Traveling with Kids? Here Are a Few Tips to Keep Your Budget in Check Chris Caggiano March 16, 2023 general Whether you’re visiting grandma, planning a family-friendly road trip, or finally taking your pack to Disneyland, you’re definitely bringing the kiddos along for the ride. And that doesn’t come cheap, mind you. Fortunately, there are a few ways to keep costs down so you can save your well- earned bucks for what really counts: having fun. Because taking your kids on an adventure doesn’t have to be a pain for your wallet, here’s a few tips for traveling with children to keep in mind before your getaway. Save on Flights First of all, how old are your little ones? Because many airlines have a “kids fly free” policy for children under two. They just assume that they’ll remain on your lap for the flight rather than needing their own seat. Some airlines also offer discounts for older children who are still under a certain age (e.g. 12 or 14). Their tickets might be a certain percentage off, plus they might allow you to board early with the whole family. For sure, plane tickets can be one of the biggest expenses when it comes to family travel. But if you plan ahead, look out for deals, and stay flexible about when and where you want to go, you can often find some genuine bargains. With a little planning, you can find deals and promotions to help you offset the cost and get everyone there and back again. Save on Lodging Many hotels offer free stays for small children as long as they are accompanied by a paying adult. Hey, that’s you! So, if you’re headed to a resort — especially an all-inclusive resort – be sure to check if they have some kind of kids’ program with meals, activities, and other free or discounted amenities. There are also unofficial ways to save while traveling with your family. For example, if you book a space with a kitchenette, you’ll be able to cook budget-friendly meals rather than eating out all of the time. A final option is renting a full vacation home or condo, which might be cheaper in the long-term than paying for individual hotel rooms over an extended period! Save on Food “Kids eat free!” You’ve probably seen this advertised in some restaurants, and it’s a good deal when you can find it. Just make sure to inquire about the fine print, though. For example, they might have an age cutoff, or they may only allow free meals from the kids’ menu. Also, if you visit any family-friendly attraction, ask if they have meal deals included with their passes. These are often used as an incentive for families to visit their on-site restaurants or concession stands. If you don’t want to dine out, you can save money just by preparing your own meals and snacks for your little ones at your hotels or lodgings. Think about things like baggies full of trail mix or pre-cut veggies and sandwiches. You’ll save on your travel budget and eat healthier at the same time. You may also like: The Do’s and Don’ts of Family Travel Save on Transportation How will you get around your vacation destination? The easiest way will be renting a car, but you’ll need to check if it includes a car seat for your toddler. Of course, this might entail the payment of an additional daily fee. Sometimes it’s just better — and cheaper! — to bring your own car seat. If you prefer to take to the skies, most airlines will let you check a special seat for free. Of course, depending on where you’re travelling to, it might be less expensive to travel by subway or train. Most big cities these days have extensive public transit, and if you have more than one destination in mind, train travel between them might be your best bet, especially if you’re headed to Europe or East Asia. Save on Activities Lastly, if you’re planning a cool international getaway for a fun-filled family vacation, you’re certainly in luck. There are just so many ways to save money on attractions and activities while traveling with kids. The first step, of course, is looking for discounts. Children often have reduced admission fees, especially those under two or three years old. This can apply to everything, from movie theaters to guided destination tours. Another good tip is taking advantage of family passes or group passes whenever available. You can save quite a lot at zoos, amusement parks, and kids’ museums when you book for a brood rather than individuals. Last but not least, always keep your eyes peeled for freebies. Look for free activities or venues where kids can eat, play, or just visit without spending a single dollar. Keep in mind that museums are often free, depending on the city — Washington D.C. for example, or many European cities — and local parks and botanical gardens are very often free to enter. FAQs: Q: How can I save on airline tickets for my family? A: To save on flights, book well in advance, be flexible with travel dates, and consider budget airlines. Use mileage or credit card rewards if available. Q: Are there any tips for finding affordable family-friendly accommodations? A: Look for accommodations with family suites, kitchen facilities, or consider vacation rentals. Read reviews to ensure they are kid-friendly. Q: How can I save on dining expenses while traveling with kids? A: Shop at local markets, cook some meals, and look for restaurants with kid-friendly deals or early bird specials. Q: What are some fun, budget-friendly activities for kids during a trip? A: Explore parks, hiking trails, beaches, and free museums. Look for city passes that offer discounts on multiple attractions. Q: How do I pack efficiently for a family trip with kids? A: Pack essentials, such as reusable items, and entertainment for kids. Use packing cubes to stay organized and avoid over-packing. Do you have any tip for traveling with kids that you’d like to share? Tell us about them in the comments below!
