I know it's January, but a lot of people are planning their summer vacations already. (We just mailed the deposit for ours that we'll be taking in mid-summer) By pre-planning, I can usually save a lot more money on my vacation. This year, we've picked a new location so I'll be researching the area and looking for coupons to area attractions. There are many ways that you can save money while vacationing. Here's a few:
1. Look for discount hotel rates ~ There are so many sites online for you to search in order to save money when booking a hotel. Any of the major travel sites like Priceline, Travelocity or Orbitz can help you look for lower rates.
2. Stay with family or friends ~ I know, I know, but during these trying times it might not be a terrible idea to take the kids on a "meet the relatives" tour. You don't want to wear out your welcome, so why not a day or two at a few relatives' homes? You'll get a little taste of each area, save some money and mix up the scenery a bit.
3. Have flexible travel dates ~ If you're flying, rates are lower when you travel mid-week. Hotel rates drop drastically when you travel out-of-season. Schools will work with you if you want to take the kids on vacation during off-peak times, they'll just have homework to do each night. Not so bad...keeps them honest! Or if you don't like the idea of traveling during school months, visit a ski resort in the summer...same theory applies!
4. Keep it close to home ~ Driving an hour or two is much cheaper than airfare for the family. Remember that vacation is meant to spend time away from home and unwind. You are still away from home if you only drive an hour to get there. You may be pleasantly surprised by what you can find, right in your own area!
5. Bring your own snacks and food ~ Let's face it, packing your own lunches and snacks saves a ton of money. Even if you eat at McDonald's, you're going to spend at least $20 for four people. Pack some sandwiches, bottles of water, celery sticks and potato chips for four people, costing around $5. Over a week, you've saved $105.
6. Wander off the beaten path ~ Yes, we all love to see the major sites that any vacation area has to offer, but a few times throughout your vacation, ask the locals where they spend their time and go there. I think you'll like it!
7. Simplify ~ Instead of taking off to Disney World, rent a cabin in the woods. You will be spending your time hiking and fishing instead of dishing out $300 for one day of family amusement. You won't just be saving money, but you'll be spending more time talking with your family than visiting with Mickey.
8. Take advantage of discounts ~ Are you an AAA member, a senior, maybe a veteran? Wherever you end up, ask if they have any discounts that you may qualify for. I was pleasantly surprised when our favorite tackle shop in the Outer Banks gave a 15% discount to law enforcement.
9. Look for online coupons ~ Look for coupons for rental cars, amusement parks, zoos, restaurants, almost anything really. Print any coupons you may use and keep them all together in an envelope or folder in your car so they're handy whenever you'll need them.
10. Rent a house instead of a hotel ~ I have found the best deals and spent many wonderful vacations in rental houses. I haven't stayed in a hotel in years. When you rent a house, you aren't confined to one or two rooms and usually have more than one bathroom. Another bonus in staying in a house is the fact that you can cook all of your meals. We only eat out two nights the whole week, saving tons of money. For the best savings, look online for houses that are rented through the owners, not realtors. My favorite site to use is www.vrbo.com Take a look and see what you can find!
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