a vacation that doesn’t have to cost an arm and a leg. To help guide you, here are a few money saving tips for a frugal family vacation:
Choose Your Vacation
Keep your budget in mind and plan what kind of trip you can take with it. Can you afford to stay at a hotel? What about a flight? If all else fails, consider a road trip. It’s a lot easier for your budget and your kids will be more comfortable.
As for the activity, choose something that is both enjoyable and educational. Some activities you can take while on a road trip can include visits to a historical landmark or museum or, if you want to relax and enjoy the sun, a trip to the beach or a lake.
Another activity to consider for your family adventure is camping. You get to sleep in a tent, prepare your food, and spend valuable time with the people you love. In turn, you can teach your kids some basic outdoor skills.
Plan Everything Out
Once you’ve chosen a destination, plan out the activities you want to try with your kids and the places you want to visit. When selecting a destination, it is essential to put into consideration if the activities offered is safe for your kids to try.
Make a detailed itinerary for everyone to follow during your stay so that everyone can stay organized and still have fun at the same time.
As part of your planning, look for a suitable rental car that can fit everyone inside comfortably, and make the necessary reservations for your trip.
Bring Extra Clothes
While packing, check the weather conditions in your destination and pack accordingly. Now, it is encouraged to pack only the essentials but make sure to bring a few extra clothes, just in case you need it.
Doing this will help prepare you for a wardrobe malfunction and, thus, avoid the need to buy new clothes while on the trip.
Pack Snacks
Long car rides can make anyone restless. That’s why it is important to pack snacks for everyone. Choose from a variety of healthy snacks, including granola bars and fruits, to take with you in the car. With these, you and your kids can have something to eat when you’re feeling peckish on the road.
Picnic Lunches
Aside from snacks, take the time to prepare sandwiches and other food for your trip. Before you go, check your route for any detours like a park or picnic area where your family can stop and eat.
This an ideal way to save money and it also gives everyone the opportunity to stretch their legs. Your kids can also run around and enjoy a bit of sunshine before you continue driving.
Money for Souvenirs
Kids tend to ask their parents for cash whenever they see something they see at the souvenir shop. Now is the perfect time to teach your kids how to manage their money.
Several weeks before your trip, tell your children about the things they can buy at the destination. Tell them that if they want it for themselves, they need to save up.
They can save their allowance and earn extra money by taking on more responsibility around the house. That way, they can have their own pocket money for the trip that they can use however they want.
Although it is important to stay within your budget for your trip, you must not forget to have fun and enjoy the moments you spend with your family. So, go forth and make the most out of these moments while your children are still young.