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How to travel with kids without breaking the bank
Are you dreaming of family travel on a budget? Wondering how to make it a reality without sacrificing the quality of your experience? Look no further! We’ve got savvy tips and tricks to help you plan an affordable family vacation that will create lasting memories.
As a family of 5, we are only too aware of some of the challenges associated with the desire to travel more as a family, especially with the cost of living being so high. From smart budgeting and choosing the right destination to finding cost-effective accommodations and optimizing transportation costs, we’ve got you covered. Let’s dive in and discover how to make your family travel dreams come true without breaking the bank.
Remember, the essence of a great holiday lies not in how much you spend but in the quality of your experiences and the memories you create with your loved ones. Here are some tips and tricks we have learned over the years to make family travel on a budget a lot more doable
Setting Your Family Travel Goals
To make the most of your family travel on a budget, it’s essential to PLAN your goals and choose your destination with care.
Here’s how you can get started:
Planning For Your Family Travel on a budget
When you’re looking to travel with your family, the first step is to establish a clear budget. Start by outlining your overall family expenses and identifying how much you can allocate to travel. This ensures you’re financially prepared for the journey without compromising on daily necessities.
Here’s a simple approach:
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Create a Family Budget:
List all your monthly expenses to see where your money goes and how much you can save. -
Set a Travel Fund:
Aim to prioritize travel within your budget to build a fund specifically for your family trips. -
Save Regularly:
Consistency is key, so regularly put a portion of your income into the travel fund.
planning for family travel isn’t just about stashing cash away. It’s a commitment to bringing your family closer together through shared experiences.
Choosing Your Destination Wisely
Selecting where to go is a crucial part of your family travel planning process. You’ll want a destination that is enjoyable for everyone, including your kids. For example, we’ve always wanted to travel more around Ireland.
But unless you plan on touring and staying in what we call a campervan (which is known as an RV in America), accommodations in Ireland can get pretty expensive. But let’s save that discussion for another time.
If you plan to travel around with kids and have a family of four or more, think about slow travel in a larger vehicle as an alternative. It’s a fantastic budget-friendly travel option, and it allows you to save some money along the way.
But if that’s not your thing, then fear not, as we’ll explore other cheap ways to travel. Here are some tips to help you choose your vacation spot wisely, without breaking the bank.
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List Preferences: Talk together as a family about everyone’s preferences and interests. Maybe the kids want the beach whereas you’d love a bit of history or nature.
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Consider the Timing: This is definitely one of our top tips. Coordinate your trip with the times when the kids are approaching the end of the school term or within the first week(s) of school resumption, so they don’t miss out on too much. Also, research the best times to visit your destinations for budget-friendly options offering cheap family places to stay.
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Location, Location, Location: It’s crucial to make sure that your selected travel destination is suitable for kids, particularly if you have younger children. Kids don’t enjoy being in locations where there are primarily adults and no kids their age to interact with. If you want to create the ultimate family vacation experience for everyone, including yourself, it’s important to ensure that there are ample activities for kids to engage in both within and around your chosen destination.
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Research Costs: Compare the expenses of various places, including lodgings, food, and activities. As Lynn put it, look to travel to cheap destinations.
Involving the whole family in the decision-making process ensures that the trip is something everyone can look forward to, making every penny spent worth it.
Budgeting for Your Family Holiday
Careful budgeting is essential for ensuring your family holiday doesn’t break the bank. By setting up a travel fund and finding ways to save, you can afford to travel without compromising on the joy of your experience.
Creating a Travel Fund To Help You Travel.
To ensure you’re financially prepared for your family holiday, start by establishing a travel fund. This is a dedicated savings account where you can put away a small portion of your income regularly. This fund will be the foundation for your travel budget, and watching it grow can also be motivating for the whole family.
You can either use a good old piggy bank to set money aside, credit unions or get yourself an e-money account like Revolut where you can create different pockets for things like saving for a vacation, and move money into or out of these pockets whenever you want.
It’s a great way to budget family travel with kids, by putting aside money you intend to use to travel the world.
Begin by determining how much you’ll need for your trip—taking into account transportation, accommodations, food, activities, and
unexpected expenses. Once you have a target amount, you can work out how much you need to save each month.
Travel Insurance to Put Your Mind at Ease
I know what you’re thinking, travel insurance is just another expense. But hear me out. Imagine the chances of something going wrong, especially when you’re traveling with young kids.
It’s worth considering a few extra quid for travel insurance to cover any medical emergencies.
Utilising travel insurance comparison sites allows you to find the best coverage for your needs, potentially saving you money in the event of a medical emergency, lost luggage or missed flights and providing peace of mind.
They can be really cheap to purchase. If you generally travel, then consider one.
Just Google it and make the decision to go with a broker who offers the best deal for you. It’s one of the best family purchases we’ve ever made. Thank me later…
Saving Money to Afford to Travel
I love saving money. I’ve always believed in putting something aside for that rainy day, no matter how small it is. I guess living in Ireland where it rains quite often has taught me that …) On a more serious note, to turn your travel plans into a reality, it’s crucial to figure out ways to save up the necessary funds. Here are some tips if you want to ensure your family travel is possible.
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Cut back on non-essential expenses: This requires a lot of discipline to accomplish. Take a closer look at your monthly expenses and identify items that you can do without. This could be subscription services, takeaways, luxury items, and dare I say it, nights out. I know this may not go down well in many households but needs must. Luckily, my wife and I, along with the kids, of course, would rather spend our money traveling to many countries, than have numerous nights out. It’s who we are.
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Look for discounts: Save money by searching for discounts on flights, accommodations, and attractions. Traveling during off-peak times can often yield significant savings, especially when looking at budget flights.
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Smart shopping: When preparing for the trip, buy essentials such as sunscreen and swimwear out of season when they are often cheaper.
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Value for money: Instead of spending money on material possessions, prioritize investing in experiences. Avoid getting caught up in tourist traps and instead, seek out genuine experiences that provide more bang for your buck. To make the most of your budget, engage with locals and ask them where they shop for their items.
By being mindful of how and where you spend money, you’ll find that traveling as a family can be affordable without compromising the quality of your holiday.
Finding Budget-Friendly Accommodation
When travelling with your family, securing cost-effective lodgings can significantly reduce your overall expenses. By considering alternative accommodation options and seeking out discounts, you can make the most of your budget while enjoying a comfortable stay.
Exploring Options
Like Airbnb and Vacation Rentals
Like Airbnb and Vacation Rentals
Airbnb and vacation rentals are often an economical choice for families, as they offer the chance to stay in a home environment with more space and amenities compared to standard hotel rooms. You can filter your search to find properties that cater specifically to families, providing essentials such as kitchens, laundry facilities, and multiple bedrooms.
Amenities: Look for listings that offer free Wi-Fi, parking, and a fully equipped kitchen.
Location: Find accommodations in less touristy neighbourhoods for better deals.
Duration: Longer stays can sometimes unlock discounts, making a longer holiday more affordable.
Location: Find accommodations in less touristy neighbourhoods for better deals.
Duration: Longer stays can sometimes unlock discounts, making a longer holiday more affordable.
Discounted Accommodation
and Hotel Chains
Staying with reliable hotel chains known for favourable family rates can save you quite a bit of money. Many of these chains provide loyalty programmes and special offers for booking directly through their websites.
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Family Deals: Watch for family packages that include free stays for children or complimentary breakfasts.
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Loyalty Points: Join loyalty programmes for potential upgrades and savings on future stays.
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Time of Booking: Book during off-peak times for the best rates; even luxury hotels offer significant deals outside peak travel seasons.
Remember to compare prices across multiple platforms and consider booking non-refundable rates if your plans are set, as these can offer substantial savings. Hostels can be a viable option too, especially family-friendly hostels that offer private rooms.
Additionally, look into accommodation swaps with other families, which can be a unique way to save money on accommodations while experiencing a new place from a local’s perspective.
Smart Travel Planning and Booking
When you’re planning to travel with your family on a budget, knowing when and how to book can save you a considerable amount of money. There are handy tips for planning budget family travel, and the trick is to make use of the right travel apps and websites while booking your flights and accommodations well in advance.
Utilising Travel Apps and Websites
Travel planning begins with the best tools at your disposal. Familiarize yourself with travel apps and discount travel websites that aggregate prices and show you the cheapest options. For flight searches, Google Flights is a comprehensive platform where you can track prices for your desired routes.
Additionally, sites like Skyscanner and Kayak provide price comparisons for both flights and accommodations, often allowing you to get travel deals at a fraction of the cost. When using these services, remember to clear your browser cookies or use an incognito window to avoid potential price increases based on your search history.
Research travel deals on:
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Google Flights: For tracking and setting price alerts.
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Skyscanner: Compares prices across airlines.
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Kayak: Offers comparisons for flights and hotels.
By conducting thorough research, you can ensure you find the best deal without having to delve into each airline or hotel website individually.
Booking Flights and Accommodations Early
Booking your trip well ahead of time can lead to substantial savings, especially when looking for cheap flights and accommodation. Prices tend to escalate as the departure date nears, so it’s wise to plan your trip and secure your bookings several months in advance. This is especially true during peak travel periods.
Take advantage of early booking discounts that many airlines and hotels offer. And don’t forget to sign up for fare alerts so you can snap up a deal when it arises.
Optimising Transportation Costs
Cutting down the cost of travel is crucial when you’re planning a family trip on a budget. Here, we’ll navigate through booking car rentals early, making the most of public transport and carpooling, as well as selecting the right flight options to keep your wallet happy.
Book Early Car Rental
When renting a car, booking as far in advance as possible often secures you the best rates. Also, keep your eyes peeled for special promotions and use comparison websites to find deals. Ensure you have appropriate insurance coverage, but avoid purchasing unnecessary extras that can inflate the cost.
Leverage the extensive network of public transportation for cost-effective travel. Buses and trains can offer a reliable way to get around, and they’re especially affordable if you can secure family passes or group discounts.
Additionally, consider carpooling as a way to share expenses when traveling similar routes as other families or travelers. This is a way to travel cheap if your budget doesn’t cover the cost of a car rental.
Embracing Public Transportation
and Carpooling
Budget Airlines and Other Affordable
Travel Options
Seek out budget airlines that cater to families, offering considerable savings compared to traditional carriers. Be mindful of additional fees for luggage and seat selection, which can add up quickly.
Some individuals look down on the idea of flying with budget airlines as an option to travel. Frankly, I don’t understand it. If people are taking their kids on a vacation and finances are a concern, isn’t it a fantastic choice to travel? If your goal is to go from point A to point B, then why not?
Beyond flights, consider alternative travel options like ferries or long-distance buses, which can offer a unique experience at a fraction of the cost, especially if you travel long distances.
Keeping Food Expenses Low Is A Great Way To Save Money
Bring Your Own Snacks For
The Airport and Flight
Travel can be expensive, and paying for meals can add to that. With a bit of planning and local insight, you can savour delicious food without splurging.
Airports are notorious for pricey food options that can quickly eat into your travel budget. To counter this, pack a range of snacks from home. Think sandwiches, fruits, or treats that are easy to carry and pass security checks.
This will not only keep you and your family satisfied until you reach your destination but will also save you a considerable amount of money typically spent on airport meals.
Discovering Street Food
and Local Markets
One of the benefits of family travel is the opportunity for the little ones to soak up the sights and sounds of different cultures. Local markets and street vendors often offer a wide variety of authentic and affordable meals.
Venture out to where locals eat – the street food scene is usually buzzing with options that are both cheap and delicious. If you’re not fussy about what you eat, indulge in the local cuisine to get a taste of the culture without the hefty price tag of restaurants.
Food Budget: Self-Catering and Packed Lunches for Affordable Family Travel
A great way to keep your food expenses minimal is by self-catering. Look for accommodations with kitchen facilities and take a trip to the nearest grocery store. Buying ingredients and preparing your meals can dramatically reduce your food costs.
Packed lunches are ideal for day trips; a simple sandwich, some fresh fruit, and water can keep you energised for your adventures. If the weather is nice, make it a picnic lunch in a park or at the beach – it’s free, scenic, and a delightful way to create family memories.
Find The Best
Time To Travel
Carefully selecting your travel dates can significantly reduce the cost of family holidays. Peak times often coincide with school holidays and public holidays, leading to a surge in prices. By travelling during off-peak periods and choosing weekdays, you can take advantage of reduced rates for transportation and accommodation.
Off-Peak and Shoulder Season Advantages
Advantages:
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Cheaper accommodation rates
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Lower airfares
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Less crowded attractions
Shoulder season, the period just before or after the peak season, offers a compromise with still-reasonable prices and weather that can be quite pleasant.
When to travel: Try for early autumn or late spring, when the weather is still agreeable for sightseeing but the high costs and crowds of summer have diminished.
Weekday Travel and Seasonal Strategies
Choosing to travel during weekdays can result in significant savings. Tuesdays and Wednesdays are often the cheapest days to fly, as airlines tend to release new fare sales and matched reduced prices.
Seasonal strategies involve not only targeting the right months but also picking specific weeks when demand drops. The weeks following a school holiday period often see a decrease in travel costs.
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Plan ahead: Look at the school calendar and identify weeks immediately before or after breaks if you want to travel with kids out of school.
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Cheap holidays: Keep an eye out for last-minute deals, especially if you have a flexible schedule.
By leveraging these timing strategies, you can enjoy family trips that are both memorable and budget-friendly.
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Tips:
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Monitor flight prices and set alerts.
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Avoid weekends as fares usually spike.
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Maximizing Free and
Budget-Friendly Activities
We all love free things. So when planning a holiday with your family, there are numerous ways to enjoy yourselves without breaking the bank. Focusing on free attractions and making use of discounts can significantly reduce the cost of your travels.
Exploring Free Attractions and Nature Parks
Nature Reserves and National Parks: There are numerous stunning nature reserves and national parks worldwide, providing fantastic opportunities to immerse yourself in the great outdoors without breaking the bank. From scenic hiking trails to idyllic picnic spots, these natural treasures offer day-long adventures for the whole family.
Just remember, some parks may have parking fees, so it’s always a good idea to check this information in advance to avoid any unexpected costs.
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Free Museum Days: Public museums often have free entry days. Plan your visit to coincide with these days to enjoy a cultural experience. This can be a real budget-saver, especially for larger families at no additional cost.
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Local Attractions: Research local attractions in your destination area that offer free entry. This could include public art exhibits, historical sites, or outdoor festivals.
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Walking Tours: Some cities offer free walking tours, led by local guides who can offer a rich narrative of the area. Though the tours themselves are free, it’s polite (and typically expected) to provide a tip at the end if you’ve enjoyed the experience (don’t be a scrooge lol).
Utilising Discounted Tickets and Discounts
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Family Tickets: Look for family tickets which can offer significant savings for a family of three or more. These are often available for trains, buses, and popular attractions.
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Discounted Tickets: Tickets purchased in advance online can sometimes be cheaper than buying on the day. Additionally, lookout for discounted rates during off-peak hours.
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Group Discounts: If you’re travelling with friends or have a large family, group discounts might be available. This can be a cost-effective way for a family of five or more to explore attractions together.
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Kids Stay Free: Seek out accommodation options where children stay for free with paying adults. This can drastically reduce your accommodation costs.By incorporating these budget-conscious choices into your itinerary, you can enjoy a rich family holiday filled with memorable moments that won’t strain your wallet.
Leveraging Travel Rewards and Discounts
Travel can be expensive, but by using travel rewards credit cards and loyalty programs, you can save significantly on your family holidays. Let’s explore how you can make the most of these opportunities.
Earning Points with Travel Rewards
Credit Cards
One of the most effective methods to cut travel costs is to apply for a travel rewards credit card. Look for a card that offers a sizeable sign-up bonus, often requiring a minimum spend within the first few months. A travel credit card can offer rewarding perks. Keep an eye out for credit cards that offer car rental insurance, so you don’t have to shell out extra money at the rental desk.
But remember, it’s crucial to go through the terms and conditions of your credit card and get in touch with the issuer to know all the ins and outs of the coverage, including any restrictions or exceptions.
Here’s what to keep in mind:
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Choose cards wisely: Opt for cards that align with your spending habits and offer high rewards rates on categories you spend the most on, like groceries and fuel.
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Understand rewards structure: Some cards provide points that are transferable to multiple airlines or hotel partners, while others may offer higher reward rates for specific travel-related purchases.
Keep in mind, that the secret is to pay off the entire balance in full each month, rather than just making the minimum payment. By doing so, you can steer clear of those annoying interest charges that can wipe out the benefits of any rewards you earn.
Even worse, they might even lead you down the slippery slope of unnecessary debt. So, always aim to stay on top of your payments and avoid those interest pitfalls.
Finding Deals Through Loyalty Programs
and Apps
Your credit card isn’t the only tool in your budget travel arsenal. Joining loyalty programs and using cashback travel apps can lead to serious savings.
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Loyalty programs: Sign up for free airline, hotel, and car rental loyalty programs. These can offer you discounts, free nights, or vehicle upgrades.
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Cashback travel apps: Utilize apps that offer cashback on travel bookings. These savings can stack on top of your credit card rewards.
Incorporating both travel rewards credit cards and loyalty programs into your planning can open the door to affordable family adventures.
Remember to stay informed about the terms of these programs and use them responsibly to maximise their benefits.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re looking for short-term or long-term travel, if you want affordable trips with your family, it all starts with a PLAN. You know what they say, “If you fail to plan, you plan to fail”, and that pretty much sums it up. We hope you have the luck of the Irish in your adventures.
And here’s a special tip just for you, guys: Remember the golden rule – happy wife, happy life. When the kids are happy, chances are mom is happy too. So, whatever you do, make sure to keep the little ones entertained and content, to spare mom from unnecessary stress. Oh, and a bottle of local vino can always help set the mood just right.
Cheers! 😉
