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9 Ways to Save on a Family Trip Without Sucking the Joy Out of It

Vacations don’t have to come with credit card regret. With a little strategy and flexibility, you can create unforgettable family memories without overspending. These smart budgeting tips help you stretch your dollars while still maximizing the fun.

Start with a Realistic Budget

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Kues via Shutterstock.

Begin by determining how much you can comfortably spend, then reverse-engineer your trip around that number. Consider total costs: transportation, lodging, meals, entertainment, and a cushion for extras.

Tip: Use free apps or spreadsheets to track and visualize your vacation budget early in the planning phase.

Travel Off-Peak When You Can

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Avoid traveling during school breaks or major holidays, when prices spike. Shoulder seasons, like late spring or early fall, often offer lower rates, fewer crowds, and better availability.

Bonus: You’ll likely enjoy a more relaxed experience while saving on flights, hotels, and attractions.

Book Lodging That Lets You Cook

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Vacation rentals with kitchens can significantly reduce food costs. Eating out for every meal adds up quickly, especially with kids. Preparing breakfast and a few dinners at home leaves more room for splurging on special outings.

Look for hotels with free breakfast or kitchenettes for added value.

Use Points, Rewards, and Cash-Back Offers

woman at desk laptop and phone.
fizkes via Shutterstock.

Put your credit card perks to work. Travel rewards, points, and cash-back offers can be used for flights, car rentals, and hotels. Just be sure to pay off your card to avoid interest charges.

Loyalty programs also offer family perks like free nights or upgrades.

Look for Free (or Nearly Free) Attractions

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Every destination has budget-friendly fun. Public beaches, local parks, outdoor concerts, hiking trails, and community events are often free, and perfect for families.

Research city tourism boards and local blogs ahead of time for hidden gems that don’t cost a dime.

Limit “Big Ticket” Excursions to One or Two

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Rather than packing your trip with pricey excursions, pick one or two signature experiences, then fill the rest of your itinerary with low-cost activities. You’ll save money and avoid travel burnout.

This also gives your family something to look forward to, and makes the big event feel more special.

Set a Daily Spending Cap

Salty snacks.
Image credit FabrikaSimf via Shutterstock.

Decide in advance how much you’re willing to spend each day on extras like snacks, souvenirs, or activities. This prevents surprise overspending and keeps everyone mindful of the budget.

Use cash envelopes or a prepaid debit card for added control.

Pack Smart to Avoid Hidden Costs

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Forgetting essentials like sunscreen, chargers, or swimsuits can lead to unplanned expenses. Make a checklist well in advance and pack strategically.

Also, bring refillable water bottles and snacks to avoid high airport and tourist trap prices.

Involve the Kids in Budgeting

little girl thinking about spending allowance.
paulaphoto via Shutterstock.

Turn trip planning into a learning opportunity. Give older kids a budget for souvenirs or snacks, and let them decide how to spend it. This builds responsibility and cuts down on impulse spending.

It also makes them feel included, and more appreciative of the vacation as a whole.

Conclusion: Fun and Frugal Can Go Hand-in-Hand

smiling family at beach.
PeopleImages.com – Yuri A via Shutterstock.

A well-planned vacation doesn’t require deep pockets, just smart decisions. By budgeting ahead, focusing on value, and planning strategically, you can give your family the getaway they deserve, without financial stress tagging along for the ride.

Don’t Fall Prey To These 10 Travel Scams This Summer

Singapore - October 2023: Scam alert concept. Placing a note with the words Sounds Too Good To Be True It Might Be A Scam on a mobile phone with potential scam message shown on the phone
Editorial credit_ Celia Ong _ Shutterstock.com

Travel season heats up in summer—and unfortunately, so does scam season. With airports packed, hotels booked, and tourists flocking to unfamiliar places, scammers are ready to take advantage. Whether you’re traveling abroad or road-tripping in your home state, knowing the red flags can keep your vacation from turning into a nightmare. Here’s what to watch out for—and how to protect yourself.

READ: Don’t Fall Prey To These 10 Travel Scams This Summer

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  • Dede Wilson Headshot Circle

    Dédé Wilson is a journalist with over 17 cookbooks to her name and is the co-founder and managing partner of the digital media partnership Shift Works Partners LLC, currently publishing through two online media brands, FODMAP Everyday® and The Queen Zone.

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