When it comes to the subject of budget travel, one of my top tips is always to plan ahead.
Planning ahead is really the key to saving money on travel.
Planning ahead allows you to take advantage of early-bird deals and in some cases, can give you access to options such as payment plans which can be super helpful.
Where should you start with your planning? I recommended you start by setting a budget.
Set a budget
Before you start booking anything, set a budget for your trip. As a matter of fact, if at all possible, set your budget before even selecting a destination.
Determine how much you can afford to spend on transportation, accommodations, food, and activities, and make sure you actually stick to your budget.
This will help you avoid overspending and keep your trip affordable.
Choose your accommodations wisely
Hotels can be expensive, especially for families, so consider other options such as vacation rentals, hostels, or camping.
Look for accommodations that offer amenities like kitchens, which will allow you to save money by cooking your own meals.
Use public transportation
Renting a car can get pretty expensive, so consider using public transportation to get around.
Many cities have affordable and efficient public transportation systems that can save you money on transportation costs.
Another one of my favorite tips is to take advantage of bikes if available at your location. This can be a great way to save money and get a good workout during your trip.
Pack snacks
Food can be a major expense when traveling, especially for families. Make sure you pack snacks and drinks to take with you on your trip and consider making your own breakfast in your hotel room or vacation rental to save money on meals. (Psst… if you can score a hotel that offers free breakfast, definitely take advantage of the opportunity.)
Look for free activities
Many destinations offer free activities such as museums, parks, and festivals. Do some research before your trip to find out what free activities are available in your destination, and plan your itinerary accordingly.
Use travel rewards
If you have travel rewards credit cards or airline miles, use them to save money on your trip. You can also sign up for loyalty programs to earn rewards and discounts on future travel.
Travel light
Pack only what you need for your trip to avoid excess baggage fees. Consider packing travel-sized toiletries and doing laundry during your trip to save money on luggage fees.
Travel During Off-Peak Seasons
Another one of my top money-saving tips for travel is to consider traveling during off-peak seasons when prices are generally lower. You can often save money on airfare, accommodations, and activities when traveling during non-peak seasons.
Check for Discounts and Deals on Entertainment and Activities
Check for discounts and deals on entertainment and activities. Many museums, theme parks, and other attractions offer discounts for families, students, and seniors.
My family loves to use Groupon to save money on activities in the area. We also take advantage of the CityPASS whenever available. We have actually saved a TON of money by using the CityPASS for local attractions.
So there we have it. These are my tips to help you pull off family travel while on a budget.
With these tips, you can enjoy a pretty awesome family vacation without breaking the bank. Happy travels!
What are some things you do to save money while traveling? Feel free to share some of your best tips for families traveling on a budget in the comments below!
Briana Marie is a mental health and financial literacy advocate, and founder of Major League Mommy. In her spare time, Briana enjoys yoga, travel, and spending time with her Husband and two daughters.
