Family vacation is supposed to be a time to relax and enjoy time together. It is not fun to be worrying about money while on a vacation. So we have compiled a list of suggestions on how you can save money while on a family vacation, to help you enjoy your family next time you get out of town.
Research
Before you head out of town be sure you do a little bit of research to your destination hot spot. Utilize all your resources close to you, beginning with ever so reliable internet. Then ask some friends or family members who have been to the same location. If you can’t think of anyone off the top of your head, do a Facebook shout out and ask if anyone has been to “XYZ location” you will be surprised your response. By gathering all this important information you will be able to make better decisions financially. This will also enable you to plan your trip more efficiently as well.
Hotel Freebies
Before booking your hotel stay. Be sure to choose wisely. There are many hotel chains that will offer free amenities. You can find Free Breakfast, Free Gyms, Free movies, toiletries and others. Don’t hesitate to use these services. That is why they are there…to be used! If you are not sure what a particular hotel might offer, just ask. You might be very surprised. If you can find a hotel that offers any free meals be sure to book it. This will allow you to get free food, which is a money sucker when on vacation. It will also allow you to put that money elsewhere on your vacation.
Ask Locals
Sometimes you might not know of hidden gems within a location until you get there. Be friendly, and ask locals of the hot spots in town that offer great savings. You might be able to come across some fabulous mom and pop restaurants that have great deals on meals. Or maybe there is a certain event that is taking place during the dates of your vacation that you wouldn’t necessarily know about unless you lived in that town. Don’t be shy…just ask, you will be surprised how friendly people can be to visitors.
Know or Join a Rewards Program
Do you have a national membership that enables you to get discounts at various places? Maybe you have a AAA discount, or you homeschool, or are part of a particular group such as Boy Scouts or Girl Scouts of America. You often times can get a percentage off various activities, hotel stays, or meals. So before you leave the house be sure you check with all the rewards programs you belong to and see where you can possibly save a few dollars.
Use these few tips and you are guaranteed to have a fun family trip and save a little bit of money while you are at it. So pack your bags and get the family rounded up for some memory making. You will have a blast especially knowing you did your homework to ensure everyone could enjoy themselves.
By Michelle, Free Stuff Finder Contributor
