Nanny to Mommy

Needless to say, we all could use a little normalcy this summer! While many of us are still getting through the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, we’re also craving a sense of normalcy. For many, that means taking a family trip. Whether you want to hit the road in an RV or fly somewhere across the globe, spending that unique relaxation time with your family is a great way to blow off some steam.

In the U.S., about 100 million families take a vacation together each year. It’s a great way to keep your kids busy, encourage bonding time, and make memories together.

But, traveling with a family can be expensive. Thankfully, there are things you can do to reach your destination without having to blow your budget. No matter where you want to go or how you plan to get there, keep these three smart tips in mind to enjoy your family trip without breaking the bank.

Summer tends to be a very “touristy” time for different areas across the world. While going somewhere tropical or traveling to a large theme park might be tempting, those will also be the most expensive places.

Instead, don’t be afraid to look for locations that might not be as attractive to most tourists. Places like Singapore, Thailand, and India are all great vacation destinations that you can travel to at a much cheaper cost than places like the Caribbean or France.

If you do want to go somewhere tropical, try utilizing your budget by splurging a bit on a resort or all-in-one hotel. When you travel to a tropical location, most of your time is going to be spent on the beach. So, choose a resort that is all-inclusive and has different activities and things to do for the whole family. You and the kids can enjoy the pool, meals, and other amenities throughout your stay without having to spend a lot of extra money going elsewhere.

Be sure to check out Lifestyle Holidays Vacation Club reviews, or check out what people are saying about any resort you’re looking at. People who have been to resorts tend to be honest about what to expect, so do your research ahead of time. If you plan on staying at Marriott, you can also buy a Marriott timeshare resale to save big on future family vacations. This option allows for flexibility in your travel plans and can save you money in the long run.

Food is often a big expense when traveling, especially if you’re going to a restaurant with a family of four or five. So, instead of eating out at a tourist hot spot for every meal, talk to the locals about where their favorite places are.

Traditional restaurants that the locals enjoy are bound to be less expensive. Additionally, depending on where you’re staying, you can go to local markets and buy ingredients to cook your own food. It will help you to fully immerse yourself in the culture, and you’ll save a lot of money by making meals yourself.

As you can see, no matter where you want to go, you don’t have to worry about spending too much money. Decide what your budget is going to be ahead of time, and plan your trip around that. With some time, effort, and organization, you can plan a family trip on a budget that you’ll never forget.