Vacations with kids don’t need to come with a hefty price tag. From flights and hotels to dining and activities, traveling as a family can often feel like it costs more than it’s worth. But what if there were creative, budget-friendly ways to enjoy a family vacation without the financial stress? Here are 5 unique ways to travel on a budget with kids.
1️⃣ Opt for Staycations and Local Adventures 🏡
Traveling with kids can be expensive, but who says you need to go far to have a memorable family vacation? Staycations—vacations where you explore your own city or nearby locations—can provide the same excitement as traveling abroad, without the costs associated with flights, lodging, or pricey tourist attractions. This option allows you to relax, explore, and bond with your family without the stress of long trips or expensive flights.
How to do it:
- Discover Local Hidden Gems: Start by researching attractions and spots in your city or region that you’ve never visited before. These could be free or low-cost attractions such as local parks, nature reserves, museums, or art galleries. Check out event calendars for festivals, farmers’ markets, or community gatherings that might be happening during your staycation, as these often provide family-friendly entertainment at a fraction of the price of typical vacation destinations.
- Book a Local Getaway Rental: Consider booking a stay in a nearby Airbnb, cozy cabin, or budget-friendly boutique hotel. A change of scenery, even if it’s just down the road, can offer your family the feeling of getting away while still being close to home. This offers all the perks of travel without the stress of packing for long flights or dealing with transportation costs. Look for properties that have family-friendly amenities like kitchens (to prepare your meals), outdoor spaces (for picnics or playtime), and easy access to attractions or trails.
- Go for Nature and Outdoor Fun: Nature is your best ally when it comes to affordable family fun. Spend a day at a nearby beach, park, or hiking trail, where you can enjoy the outdoors for little to no cost. If your area has a national or state park, many of them offer free or very affordable entrance fees. Pack a picnic, bring some outdoor games, or go on a nature walk to explore local flora and fauna. Your kids will love the adventure, and you won’t have to spend a fortune.
FVC Tip:
Turn your staycation into an exciting “destination” experience by creating a vacation itinerary that includes new activities for the family to enjoy. Research local “secret” spots, such as lesser-known hiking trails, hidden swimming holes, or quirky local landmarks. Not only will this make the staycation feel like a true adventure, but it also allows you to experience your own city with fresh eyes.
Additional Ideas for Staycation Fun:
- Home Swap: If you’re looking for a complete change of scenery, consider a home exchange with a friend or family member. By swapping homes for the weekend, your family can stay in a new environment without the cost of hotels.
- Family-Friendly Attractions: Look for local museums or historical sites offering discounts for families or special deals during certain hours. Often, local tourist destinations have promotions or special events that make exploring them much more affordable.
- Local Festivals and Free Events: Many cities host free or low-cost family events throughout the year, such as outdoor concerts, art shows, or community picnics. Keep an eye on local event calendars and plan your staycation around one of these activities. These often provide great entertainment for kids and the chance to meet other families, all while saving money.
2️⃣ Take Advantage of Off-Peak Travel Times 🗓️
If you’re planning to travel beyond your local area, timing is everything. Peak travel seasons like summer holidays and school breaks typically come with inflated prices for flights, hotels, and activities. However, traveling during off-peak times—when demand is lower—can offer substantial savings. By avoiding peak periods, you can reduce travel costs while still having a wonderful vacation experience.
How to do it:
- Research the Best Times to Travel: Off-peak seasons vary depending on your destination, but in general, consider traveling during times when school is in session, and major holidays have passed. For instance, traveling in late fall (September to November) or early spring (January to March) typically offers lower rates on flights and accommodations. Avoiding the summer vacation rush can save you hundreds of dollars.
- Look for Last-Minute Deals: Sometimes, booking your trip in advance isn’t always the best option. Many airlines, hotels, and tour companies offer last-minute deals, especially during the off-season, when they are looking to fill vacant rooms or seats. Websites like Skyscanner, Kayak, or Travelzoo often have discounted offers for spontaneous travelers.
- Flexible Travel Dates: If you’re flexible with your travel dates, you can find significant price differences depending on when you depart and return. Use flight comparison tools like Google Flights or Hopper to check price variations on different days of the week or months to help you lock in the best deal.
FVC Tip:
Consider flying on weekdays rather than weekends, as midweek flights (Tuesdays or Wednesdays) tend to be cheaper. Additionally, flying at non-peak hours, such as early mornings or late nights, can reduce both your flight costs and the crowds at the airport.
Additional Ways to Save with Off-Peak Travel:
- Discounted Hotels: Many hotel chains and resorts lower their rates during off-peak periods. If you’re looking for the most budget-friendly options, consider booking your stay during these quiet months. Some hotels even offer free breakfast or added perks to attract off-season visitors, increasing the overall value of your stay.
- Avoid Major Events or Holidays: Be mindful of large conventions, sports events, or festivals that might drive up prices. For example, visiting a popular city during a major sporting event could mean higher hotel rates and crowded attractions. Instead, plan your trip when the area is quieter and less crowded, making for a more peaceful experience for you and the kids.
3️⃣ Take Advantage of Free or Low-Cost Activities 🎨
You don’t have to spend a lot of money to entertain the kids during a family vacation. Many destinations offer free or low-cost activities that can provide both educational and fun experiences. From hiking trails to free museum days, there’s no shortage of budget-friendly options that the whole family can enjoy.
How to do it:
- Look for Free Museums or Cultural Institutions: Many museums, art galleries, and cultural sites offer free admission on certain days of the week or month. Check the museum’s website or call ahead to find out if there are any free events or days. Some cities have museum passes that offer access to multiple sites for one low price.
- Explore Nature and Parks: National parks, state parks, and public beaches are often free to visit and offer endless opportunities for exploration and fun. Many parks have free guided tours, family-friendly hikes, or wildlife viewing opportunities that can be both educational and entertaining for the kids.
- Attend Free Community Events: Check the local community calendar for free concerts, outdoor movie nights, or festivals. These can be perfect for a relaxing family evening, allowing you to enjoy the local culture without spending a dime.
FVC Tip:
Take advantage of free outdoor activities like hiking, cycling, or beach days. These options not only allow for exploration but also give your kids a chance to stay active and engaged while enjoying nature.
Additional Ideas for Free or Low-Cost Fun:
- Free Walking Tours: Many cities offer free walking tours, led by knowledgeable locals who are eager to share the history and culture of the area. These tours can provide a fun, educational experience for kids without costing a thing.
- Local Libraries: Public libraries often host free events, book readings, or craft activities for children. Many libraries also offer free access to e-books or audiobooks for vacation reading.
- Outdoor Adventures: If you’re visiting a destination with mountains, lakes, or beaches, consider taking advantage of free outdoor activities such as kayaking, canoeing, or birdwatching. Many natural spots offer equipment rentals or have free access to trails and nature walks.
4️⃣ Use Public Transportation or Walk 🚶♀️🚍
Transportation costs, especially when traveling as a family, can quickly add up. Renting cars or relying on taxis for short trips often results in higher expenses, especially in popular tourist areas. Opting for public transportation or simply walking can save you a significant amount of money while also giving you a more authentic experience of your destination.
How to do it:
- Public Transport: Most cities, even the most tourist-heavy ones, have affordable and efficient public transportation systems. Look for transit passes or multi-day tickets that offer unlimited rides for a fixed price, making it cheaper for families. Many cities also offer discounts for kids or family passes that allow unlimited access to buses, trams, or subway systems.
- Walking Tours: When you’re in a walkable city, simply exploring on foot can be one of the most rewarding (and cost-free) ways to experience a new place. Kids enjoy the novelty of walking through unfamiliar areas, and you’ll have the chance to stop at street vendors, parks, or cool landmarks along the way.
- Bike Rentals: If your destination has a bike-share program, renting bikes for the day can be a fun and cost-effective way to get around, especially for families with older kids. Cycling around a city or along a trail allows you to cover more ground than walking, all while enjoying the outdoors.
FVC Tip:
Use apps like Google Maps or Citymapper to plan your route and get an estimate of costs for public transport. These apps can help you make the most out of your transportation options and avoid any hidden fees.
Additional Tips for Saving on Transportation:
- Skip the Taxis: While taxis may seem convenient, they are often much more expensive than other forms of transport, especially for short distances. Avoid them if possible, and opt for a subway, bus, or walking route instead.
- Plan Your Trip Around Free Shuttle Services: Some hotels or resorts offer free shuttle services to popular attractions, airports, or shopping areas. Be sure to check your accommodation’s transportation offerings and plan your excursions around these free services.
- Pack Light: Traveling with less luggage will make it easier to navigate public transportation, reducing the temptation to pay for taxis or car services. Consider packing light to make walking and taking public transit more convenient.
5️⃣ Embrace “Off-the-Beaten-Path” Destinations 🌍
When you think of family vacations, places like Disney World, Hawaii, or Paris often come to mind. However, popular tourist destinations tend to be the most expensive and crowded. By embracing lesser-known or “off-the-beaten-path” destinations, you can have a more relaxed and affordable vacation experience while still exploring somewhere new and exciting.
How to do it:
- Research Hidden Gems: Instead of traveling to the most well-known tourist cities, consider exploring smaller towns or rural areas that are often overlooked by mainstream travelers. These destinations typically have fewer tourists, lower costs for accommodations, and more opportunities for authentic experiences.
- Visit National and State Parks: National parks and lesser-known natural wonders offer incredible beauty and affordable experiences. Many parks have low entrance fees and free activities such as hiking, fishing, or stargazing. Not only will you save money, but you’ll also enjoy stunning landscapes and family bonding time away from the crowds.
- Use Local Accommodation Platforms: Platforms like Couchsurfing or Airbnb allow you to find accommodations in less touristy areas. This often leads to lower rates and more unique stays, such as staying with a local family or in a cozy, rustic cabin.
FVC Tip:
Use travel blogs, social media groups, and online forums to find recommendations for lesser-known destinations that are family-friendly and affordable. Local travel experts often share hidden gems that don’t make it into mainstream travel guides.
Additional Ideas for Off-the-Beaten-Path Fun:
- Underrated Cities: Cities like Asheville, North Carolina, or Chattanooga, Tennessee, offer family-friendly attractions without the crowds or high prices of larger cities.
- Explore Rural Regions: Countries with vast rural areas, like New Zealand or Canada, offer breathtaking landscapes and outdoor adventures with fewer tourists and lower travel costs.
- Cultural Experiences: Instead of hitting major tourist hotspots, look for authentic cultural experiences in small towns—attend a local festival, visit a farm, or take part in a traditional cooking class.
