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9 Secrets to Family Travel on a Budget

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Family vacations often result in some of the best memories, whether you’re road-tripping across the country or flying around the world. But paying for travel for the whole gang can get expensive fast.

Fortunately, no matter your clan size, you can travel far and spend less. Here are eight tips for planning budget family travel.

1. Choose your destination wisely

The first hurdle to planning budget-friendly travel for your family is choosing a destination wisely. If the goal is to save some cash relative to all of your options, where you go matters.

For starters, will you fly or drive ? If you have a large family, selecting a destination closer to home that you can drive to is likely cheaper than paying for airfare for multiple people.

But suppose you already know you want to visit an international destination or a city on the other side of the country. In that case, the destination itself can be costly or inexpensive, depending on exchange rates and the cost of living.

If you’re looking for a budget-friendly adventure, choose your destination based on what you’d like to do, the price of things in that destination and how far the U.S. Dollar will go when you exchange it for local currency .

A beach vacation in Hawaii , for example, will cost more than a beach vacation in Guatemala (where everything from food to accommodations, transportation and activities will be less expensive).

» Learn more : How to plan a trip

2. Travel during shoulder seasons

Selecting when you travel is just as important as where. That’s because most destinations are more expensive during peak travel times, whether you’re paying in cash or points. Peak travel periods in some destinations usually include holidays like Thanksgiving and Christmas, as well as spring and summer school vacations.

» Learn more: How to get travel deals in the shoulder season

Other destinations depend on seasons and the weather for their peak seasons. For example, you’ll likely find hotels in ski resort areas more expensive in the winter versus summer, whereas other destinations might be more expensive in the summer.

Generally speaking, a shoulder season — like fall — is a more budget-friendly time to travel to many places. If you have the option, conduct a few different date searches on airline or accommodation websites to see what times of the year they typically charge less.

» Learn more: Weather or not — How to book better shoulder season travel

3. Be flexible

That said, if school or work schedules don’t allow flexibility to travel during off-peak seasons, you can still save money by choosing the right day to travel .

For example, if you’re willing to fly on Thanksgiving day or the Fourth of July, you’ll likely save more than a few bucks on airfare. Just altering a search by a few days can potentially save hundreds.

» Learn more: There’s just one trick to traveling cheaply — flexibility

4. Consider transportation costs

Zipcar allows you to book rental cars by the hour or day. Since they're usually parked in small lots around cities and can be unlocked via the Zipcar app, you don't even need to speak to a human at the car rental counter. (Photo by Sally French)

Airfare aside, if you want to save on transportation, consider all of your options once you arrive. For example, if you’re staying in a walkable city or small town, renting a car might be a waste of money. Public transportation and the occasional rideshare or pedicab may be more cost-effective. In other cities like Honolulu where parking and gas prices are high, you might just want a rental car in Honolulu for one day.

The exception? When you're traveling in large groups and your trip involves a lot of driving from place to place. In these scenarios, a taxi or a dozen bus fares might be unfeasible. Instead, research budget car rental options or even consider rental car alternatives such as Turo and Getaround .

» Learn more : Where to find rental car discounts

5. Search for free experiences

Attraction and experience fees can add up fast when traveling as a family. Fortunately, no matter where you go, there are likely free and inexpensive tourist options.

Many cities offer free museum days where you can explore world-renowned art or history museums at no cost. In other cities, there may be free walking tours (tips are still appreciated).

There’s also a chance you'll find a free version of a popular attraction — like hula performances in Hawaii — which could save you big bucks over paid experiences (and you won't feel as bad if young children get fussy and you have to bail).

From museums and tours to outdoor movies and festivals, be sure to search for free things to do wherever you’re headed to save some dough.

» Learn more: Tips for flying with a toddler

6. Get creative with accommodations

Sometimes vacation rentals offer way more space, which can be convenient for families. This Vacasa in Wilmington, North Carolina had a massive living room to spread out. (Photo by Sally French)

Sure, hotels and resorts, especially ones that let kids stay or eat free, are always a valid option, but a quick search on a vacation rental platform — like Airbnb or Vrbo — can unearth many possibilities that might be less expensive and more comfortable for a large group.

For a unique experience, consider a home exchange where you swap houses with someone in a different destination for an annual fee, or housesitting, which offers a way to stay in a local’s home and take care of their pets or plants, also for just an annual membership fee.

» Learn more: Are Airbnbs really cheaper than hotels for large groups?

7. Stock up on snacks at the supermarket

When in Hawaii, buy poke from the ABC Stores. It's typically just as tasty (but far cheaper) than what you'll get at a restaurant. Grab your poke to go and eat it on the beach for an oceanfront meal on a budget. (Photo by Sally French)

Costs for dining out every day can add up fast (especially in today's economy ). To save on meals, plan to prepare and eat one or two meals every day at your accommodation, especially if your room has a kitchen. Stock up on groceries and snacks at the supermarket.

That goes for days you’ll spend in a car or on an airplane, too, where you’ll pay for the convenience of readily available snack foods.

Alternatively, explore the street food scene or go to local markets instead of dining out at a sit-down restaurant. You’ll likely find more unique foods from stalls and carts.

Restaurants near tourist areas may upcharge versus those that cater to locals. You can save more money the farther you dine from popular tourist areas.

8. Get travel insurance

Travel insurance may sound like an extra cost when it comes to planning family travel on a budget, but it can save you hundreds, if not thousands, if something goes wrong.

If you need to cancel your trip, someone gets food poisoning or needs stitches and has to go to the hospital, or the airline loses your bag, comprehensive travel insurance can save the day by footing the bill.

Just make sure you read policy details and understand what’s covered in the policy you select.

» Learn more: What to consider before buying family travel insurance

9. Design trips that accommodate a range of family budgets

If you're traveling on a multigenerational family trip with multiple family units, consider designing the trip so each person can book their own lodging, activities and transport there. Then, intersperse plenty of meetup events so the family units can get together.

For example, decide on a date and city for the family trip. Then, let each family book their own lodging. Some families might choose an Airbnb, while others might go for a hotel. Even within those two options, one family might book a cheap motel while another might go for the 5-star resort. Opening up lodging options allows everyone to pick something that suits their travel styles and budgets.

Budget family travel, recapped

Family travel on a budget is possible. You just need to be flexible, get creative, weigh your options and choose your destination wisely to stretch your dollar wherever you go.

How to maximize your rewards

You want a travel credit card that prioritizes what’s important to you. Here are our picks for the best travel credit cards of 2024 , including those best for:

Flexibility, point transfers and a large bonus: Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

No annual fee: Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card

Flat-rate travel rewards: Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

Bonus travel rewards and high-end perks: Chase Sapphire Reserve®

Luxury perks: The Platinum Card® from American Express

Business travelers: Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card

on Chase's website

1x-5x 5x on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3x on dining, select streaming services and online groceries, 2x on all other travel purchases, 1x on all other purchases.

60,000 Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $750 when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.

1.5%-6.5% Enjoy 6.5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel; 4.5% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery service, and 3% on all other purchases (on up to $20,000 spent in the first year). After your first year or $20,000 spent, enjoy 5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel, 3% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery service, and unlimited 1.5% cash back on all other purchases.

$300 Earn an additional 1.5% cash back on everything you buy (on up to $20,000 spent in the first year) - worth up to $300 cash back!

on Capital One's website

2x-5x Earn unlimited 2X miles on every purchase, every day. Earn 5X miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel, where you'll get Capital One's best prices on thousands of trip options.

75,000 Enjoy a one-time bonus of 75,000 miles once you spend $4,000 on purchases within 3 months from account opening, equal to $750 in travel.

50 Best Family Vacation Ideas on a Budget for 2024

From all-inclusives in the Caribbean to quick getaways in the U.S., there's something for every traveler in your group.

It's not lost on us that travel, like everything else, is getting more expensive, so we focused many of our picks on properties that provide great value. When we feature splurgy spots, rest assured they're worth every penny.

Whether you're looking to chill out at an all-inclusive resort , get active in the great outdoors , check out new attractions at a theme park, hit the beach or cozy up at ski resort , there's a destination or experience here to match every vacation vibe and party size. After all, bringing the grandparents comes with so many benefits, not the least of which is babysitting so you can score some much-needed time for an interruption-free dinner, spa treatment or romantic walk on the beach.

Use this guide to help narrow down your options, and then check out the Good Housekeeping Institute 's tried-and-tested list of essential travel gear and accessories to get ready for your trip. You can also consult our guides on how to choose a family-vacation hotel as well as how to keep all ages entertained . Since the early bird gets the best deal, shore up your spring break and summer vacation plans now.

Mexico and the Caribbean

Spend your days rolling in the waves, relaxing by the pool or enjoying quiet time (thanks to some superior kids' clubs) at these island resorts.

Nickelodeon Hotels & Resorts Riviera Maya, Mexico

With massive waterparks, daily slimings and Nickelodeon characters galore, the kids have it made at the all-inclusive Nickelodeon Hotels & Resort Riviera Maya, a Good Housekeeping 2024 Family Travel Award Winner. But grown-ups aren’t left out of the fun. Tequila tastings, spa treatments and romantic dinners can be on your agenda thanks to the supervised club for kids ages 4 to 12. And while you probably wouldn’t be booking a SpongeBob-themed room if you didn’t have the kids in tow, the decor is as mod and classy as it can be. All the accommodations are suites that sleep up to five and have two bathrooms. Suites have direct access to a pool from the balcony. (Yes, even on the top floor!)

RELATED: Nickelodeon Hotels & Resorts Punta Cana Is the Best Place to Travel With a Baby and a Sibling

Atlantis, Paradise Island, Bahamas

Winner of a 2024 Family Travel Award, Atlantis is a top choice for families of all ages looking for a mix of relaxation and adventure. Its adrenaline-pumping waterpark features high-speed slides, including a one-of-a-kind tube slide down a Mayan pyramid. Animal encounters, like getting up close to a dolphin, are thrilling in a different way. But on the other side of the massive resort, the beaches are super chill. The gentle water is just perfect for toddlers and preschoolers. Supervised clubs for kids, tweens and teens truly wow, so adults can enjoy the casino and a meal at one of the resort's fine-dining restaurants.

EXPLORE NOW

Club Med Michès Playa Esmeralda, Dominican Republic

Movies under the stars, trapeze lessons, windsurfing — with cool activities like these, kids will never want to leave this newish resort in the lush, away-from-it-all part of the island. Supervised clubs for babies through teens keep the good times rolling while you’re at the adults-only Zen pool or doing treetop yoga. (Yes, that’s a thing.) Solar panels, recycling, plastic-free water bottles and other sustainable initiatives are part of the eco-minded resort culture.

Beaches Negril Resort & Spa, Negril, Jamaica

While this all-inclusive resort and 2024 Family Travel Award-winner caters to all ages, toddlers and preschoolers will be star-struck. Sesame Street characters entertain them with story times, dance parties and even puppet-making! That’s on top of the mini water slides, splash areas and a playground that makes little ones squeal with glee and wears them out, so they’ll hit the sack early.

Private childcare and supervised kids’ clubs (for babies through teens, including those with special needs) are an option when you want a spa treatment, a quiet dinner or just to read a book on the resort's idyllic 7-Mile Beach. All the rooms and suites got a glow-up in 2020, plus there are new villas with butler service (sign us up!)

RELATED: 20 Best Caribbean Resorts for Families to Visit

Fairmont Mayakoba, Playa del Carmen, Mexico

When it comes to baby and kid gear, this luxury resort has you covered. Need a bottle warmer? They got it. How about a step stool for a toddler to reach the sink? Yours for the asking. With these worries aside, you can concentrate on the beauty of the surroundings (the resort is surrounded by a lush mangrove forest) and incredible bucket-list activities, like kids’ carnivals and night kayaking. All the rooms have received a glow-up and there's a sleek new beach club to boot.

Rock House Resort, Turks & Caicos

Your family may never leave the water at this Mediterranean-inspired oasis , which opened in May 2022. In addition to a full kitchen and roomy living room, many of the villa-style accommodations feature a spacious private pool. (Yes way!) And if your crew ever tires of it, fun awaits at the resort’s oceanfront infinity pool and stretch of white sand beach, which is exclusively for resort guests. Just note that while a cliffside setting makes the resort incredibly picturesque, it’s impossible to navigate with a stroller — so bring the tweens, teens and even grandparents if they don’t have trouble climbing stairs.

Embassy Suites by Hilton Aruba Resort

A brand that's popular with families because it offers separate sleeping spaces for kids and adults, Embassy Suites recently opened a location in Aruba. (Pinch us now.) The 330-suite hotel boasts a kids' pool and playground and is just steps away from the iconic Eagle Beach. A breakfast buffet (with made-to-order items) is included in the price, which is already a value. Rooms also feature a kitchenette, so you can stash drinks and snacks and save your budget for the island's many incredible water activities.

New England Cozy

Lakes, lighthouses and hiking trails make New England a great place to visit in almost any season.

Quisisana Resort, Lovell, ME

Kids will get a digital detox at this all-inclusive lakefront resort , but they’ll be too busy playing to miss their devices. Without TV or a Wi-Fi signal in the comfortable, air-conditioned rooms and cabins, they’ll be fully immersed in the slew of included activities — from paddle boating to tennis to sandcastle-building. They might even learn to kayak or catch their first fish.

At night, music fills the resort. Broadway-style shows, held in a new outdoor theater, entertain all generations. There’s something about the fresh air and a choice of lollipops that keeps most kids from getting too wiggly, and the caliber of the performances is at least on par with good community theater.

The three included daily meals — with menu items like lobster rolls and Maine blueberry pie — will leave your crew’s bellies happy and full. And if you do need Wi-Fi occasionally, you can pop in the main lobby for a signal. Shh: The kids will be fine without it.

Hidden Pond, Kennebunkport, ME

Open from May to October, this nature-focused retreat provides a refuge from city life. Yoga sessions in the garden, a shed filled with arts and crafts supplies for kids, guided nature walks and outdoor art classes are easy-going yet exciting at the same time. Cottages with fireplaces foster togetherness, and complimentary breakfast arrives at your door every morning so there's no need to rush out for coffee.

Smugglers' Notch Resort, Jeffersonville, VT

Nestled in the Green Mountains, this resort is just as fun in the summer months as it is during prime ski season. Besides eight heated pools (some with waterslides!), the action-packed lineup of family activities has plenty to do whether you’re traveling with a toddler, teen or both. Sing-a-longs, magic shows and scavenger hunts keep little ones entertained while older kids will welcome the chance to take a guided hike, design and launch a water rocket or play glow-in-the-dark volleyball. A GH 2024 Family Travel Awards winner, condos at this property accommodate up to five bedrooms, making it possible for extended family and friends to stay together.

Ocean Edge Resort and Golf Club, Brewster, MA

Beach, pool, eat, repeat — that’s how your crew will spend laid-back days at this Cape Cod gem . The private beach has gentle surf and at low tide, kids can spy little sea creatures in the tide pools. When the tide changes, head to the heated outdoor or indoor pools. Outdoor movies are the perfect wind-down to bedtime. And if you can pry the kids out of the water, activities like scavenger hunts, curated by the resort’s new director of fun (for real!) await. Just make sure to stay in the “mansion” section of the resort because that’s the part with private beach access.

Sebasco Harbor Resort, Phippsburg, ME

Kids will never forget sleeping in a lighthouse next to the ocean. The resort’s 1945 lighthouse contains recently renovated guest rooms with amazing views, sea breezes and conveniences like a fridge and microwave. The lighthouse rooms are also near the resort’s iconic oceanfront saltwater pool, which recently got a makeover. A vintage bowling alley, weekly pirate cruise and old-school kids’ club add to the New England charm.

Bluebird Cady Hill Lodge, Stowe, VT

A fantastic value, this new '70s-inspired cozy lodge is perfect for families who want to explore Vermont's Green Mountains. The scenic trails of Cady Hill Forest are just steps away and downtown Stowe is about a 10-minute walk. Two- and three-bedroom cottages at Bluebird Cady Hill Lodge have plenty of space for families and a kitchen to boot. A game room, fire pits for s'mores roasting and a pool make hanging at the lodge a nice respite in between nature activities.

California Dreamin'

Choose your Cali adventure: You can find bustling cityscapes, tranquil trails, stunning beaches and even a fairytale castle.

Los Angeles, CA

Tweens and teens won’t roll their eyes if you suggest a vacay in L.A. — where, trust us, they’ll ask you to eat at In-N-Out-Burger (look cool and say you already had it on the list). Some more must-dos: Visit the Griffith Observatory for the out-of-this-world exhibits and a stellar view of the Hollywood sign, and if you're an outdoorsy family you can hike down from the observatory to the Hollywood Walk of Fame and famous TCL Chinese Theaters .

The Academy Museum of Motion Pictures , where anyone 17 and under gets in free, is conveniently located near the classic La Brea Tar Pits and the cool LACMA ( Los Angeles County Museum of Art). Some outdoor shopping at The Grove L.A. and a beach day in Santa Monica with a spin on the iconic wheel at the Santa Monica Pier will get you more well-deserved parent cred. Or, you can take a trip to Universal Studios Hollywood , where, for now, you can find the only Super Nintendo World open in the United States. Stay at The Garland in North Hollywood, a Good Housekeeping 2024 Family Travel Awards winner. It has a swanky trolley that transports guests to and from Universal, as well as other kid perks like dive-in movies and a retro-chic family suite with bunk beds.

San Diego, CA

Can’t decide between heading to the beach or exploring a big city? San Diego has the best of both worlds, with near-perfect weather to boot. Make your home base a beach resort like the Kona Kai San Diego Resort & Spa , San Diego Mission Bay Resort or, if you're bringing a big group, Shore House at Del, a Good Housekeeping 2024 Family Travel Award winner. Intersperse oceanside fun with short drives to the city’s famous zoo and museums in Balboa Park. Plan to spend at least a half day at Liberty Station , a cultural attraction that has many places to eat and shop. New stores and restaurants are open at Seaport Village , which has a classic carousel for kids to ride.

RELATED: The Best Things to Do in San Diego With the Whole Family

Monterey, CA

The number one reason to book a vacation in this coastal town: the aquarium. Yes, the Monterey Bay Aquarium is that good. It levels up the typical touch tank experience by letting little kids crawl through tunnels surrounded by tropical fish displays and use squirt toys to learn how animals stand up to big waves. There’s even a padded zone with eye-level exhibits for toddlers! And the whole family will be wowed by the aquarium’s newish exhibition, "Into the Deep: Exploring Our Undiscovered Ocean." Some of the creatures in the 21 live exhibit areas are newly discovered and haven’t even been named yet. Mind blown! Stay at the hotel next door, InterContinental The Clement Monterey .

Disneyland Resort and California Adventure, Anaheim, CA

If you're looking for a Disney trip with young kids, Disneyland may have the edge over an Orlando vacay. Here are some reasons why: You can get on more rides without as much walking in California, so that means fewer tired and cranky kids. Summer weather is also usually better in Anaheim than in hot-and-humid Florida. And rides like Radiator Springs Racers, which looks like it’s right out of the movie Cars , are Cali-exclusive. The new Villas at Disneyland Hotel offer options that sleep up to 12 guests plus the decor is whimsical.

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Cheap family vacations in the U.S. for 2024

Find the ideal family trip to create incredible memories without breaking the bank this year

Pulling off an enjoyable family vacation on a budget is an Olympic feat—there's the researching, the planning, the booking, the packing, the traveling, and the wrangling. So much wrangling. While trips with children, especially young ones, can be a lot of work, they can be worth it for the quality time and memories. There's something special about being away from the daily grind, connecting as a family and watching kids explore a new place. 

A key component of a family trip is picking a place that won't break the bank. To help make planning for 2024 easier on you, we've rounded up 18 of our favorite budget-friendly destination ideas that are both kid  and  wallet-friendly.

If your brood is outdoorsy, you'll be happy to see plenty of national parks  on the list, including iconic spots like Yosemite , Yellowstone and the Grand Canyon . But if you aren't interested in centering a trip around outdoor adventures , we have you covered with plenty of urban centers and under-the-radar locales alike. From the free museums of  Washington, D.C ., to laid-back vibes of  Asheville, North Carolina to the mouthwatering cheap eats of  Portland, Oregon —take your pick from this list and rest assured your money will go a long way.

An email you’ll actually love

Fun cheap family vacation in the U.S.

1.  Destin, FL

Seek fun in the sun in Destin, Florida , known for its fishing spots, sprawling white sand beaches and being conveniently less expensive than other popular destinations in the state.

Family-friendly activities include boating, snorkeling, parasailing or just strolling along the Destin Harbor Boardwalk. Use the money you saved to indulge in a sunset cruise on a glass-bottom boat or a high-speed racer. And don't miss  Henderson Beach State Park , which offers quiet and secluded beach access with a hiking route through the sand dunes. 

2.  Hunter Mountain, NY

If you've never properly explored upstate New York , you'd be forgiven for thinking it's not much more than a big farm where pets go when they're very old. And while that's probably still partly true, there is so much more to explore, especially around the Catskills mountains and the town of Hunter . Located at the foot of Hunter Mountain, the town looks like it's been forgotten by time, with lots of local shops mostly still with their colonial-style outdoor aesthetic. There are very few, if any, rubber-stamp brands here, the economy is supported by local businesses.

Hunter Mountain is an all-year-round destination. During the summer, there are paths to hike, trails to mountain bike along, nearby streams to play in and so much open space, it boggles the mind. During the winter, the natural beauty of the area is covered in a thick, soft white blanket and it's only one of a few locations on the east coast that offers really good skiing and snowboarding runs. Rentals and Airbnb accommodations are available, but none beat the Hunter Mountain Sanctuary . Rest your aching legs in the evening, sitting outside on a big, wooden patio with a glass of your favorite wine, and as the sun sets, gaze upon those very same slopes you were carving up only a short time ago.

3.  Kings Canyon National Park, CA

Want to really impress your kids? Head to  Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks in California , where they can stand among giants (giant sequoia groves, that is) and meet General Grant (the second largest tree in the world).

The parks also boast 240 caves, a scenic segment of the Sierra Nevada mountain range (including the tallest mountain in the contiguous US), parts of the Kings River and San Joaquin River, and the towering Moro Rock formation. Because of how isolated it is, Sequoia National Park also has some of the darkest skies in the country, making it one of the best  places to stargaze for amateur astrologers alike.

4.  Yellowstone, WY

No other place on earth is like Yellowstone National Park . The massive natural sanctuary (3,471 square miles of greenery) mesmerizes all visitors with its mountains, canyons, geysers, and subalpine forests (don’t be surprised if you spot buffalo, too). With challenging hikes into the backcountry as well as handicap-accessible wooden boardwalks, the wonders of Yellowstone are for everyone. Bring a tent and get here early to take advantage of the affordable campgrounds (seven of which are first-come, first-served and five require reservations ) with fire pits for flame-grilled meals—or if camping is not your thing, book a room at a local hotel .

5.  Grand Canyon, AZ

It’s one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, and for good reason: The Grand Canyon is a sight like no other. The kiddos might complain when you get out of Wi-Fi range, but they’ll remember hiking these trails forever. For an overnight at the Grand Canyon , opt for the North Rim, less crowded and has no-fuss, first-come-first-served campsites. More experienced hikers can switchback steeply down to the river, a mile below the rim, where secluded campsites reward the effort.

6.  Washington, D.C.

The nation's capital is a perfect spot for a family vacation—not only are there plenty of activities that bring history to life for kids in Washington, D.C ., but a large percentage of them are completely free. Visiting the National Mall, monuments, or other historic buildings such as the Library of Congress won't cost you a penny. On top of that, all of the 17 Smithsonian museums are free to enter—from the National Museum of Natural History to the National Zoo . Stop by the American History Museum to see Dorthoy's ruby red slippers, the National Archives Museum to see the original Constitution or the National Air & Space Museum  to see the largest collection of aviation and space artifacts in the world. 

7.  Oak Hill, WV

Located on 1,500 wooded acres adjacent to New River Gorge National Park, the ACE Adventure Resort  is a one-stop shop for all of West Virginia 's outdoor possibilities. ACE offers  white water rafting trips  on the New and Gauley Rivers,  zip line tours  with views of the Gorge, rock climbing, mountain biking and lake adventures. And a ny family on a budget will appreciate the multi-day, all-inclusive package deals that allow for spending without worrying about added charges.

8.  Asheville, NC

For families who love the great outdoors and great food,  Asheville  in North Carolina is for you. Hiking the Blue Ridge Mountains and seeing the beautiful waterfalls at the Pisgah National Forest are free and, in town, you’ll find lots of family fun ideas like minor league baseball  during the summer season. Feel like splurging? The beautiful gardens and grounds of the Biltmore Estate are well worth the price of admission. Inside the historic mansion, you'll find works by Renoir and others. 

9.  Portland, OR

The eccentric city of Portland is ultra-kid-friendly, with plenty of affordable and free activities to keep little ones entertained during any season. Explore the bounty of nature in this section of Oregon: hike through Forest Park (featuring 50 different trails), get up close to waterfalls (don't miss Wahkeena Falls in the Columbia River Gorge) and visit the famous International Rose Test Garden . Nearly every section of the city features well-manicured parks and playgrounds for kids to get their energy out, plus plenty of cheap eats to fuel their adventures. Another great way to get a sense of Portland's artistic culture without breaking the bank is to head to First Thursdays, where you can enjoy local artwork, food and drink vendors, and more. 

10.  Williamsburg, VA

If your squad’s favorite subject in school is history—or riding roller coasters—then make the trip to Williamsburg,  Virginia . Families can explore  Historic Williamsburg (a Colonial-era living history museum complete with horse-drawn carriages) and then seek thrills at Busch Gardens , where you'll find coasters, animals, and more. If it's summer vacation, add on a visit to Water Country USA (the season opens May 2023). Check out the area’s package deals like the Kids Play Free Package , which includes your choice of hotel (from selected partners) and free admission to multiple parks to save some cash. 

11.  Durango, CO

Durango and its nearby mountains and mesas are a thrill in any season. In warmer months, you'll find everything from epic hiking to white water rafting, plus one of the most spectacular train rides in the country: the historic Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad (if you visit during snow season, it’s one of the best winter train rides in the country). 

Mesa Verde National Park and its incredible cliff dwellings are just a short drive away, and you can camp for free nearby or check out the railroad's hotel packages for discounts on overnights in the charming former mining town. In winter months, Purgatory Ski Resort  is less expensive and less crowded than Colorado competitors like Aspen, but with equally majestic slopes.

12.  Outer Banks, NC

The Outer Banks are a series of barrier islands off the coast of North Carolina, separating the mainland from the Atlantic Ocean. The beautiful, breezy coastline incorporates open-sea beaches, state parks and shipwreck diving sites, making them a popular holiday destination. The area positively drips in history: Roanoke Island was the site of England’s first settlement in the New World; aviators Orville and Wilbur Wright took their famous first flight at Kill Devil Hills and the pirate Blackbeard fought his last battle at Ocracoke. But this archipelago, often referred to as just OBX, isn't just an Aladdin's cave for history aficionados. It also offers fishing, windsurfing, snorkeling, scuba diving or even just wildlife watching. It's a definite must-see if you're exploring the eastern seaboard.

13.  Moab, UT

If you're an outdoorsy crew with an affection for national parks, look no further than Moab, Utah for your next family vacation. With its proximity to two national parks—Arches National Park and Canyonlands National Park—plus several majestic state parks, your days will be packed hiking, rafting, boating, and ATVing through the red rocks. Another perk: the area has a lot of campsite options or affordable cabins to rent. 

14.  Bandera, TX

Giddy up to the  Flying L , a genuine dude ranch outside of San Antonio , for some Western-themed fun. Whether you’re dying to try horseback riding or just hoping to relax in a resort where kids can entertain themselves, this ranch has you covered. There are plenty of fun outdoor activities for the whole family including creekside fishing, horseshoes, 18-hole putt putt and a full golf course, plus courts for basketball, tennis, volleyball, and even pickleball.

15.  Myrtle Beach, SC

Though the sand at Myrtle Beach, South Carolina can get crowded, you’re sure to find a spot for your umbrella (six feet away from everyone else). Just wander along the Grand Strand—a 60-mile stretch of white sand beaches from the North Carolina border south to Georgetown with Myrtle Beach at the center. If sand isn't your thing, book a room at the Sea Mist Oceanfront Resort , which just underwent a renovation and boasts its own lazy river and water park-like pool. Better yet, visit on weekdays for better rates, and save some extra dough. 

16.  Yosemite, CA

Yosemite is not just one of California's most awe-inspiring landscapes, it's one of the most impressive examples of natural beauty in the world. Nearly 1,200 square miles of God's gorgeousness includes waterfalls, thousand-year-old sequoia trees and some of the most daunting rock formations in the U.S.

Despite the sheer enormity of this national park , most tourists flock to an 8-sq-mile area of Yosemite Valley where the park's most well-known landmarks are located, including the Half Dome  rock formation and infamous, monolithic El Capitan, along with enjoyable hiking trails through the natural monuments. Take note that reservation and permit procedures are often changing. Be sure to check out the recreation.gov site for more details before you make travel plans.

17.  Old Orchard Beach, ME

The quaint, peaceful beauty of Maine is on full display at historic Old Orchard Beach —a vacation destination for over 170 years. Here, your family will find gentle waves perfect for swimming, fishing, sailing, kayaking, and top-notch whale watching. In the summer, treat your kids to Palace Playland , New England’s only beachfront amusement park (open seasonally), with over a dozen rides and an arcade. Keen to pinch some more pennies? Plan ahead, pitch a tent and save some money by camping on the beach .

18.  Niagara Falls, NY

Everyone on Earth has heard of Niagara Falls and most are probably at least vaguely aware of its history, but nothing will quite prepare you for the moment you first see the 188ft drop in person and hear the roar of water pouring over the precipice at nearly 70mph. There are plenty of things to do here; many are free, but most will require a credit card or cash.

Parking availability isn't too bad, but it's not exactly cheap and sadly, in recent years, the site of outstanding natural awesomeness has taken a turn towards a somewhat commercialized Vegas look and feel. But in all fairness, if you're not too far away and have never visited, it's worth appreciating the mighty force of Mother Nature, even if it's just once.

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30 Cheap Family Vacations You Haven’t Thought of Before

Budget-friendly picks for the whole brood.

PureWow editors select every item that appears on this page, and the company may earn compensation through affiliate links within the story. All prices are accurate upon date of publish. You can learn more about the affiliate process here .

Planning a great family holiday can feel like a challenge, especially if you are working within a specific budget. Instead of doing the same old thing (or just giving up and going to Disney World again, which, let's be honest, is anything but cheap), it’s possible to come up with a creative idea that doesn’t require flying around the world or spending a ton of cash.

We scoured the map looking for the best cheap family vacations across the country, where you can find accommodations for $250/night or less (for a family of four), plus a bevy of free and inexpensive things to do. From camping in Yellowstone to small, charming Southern towns , here are 30 cheap family vacations for your next trip with the whole squad.

20 of the Best All-Inclusive Resorts in the U.S.

1. Yellowstone National Park, WY

• Why We Recommend It: legendary national park, varied outdoor activities for all ages and abilities, close proximity to Grand Teton National Park
• Free Things to Do: Old Faithful Geyser, Mammoth Hot Springs, Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone River
• Getting there: 30 minutes from Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport
• Where to Stay: Mountain Family Cabin (from $123/night, sleeps 7); Cozy Yellowstone River Cabin (from $185/night, sleeps 8); Log Retreat by Yellowstone (from $199/night, sleeps 10)

Why leave the country when we’ve got one of the most majestic places in the world right here? Take the kiddos for adventures at Yellowstone National Park —we’re talking watching wildlife in Lamar Valley, visiting the Midway Geyser Basin (aka the largest hot spring in the U.S.) and spending the day splashing around at Yellowstone Lake. You can get a seven-day private vehicle pass for $35.

2. San Diego, CA

• Why We Love It: museums, beaches, gardens and great eats can all be found in this coastal SoCal town
• Free Things to Do: sunsets on La Jolla cove, Gaslamp Quarter, Mission Bay Park, Mission Beach Boardwalk
• Getting there: San Diego International Airport
• Where to Stay: San Diego Bungalow (from $84/night, sleeps 4); Lemon Grove Home (from $148/night, sleeps 9); Tropical Paradise Home (from $236/night, sleeps 6)

Drive south from Los Angeles and you’ll hit San Diego, a sunny enclave on the coast filled with activities kids and adults will love. You can birdwatch at the Tijuana Estuary or let the little ones run through Balboa Park while you admire the Spanish Colonial Revival architecture and gardens. Need a nighttime activity? The San Diego Astronomy Association hosts monthly stargazing events. Check out the murals at Chicano Park and don't forget to to experience one of the city's famed, otherworldly sunsets.

3. Hershey, PA

• Why We Love It: dive into a world of chocolate with an amusement park, museums and other Hershey attractions
• Free Things to Do: chocolate tour, horse racing, Swatara Creek
• Getting there: 20 minutes from Harrisburg International Airport
• Where to Stay: Sunny Hershey Abode (from $147/night, sleeps 6); House in the Heart of Hershey (from $149/night, sleeps 9); Hershey Historical Home (from $163/night, sleeps 8)

Known as the “Sweetest Place on Earth,” Hershey is a great family destination for those who want to experience a theme park without the sky-high prices. The town is home to Hersheypark and ZooAmerica , as well as The Hershey Story Museum and Hershey Gardens . Need to burn off all that sugar? Swatara Creek and the Hershey Medical Center Trail are great places for outdoor activities, including 10 trails for hiking, biking, walking and kayaking.

4. Outer Banks, NC

• Why We Love It: endless ocean views, serene ambience, lots of outdoor activities
• Free Things to Do: Bodie Lighthouse, National Scenic Byway, see the Corolla Wild Horses
• Getting there: 2 hours and 30 minutes from Norfolk International Airport
• Where to Stay: Dolphin View Beach House (from $184/night, sleeps 8); Oceanfront Condo (from $119/night, sleeps 6); Home in Nags Head (from $159/night, sleeps 6)

Sea salt air and uncrowded beaches makes the Outer Banks an ideal spot for a relatively serene family vacation. You can spend the day sprawled out and getting a healthy dose of vitamin D (just don’t forget to pack sunscreen ) at Rodanthe, Nags Head or Waves beaches. For some fun and adventure with the kiddos, you can opt for climbing the Currituck Beach Lighthouse or the Bodie Island Lighthouse or spend the day taking historic monuments at Wright Brothers National Memorial and Chicamacomico Life-Saving Station Historic Site and Museum .

5. Fort Myers, FL

• Why We Love It: laid-back, colorful town, easy beach and water access
• Free Things to Do: Six Mile Cypress Slough Preserve, Fort Myers River District, Bunche Beach
• Getting there: 30 minutes from Southwest Florida International Airport
• Where to Stay: Charming Cape Coral Home (from $119/night, sleeps 6); Cape Coral Canal Home (from $150/night, sleeps 8); Fort Myers Home (from $156/night, sleeps 6)

Nothing screams rest and relaxation quite like the white sand beaches of Fort Myers. That means there’s plenty of opportunity for tons of water-based activities—deep-sea fishing, kayaking and jet skiing with the family. You can also ditch the kids and spend the day golfing or catch a sunset cruise for just you and your beau.

6. Myrtle Beach, SC

• Why We Love It: 60 miles of beaches, stand-out golf courses, boardwalk, iconic amusement park
• Free Things to Do: Broadway at the Beach, Myrtle Beach Boardwalk, South Carolina Hall of Fame, Conway Riverwalk
• Getting there: 10 minutes from Myrtle Beach International Airport
• Where to Stay: Grand Cayman Oceanfront Suite (from $61/night, sleeps 8); Beach Side Vacation House (from $59/night, sleeps 4); Oceanfront Family Suite (from $79/night, sleeps 6)

Between the amusement and water parks, mini-golf courses and an aquarium, you’ll find so many activities to do in Myrtle Beach, a week’s vacation won’t seem like it's enough. After a fun-filled day spent at tourist hot spots like Alligator Adventure or Blackbeard's Pirate Cruise you can either ramp up the energy and head over to the Carolina Opry for an entertaining variety show, or go slow by taking a leisurely stroll with your brood on the beach. If you’re simply not sure what you’re in the mood for at any given time, head over to Broadway at the Beach —a 350-acre entertainment and shopping center—where you’re guaranteed to find something that tickles your fancy.

7. Williamsburg, VA

• Why We Love It: part of the "Historical Triangle" with Jamestown and Yorktown, living history museum
• Free Things to Do: hiking in York River State Park, Yorktown Trolley, York County Historical Museum, Williamsburg Botanical Garden
• Getting there: 27 minutes Newport News/Williamsburg International Airport
• Where to Stay: Historical Williamsburg Condo (from $93/night, sleeps 6); Resort Apartment (from $115/night, sleeps 6); Cozy Single Family Home (from $154/night, sleeps 6)

Busy the mini-me’s (and yourself) with wild rides at Busch Gardens or a day filled with historic reenactments at Colonial Williamsburg . For some family bonding time, you can also sail the York River, ride horses, hike or bike through the 30 miles of trails York River State Park offers. The options are plenty.

8. Niagara Falls, NY

• Why We Love It: iconic, massive waterfall and vibrant city with many outdoor activities and attractions
• Free Things to Do: drive Niagara Parkway, Niagara River Recreation Trail, Niagara Parks Botanical Gardens
• Getting there: 14 minutes from Niagara International Airport
• Where to Stay: Riverway Village Charmer (from $103/night, sleeps 8); Home with River Views (from $116/night, sleeps 11); Grand Island Townhome (from $158/night, sleeps 4)

Those on the East Coast can easily pack up the car and head north to Niagara Falls, where they’ll find a vibrant city filled with museums and parks and of course, the Niagara Falls themselves. There’s a lot to see in this vivacious city, from the Niagara Parks Botanical Gardens to the history museum and endless beautiful drives that all can enjoy.

9. Bowling Green, KY

• Why We Love It: great for car enthusiasts, small-town charm, historical attractions
• Free Things to Do: Fountain Square Park, Lost River Cave, Hobson Grove Park
• Getting there: 1 hour and 25 minutes from Nashville International Airport
• Where to Stay: Modern Chic Apartment (from $115/night, sleeps 8); Cozy Duplex (from $102/night, sleeps 6); The Candle Loft (from $145/night, sleeps 4)

For families with children currently bewildered by cars, trucks and the like, Bowling Green may be the unexpected destination where your kids will have the time of their lives. The city is the only place in the U.S. that manufactures Corvettes, and a trip to the General Motors GM Bowling Green Assembly Plant allows visitors to see the step-by-step production of the sleek sports car. The Corvette Museum also includes one-of-a-kind prototypes, that were designed but never manufactured, among other cool Corvette relics.

10. Denver, CO

• Why We Love It: perfect mix of outdoor adventure, art, history and culture year-round
• Free Things to Do: Golden Triangle Creative District, Colorado State Capital, United States Mint, Denver Central Library
• Getting there: fly into Denver International Airport
• Where to Stay: Spacious Denver Guest Unit (from $116/night, sleeps 9 guests); Bright 2-Bedroom Escape (from $120/night); Historic Home with Garden (from $99/night, sleeps 10)

While Denver may be a popular hotspot for winter vacationing , it’s not a shabby destination for some summertime family fun. You can spend the day watching elephants swim, orangutans swing and lions roar at the Denver Zoo . You can also explore fossils and dinosaurs, ponder the mysteries of space at the Denver Museum of Nature and Science , which is right next door.

11. Grand Canyon Village, AZ

• Why We Love It: make this iconic trip even less expensive by camping
• Free Things to Do: Yavapai Point, cycle on Hermit Road, South Rim Trail
• Getting there: 15 minutes from Grand Canyon National Park Airport
• Where to Stay: Cozy South Rim Home (from $73/night, sleeps 4); Grand Canyon Countryside Lodge (from $149/night, sleeps 10); “Altitude Adjustment” Cabin in Kanab (from $180/night, sleeps 6)

Fair warning: A trip to Grand Canyon Village—which houses the widely popular Bright Angel Trail—will not be the quietest vacay to go on. However, looking at the vast wonder that is the Grand Canyon itself will be well worth it. Located at the South Rim, the buzzy town is chock full of things to do with the kids. You can hike and set up a picnic at Shoshone Point (the trail is only a mile long), head over to the Yavapai Geology Museum where kids can touch a 3D large topographic relief model of the area and if you plan for a trip in June, you can even join in on one of the Grand Canyon’s Annual Start Party where you spend the night stargazing.

12. Washington D.C.

• Why We Love It: world-class museums, historical sites and cultural attractions
• Free Things to Do: Smithsonian museums, National Mall, Library of Congress, National Archives, Georgetown, Museum of Natural History
• Getting there: fly into Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport
• Where to Stay: Gorgeous Townhouse (from $110/night, sleeps 8); Capitol Hill Apartment (from $120/night, sleeps 4); Townhouse in Greener Part of Town (from $129/night, sleeps 8)

The main draw of Washington, D.C. is the National Mall , where all the museums offer free entry to visitors. Most of the national monuments are also free to explore, and the National Zoo welcomes guests for no charge every day of the year. Just make sure you reserve passes in advance for everyone, including infant children.

13. Catskill Mountains, NY

• Why We Love It: tranquil refuge from bustling NYC, easy drive from the city for a family weekend getaway
• Free Things to Do: Slide Mountain, Dutchman's Landing, Pratt Rock, Hudson-Athens Lighthouse
• Getting there: 2 hours and 22 minutes from JFK International Airport
• Where to Stay: Modern Townhouse (from $220/night, sleeps 6); Lakefront Cabin in Ferndale (from $139/night, sleeps 6); Woodland Valley Bungalow in Phoenicia (from $210/night, sleeps 6)

Another destination mostly popular for its cold-weather festivities, the Catskills can be equally amusing during the summertime. While you won’t be able to go skiing or anything like that, you can still get your adrenaline pumping at Hunter Mountain's New York Zipline Adventure Tour where you can fly through the air on the longest, fastest and highest zipline canopy tour in North America. You can also get up close and personal with the tigers, bears, alligators, camels, ostriches and farm animals housed at Bailiwick Ranch and Animal Park . And for some truly vacation-appropriate eats, head over to Mama's Boy Burgers where you can fill up on grass-fed black angus beef burgers and top it off with your choice of 26 flavors of frozen custard and yogurt or Jane’s homemade ice cream.

14. Branson, MO

• Why We Love It: diverse entertainment acts in historic theaters, amusement park and outdoor, kid-friendly activities
• Free Things to Do: Grand Village, Historic Downtown, hiking in the Ozarks, Branson Landing
• Getting there: one hour from Springfield-Branson National Airport
• Where to Stay: Boho Gated Condo (from $96/night, sleeps 7); Loft Condo (from $97/night, sleeps 8); Branson Home (from $89/night, sleeps 9)

Don’t let the drama of Netflix’s Ozark dissuade you from exploring this lovely city. It is filled with tons of options for things to do with the kids. Silver Dollar City is a rousing amusement park, popular with both locals and visitors. Not only can you find thrilling rides and entertainment, but the park has a 19 th century vibe to it and offers an array of shops selling souvenirs and homemade candies. Also included on your itinerary should be a trip to the Titanic Museum —where there’s tons of hands-on exhibits and hordes of Titanic artifacts— Promised Land Zoo , and Ripley’s Believe It Or Not located in the Branson Theater District.

15. South Padre Island, TX

• Why We Love It: resort town with calm waters and plenty of wildlife
• Free Things to Do: bird watch at the World Birding Center, Laguna Madre Nature Trail, Andy Bowie Park, Whaling Wall, Palmito Ranch Battlefield
• Getting there: 40 minutes from Brownsville Airport
• Where to Stay: Luxurious Ground Condo (from $121/night, sleeps 10); Island Treasure Townhouse (from $170/night, sleeps 12); Aquarius Condo (from $150/night, sleeps 6)

If your kids are hardcore animal lovers, a trip to this little island off the southern coast of Texas is the perfect pick. The island is packed with plenty of venues to interact with animals they otherwise wouldn’t have the opportunity to interact with. Sea Turtle Inc. , for example, is an educational yet fun-filled facility actively engaged in rescuing sea turtles. Equally thrilling is the SPI Birding, Nature Center and Alligator Sanctuary where the fam can observe the birds, butterflies and natural wildlife. Maybe just try to avoid March and April when spring breakers take over like wildfire.

16. Orange Beach, AL

• Why We Love It: 32 miles of white sand beaches, championship golf, nature trails, excellent cuisine
• Free Things to Do: Gulf State Park, Orange Beach Indian & Sea Museum, The Coastal Arts Center
• Getting there: 15 minutes away from Jack Edwards National Airport
• Where to Stay: Beachfront Condo (from $180/night, sleeps 6); The Sandy Hideaway (from $129/night, sleeps 13); Escapes Resort 1304 (from $207/night, sleeps 6)

Orange City may be small (population is currently at 6,607), but this tiny town packs a punch. Known as a water sports hub, it’s no wonder this is hands-down one of the best destinations for a beach vacation. You can partake in regular ole’ water activities such as fishing, paddle boarding, parasailing. But if you really want to dial up the fun factor, you can also book a once in a lifetime dolphin or pirate cruise .

17. Ocean City, MD

• Why We Love It: resort town with theme-park attractions, wildlife and miles of beaches
• Free Things to Do: Ocean City Boardwalk, Movies on the Beach, Assateague Island 
• Getting there: 2 hours and 36 minutes from Baltimore International Airport
• Where to Stay: Oceanfront Condo (from $93/night, sleeps 6); Edgewater Escape (from $83/night, sleeps 4); Beach Paradise Townhouse (from $66/night, sleeps 12)

A beach vacation doesn’t have to include a five-star resort. Ocean City, Maryland, is a great place to experience the best of the shore, from a lively boardwalk to seaside vacation rentals, and it also offers access to Assateague Island National Park , where the wild ponies run free. (How much will your horse-obsessed 6-year-old love that?) Spend a day on the vibrant boardwalk where you can hit up Marty’s Playland —a video arcade built in the 1940s—as well as The Kite Loft , where you can get the rundown on everything you didn’t think you needed to know about flying kites, which is to say, a lot.

18. Bar Harbor, ME

• Why We Love It: peaceful coastal New England town, gateway to Acadia National Park
• Free Things to Do: Shore Path, Bar Island, downtown Bar Harbor
• Getting there: 20 minutes from Bar Harbor Airport; 4.5 hours from Boston Logan International Airport
• Where to Stay: Sunset Studio (from $65/night, sleeps 4); Bar Harbor Condo (from $83/night, sleeps 4); Talley Cottage (from $150/night, sleeps 5)

Acadia National Park is popular for a reason—its rocky and rugged coastal landscape, wildlife on land and sea and the highest point on the United States’ East Coast, Cadillac Mountain—but that’s only the tip of the iceberg. Hop on one of Lulu Lobster’s Boat Tours where you can spend two hours learning all about lobster fishing and even catch some yourself. You can also book one of Bar Harbor Whale Watch Company’s magnificent for a chance to possibly spot some whales off the Gulf of Maine.

19. Gatlinburg, TN

• Why We Love It: charming town at the base of the Smoky Mountains, beautiful views, nature activities, arts, history and culture scene
• Free Things to Do: Gatlinburg Parkway, Little Pigeon River, Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail, Gatlinburg Tunes and Tales
• Getting there: 1 hour and 10 minutes from Knoxville McGhee-Tyson Airport
• Where to Stay: Pigeon Forge Cabin (from $143/night, sleeps 7 guests); Smokies Log Cabin (from $170/night, sleeps 10); Sevierville Cabin (from $90/night, sleeps 10)

This resort town is a coveted hotspot because of the fact that it’s a gateway to the roughly 520,000-acre Great Smoky Mountains National Park . You can hike the Clingmans Dome , which is only a mile long and leads to a watchtower you can climb, overseeing the entire national park. You also have the option to either drive or hike to three waterfalls in the park—Mingo Falls, Abrams Falls as well as Grotto Falls, if your squad is not yet able to hike long distances. Just be sure to head there early as the fall tends to get crowded.

20. Milwaukee, WI

• Why We Love It: lively city on the shores of Lake Michigan with an impressive food scene, museums and history
• Free Things to Do: Riverwalk, Lake Michigan, Milwaukee Public Market, Lakeshore State Park, Old World 3rd Street, Milwaukee Central Library
• Getting there: Milwaukee General Mitchell International Airport
• Where to Stay: The Little Gray House (from $206/night, sleeps 9); Cozy Modern Guest Cottage (from $105/night, sleeps 5); Cream City Inn and Gallery (from $153/night, sleeps 10)

Milwaukee is a vibrant Midwestern city overflowing with art, culture and food. Here, beer and cheese flow in equal measures, thanks to the city's German roots. Take the whole family to sample fare at establishments such as The Bavarian Bierhaus or Café Bavaria. There is also a plethora of farm-to-table restaurants serving up the best the seasons have to offer. With a whopping 17 museums located downtown, everyone in the family will find something to discover, but we think the kids will be especially entertained by the Milwaukee Public Museum . Keep a sharp eye out for murals by local artist David Mark Zimmerman, whose creations appear in the most unlikely places. Want to get moving? Kayak in the Milwaukee River , play at the beaches of Lake Michigan and stroll the historic Mitchell Street Neighborhood.

21. Atlanta, GA

• Why We Love It: Southern charm gets an international spin
• Free Things to Do: BeltLine, Arabia Mountain, Atlanta Monetary Museum, Centennial Olympic Park, Georgia Governor's Mansion
• Getting there: Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport
• Where to Stay: Modern Atlanta Home (from $120/night, sleeps 6); Artist House in Hip Poncey-Highland (from $128/night, sleeps 4); The Gorgeous Historic Monroe House (from $205/night, sleeps 6)

Atlanta may be sweet like a Georgia peach, but beneath the Southern skin is a thriving multi-cultural identity that makes it a captivating destination for the whole family. Let the kids run down their energy on the 22-mile BeltLine , a pathway with trails and parks that weave between Atlanta's neighborhoods, filled with art installations and city views. Arabia Mountain is an easy drive if you want an outdoor excursion, featuring farmland, trails, lakes and a nature preserve. Be sure to also hit the Buford Highway, renowned for its worlds of cuisine, from Korean barbecue to tacos and bubble tea. In town the kids will get a kick out of meeting Kermit the Frog at the Center for Puppetry Arts , which is free if you check the museum pass out at the library. Other can't-miss activities? The Coca-Cola Museum and Trap Music Museum , which dives into the world of hip-hop.

22. Glacier National Park, MT

• Why We Love It: over 700 miles of hiking trails, water activities and access to Whitefish
• Free Things to Do: Hidden Lake, Going-to-the-Sun Road, Logan Pass, Huckleberry Lookout
• Getting there: 1.5 hours from Glacier Park International Airport
• Where to Stay: Historic Cottage on Foys Lake (from $245/night, sleeps 4); Martin City Log Home (from $117/night, sleeps 8); Kalispell Log Farmhouse (from $253/night, sleeps 7)

Whether you're all keen to see the breathtaking vistas of the Continental Divide or want to test your athleticism with a vertical five-mile hike to Huckleberry Lookout, Glacier National Park is a family-friendly destination that everyone can enjoy. The entrance fee is just $35 per vehicle ($25 in the winter) for a vehicle, and you can camp in the park for a nominal fee. If you're driving in, a free shuttle runs through the park, making it easy to hit the sites without worrying about your car. Whitefish is nearby, with all the charm and amenities you'd expect from a resort town.

23. Oklahoma City, OK

• Why We Love It: cowboy culture meets fine art and outdoor fun
• Free Things to Do: Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art, drive Route 66, Keystone Ancient Forest, Conoco Museum, Oklahoma State Capital
• Getting there: 20 minutes from Will Rogers World Airport
• Where to Stay: The Village Home (from $85/night, sleeps 8); Modern Oklahoma City Home (from $96/night, sleeps 6); The Billen Ave House (from $118/night, sleeps 6)

Oklahoma City is proof you don't need a pile of cash to have a good time. With so many free things to do, you'd be surprised. Budding artists and art appreciators will enjoy the Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art , which houses 16,000 artworks, including some by Vincent van Gogh and Georgia O'Keeffe. At the Conoco Museum , your family can learn about the city's past as an oil town. Need a little old-fashioned adventure? Cruise the famed Route 66 highway itself. At the Salt Plains National Wildlife Refuge , the kids can spend hours searching for hourglass selenite crystals, and if you want a really big thrill, check out Robbers Cave . The former outlaws hideaway now offers rappelling, mountain biking and swimming.

24. Thousand Islands, NY

• Why We Love It: historic sights, water activities, natural beauty
• Free Things to Do: Heart Island, 1000 Islands History Museum, Amherst Island Ferry, Antique Boat Museum (free for children)
• Getting there: 40 minutes from Watertown International Airport
• Where to Stay: Modern Home in Leeds and Thousand Islands (from $110/night, sleeps 13); Entire Home in Alexandria Bay (from $190/night, sleeps 4); Hideaway on the Bay (from $85/night, sleeps 6)

An overlooked gem near the New York-Canada border, Thousand Islands New York is a serene and incredibly beautiful destination that boasts plenty of things to do for families. The fairytale magic and romantic story behind Boldt castle will charm all members of your brood and the sparkling blue waters of the St. Lawrence River provides ample opportunity for a wide range of activities, including boat tours, kayaking, fishing and swimming. Be sure to tour as many islands as you can during your stay— Singer Castle on Dark Island is well worth a visit—and learn a little bit about the history of the region with a visit to 1000 Islands History Museum and the Antique Boat Museum , too.

25. Traverse City, MI

• Why We Love It: lake beaches, wine tasting, natural beauty
• Free Things to Do: Point Betsie Lighthouse (free for children under 6), Haserot Beach Park, Torch Lake
• Getting there: Cherry Capital Airport
• Where to Stay: The Gristmill Apartment (from $69/night, sleeps 4); Modern Cabin in Bellaire (from $99/night, sleeps 4); The Loft on Union Street (from $199/night, sleeps 6)

Traverse City, Michigan is a beloved vacation spot for many, and it’s not hard to see why. The northern Michigan city has long been a top destination due to its abundance of freshwater beaches, vineyards and natural attractions—most notably the bluffs, sand dunes and lush forests at the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore . Downtown Traverse City is a vibrant place with an excellent culinary scene that will make foodies of all ages swoon, and there’s no shortage of outdoor activities on offer in the surrounding area—including rock hunting, biking, hiking, kayaking, canoeing and good old fashioned sand castle building. Let’s just say you’re unlikely to hear the words “I’m bored” when you bring your family here.

26. San Antonio, TX

• Why We Love It: lots of green and scenic places, rich with history
• Free Things to Do: Brackenridge Park, River Walk, the Alamo
• Getting there: San Antonio International Airport
• Where to Stay: Pearl Townhouse (from $132/night, sleeps 4); Entire 2 Story Home Near Downtown (from $115/night, sleeps 4); 15 Acre Tiny Farmhouse (from $37/night, sleeps 4)

There’s lots of history and a boatload of free educational activities to be found in San Antonio, Texas. The Alamo is an obvious choice, but other attractions like the San Antonio Museum of Art and the Institute of Texan Cultures are not to be missed. Carve out time in your itinerary for a leisurely picnic in beautiful Brackenridge Park and don’t sleep on the opportunity to stroll the scenic River Walk , where you’ll find top-notch restaurants, boutiques and numerous street performers bringing the city’s vibrant energy to life.

27. Savannah, GA

• Why We Love It: family-friendly beach, public parks, Savannah Children’s Museum
• Free Things to Do: Forsyth Park, Tybee Island, Ellis Square splash pad, Hutchinson Island Ferry, Fort Pulaski National Monument, Savannah Botanical Gardens, Skidaway Island State Park
• Getting there: Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport
• Where to Stay: Downtown Riverfront Condo (from $159/night, sleeps 4); Sophisticated Home in Historic District (from $129/night, sleeps 4); Renovated 1900s 2-Bedroom Apartment (from $76/night, sleeps 4)

Oak trees weeping Spanish moss, charming cobblestone streets, riverboat cruises, trolley tours and a vibrant art and food scene make Savannah one of the most appealing places to visit in the South. Forsyth Park is a beautiful public space that boasts two stellar playgrounds and plenty of scenic places to picnic. The city's iconic River Street—lined with candy shops, boutiques and restaurants—is a perfect place to take a stroll, and the Savannah Children’s Museum and Savannah National Wildlife refuge are well worth a visit as well. Oh, and we’d be remiss not to mention that a family beach day at Tybee Island is an absolute must during the warmer months.

28. Nashville, TN

• Why We Love It: hip and artsy vibes, great music and food scene, lots of parks
• Free Things to Do: Arrington Vineyards, Frist Art Museum, Musician’s Corner, Metro Nashville Parks
• Getting there: Nashville International Airport
• Where to Stay: Edison Condo (from $49/night, sleeps 8); Electric Ave Parkside Retreat (from $71/night, sleeps 6); Dream Treehouse (from $224/night, sleeps 4)

Head to Reese Witherspoon’s stomping grounds for a one-of-a-kind and decidedly budget friendly vacation in Music City. History buffs, blues enthusiasts, foodies and energetic kids itching for a public park to romp around in will all find what they’re looking for in Nashville. In fact, the greater Nashville area has a whopping 243 public parks, so you’ll never be wanting for a splash pad, playground or picnic spot. Centennial Park is a nice spot to spend a leisurely afternoon, while Radnor Lake State Park and the Edwin and Percy Warner Parks are ideal for hiking and enjoying the region’s natural beauty. Both kids and adults will enjoy the Frist Art Museum, Nashville Zoo and Adventure Science Center, as well. Best of all, affordable accommodations are easy to find and none of the aforementioned activities will break the bank, either.

29. Charleston, SC

• Why We Love It: local beaches, excellent food scene, vibrant culture and history
• Free Things to Do: historic district, public beaches, Arthur Ravenel Bridge
• Getting there: Charleston International AIrport
• Where to Stay: Downtown Charleston Home (from $152/night, sleeps 6); Southern Comfort Townhouse in Mount Pleasant (from $150/night, sleeps 6); Folly’s Treehouse (from $199/night, sleeps 5)

The old-school Southern charm and laid back vibes of Charleston are hard to beat—and for families seeking a perfect balance of relaxation and entertainment, this destination does not disappoint. Explore the beautiful historic district and Charleston City Market, pay a visit to the South Carolina Aquarium (and then eat some of the amazing seafood you can find all over the city) and soak up some sun on one of the numerous pristine and family-friendly public beaches before you head to your budget-friendly lodging to sip some ice cold lemonade on the porch while the kids play in the yard. Perfection.

30. Newport, RI

• Why We Love It: local beaches, scenic, low-key vibes
• Free Things to Do: Cliff Walk, Bowen’s Wharf, Castle Hill Lighthouse
• Getting there: 35 minutes from Rhode Island T.F. Green International Airport (PVD)
• Where to Stay: Wyndham Newport Onshore Resort (from $98/night, sleeps 6); Newport Harbor View Retreat (from $199/night, sleeps 8); Newport Unforgettable Condo (from $183/night, sleeps 5)

Newport has long been Rhode Island’s most popular vacation destination, and for good reason. This New England gem affords its visitors access to beautiful, windswept beaches, historic landmarks, amazing seafood and incredible seaside mansions, many of which are open to the public for tours. The Cliff Walk is the thing to do for a restorative stroll—it’s studded with said mansions and features oh-so scenic coastal views—and Bowen’s Wharf is a picturesque commercial center where 18th century buildings house art galleries, boutiques, souvenir shops and some of the best seafood restaurants on the east coast. And if your kids aren’t tuckered out after a day at the beach, sample some fudge at the Newport Fudgery and take them to the playground at the historic Miantonomi Park or the arcade at Ryan Family Amusement Center to burn off the last of their energy.

20 Summer Vacation Ideas to Try This Year, Whether You Want a City Escape, Beach Getaway Or Nature Retreat

Freelance PureWow Editor

10 tips for planning an affordable family vacation

Sep 29, 2022 • 5 min read

Here are some ways to avoid all the little costs that come along with traveling the world with your little one © RichVintage / Getty Images

If you travel with kids, then you may have found cheap family vacations more difficult to arrange in recent years. The price hikes for trips during school breaks are well documented, but there’s also the steady upward trajectory of the costs of food, accommodation and entry to attractions — all of which add up when you are traveling as a family.

But it’s not all doom and gloom: thankfully there are ways to make your hard-earned cash go further while you explore the world together. Here are 10 tips for planning a family holiday on a budget.

1. Timing is everything

Last-minute deals don't tend to exist during the school holidays, and those that do are usually to less desirable places. If your kids are in school then you’ll know their term dates far in advance; use this information to book months or even years ahead, when prices are still relatively low due to the lack of demand. If your kids aren’t in school yet or you educate them at home, make the most of traveling outside the peak periods, when costs are low and crowds fewer.

2. Use your parenting networks

Baby groups may have kept you sane through the newborn haze — but that collective wisdom extends beyond moral support and diaper-changing techniques. Quiz fellow parents about trips they’ve taken, how much they cost and what they would do differently to save money next time. Likewise in the online world there are plenty of forums and family travel bloggers ready and willing to give you their budget tips on destinations they have visited.

3. Take your family off the beaten track

It’s basic economics: the higher the demand, the higher the price. One solution? Get off the beaten track. Avoid tourist hotspots and opt instead for somewhere less trendy or famous; think rural Lazio over Tuscany , Adelaide over Sydney and Maine over California . With a bit of research, you’ll find fun things to do with the kids and enjoy the luxury of not having to battle through masses of other people to get ice cream or a family selfie. Plus, you’ll acquire the kudos that comes with being just that bit more adventurous.

4. Turn the journey into an adventure

Save money on a night’s accommodation and create memories you will all treasure by traveling to your destination (or between two points on your itinerary) in a different way. Taking an overnight train or ferry (or even bus if you’re brave enough) is a huge event for kids and a story they will retell again and again when back home. Alternatively, a family road trip using your own vehicle avoids the cost of hefty air fares and rental cars.

Read more:  How to plan the perfect big family holiday

5. Make the most of other people’s toys

While staying in a hotel certainly removes the strain of cooking and cleaning, self-catering options such as HomeAway , Love Home Swap or Airbnb  are often a much more cost-effective option for families. Renting a house or apartment also provides more space for those who need it (teens in particular welcome extra privacy). You can often find places with toys, games, high chairs or whatever else your family may need. Youth hostels with family rooms are also an affordable alternative to hotels and will introduce kids to other travelers.

Read more:   7 best US national parks to visit with kids

6. Embrace the great outdoors

Kids tend to love spending time in the fresh air, which is great news for penny-pinching parents. Plan day trips that involve nature walks rather than expensive attractions; find the local playground so your little ones can meet other children and take a picnic to avoid restaurant prices. Another great way to save money while exploring the great outdoors is to camp. It allows kids to be truly immersed in nature while also getting involved with some basic chores (e.g. post-BBQ clean-up) so it’s a win-win really — and worth trying at least once, even if you think you won’t like it.

7. Family discounts are your friend

While you can’t necessarily take advantage of big group discounts, there are many little ways families can use the power of numbers. You may be able to get a discount pass for local transport, find family coupons online for the attractions you want to see and take advantage of marketing campaigns such as kids-go-free weeks for theatres or big exhibitions that don’t charge entry for children.

8. Stick to the essentials

Anyone trying to save money knows it’s those little extras that really add up and the same applies when you are traveling with kids. Take refillable water bottles, buy ice creams by the pack in a local supermarket and read up on the sites you are visiting before you go to avoid paying extra for audio guides, activity packs or special exhibitions. Having an "eyes only" policy for gift shops can also help keep extra spending at bay.

Read more:  The 10 best sustainable trips for families

9. Change your family’s travel habits

Instead of trying to get away every time the kids have a break from school, consider going less frequently but for longer, thereby consolidating the cost of getting away in the first place. If you’re able to work remotely, you could travel for months, rather than weeks. Alternatively, consider the much-hyped "staycation". Switching off and pretending you are on holiday while exploring your local area can be a fun family challenge. You could also try reconnecting with forgotten aunties who might just love to have your whole family descend on her for a week, or convincing grandparents that the perfect way to spend quality time with their grandchildren (and help you out in the process) is to join you on holiday.

10. Manage your expectations

If an all-inclusive luxury resort or long-haul trip is beyond your bank balance, then it’s time to rethink what you really need to have an incredible experience when you travel. Could you swap a pricey villa with an infinity pool for cheaper digs and the beach or public pool? Remember — kids are pretty easy to please and most will embrace any adventure you take them on, big or small. While it may take more planning and patience to travel on a shoestring with kids in tow, it is certainly doable and the collective challenge will benefit the whole family.

This article was first published December 2018 and updated September 2022

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Frugal Traveler

12 Ways to Save on Family Travel

Like everything else these days, the cost of a family vacation is rising. With spring break season upon us, here’s how to keep costs under control.

By Elaine Glusac

In the seasonal surge to the skies and roads, spring break promises a recharge — and a financial pinch. That’s especially true this year, when flight prices are up 20 percent compared with last March and April, according to the travel booking app Hopper , and hotels in the United States are averaging $316 a night, up 64 percent in the same time frame.

Naturally, even eager travelers are nervous. A recent study from the nonprofit Family Travel Association found that while families are keen to travel — 85 percent of parents said they were very likely to travel with their children in the next year, compared with about 70 percent in 2019 — budget concerns are top of mind.

“Affordability has always been the No. 1 challenge for families,” said Peter Bopp, the director of research for the association, adding that the pandemic’s effect on family finances and inflation have heightened that concern.

“Everything is higher,” said Lauren Masarik, a travel agent based in Jackson, N.J., who runs Vacations by Lauren .

To help families stretch their vacation budgets, agents, analysts and bloggers offered the following 12 tips for saving money.

1. Budget for travel

Conscientious spending allowed Antonia Grant, a Minnesota-based publicist and writer for the blog Families Love Travel , her husband and 8-year-old to spend a month in Italy last summer. They are planning a similar trip to Scotland this year.

“After our mortgage and groceries, travel is our third budget item,” said Ms. Grant, who sets aside roughly 20 percent of the household’s budget for travel. She added that the family has one car and “not the best car or biggest house” because “travel is what we prioritize.”

2. Start with flights

Flights are often the biggest travel expense, so experts suggest tackling them first.

“A lot of time, instead of saying, ‘I’m going to Paris,’ I’ll start with the flight,” said Colleen Lanin, the founder of the family travel blog Travel Mamas .

She has a $49-a-year membership with Going (formerly known as Scott’s Cheap Flights) that alerts her to inexpensive flights from her selected airports. Based on a sale notification several years ago, her family went to China for $450 a person, round-trip from Phoenix.

“I set up price alerts when I get the school calendar,” said Kate Williams, the chief communications officer for the travel search platform Kayak and the mother of three boys, referring to a Kayak tracking tool that notifies users when prices drop or rise. Her latest tracked flight recently came down $65 a ticket for an April trip to Arizona.

Since many airlines have relaxed penalties for canceling trips and often return the value of a canceled ticket in the form of a flight credit, travelers who find a lower fare after they’ve booked can cancel and rebook using the flight credit, assuming both reservations are with the same airline.

When hunting for flights, use basic flight-search budget strategies, including searching for alternate airports near your departure and arrival destinations, and using flexible dates to show the lowest fares.

The online travel agency Expedia recommends flying domestically on a Wednesday to save 15 percent on average and booking at least a month out to save 10 percent.

Read the fine print on budget carrier sites. Their ticket prices often don’t include things like carry-on bags or seat assignments, as do most fares from larger airlines such as American, Delta and United, except for basic economy fares. Add those fees in when comparing prices.

3. Find alternative destinations

As with flights, be flexible about your destination, advised Lauren Doyle, president of the Travel Mechanic , an agency based in Raleigh, N.C. For savings, she recommends Belize in place of Costa Rica, and St. Lucia over Hawaii.

Consider visiting more popular places during their low seasons. When Mexico beach resorts were expensive last Thanksgiving, Gunjan Prakash, the founder and chief executive of the Families Love Travel blog, and her family went to Paris. This year they plan to go to Porto, Portugal, for Thanksgiving — another place that is not busy in November — booking round-trip flights for about $300 a person from New York City and a hotel room for four for $200 a night.

In summer, when U.S. national parks can be overrun, consider a secondary preserve. The 16,000-acre Harriman State Park in eastern Idaho, for example, lies within the greater Yellowstone ecosystem, and has 22 miles of trails, and rental yurts from $82 nightly.

4. Cash in on the dollar’s strength

One way to get more for your money is to travel to a country where the dollar is strong. It is currently worth about 0.94 euros; by comparison, it was worth 0.81 euros in early 2021. Mexico and Canada have also recently offered favorable exchange rates, as have countries in Asia, including Thailand and Vietnam.

Mr. Bopp of the Family Travel Association noted that closer destinations “make a lot of sense because it’s not expensive to get there.” Asia may have some great deals, he said, but “it’s expensive to fly there.”

Mexico, of course, is among the closer international destinations for U.S. travelers, but it has experienced a recent wave of violence that is deterring some travelers. Still, it was the top international destination in the Americas among families, according to the association’s 2022 survey. Be sure to check the U.S. State Department’s detailed travel advisory when planning a trip.

5. Save on city stays

Full-service hotels in some big cities such as San Francisco and Washington have not fully recovered from the pandemic crash, which might yield some deals, according to Jan Freitag, the national director of hospitality analytics at CoStar, a real estate analytics firm.

“Be aware of the meeting calendar,” when hotels are likely to attract business travelers, he added.

Scrimp on urban accommodations if you’re unlikely to spend a lot of time in the room.

“The key is a good location to walk to places, but you’re just crashing,” said Ms. Prakash, who, instead of staying in an expensive hotel, rented a bargain two-bedroom Airbnb in Rome last April for $100 a night.

6. Book family rooms

Finding spacious rooms suitable for the entire family takes some digging. The booking site Hotels.com has a “family friendly” filter to identify properties with multiple rooms and amenities for kids like clubs or child care.

Or consider a hostel . Design-focused groups like Generator , with 15 locations mostly in Europe, and Freehand , in four U.S. cities, have rooms with multiple beds that families can book privately. The Freehand Chicago recently had rooms with four beds from about $145 and the Generator London offered them from about $234.

The more basic a&o Hostels have family rooms with up to eight beds among its 40 European locations. A recent search for a quad family room in Vienna turned up a rate of about $30 a person.

7. Rent a vacation home

Since the pandemic began, travelers have embraced home rentals for privacy and space. Airbnb said its family business has grown 60 percent compared with 2019, with the average price per person on family stays globally at $52 a night.

In a recent survey of 1,000 Americans commissioned by the short-term rental service Vacasa , 65 percent of respondents said renting homes offered the best value. The service identified its best domestic bargains in Myrtle Beach, S.C. (around $104 a bedroom per night, including rentals with multiple bedrooms), and the Great Smoky Mountains ($116).

Travel between April and early June to get prices averaging 20 percent less than summer rates, according to the rental platform HometoGo . On Vrbo , filters for a “weekly discount” and “new listing discount” help renters find deals on the site.

Check GetawayGoGo for last-minute deals. The new platform, which is working with more than 46,000 properties in 39 countries, offers sales on vacation home rentals available up to 14 days in advance. Recent listings included an eight-bedroom villa in the Dominican Republic at 34 percent off for $300 a night.

8. Invest in travel perks

Rob Taylor, a co-founder of the L.G.B.T.Q. travel blog 2TravelDads and the father of two children, uses the American Express Platinum Card , which has an annual fee of $695, to gain access to airport lounges with complimentary food and drink.

“If you have lunch at the airport for four, plus adult drinks by the time you board, you’ve spent $150. In one trip that’s $300,” he said. “A family of four or five can recover the cost in two trips.”

9. Cruise without the views

Historically, a Caribbean cruise was about half the price of seeing the region by land, according to Ms. Masarik, the travel agent. But ship business is booming and the cruise lines are not giving as much away in deals.

“The best way to save on a cruise is going on an older, smaller ship,” she said. “You can do a smaller ship with fewer bells and whistles for a third of the price of a new ship.”

Another way to save money on a family cruise is to book an interior cabin, instead of an ocean view room. Over Christmas, Ms. Lanin of Travel Mamas and eight other family members took a Caribbean cruise.

“If you want to save money, you don’t need a room with a balcony because you’re never in the room,” she said.

10. Rent a tent

Spending time in the great outdoors doesn’t require a huge investment. Services like Arrive Outdoors and OutdoorsGeek allow occasional campers to rent gear. Instead of spending more than $200 on a high-quality, four-person tent, OutdoorsGeek rents North Face models for $49 for up to three days, or $62 for a week.

Glamping sites with platform tents often have high rates. But the affordable French company Huttopia operates more than 60 sites globally and recently made its North American debut with sites in Quebec, New Hampshire, Maine, New York and Southern California. Canvas-and-wood tents with kitchens and accommodations for up to five people start at $140 a night.

“We are working to make this easily accessible in price, but also accessible for families who don’t know how to camp yet, don’t have the equipment, and want to do it in a safe and accessible environment to educate their children,” said Margaux Bossanne, the business development manager at Huttopia.

11. Avoid theme park pitfalls

For theme park vacations, “I always tell people don’t put money into your hotel because you’re never there,” Ms. Masarik said. Instead, opt for cheaper accommodations with easy access to the park.

For instance, in Florida, Disney World resorts like Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge start above $500 in early April, while the nearby Caribe Royale Orlando has rates from about $200, including shuttles to the parks. Buy advance park admission from BestofOrlando.com , run by the local tourism office, to get discounts. Recently SeaWorld Orlando tickets were selling for about $100 a person, compared with nearly $148 at the gate.

For some parks, a season pass can be a better deal than paying a daily rate. At Dollywood in Pigeon Forge, Tenn., season passes start at $164, compared with $89 by the day, worth it if you spend two days at the park.

12. Spend selectively and nearby

Economize on food by eating breakfast in your room or rental and packing picnic lunches. “In the evening, you’re tired and ready to have someone serve you, so we do restaurants at dinner,” Ms. Lanin of Travel Mamas said.

Get creative with souvenirs. Instead of buying $25 T-shirts at each stop, Ms. Lanin suggested having children select a postcard from each gift shop, then writing about their experiences and mailing them to relive the trip back home.

Finally, you don’t have to go far to be exposed to new things and to bond.

“Emphasize the experience of the journey,” Ms. Grant of Families Love Travel said. “When it comes to traveling, the most important part is making memories and you can do that close to home.”

Elaine Glusac writes the Frugal Traveler column. Follow her on Instagram @eglusac .

Follow New York Times Travel on Instagram , Twitter and Facebook . And sign up for our weekly Travel Dispatch newsletter to receive expert tips on traveling smarter and inspiration for your next vacation. Dreaming up a future getaway or just armchair traveling? Check out our 52 Places to Go in 2023 .

All Together Now: Family Travel

Families are hitting the road again. we have tips and ideas..

A C ulture- C entric T rip:  In Spain’s Basque region, a father tried to kindle a love of art in his children. By the second day, they didn’t want the adventure to end .

Dazzle the Grandkids in Florida:  To fend off the b-word (boredom) in Palm Beach County, try these tips for tweens and teens .

Pigeon Point Light Station:  In California, three families shared a hostel converted from what was once Coast Guard housing  for a weekend of seaside frolics.

Multigenerational Trip:  Thinking about getting the whole extended family together for a vacation to make up for lost time? Here are nine tips .

Sharing a Love for Africa:  Fifty years after her own safari, a grandmother took her adult granddaughter on a trip to Kenya, hoping to pass along her passion .

Adult Resorts Open Up:  A pandemic surge in family travel has pushed hotels from Mexico to the Poconos to get makeovers to meet the demand .

How Kids See the World:  To find out how children experience travel differently, we gave families disposable cameras and asked them to share their pictures .

Vacationing in a Corner of the U.S.S.R :  The country of Georgia seemed to have it all: skiing, hot springs, history and huge dumplings. But would the whole family agree?

12 Ways to Save:  The price of a family vacation is rising. Here’s how to keep costs under control .

How Much Did You Spend on Vacation?:  We took a close look at how much family trips cost, and how people chose to spend their money .

• Last Updated On
• June 10, 2023

22 Best Cheap Family Vacations – Affordable, Fun, Kid Friendly Ideas!

Are you ready for a trip filled with laughter and cherished memories without breaking the bank?

Look no further, for we have a plethora of affordable, kid-friendly vacation ideas that will leave your family beaming with joy.

From beachfront locations and bustling resorts to quaint countryside retreats, a world of possibilities awaits you.

Immerse yourselves in excellent indoor and outdoor activities and stay in spacious accommodations, all while staying within your budget.

Selecting the best cheap family vacations that suit your interests and budget might be challenging.

And that’s why I am here to help you by reviewing the top cheap and fun destinations.

I have visited many affordable destinations with my family, and we learned a few things during our trips.

I will also include the insights I learned from conversations with other families.

Moreover, I have rated each place according to its family-friendliness, affordability, educational value, and other essential criteria.

So, what are you waiting for?

Prepare for a fun-filled and affordable getaway as you read our reviews below.

Best Cheap Family Vacations Compared

From comfortable hotels to family-friendly resorts, affordable family vacations are within your reach.

We have provided our top-pick destinations in our reviews below.

Editor’s Choice

Esme Miami Beach

Esme Miami Beach is a stunning oceanfront hotel in the heart of Miami Beach, Florida.

• Family-friendliness: 4/5
• Affordability: 4/5
• Educational Value: 3/5
• Entertainment Variety: 5/5
• Accessibility: 4/5

#2nd Best Choice

Las Vegas Hilton At Resorts World

Located on the iconic Las Vegas Strip, the Las Vegas Hilton at Resorts World offers you a memorable experience.

#3rd Best Choice

Tahoe Seasons Resort

Tahoe Seasons Resort is a charming mountain retreat nestled in the breathtaking landscape of South Lake Tahoe in California.

• Affordability: 3/5
• Entertainment Variety: 4/5

Here are the top 22 cheap vacations for families.

1. Esme Miami Beach (Editor’s Choice)

1438 Washington Ave Miami Beach, FL 33139 (305) 809-8050 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Ratings Criteria

• Fantastic ocean views
• Convenient location
• High noise levels during peak seasons

This boutique hotel offers a range of amenities and a luxurious and comfortable experience.

You can spend the day swimming at the pool, relaxing at the spa, or exploring the nearby beaches.

The hotel also offers a kids’ club, which provides your children with fun and engaging activities while you relax.

Additionally, the hotel has a children’s pool, and the nearby beaches provide a range of family-friendly activities.

Water sports, beach volleyball, you name it.

Esme Miami Beach will give you the fun and relaxation you deserve.

Recommended Hotel: Teton Mountain Lodge and Spa, a Noble House

2. Las Vegas Hilton At Resorts World

999 Resorts World Ave Las Vegas, NV 89109 (702) 676-7000 Visit Website Open in Google Maps

• Various entertainment options
• Well-equipped and spacious rooms
• Crowded elevators and common areas

The hotel has a world-class casino, multiple pools, a spa, and a fitness center.

You can also indulge in excellent dining options, with various restaurants and bars available on-site.

Plus, the hotel hosts live entertainment shows and performances, creating a vibrant atmosphere for guests.

While Las Vegas is known for its adult-oriented entertainment, it offers several kid-friendly activities.

Your family will enjoy the outdoor pool complex with water slides and splash zones.

The nearby Adventuredome Theme Park also offers rides and attractions suitable for all ages.

Related: California Family Vacations

3. Tahoe Seasons Resort

3901 Saddle Rd South Lake Tahoe, CA 96150 (530) 541-6700 Visit Website Open in Google Maps

• Relaxing and serene atmosphere
• Various outdoor activities
• Limited educational or cultural activities within the resort

Surrounded by majestic pine trees and stunning lake views, this resort provides a perfect getaway for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Tahoe Seasons Resort offers a range of amenities to enhance guests’ experience, including an outdoor heated pool, hot tubs, and a sauna.

The resort’s location provides access to many activities throughout the year.

You can enjoy skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing in winter at the nearby slopes.

In the warmer months, Lake Tahoe offers swimming, boating, fishing, and hiking opportunities on the surrounding trails.

The resort also organizes kid-friendly events and provides a game room for entertainment.

Related: Washington DC Restaurants

Related: Best Family Hotels in Washington D.C.

4. Hilton Vacation Club Mystic Dunes Orlando

7600 Mystic Dunes Ln Celebration, FL 34747 (407) 396-1311 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Hilton Vacation Club Mystic Dunes Orlando is a fantastic family-friendly resort in the heart of Orlando, Florida.

The resort offers spacious and beautifully appointed villas, providing you and your family with a comfortable and home-like experience.

The resort also boasts a championship golf course, a fitness center, a spa, and tennis courts.

Your kids will also love the resort’s multiple swimming pools, including a big lagoon-style pool with a water slide and a lazy river for relaxation. 

The resort offers a children’s playground, a kids’ club with supervised activities, and a game room.

Furthermore, its proximity to popular attractions like Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando Resort ensures endless entertainment for your kids.

5. Grand Canyon, AZ

Grand Canyon Village, AZ (928) 638-7888 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

One of the most amazing sights in the world, the Grand Canyon affords some of the best views at almost no cost.

All you need is to hike along the Bright Angel Trail or the Rim Trail or drive the Desert View Drive where you can picnic or visit the Tusayan museum and ruin site.

There are not many eateries here, so head out to Flagstaff, Arizona, for tasty but cheap menus.

Since it can get overcrowded in spring and summer, book your rooms and campsites in advance.

Recommended Hotel: Drury Inn & Suites Flagstaff

Related: Arizona Family Vacations

6. Myrtle Beach, SC

Myrtle Beach, SC (800) 356-3016 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Myrtle Beach has calm waters, is not very crowded and offers a cheap family vacation package.

Banana boat rides and parasailing are among the many diversions.

Amusement and water parks, mini-golf courses and an aquarium give something for every member of the family.

There is a 350-acre Broadway at the Beach entertainment and shopping center that can keep you busy.

During summers, it also hosts complimentary concerts for music lovers.

If you are a sports enthusiast, you may want to indulge in some baseball games at Pelicans Ballpark.

Recommended Hotel: Hilton Grand Vacations Club Ocean Enclave Myrtle Beach

Related: Best Myrtle Beach Resorts for Families

7. San Diego, CA

San Diego, CA (619) 232-3101 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

San Diego has many attractions that make it ideal for a family visit.

It is also where you can visit the world-famous San Diego Zoo that also houses the Balboa Park.

USS Midway Museum exposes you to history for those who enjoy it.

Otherwise, there are many beaches where your little ones can play in the sand.

While you will have to book your hotel or resort in advance to get good deals, you can also look for a vacation rental that can prove to be a real money saver.

Recommended Hotel: Pendry San Diego

Related: Good Restaurants: San Diego

Related: Best Family Hotels in San Diego

8. Destin, FL

Destin, FL (850) 837-6241 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Yet another spot is Destin , known for its fishing spots and sprawling beaches, having a gala time splashing in the water or building sandcastles.

Your entire family will find the fishing or boat tour very appealing.

You can also go snorkeling or parasailing.

Stroll along the Destin Harbor Boardwalk for a leisurely time with the family.

You will also find that staying in Destin is cheaper than in the other popular Florida beach towns.

Use the money you have saved to indulge in some sunset cruise on a glass-bottom boat or a high-speed racer.

Recommended Hotel: Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort

Related: Best Family Resorts in Destin, Florida

9. Niagara Falls, Canada

Niagara Falls, Ontario, Canada (905) 356-6061 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Waterfalls, waterfalls and more waterfalls.

And you will find that there is nothing called ‘enough waterfalls’!

You can view the waterfalls from the US or the Canadian side , the favorable dollar rates making it affordable.

You can also get reasonably priced hotels and attractions, and if you visit in late spring or early fall, you can even give the crowds a miss as well as benefit from offseason rates.

That’s not all, you can go hiking if your family loves the outdoors, including the Dufferin Islands and Niagara Glen.

This is an ideal destination for a cheap and fun holiday.

Recommended Hotel: The Oakes Hotel Overlooking the Falls

10. Ocean City, MD

Ocean City, MD (800) 626-2326 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

This Maryland beach town is the most affordable family vacation you can find because of the time you can spend in the free beaches and parks dotting the city.

It gives you unadulterated time to bond with your family as you soak up some sun.

There are year-long festivals where you can participate with your children in the evenings.

There is also mini-golf for you to indulge in with your family.

Look for vacation rentals that will work out easier on your pocket than staying in a hotel.

Recommended Hotel: Princess Royale Oceanfront Resort

Related: Best Family Hotels in Ocean City, Maryland

11. The Catskills, NY

Catskill Mountains, NY Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Away from the regular holiday activities, The Catskills in New York is a budget-friendly getaway where your little ones can try out new things such as farms where they can feed the animals.

Located in southeast New York , you can also go rock climbing, fishing and bumper boating in the summer.

Winter brings with it its own set of activities such as skiing and sledding.

You will be able to find all-inclusive, family-oriented resorts.

Or if you are up to roughing it out in a local campground, you will be able to save extra.

Recommended Hotel: The Roxbury

12. Gatlinburg, TN

Gatlinburg, TN (865) 436-4178 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Head to Gatlinburg in Tennessee , located just north of Great Smoky Mountains National Park, for an inexpensive vacation.

You can indulge in several outdoor activities as the entry to the park is free.

You can go hiking, biking or visit historical exhibits, all of which are free of cost.

What’s more, you can attend innumerable festivals of music, art and nature anytime of the year, all of which is also free.

And what’s more, if you visit in March, April or September, you can save further on accommodation as well.

Recommended Hotel: Margaritaville Resort Gatlinburg

Related: Places to Eat in Gatlinburg

13. Branson, MO

Branson, MO (417) 334-4084 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Nestled within the Ozarks in Missouri, Branson has a reputation for being the ideal quintessential family vacation destination.

What’s more, it is also affordable and fun!

There is a 19th-century themed amusement park that is truly amusing, a water park and a life-sized replica of the Titanic.

You can go swimming in Table Rock Lake or visit the Shepherd of the Hills Fish Hatchery at no cost.

Select from one of the many reasonably priced family-friendly restaurants and cafes for menus ranging from buffets to barbecues.

Recommended Hotel: Grand Crowne Resort by Capital Vacations

Related: Best Family Resorts Near Branson

14. Chicago, IL

Chicago, IL (312) 567-8560 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Does the thought of a deep-dish pizza or loaded hot dogs make the pretty mouths of your children water?

Head out to Chicago to indulge them the food they love.

But Chicago is not just about the food.

You can take architecture boat tours, visit science and art museums, or spend time in free parks.

If your family is into baseball, then a visit to Wrigley Field is a must.

Pro tip: visit the city in spring or fall to benefit from best deals from hotels.

Recommended Hotel: The Langham Chicago

Related: Chicago Restaurants

Related: Best Hotels in Chicago for Families

15. South Padre Island, TX

South Padre Island, TX (800) 213-5869 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

South Padre Island is a cheap and friendly family vacation destination with several kid-friendly activities.

The island has a pleasant temperature for the most part of the year, so you can visit anytime you want.

Children can take a swim in the sea, visit the Dolphin Research & Sealife Nature Center and even touch critters or visit Sea Turtle, Inc., to watch turtle feedings.

For nature lovers, this is a bird-watching haven and costs nothing.

All you have to do is head to the South Padre Island Birding and Nature Center with your binoculars.

If you want to avoid the crowds, skip the spring break crowd in March.

Recommended Hotel: Hilton Garden Inn South Padre Island

16. Adirondacks, NY

Adirondack, NY Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

For those who love the outdoors, the Adirondacks offer an array of options.

During winter, families can indulge in skiing, snowshoeing and dog sledding.

In spring and summer, you can go hiking, biking, fishing and whitewater rafting.

Expose your little one to the Olympic history by visiting Lake Placid’s Olympic museums and sports complexes and avail discounts by purchasing the Olympic Sites Passport.

You can also get discounts on several other activities.

A vacation rental may be easier on your pocket than lodging.

Recommended Hotel: The Whiteface Lodge

17. Williamsburg, VA

Williamsburg, VA (757) 229-6511 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

If you are looking for an inexpensive vacation spot, Colonial Williamsburg in Virginia would be the ideal getaway.

A history buff’s haven, you can meet historical townspeople and be part of one of the several popular tours ranging from ghost walks to carriage rides to experience life in the past.

Water Country USA and Busch Gardens Williamsburg are closeby, a great appeal for the younger ones in the group.

Opt for combo tickets to cut costs as the park tickets can be expensive.

Save on accommodations by visiting in the fall, winter and early spring.

Recommended Hotel: The Colonies at Williamsburg

Related: Food Places in Williamsburg

Related: Best Family Vacations in Virginia

18. Hilton Head, SC

Hilton Head, SC (800) 523-3373 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Find cheap family vacation packages in Hilton Head , a South Carolina barrier island, through local resorts where the parents can tee off on the golf course and also enjoy wide, clean beaches at no cost.

Pinckney Island National Wildlife Refuge’s animal-filled hammocks are a must see for nature lovers, and attract no admission fee.

You can explore the place on foot or by bike.

Shelter Cove Harbour & Marina hosts live music and various events, also free of cost.

You can also explore the island by going on a kayaking trip or spend some quiet time fishing.

Recommended Hotel: Sonesta Resort – Hilton Head Island

Related: Restaurants in Hilton Head, SC

Related: Best Hilton Head Resorts for Families

19. Denver, CO

Denver, CO (800) 233-6837 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Denver offers something to do for everyone.

Art lovers will find art festivals, concerts and museums just up their alley.

Then there are walking tours that the entire family will enjoy.

Affordable eateries offer cheap and best dishes catering to different tastes, be it for Italian food or classic American fare.

Relax in the parks or take a stroll.

The Denver Zoo with more than 4,000 animals is a treat for the little tykes.

They will also be thrilled to ride in the carousel or the train that winds its way through the complex.

They can have a great movie experience in the 4D theater.

Spring or fall will be the best time to get the best rates.

Recommended Hotel: The Curtis- A DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel

Related: Best Hotels in Denver for Families

20. Bar Harbor, ME

Bar Harbor, ME (800) 288-5103 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Bar Harbor has much to offer by way of vacation activities.

You can go swimming, and the calm waters at the freshwater beach at Echo Lake will be a novel experience for the family.

You can take a walking tour down the “Museum in the Streets” or find trails for hiking, walking and cycling.

Acadia National Park is another favorite spot for hiking, camping and coastline views.

If you are there between July 17 through August 21, free popcorn and kid-friendly movie viewing at Agamont Park will be a great hit with the family, especially the younger ones.

Recommended Hotel: Holiday Inn Bar Harbor Regency Hotel

Related: Best Restaurants in Bar Harbor

Related: Best Family Vacations in Maine

21. Winter Park, CO

Winter Park, CO (970) 726-4118 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Winter Park is not only a winter destination but just as great in summer.

What’s more, summer discounts at the Winter Park Resort make it within reach of all budgets.

Families can go hiking, biking, horseback riding, rafting, zip-lining and experiencing Colorado’s longest alpine slide.

The United States’ only summer tubing hill is also nearby at the Snow Mountain Ranch.

You can also go for miniature golf.

Other activities include swimming, climbing walls indoor and outdoor.

Hideaway Park organizes free concerts and events throughout the summer.

Recommended Hotel: Best Western Alpenglo Lodge

Related: Colorado Family Vacations

22. Pittsburgh, PA

Pittsburgh, PA (412) 281-7711 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

It’s not for nothing Pittsburgh is called “Kidsburgh”.

Be it the Pittsburgh Zoo or the Children’s Museum, there is much that children will enjoy here.

Summer also sees a 10-day Grand Prix where vintage cars can be sighted.

Walking tours give you a glimpse of the city or you can go around downtown in subway lines that offer free rides along the Golden Triangle.

Have mouth-watering lunch for under $10!

You can go biking along the Great Allegheny Passage to enjoy scenic vistas as you ride over bridges and in tunnels along a 150-mile trail.

For those reasons and more this is one our favorite places to go for the best cheap family vacations.

Recommended Hotel: Cambria Hotel Pittsburgh – Downtown

Related: Best Places to Eat in Pittsburgh

Related: Best Family Resorts Near Pittsburgh

Vacationer’s Guide

Comparing destinations: which one is right for you.

Choosing the best cheap family destinations is a breeze.

You can compare each destination’s rate offers, services, amenities, and drawbacks or limitations.

Then, you and your family can select the best place that suits your interests.

Esme Miami Beach offers fantastic ocean views, and its convenient location will put you near various attractions and dining options.

But one drawback of the hotel is the potential for high noise levels during peak seasons.

The Las Vegas Hilton at Resorts World provides many entertainment options and well-equipped and spacious rooms.

But given the popularity of this hotel, the elevators, and common areas can get crowded, especially during peak travel seasons.

Meanwhile, the Tahoe Seasons Resort offers a relaxing, serene atmosphere and various outdoor activities like skiing and hiking.

But the resort has limited availability of educational or cultural activities.

If you’re searching for an alternative to Tahoe Seasons Resort, Hilton Vacation Club Mystic Dunes Orlando is a must-stay.

This resort offers various amenities and activities for all ages.

However, the resort offers limited on-site dining options.

How I Picked The Destinations 

As an avid traveler, I always look for cheap family destinations.

I stayed at the hotels and resorts on our list and did careful and thorough reviews.

I also examined each destination’s services, amenities, accommodations, and more.

Apart from that, I engaged with my fellow travelers and talked to them about their experiences and tips to make my reviews more precise.

Our Rating Method 

I rate these family vacations based on the following criteria. 

• Affordability: I use this to evaluate the affordability of every destination or property. Are food and entertainment included in the prices? Is it worth the money? What packages do they offer? These are the questions I ask myself when assessing the affordability of the vacation destination.
• Safety: This is used to assess the safety of the destination. Is the area safe? Is the environment family-friendly? How are the crime rates? I ask these to ensure the safety of the stay. 
• Kid-Friendly Activities: I use this to assess the activities available for kids. Are there playgrounds or waterparks? Are there museums nearby to visit? Do they have kids’ clubs? I use these factors to assess how kid-friendly the activities on-site are.
• Accessibility: This criterion is used to assess the convenience of the location. Does it have good transportation options? Is it located near airports or major highways? Are there restaurants and local attractions within walking distance? I ask these questions to evaluate the accessibility of the destination. 
• Accommodations: I use this criterion to rate accommodations. Are the rooms available spacious or interconnecting? Are kitchenettes available? Can you request a crib or high chair? Do they offer complimentary breakfast? These are the factors I consider when rating the accommodations.
• Ease of Travel: This evaluates the accessibility of the destination. Is it in a convenient location that is easy to get to? Is it easily accessible by public transportation? Does it have enough parking space? Is it wheelchair accessible? I use these questions to assess this criterion. 

Frequently Asked Questions 

How do i budget for a family vacation.

To budget for a family vacation, estimate your expenses for accommodation, transportation, meals, and activities, and allocate a specific amount for each category. Prioritize your spending based on what is most important to your family and adjust accordingly to stay within your budget.

Are There Any Beach Destinations That Provide Affordable Accommodations And Family-friendly Activities?

Yes, there are beach destinations that provide affordable accommodations and family-friendly activities. Some of these are Esme Miami Beach and Clearwater Beach, Florida.

Conclusion 

Based on the ratings, it is clear that the best cheap family vacations offer something unique for everyone.

The Las Vegas Hilton at Resorts World was a whirlwind of excitement for my family.

We couldn’t contain our excitement as we explored the various entertainment options.

The kids’ eyes sparkled brighter than the Strip lights as we indulged in the many fun-filled family activities. 

Their delight in every moment turned our vacation into a priceless treasure trove of memories.

At Tahoe Seasons Resort, we were enchanted by the serene atmosphere and the chance to immerse ourselves in outdoor adventures.

We also loved the fantastic pools and the mini-golf course at Hilton Vacation Club Mystic Dunes Orlando.

But Esme Miami Beach gave us the best family vacation.

Our days were filled with laughter and splashing at Esme Miami Beach. 

The kids adored the children’s pool, their giggles echoing under the sun. 

And the sunsets? 

Simply breathtaking.

We enjoyed playing at the beach and discovering seashells on the shorelines.

We also appreciated the hotel’s convenient location, which allowed us to explore the exciting attractions of Miami Beach.

FAMILY TRAVEL ON A BUDGET: HOW TO AFFORD FAMILY TRAVEL

Post Summary: The ultimate guide on how to do family travel on a budget from former full-time family travelers. Our best travel tips, hacks, how-tos, and budgeting advice for family vacations on a budget.

Do you dream of traveling to charming or adventurous destinations together as a family? Who doesn’t, right? Family travel is where lifelong memories get etched into the storybook of a family. But if you’re like most families, you’re probably wondering…is frugal family travel even a thing?

Absolutely. Family travel on a budget is possible ! With the right know-how, resources, and proper planning, you can learn how to afford family travel .

Traveling with a family does provide a good dose of challenge and hearty problem-solving, but money doesn’t need to be the reason you don’t travel together.

Here is our complete guide on budget family travel , including planning a family vacation on a budget and tips for reducing costs. It’s long and thorough and based upon our own trial and error experiences.

READ NEXT: 50 Bucket List Ideas For Family Travel In The USA The Best National Parks In The West 50 Inspirational Quotes About Family Travel

*This family travel on a budget post may contain affiliate links, which means we might earn a small commission if you purchase from them. This is at no extra cost to you. We only suggest what we think is truly awesome.

HOW TO DO FAMILY TRAVEL ON A BUDGET

Family Travel Needs To Be A Priority

I present this one first because I think there has to be a mental shift in your perspective if you desire to travel with family. Finding the means to travel as a family is a priority for us. It’s never IF we’re going to travel; it’s WHEN are we going to travel.

I say this with caution since I know there are people ready to clamor and shout, but but but I have work ! But but but the kids are in school . I know. Those are all real and valid points , and I would never reduce the realities of everyone’s day-to-day circumstances. Let’s be clear that traveling with family requires the privilege of time and finances.

AND, if what you want is to travel, you’ll have to open a window (just a crack) in your mind to allow for the possibility of making travel happen for your family.

Just Say No To Spring Break Travel

If you’re looking to do a family trip on a budget, you have to stop traveling during the high season. It’s basic supply and demand. The more people traveling, the more expensive lodging and airfare will be. If you choose to go to Florida in April during spring break, hotels will be astronomically expensive. If you fly to Europe in July and August, airfare will be at its highest.

Visit Arches National Park in winter or Paris in the fall, and you can cut your hotel and airfare costs by 40-70%. We visited Glacier National Park and Whitefish, Montana, in winter and paid $95 a night for a room that costs $400 a night in the summer. I kid you not!

Just because you’re traveling in the off-season doesn’t have to mean cold weather and rainy days. We traveled to Croatia in October when the cruise ships and crowds had left, and we had 80-degree days and plenty of sunshine.

An extra perk of traveling in the off-season is the crowds are gone. We traveled to the Virgin Islands with our son in the off-season, and it was delightfully quiet. Imagine an entire picture-perfect beach with only a handful of people.

In addition, look into traveling right after a major holiday. Instead of traveling on the 4th of July, Memorial Day Weekend, or Labor Day Weekend, look at getting away right after that to see if you can get better hotel and airfare rates. You’re almost always guaranteed a cheaper stay.

KEY TAKEAWAY: Traveling in the shoulder season or after a major holiday is one of the most tried and true tips on how to afford family travel. Research a destination you’re interested in and find out when their off-peak times are.

Consider Taking Your Kids Out Of School

Traveling in the off-season can be difficult when you have kids in school. Consider taking them out for a short period to have your fantastic budget family getaway.

I know. I know. It’s not as easy as it sounds. It’s disruptive, your school might frown on it, and some kids might not want to miss school.

This is a personal decision that you and your family have to figure out. If you’re hesitant about pulling them out of school, talk about it with their teacher and listen to their concerns so you can work with them to find a solution. Perhaps you have to schedule time on your vacation for the kids to do homework or lesson plans. It’s a great thing to do on the flight! Or maybe you work with the teacher to figure out a time in the school year when it’s not as burdensome for them to leave. For instance, not going right before a big project or test is on the schedule.

KEY TAKEAWAY: Take your kids out of school for a short period of time to get the best off-season rates.

Travel Where Your Money Goes Further

If you’re looking to learn how to travel cheaply with kids, you have to expand your mind outside of typical “family destinations” like Hawaii and popular theme parks. You need to travel where your money goes further. Instead of Hawaii, consider other destinations with just as stunning (maybe even better) beaches like Panama, Nicaragua, Indonesia, Thailand, and the Philippines. Instead of France or Italy, consider other magical countries in Europe like Montenegro, Bosnia, Slovenia, and the Czech Republic. These places are just as charming and, if you travel in the off-season, ridiculously cheaper than other popular European destinations.

Many of the cheaper alternatives listed above can be done with a daily budget of $50-$100 a day. We spent eight days in Nicaragua and paid $800 per person, including airfare! Yes, airfare will probably be your most expensive item, but we’ll get tips on finding good deals later.

KEY TAKEAWAY: Traveling on a budget means trying out destinations that aren’t as “popular” but are easy on the wallet. If you have a dream destination like Hawaii, google “cheap alternatives to Hawaii” and see what comes up.

Credit Card Points Are Your Friend

Credit card points are one of my favorite ways to earn money for a trip. Many people opt to use debit cards as their sole card, but not using credit card points to your advantage is letting your money go to waste!

Now let’s be clear, the following advice is ONLY if you can pay your total balance every month. If you can not, this advice is not meant for you. Any points you earn will quickly become worthless with the interest you pay by holding a balance, not to mention the health of your credit score.

Some people go really in-depth into the points world. They hold multiple credit cards, do all the sign-up bonuses, chat on points and miles forums, and have intricate spreadsheet systems detailing their credit card points. That is not me. I keep it really simple. I use the credit card that’s best for my spending habits, and that’s it. While there are credit cards that offer great rewards for travelers, it’s only beneficial to you if you travel A LOT. Why get a card that offers Uber credits, lounge access in airports, and 5X points for airfare if you only go on a trip once a year?

I use the American Express Blue Cash Preferred Card because it’s a cashback card that offers 6% back on groceries, 3% cash back on gas and transit, and a $300 sign-up bonus. Because groceries are our biggest credit card expense, it’s a no-brainer for us to have a card that gives us 6% cash back on groceries. Last year, I earned $900 in cashback. If you’re saving for a big trip, $900 goes a long way to help cover airfare or lodging. You can learn more about it with my referral link to the Blue Cash Preferred Card.

A common travel hack is to open up a credit card with a big sign-up bonus to capitalize on that extra windfall. Most sign-up bonuses for credit cards entail spending a certain amount of money within an allotted time, for example, $5000 in the first three months. For me, it’s only worth it if your everyday expenses are that much or if you know you’ll be buying a big-ticket item like a new washer/dryer or plane tickets.

Another way to capitalize on the sign-up bonus is to sign up for a hotel credit card like Marriott or Hilton, which both offer a generous sum of points at sign-up. That lump sum of points could get you a few days free in a hotel. A great choice if you know you have travel plans in the future and want to reduce lodging costs. Just make sure to get the credit card several months in advance to ensure you have the points for when you need to book.

We also use the Southwest Credit Card since we fly Southwest a lot, and it’s a convenient airline for our needs. I discuss it in the “choosing a family-friendly airline” section.

KEY TAKEAWAY: Let your spending earn you money by using a credit card with a great cashback or points system that you can use toward your family travel budget.

Price Compare Home Rentals and Hotels

There was a time when peer-to-peer rental services like Airbnb and Vrbo offered the best bang for your buck when traveling as a family. With rising service fees and outlandish cleaning fees, I’m not entirely convinced that home rental services are the best way to go. That being said, it’s still the first place I look when scouring out lodging deals for a destination. When making a price comparison of a hotel to a home rental, you’ll want to budget in the extra perks of staying at a home rental which includes a kitchen to cut down on eating out, multiple rooms, laundry, a backyard for your kids to play in, and the privacy of your own home.

In general, if you’re only staying somewhere for one to two nights, a hotel will be cheaper since the cleaning and service fees can make the final bill more expensive than a hotel. If you’re staying for longer, a home rental typically wins out.

When looking for a hotel, take advantage of a site like booking.com that offers immediate discounts for email subscribers and a straightforward cancellation policy. The cancellation policy is great when you’re in the travel planning stage because you can book something and secure a rate while continuing to look for better offers. Booking also has a free loyalty program that offers 10-20% off, free breakfast, and upgrades if you consistently book with them.

KEY TAKEAWAY : Compare home rentals to hotels to see where the best price is, but don’t forget the value of having your own kitchen, more room, and the private space of a home rental.

Consider Camping, Glamping, or an RV Rental

If hotels and home rentals are too steep, a camping trip is ideal for family travel on a budget. When we were planning a trip to Yellowstone , we were shocked by how expensive the hotels were in the park. The only way we could swing it was to camp in the park. We spent seven days camping in the park and paid roughly $225 for our entire stay. $225 is not even enough to cover one night at a hotel in Yellowstone! Plus, we entered the park on one of their annual free days , so we didn’t even pay to visit the park.

Camping does have some significant upfront costs (buying a tent, sleeping bags), but the good thing is you can use it repeatedly, allowing the investment to be worth the price. You can also look into renting camping gear from REI if you don’t want to own camping equipment.

If camping isn’t how you love to vacation, you can look into renting an RV, travel trailer, or campervan through the peer-to-peer site Outdoorsy or the campervan rental site Escape Campervans . You can rent a cozy RV and stay at a lovely campsite for a long weekend or try a long road trip exploring the National Parks of the East Coast or the beaches of the Pacific Coast Highway. You could even boondock and find free camping spots to further reduce your costs.

KEY TAKEAWAY: If hotels and house rentals are too expensive, look into camping or renting an RV as an alternative.

READ NEXT: Our Best Tips For Camping With A Toddler

Find Alternative Lodging

A unique way to do family travel on a budget is to do a home swap. The basic idea is you swap homes with someone in a destination you would like to visit. Typically, you would need to come up with an agreement with another family, but Home Exchange has made it easier by also offering the ability to stay at someone’s house without needing to swap. That’s convenient if you don’t live in a location where people want to visit.

You can sign up for free, but if you register, you get a bunch of free points that could get you three to five days at a coveted destination for the cost of a $175 registration fee. My advice is to at least sign up for free to get some signup points. Browse around the site, and you’ll see that it’s a fantastic choice when looking for cheap ways to travel with family. You can use my referral code here to get extra sign-up points .

Score Cheap Airline Tickets

That title is a little misleading because I’m not sure I would ever call plane tickets “cheap,” but there are certainly ways to reduce the costs of airline tickets. As a general rule, you’ll want to try to fly from Tuesday to Thursday. Weekends tend to be more expensive simply because more people are traveling.

I suggest using Skyscanner or Scotts Cheap Flights when looking for good flight deals.

Scott’s Cheap Flights is a paid membership program with a pared-down free version. We started with the free membership but ended up upgrading because we liked it so much. They send out emails with mistake fares, and you can sign up to get specific updates to certain areas and airports. If you’re flexible, you can use it to inspire travel. We once saw a deal for a round-trip flight to Japan for $170. It was insane! It took everything we had to not immediately board a plane to Japan. You can learn more about Scott’s Cheap Flights here .

Skyscanner is another excellent tool that is essentially an aggregator. With so many different aggregator sites to choose from, it comes down to ease of use. Skyscanner is simple, straightforward, and best of all, you can sign up for price alerts and get notified when prices drop for a flight path you want to take. That’s a KEY feature and something you’ll definitely want to do if you have a set destination in mind. You can also use the site to browse cheaper destinations. Just put “everywhere” for where you want to go, a departing airport, and they’ll show you a long list of options. You can learn more about Skyscanner here .

If you can remain open about our destination, a good tactic is to see where you can get cheap flights and choose to explore that place.

Don’t forget to check out smaller airlines that might not appear in aggregator searches like Avelo Airlines and Frontier . They are budget airlines that reduce amenities (drinks, choosing your seat) to bring costs down.

KEY TAKEAWAY: Use smart tools and price alerts to find cheaper flights, but also be open to not having a set destination and traveling to a place where you can score low-cost flights.

READ NEXT : How To Survive Flying With A Baby

Choose Family-Friendly Airlines

When choosing a flight, most people will understandably pick the cheapest airfare but don’t forget to include extra costs that airlines tack on to the price. The cost to check luggage for a family can easily be an additional $100 for a roundtrip flight.

While Southwest Airlines isn’t an illustrious airline with a highly developed tiered class system or a fancy airport lounge, they are GREAT for family travelers. What do we love about them? Everyone gets two bags checked for free . While I love to pack light, traveling with a family often means a lot of stuff, so getting to check your luggage for free is ideal.

Whenever you’re searching for flights, remember to go direct to Southwest since they NEVER show up on aggregator sites like Skyscanner or Kayak. Cross-reference the prices and factor in the cost of checking luggage.

Southwest is our ideal choice since they have multiple options for domestic flights, affordable tickets, free checked luggage, and they have a companion pass !!

The companion pass is a benefit you earn where a single person can fly with you FOR FREE for the year you earn it and the following calendar year. Anyone can acquire the pass by applying for a Southwest Credit Card and flying 100 one-way flights or earning 125,000 points.

Most people won’t be able to swing either of those in a year, though it’s not impossible, especially if you’re using a Southwest business card and you have high business expenses.

Realistically, your best bet is to get a companion pass when they offer it as a promotional bonus for signing up for a credit card. That’s how we did it! We signed up for the credit card and earned the companion pass plus a slew of bonus points. We did it right before we knew we were going into a year of high travel and used it countless times. We saved well over $1000 using our companion pass for one year. Also, we were traveling with a child under two, so three of us got to travel, and we only paid for one person. It felt like winning the lottery!

Get on their email list and keep an eye out for when they do the Companion Pass promotion. I notice they do it about once a year. You can use our referral link here to learn about the different Southwest Credit Cards .

*Many people don’t like Southwest’s open seating policy where it’s first come, first served for seats. Families traveling with young kids always get to board between the A and B groups, so you’re guaranteed to sit together. We’ve never had a problem getting seats together.

KEY TAKEAWAY: Don’t forget about the cost of checking luggage and factor that into your budget. Also, don’t forget about Southwest Airlines since they don’t appear in aggregator searches.

Use Turo For Car Rentals

If you’re at a location that requires a car, the first place to look for budget car rentals is Turo . It’s a peer-to-peer car rental service, and you can find GREAT DEALS. We have used the service twice and love it. We used it when living in Asheville when we needed to rent a car for two months. We paid $10 a day for our rental!

Typically, there is a set destination for picking up and dropping off, but the great part of using Turo is you’re dealing with a real person. One time we didn’t even have to drop off our rental at the airport since it was more convenient for the car owner to come to our home rental. We literally left the car on the street where our Airbnb was, and he picked it up himself. It was so easy!

If Turo and its fees are too expensive, check out rentalcars.com to see if you can find better rates.

KEY TAKEAWAY: If looking for a car rental, first see if you can get a better deal at Turo, a peer-to-peer rental service.

Embrace The Road Trip

You can do all the travel hacking in the world and still not be able to find cheap flights. Even if you find cheap flights, if you have a large family, the deal isn’t so great when you multiply it by six. When flying is out of your budget, it’s time to embrace the road trip.

Yes, gas is expensive, but it’s still cheaper than flying. We are a family that road trips A LOT, and I tell you, once you do it a few times, you realize it’s really not that bad to be in the car for that long. In fact, we made a cross-country road trip in our renovated vintage camper with our three-year-old! The road trip will always be the top choice for anyone looking for how to travel cheaply with family.

Do some research to see what is nine to ten hours from you. Or make a family road trip that extends over several days where you hit up a few different places spread throughout an area. An epic family bucket list item is to make a Utah National Parks road trip .

K EY TAKEAWAY: When flights aren’t doable for your family, pack up the car and go on a road trip.

READ NEXT: How To Road Trip With A Toddler Like A Boss 8 Phenomenal Cross-Country Road Trips

Limit Eating Out

Not eating out every night is perhaps our biggest tip for when you’re trying to do family travel on a budget. We never eat breakfast out and often try to do all three meals at home. And I’m someone who LOVES to eat out. Believe me, I would much rather enjoy fresh local food than make turkey sandwiches for lunch, but it’s a small sacrifice to make for the pleasure of traveling and being together.

If you still want to enjoy eating out while on a family vacation, try to do two meals at your rental or hotel and one meal out a day. At the very least, eat breakfast by bringing cereal, milk, yogurt, or oatmeal or staying at a hotel that offers complimentary breakfast.

If we’re staying at a house rental, we bring groceries with us or buy some once we get there so we have supplies in the house. Even if we’re staying at a hotel, as long as it has a mini-fridge and a microwave, we can make a few meals with that setup. Our go-to hotel meal with only a mini-fridge and microwave is Rotisserie chicken from the grocery store, ready-made salad packs, and bread and olive oil. Traveling with small packets like this Marconi Olive Oil are game-changers!

KEY TAKEAWAY: Don’t forget about the cost of food on your travel budget! Plan to have 1-2 meals at your hotel or rental to majorly cut down on costs.

TIP : If your hotel room doesn’t have a microwave, you can sometimes call ahead, and they’ll put one in the room for you. It’s worked for me many times!

Look For Free Things To Do

When planning your itinerary, try to do a few free things to curb costs. Waterfall hikes, days at the beach, and self-guided walking tours are excellent kid-friendly activities that are all FREE. Here is where Google is your friend. When researching your destination, do a simple search for “free things to do in XYZ” to discover some exciting options in the area.

National Parks are a great choice since it’s typically one flat rate per vehicle and lasts for seven days. For inspiration, you can read our article about 12 fantastic National Parks For Kids .

KEY TAKEAWAY : On your family trip, plan a few activities that are free to offset costs of pricy tours and activities.

Check Out Package Deals

I’m going to be straightforward; our family doesn’t tend to do package deals. But in the interest of giving you the best information possible on how to score family travel on a budget, I feel remiss if I leave package deals out of our article.

Here’s the deal: a package deal MIGHT be cheaper, and it also MIGHT NOT. In my experience, it’s not more affordable, but it is definitely more convenient. For family travelers, convenience isn’t something to ignore. Sometimes it’s nice to have everything taken care of in one go. We are independent travelers who prefer to have more control over our choice of lodging.

My advice is to cross-reference and check out the individual costs of the flight and hotel to see if you’re truly saving money.

We can’t recommend any package deals personally, but Costco Travels seems to be the one everyone touts as having the best vacation deals. Check it out and see if their prices (plus the convenience factor) are cheaper than individually buying airfare and lodging.

KEY TAKEAWAY: Package deals could potentially save you money, but you should always individually check the direct hotel and airfare price to see if it’s truly saving you money.

Travel With Friends or Family

Consider traveling with friends as a way to afford family travel. Splitting the cost of a three-bedroom VRBO can significantly reduce your costs.

For example, say you’re planning a long weekend in Boise and need three nights at a hotel. Three nights in June in Boise at a mid-tier hotel for one room would cost you around $700 in total. An upscale three-bedroom home for three nights in June in Boise would cost also you around $700. Except, now you’re splitting it in half, bringing your total to $350, and you have a kitchen, backyard, a separate room for your kids, and free parking. It’s a no-brainer to me!

Plus, traveling with friends and family means your child or children have other people to bounce their all-consuming energy onto.

KEY TAKEAWAY: Traveling with friends and family can cut your lodging costs in half. Find good travel companions and make some memories!

Think Outside Of The Box

Finally, trying to do family travel on a budget requires flexibility, planning, and creative thinking. It might require more work, but there’s something so satisfying about working hard to pull it all off. Or is that just me?

Decide what’s most important to you and let that be the North Star that guides your vacation planning. For us, it’s always about exploration, ease, and having fun together. None of those things require spending a lot of money.

To have your dream family vacation on a budget, you might need to road trip to your destination, camp for two days, and stay at a home rental for three days to make the trip work. You might need to make all of your meals at home and enjoy free activities like playing at the beach or hiking to a lookout point. It might mean scrapping your vision of frolicking on the beaches of Hawaii and instead exploring the pastel homes of St. Augustine, Florida.

I can practically guarantee you that your children value time spent with their family in a loving environment more than they need expensive trips to far-flung destinations.

Are you ready to plan some epic family travel on a budget? We hope our post on how to afford family travel helps you out.

If you have any other tips or tools for planning a family vacation on a budget, let us know in the comments below. We love to hear tips from fellow travelers.

Happy Travels!

Hi, we’re Christina and Brad, Idaho based writers and photographers who live to explore. We did a short stint of traveling full time with our two year old and discovered we're much happier as part time nomads. What does that mean? We travel a lot! And then we go home. We love helping fellow parents and everyday adventurers discover new places and experiences.

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One comment.

Amazing post!!! These tips are very handy if you have a big family and a limited budget. Even I agree that travelling off-season is the best if you want to save money on your entire travel. Keep sharing such helpful posts with the readers.

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23 Best Affordable All-inclusive Resorts for Families and Couples, According to Hotels.com

Here are 23 of the best affordable all-inclusive resorts, according to Hotels.com.

Courtesy of Hotels.com

Looking for your next relaxing getaway? For some travelers, there's nothing better than an all-inclusive vacation because it means spending more time lounging on a pristine, white-sand beach (with a fruity drink in hand, of course), snorkeling among colorful fishes, splashing in the pool, or dining out with loved ones without ever having to reach for a wallet. And even though some all inclusives can be pretty pricey, others offer great value, with all meals, activities, and accommodations included in one fair price. And thankfully, no matter your travel style, there's a perfect and affordable all-inclusive resort out there for you.

“All inclusives are not one-size-fits-all. I like to read a book by the ocean and do a little snorkeling, but if you’re with a group that’s on the move at all times, you need to pay attention to what activities are included,”  Melanie Fish, a spokesperson for Hotels.com , shares with Travel + Leisure . “You don’t want to pay for the all inclusive and also pay to spend all day, every day off the property seeking adventure. Families will want to pay attention to activities included like water parks, games, arcades, and childcare. If you’re a solo traveler at an all inclusive, you may want easy ways to socialize and meet new people, so live performances, nightclubs, and casinos on property might make it appealing.” 

Booking Tip

Always read the fine print, as many all-inclusive packages don't include taxes or gratuities which can quickly add up.

Fish adds, before you book, there’s one simple thing you need to think about. “Figure out what ‘all’ means for each option: the number of restaurants on property, whether airport transfers are included, what water sports there are, and whether the resort's definition of ‘all’ is enough to satisfy your vacation needs.” 

To help travelers discover their ideal all-inclusive fit, we asked Hotels.com to compile a list of destinations with four-star and up guest ratings and rates at or under $500 per night this summer.

Robinson Maldives

Find yourself in the middle of the Indian Ocean at Robinson Maldives. The private island resort offers visitors the chance to unwind while surrounded by azure waters, which they are welcome to explore in a diving or snorkeling excursion along the island’s coral reef. The island is an ideal pick for romantic getaways and is even happy to host your wedding while you’re there.

To book: robinson.com

Constance Moofushi

Make your way to yet another private island in the Maldives at Constance Moofushi. Here, guests can enjoy a truly premium all-exclusive experience, which includes accommodation, food, and drinks. Guests can once again explore the coral reefs and the resort’s three private lagoons, or choose to unwind in the spa, which comes with a treatment menu inspired by the Indian Ocean. 

To book: constancehotels.com

Grand Residences Riviera Cancun, a Registry Collection Hotel

Head south for a bit of fun under the Mexican sun at Grand Residences Riviera Cancun. The resort’s all-inclusive option, known as the All In Grand Experience, includes accommodation, premium drinks, dining options, and access to all the resort’s amenities like its infinity pool, private breach, and more. 

To book: grandresidencesrivieracancun.com

Sandies Bathala

Getting to Sandies Bathala is half the fun. The private island in the Maldives is a thrilling 15-minute seaplane ride away from the Malé International Airport, though, on arrival, you’ll realize you’re a world away from the norm. Here, you can gaze upon the gin-clear waters, snorkel with colorful fish at the Werner Lau Diving Center, or just kick back with your friends, family, and fellow travelers. 

To book: bathalamaldives.sandies-resorts.com

Kudafushi Resort and Spa

The Maldives seems to be the destination to travel to for breathtaking all-inclusive accommodations. There, you’ll also find the Kudafushi Resort and Spa, located just a bit further flung in the ocean from Sandies Bathala. To get here, guests take a 45-minute seaplane ride and land in an utter paradise filled with overwater bungalows, glittering private pools, and plenty of delicious (and included) food and drinks. 

To book: kudafushiresort.com

Fiyavalhu Resort Maldives

For an all-inclusive in the Maldives fit for the entire family, book a stay at Fiyavalhu. The resort, located on the ​​island of Mandhoo in South Ari Atoll, offers a bit of fun for everyone, including diving and snorkeling trips for all, fantastic dining options, and a kids club that the little ones can enjoy while parents lounge by the pool. 

To book: fiyavalhumaldives.com

Makunudu Island

Not into the idea of taking a tiny seaplane to your private island all-inclusive? Make your way to Makunudu Island, which sits a 50-minute speedboat ride from Malé International Airport. It too includes a private blue lagoon, plenty of beachfront space, a spa, and access to almost every water sport imaginable. 

To book: makunudu.com

Sierra Lago Resort & Spa

For a modern all-inclusive experience, book a stay at Sierra Lago Resort in Mascota, Mexico. The resort sits in the lush landscape of the Sierra Madre and provides guests with luxurious cabins — sporting plush leather and wood furnishings — all butting up to its dazzling lake, which you can explore in kayaks or circumnavigate on horseback or bike.

To book: sierralagoresort.com

Constantinou Bros Athena Royal Beach Hotel

Constantinou Bros Athena Royal Beach Hotel is waiting to welcome you to Cyprus. The “adult-focused” hotel sits on the water in Kato Paphos and provides guests who want to lounge all day with both beach and pool access. However, the hotel also sits close to several cultural attractions, making it a breeze to explore your surroundings. Just make sure to check the “all-inclusive” option to ensure your drinks and food are included. 

Book it: athenaroyal-cbh.com

MarBella Elix

Have an all-inclusive moment in Greece by booking a stay at MarBella Elix, located in Parga, toward the nation’s northern border. The drop-dead-gorgeous getaway offers visitors the chance to find themselves nestled within Greece’s verdant hillsides, which they can explore on a guided hike or bike trek. Then, come back for a dip in a private pool before enjoying local cuisine alongside a Greek wine-tasting experience. 

To book: marbella.gr

Akumal Bay Beach & Wellness Resort

Soft sand, crystalline waters, and warm, sunny days await at Akumal Bay Beach & Wellness Resort. Yes, you can come here to relax, but really this is a spot tailor-made for water lovers, as it happens to be a watery region well known for its abundance of aquatic life, including plentiful sea turtles that live just off the coast. 

To book: akumalbayresort.com

Iberostar Grand Paraiso

Those traveling as a couple or with their adult family and friends can find total bliss at Iberostar Grand Paraiso in Riviera Maya. The massive resort comes with everything you’d need for a fantastic getaway, including five restaurants and two buffets, a dive school, dance classes, and even an 18-hole golf course for those looking to hit the links. 

To book: iberostar.com

Excellence Punta Cana

The Caribbean is calling, and Excellence Punta Cana in the Dominican Republic is waiting for you to come enjoy an all-inclusive stay. Here, guests can expect an adults-only getaway that includes gold-sand beaches, lagoon-style pools, evening events, and a spa that will absolutely melt away all your cares.

To book: excellenceresorts.com

Cocoon Maldives

On the Lhaviyani Atoll, a 30-minute seaplane ride from Malé, travelers will find Cocoon Maldives, a sleek accommodation that marries Italian architecture with the lush landscapes of the islands. The resort offers visitors those spectacular overwater bungalows they’re likely after, along with activities like fishing, diving, snorkeling, and excursions to nearby islands. There’s also a friendly kids club on site for young travelers to enjoy. 

To book: cocoonmaldives.com

Vilamendhoo Island Resort & Spa

Hop aboard a quick 25-minute seaplane ride from Malé to reach Vilamendhoo Island Resort & Spa, yet another stunning all-inclusive in the Maldives . While it too offers water excursions, including diving, snorkeling, and day trips to nearby islands, Vilamendhoo also has plenty of activities to enjoy on land, including tennis, badminton, and even a putting green so you can show off your short game. 

To book: vilamendhoo.com

Protur Safari Park Aparthotel

Those seeking out the best all-inclusive resorts for families should look into a stay at Protur. Located in the town of Sa Coma on the island of Mallorca in Spain, the resort offers spacious rooms, several swimming pools designated for both children and adults, and a plethora of restaurants and activities for guests of all ages to enjoy. To book: protur-hotels.com

The Blue Ivy Hotel and Suites

Find the perfect mix of pool and beachside fun at The Blue Ivy Hotel and Suites in Cyprus. The hotel sits just steps away from Blue Flag Sunrise Beach, which offers a one-mile stretch of golden-sand coast to explore. Guests can lounge all day at the pool, visit its spa, or take part in its excursions to go explore more of what Cyprus has to offer. 

To book: blueivyhotelprotaras.com

Mahekal Beach Front Resort & Spa

Mahekal Beach Front Resort & Spa is an ideal destination for group or multi-generational family getaways. The resort in Playa Del Carmen offers a variety of activities for all to enjoy, including everything from sitting on the beach or by the pool with a craft cocktail in hand to snorkeling, diving, and exploring nearby ancient sites in the thick jungle landscape. 

To book: mahekalbeachresort.com

Cozumel Palace

Have children in tow? Book a stay at Cozumel Palace in Mexico. Not only does the all-inclusive resort offer all the typical amenities adults will enjoy — we’re talking pools, beach access, delicious cocktails with tiny umbrellas, and all that jazz — but the resort also invites kids and teens to stay for free. They can even kick it in the kids-only places while their parents are off having their own fun. 

To book: cozumel.palaceresorts.com

Sunset at the Palms Resort

Courtesy of Sunset at the Palms Resort

Sunset at the Palms Resort in Jamaica is a destination that celebrates the quiet moments. The adults-only all-inclusive resort prides itself on being an oasis far away from the hustle and bustle of the rest of the world, providing guests with the chance to relax in private treehouse-style cabins, sit at the swim-up bar, or when they’re feeling adventurous, head out on a zipline excursion at a nearby park. 

To book: thepalmsjamaica.com

Renaissance Wind Creek Curacao Resort

Experience one more Caribbean all-inclusive with the Renaissance Wind Creek Curacao Resort. Here, guests can walk the public white-sand beaches or lounge at the resort’s private, elevated beach. Head out to explore the nearby shops and restaurants or dig into the ones included on the property, all of which celebrate local cuisine paired with tasty cocktails.

To book: marriott.com

Barceló Portinatx

Ibiza may be best known for its wild parties, but that doesn’t mean you can’t find a quiet corner to enjoy, too. Just look to Barceló Portinatx, an adults-only all-inclusive resort near Portinatx Beach. Upgrade your stay by booking a junior suite, which comes with a hydrotherapy bath on the patio, allowing you to fully unwind in total privacy.

To book: barcelo.com

Waves Hotel & Spa by Elegant Hotels

Waves Hotel & Spa by Elegant Hotels in Barbados wants you to leave a better person than when you came. The all-inclusive is dedicated to enhancing your well-being through its serene landscapes on a secluded beach, its delicious dining, and the treatments, which come included with the stay. And, as an extra treat, kids under five years old stay free. 

Family Travel on a Budget: The Ultimate Guide to Travel with Kids on a Budget

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Wondering how we have been travelling the world with our kids for less than $100 per day ? In this guide about family travel on a budget, we give you all of our tips and tricks for affordable family vacations !

Although we travel with our kids on a budget, sometimes we just like to do something wild as well! So not all of our trips are on a budget of $100 a day. Cheap family travel, however, is the only way we are able to travel a lot and see the world.

As a family, the costs add up quickly!

That’s why we wrote this article. For everybody who wants to travel more and longer with their kids.

Whether you travel in your own backyard or far away, for a short break or a long-term vacation, this guide will provide you with all the tricks and tips to travel with kids on a budget.

Table of Contents

How do we afford to travel?

I can’t travel with my kids, I don’t have enough money for that! That’s one of the main reasons people don’t book a trip with their family, they simply (think they) can’t afford it. We believe, more often than not, that’s not true!

People pay way too much for travel! Simply because they don’t know how to travel with kids on a budget.

It is actually the question we get most: ‘ How do you fund your travels? ‘. A few people even accused us of secretly winning the lottery. And although that would be fantastic, we haven’t ?, I promise you!

So how can we afford to travel the world, even though we are not rich?

We minimize our travel expenses and costs as much as possible. Besides rich people, who are probably not reading this article, we all want to get travel costs as low as possible without giving in on the experience !

The only reason we could afford to travel full-time is that we travel the world on a budget, as a family. So being experts in turning every coin, we’d love to give you all our tips !

General tips for family travel on a budget

Later on in this article, we’ll talk about saving money on accommodations, transport, activities, food, and drinks. But let’s start with some general tips on budget family travel.

1. Choose your destinations wisely

Where to go.

One of the easiest ways to save on money is to choose a destination where the cost of living is very low .

We know how tempting it is… You just want to go for the easy option, which is fine too of course. Take the car for a trip to France or discover another state in the US, maybe drive down the coast of Australia when that’s your home country.

You would think a trip to your own continent is much cheaper than taking a plane to an exotic destination.

That’s often not true! Although your flight over there can be rather costly, you will easily even that out once you are there. A lot of countries in Asia, Africa, the Americas, and even some in Europe are perfect for family travel on a budget.

In the end, you might be spending less than on your normal vacation. Or at least you’ll have some amazing new experiences for the same budget.

Our advice: pick your destination wisely and travel further! 

Exchange rate

While choosing your destination, also check the exchange rate. Pick a destination with favorable exchange rates. It will save you a lot of money!

Another thing to consider when choosing your travel destination is the cost of visas .

When we were planning our long-term family trip, we first wanted to go to China. As Belgian citizens, the visa would cost us €164,5/$183 per person. That would be €658/$735 for the whole family, just to enter the country!

We needed an affordable family destination, so we decided to choose a country with a low visa cost or even a free entry .

We did, however, go to China on a transit visa . It allowed us to enter China and visit Shanghai for 5 days, without any visa fees.  

Read more: How to visit Shanghai on a budget  and discover how much we actually spent there

Cheapest destinations

Probably you all know that Australia and New Zealand are rather expensive, as are many countries in Europe and North America.

Here is a list of countries with low cost of living , where you can easily travel around as a family for a budget of less than €100 per day. For example in Malaysia, we spent less than $70 per day.

This list is not exhaustive, but we chose these destinations that are also known for their exquisite travel experiences.

Cheapest countries in:

• Asia: Nepal, India, Vietnam, Laos, Northern Thailand, Cambodia, The Philippines, Malaysia and Sri Lanka and Myanmar.
• North- and South-America: Mexico, Bolivia, Colombia, Guatemala, and Nicaragua.
• Europe (or near Europe): Romania, Hungary, Poland, Greece, The Baltic States, Turkey, Czech Republic, Bulgary, Georgia, Ukraine, and Croatia

2. Travel off-peak times

Embrace the less than ideal weather.

Most of us want to have sunshine and as less rain as possible. Oh yes, and maybe not too hot either. We are still travelling with our kids which is an adventure in itself without them being overheated the entire trip.

This means you’ll catch the best weather if you travel during the peak season to the most popular destinations. There popular during those months for a reason of course… And you’ll pay loads of money for being there at the right time of the year.

But if you want to travel with kids on a budget, you better consider travelling when the weather is less than ideal .

That does not mean it will rain the entire time or has to be freezing cold. If you’re only able to travel during school holidays, you could consider going to the tropics. In a lot of countries in South-East Asia, Middle-America, … it is shoulder season then because of the monsoon.

Those countries are still perfect for travelling then, you’ll just have to deal with a shower every day for an hour or more. The good thing is it doesn’t get cold, so you’ll still feel like being on a vacation.

Stay out of season/festivals/holidays

Cheap family travel is very hard when you visit a destination during the high season, festivals, or holidays. Accommodations prices easily double or triple, activities tend to cost a lot more and the budget options sell out quickly!

Travelling off-season can be difficult if you’re bound to school holidays. Your options are to travel further (the other hemisphere and the tropics) or to embrace the less perfect weather as we mentioned above.

Another thing to consider is avoiding big holidays or festivals . Don’t travel to popular places in Asia during Chinese New Year or The Golden Week. Prices will be crazy as all the Chinese people travel around.

Be sure to check the season, festivals, and holidays of your destination but don’t forget to check the entire region as well.

3. Travel outside the school holidays

One of the biggest frustrations for us, travelling parents, is the school holidays.

If your kids attend a school or you are a teacher, you are bound to fixed holidays to travel the world. This immediately means travelling during peak times, resulting in higher costs for transportation, accommodation, and activities.

Not ideal if you want to travel with kids on a budget. What are the solutions ?

Homeschooling

The first thing you could do to avoid travelling during school holidays is to take your kids out of school ? !

A little drastic, I know, but have you ever considered it? A lot of you are probably thinking you could never teach your own kids! Or that your job doesn’t allow it. What will the effect on the kids be?

Just think about this, what if the world was your kids’ classroom ?

What if you can travel the world together without having to worry about school and the fixed holidays? We took our kids out of school, to start our full-time travel adventure. So we know what we are talking about.

It is not always easy, but we wouldn’t have wanted it any other way!

Travel when the kids are young

Another way to avoid school holidays is travelling when the kids are young.

In Belgium, until they are 5 or 6 years old, you can take them out of school for a couple of weeks and travel without having any problems. I know it is like that for a lot of other countries too.

That’s why we were very busy travelling in those early baby and toddler years . We’ve been to the USA, Ireland, Israel, and Thailand, … all during off-peak times.

Travel long term / Full-time travel

It is not everybody’s dream to travel long term. But it is the perfect way to avoid school holidays. Plan a gap year, a couple of months, or travel full-time.

That way you can easily avoid high season everywhere.

Go to New Zealand in their spring or autumn, and avoid their summer months (January and February). Go to Thailand in February or March, when it is still cold in Europe but ideal there! Try Italy in the autumn months. And so one…

You will save lots of money by travelling full-time.

Read more: 10 essential steps for planning long term travel with kids

4. Prepare your cheap family travel before you leave

Do your homework.

Family travel on a budget already starts before you leave. If you want to travel with kids on a budget, you need to do some research .

There are two things I generally do before I leave: buy a Lonely Planet and skim the internet with all my questions. I read lots of travel blogs, look for budget accommodations and their reviews, and look for cheap ways to travel from one place to another, …

It takes quite a lot of time, but it will save you lots of money! And planning the journey, is part of the joy, don’t you think ?.

Read more: Our best family travel planning resources and inspiration

Don’t spend big before you go

It is a mistake we made in the beginning…

You’re leaving for a holiday, whether it be short or long, and you want to be prepared. So you go shopping for the right gear, some new clothing, and some other stuff you see along the way.

In the end, you have spent quite a lot of bucks before you even left, which doesn’t help if you want to travel with kids on a budget.

Especially when you are heading over to countries with a low cost of living, don’t spend big ! They’ll have everything there, for much cheaper prices!

A second thing to consider is, that you really don’t need that much!

Travel light, less is more!

We were heavily overpacked for our full-time family travel journey. Share and wear , you’ll spend less and be happier when you have to move your luggage from one place to another.

Cashback sites

If you do have to shop and you’re buying online, consider cashback sites. They will give you a little bit of ‘cash’ back, when you buy your goods on your favorite webshop, through their site.

This works of course only if that webshop subscribed to the cashback site. Sometimes, when you need to buy some more expensive pieces for your family travel, such as luggage, it can pay off to check these cashback sites.

Read more: Find the best travel luggage for kids

5. Adjust the way you travel and spend

Organize your travels by yourself.

If you are willing to plan everything yourself , you’ll save loads of money.

That means you arrange your own transport, book your own hotels, and plan your own activities and tours .

Sometimes we book an organized tour, especially if that is the only way to reach certain spots or really enjoy a highlight.

But it will be much cheaper if you plan it by yourself. Take the local transport to that temple, bring along your guidebook and walk around by yourself. Ask a local boatman to take you on that snorkel tour, instead of booking an expensive organized tour.

Get off the beaten track

Of course, we all want to see those highlights. But family travel on a budget will not be possible if you run from one highlight to another and only stay at those really touristic places.

Leave the beaten track, and explore the undiscovered ! Or not even undiscovered, but the less famous path. Your spending will drop considerably!

Slow travel

The faster you travel, the more you’ll spend.

And let’s face it, isn’t it nicer anyway to travel slower with kids? Because in the end, besides exploring the country, we want to have fun! This also means, relaxing, wandering around a place without hurrying, and giving the kids time to play.

So our advice is, even when you are flying to a destination further away, take it slow! Don’t try to do it all in a couple of weeks. Stay longer at one location .

Not only will everybody be more relaxed and happy, but you also get to really know a place and meet its people. It will buy you some free time just to do nothing.

If you are travelling full-time, it’s even a great idea to stay somewhere for a couple of weeks. We did that in Kuala Lumpur and we loved it. For a while, we went back to the ‘normal’ life, only in another country. And those weeks were our cheapest weeks of all!

Collect experiences, not things

Another great way to save money is by reducing the amount spent on souvenirs or other things you see during your travels.

Value experiences more!

Of course, we all like to have some beautiful souvenirs. If you decide to buy some, however, go to local artists . They are often the same or even better quality for much less. It will save you a lot of money. Don’t buy them in the tourist hotspots, prices can really be outrageous there!

6. Bank/Mobile/IT issues

If you need to stay online during your travels or if you want to book local transport, buy a local SIM card ! It will save you a lot of money. You can find them at the airport, or in more tourist places.

It can help to look up some information before you leave, to make sure which providers have the best coverage or have the best mobile/data plan for you.

Another thing to consider is getting a local bank account . This only pays off when you are staying in a country for a longer period of time .

It will prevent you from paying loads of money on bank fees. Every time you withdraw money from the ATM with your credit or debit card, you pay a rather large bank fee or percentage. This adds up quickly if you are travelling for a few weeks or more.

If you don’t take a local bank account, check in your home country which bank charges the least on foreign withdrawals . There can be big differences between banks so you might want to consider a new credit or debit card before you leave.

And one last tip, don’t change any money at the airport ! You’ll pay way too much! Either withdraw money from the ATM or change once you are in the city.

Cheap family accommodation for family travel on a budget

Accommodation can easily soak up most of your budget if you don’t watch out! Especially with children , as you need more beds and bigger or multiple rooms.

To travel with kids on a budget does not necessarily mean, however, you only get to sleep in dodgy guesthouses with 4 in one bed. Although that might have happened to us ?. But we also had beautiful apartments, with a swimming pool, fitness and sauna for only €30/$35 per night.

How do we find those cheap family accommodations?

It all depends on where you are travelling. In those countries who have a low cost of living, you can easily find some gems without breaking your purse. In big cities or more expensive countries, it’s sometimes impossible to find a decent spot for a cheap price.

One golden rule, we always rely on reviews and didn’t have a lot of disappointments during our travels.

Here are our tips on finding cheap family accommodations !

1. Be thoughtful when you book your accommodation

You either want to book your hotels, guesthouses, or hostels way ahead or really last minute . You always lose when you book somewhere in between.

We usually book last minute through for example booking.com and it never got us in any trouble. Especially in Asia, that is the best way to go. We got to stay in some amazing places, often with a lot of discounts because we booked so late.

Don’t be afraid to ask for an extra discount either, or an extra free breakfast. Often they just want to fill up the room and agree to what you ask for.

However, by booking last minute, the real budget gems might be gone. So when you, during the planning of your travels, bump into an amazing place for a very reasonable price with great reviews, book!

2. Be creative, there are other options

If I talk about booking accommodation, we all immediately think about going to booking sites and looking for hotels, resorts, guesthouses, hostels, …

But think outside the box, be creative! There are lots of other options!

Most of you probably know Airbnb by now. Airbnb is an amazing site to book a room, complete apartment or even a house for cheap prices. We use this site all the time and it got us some fantastic places to stay!

Housesitting or house swapping

This is an amazing opportunity to go on vacation and stay in that country for free !!

The concept of a house swap is a people staying at your house, while you stay at theirs. You exchange houses. There are lots of great websites out there to meet other interested families, such as HomeExchange .

A housesit means you look after the house (and often the pets), while the owners are off on a vacation. Again, there are a lot of great websites, such as TrustedHousesitters .

We had our own housesits in Brisbane, Australia. It was a great way to live like a local for a while, without having to pay for the accommodation. A win-win situation!

Read more: 20 best websites for house sitting, house swapping, and homestays

Couchsurfing

Couchsurfing is another great way to find accommodation. The concept is you can stay in people’s homes, sometimes on a couch (hence the name Couchsurfing ) but it’s also possible you get your own room.

Even with kids , it can be a good option! The site allows you to filter on how many people need to be accommodated and if it’s kid-friendly or not.

We had some amazing experiences with this, for example in Malaysia. It allows you to really go local, meet amazing people and even end up with friends! Especially if they have kids of their own, your children will be delighted!

Go local and pay less!

During our travels we often try to stay with locals . Either in a homestay or a very local guesthouse. That way we support the local people, get more out of the experience and pay less.

A really nice site is HomeStay . HomeStay has a database of thousands of local hosts, that let you stay at their homes. A cool feature is you can even filter on hobbies, which makes it possible to match your interests. You’ll easily have an amazing experience with local people through a site like this one.

3. Let’s go camping

Camping with a tent or van is a great option to travel with kids on a budget! Especially in those countries where it is rather expensive to book accommodation, such as Australia, New Zealand, North America, and Europe. Although the cost of renting a campervan is not to be underestimated, it’s still cheaper than sleeping in hotels and renting a car.

There are some great ways to reduce costs when you are camping . For example, check the possibilities for free camping . It is not allowed everywhere, but if it is, you often get the best spots for free!  

4. Kids discounts

Don’t always book a separate bed for each kid . A lot of hotels let the kids stay for free if they don’t use extra beds. This means if they sleep on the couch, with two in one bed or in between their parents in the big bed, that’s perfectly allowed.

Especially in expensive cities or countries, we sometimes book a bigger room for two or three and the staff agrees to bring one or two extra mattresses for the kids.

Because after all, how much time do you really spend in your room while travelling with kids.

5. Save up a night during travel days

When you are travelling from one place to the other, consider traveling during the night .

Take a night bus, train or flight and you’ll save a night’s accommodation. Those moments probably won’t be your most enjoyable memories, although they will be memorable ?!

Another thing to consider is staying at the airport if you have a very early flight. We did that once in Auckland, New Zealand. The kids found it exciting and slept on the couches after a while. And, we didn’t sleep much but oh well, we survived and didn’t have to pay for very expensive accommodation in Auckland!

Family travel on a budget: how to save on transport

Getting a cheap flight.

There are tons of articles on how to find cheap flights. One article we love a lot on finding cheap flights is this one by The Flashpacking Family .

Family travel on a budget isn’t possible if you can’t find cheap flights .

Try to be flexible when you’ll fly and where to. Especially if you are travelling long term, don’t decide where you’ll go just yet. Let the price of the plane tickets make the decision for you. We do that all the time during our full-time travels.

One of our favorite sites to achieve that is Skyscanner . On Skyscanner , you can put ‘Everywhere’ as your destination. That way the cheapest destinations will show up.

We always use different flight comparison sites such as Skyscanner , Momondo , or Google flights . They also check budget airlines and smaller companies.

Subscribe for flight deals and ask them to notify you when prices on a flight drop. And last but not least, a lot of people fly cheaper through the use of miles collected from earlier flights or with purchases through a credit card (travel hacking).

Check this amazing article by Nomadic Matt to learn all about travel hacking and collecting miles.

Flying with budget airlines saves you a lot of money if you only have carry-on luggage and bring your own food . Travelling with kids and too much luggage? Try to check only one bag for every two people.

During our time in Asia and Oceania, we flew a lot with Air Asia , a low-cost airline with excellent service!

Our last tip is, that before the age of 2, kids fly for free (if they don’t occupy a seat). The only thing they need to pay is a little tax.

Use local transport

Finding transport will never be a problem, but pay attention to what you book or you will pay way too much.

If you want to go really cheap, always take local transport. A local bus or train will bring you to your destination for a lot less than a taxi or private minibus. The downside is this kind of transport is often slow, busy and doesn’t always have air conditioning.

Transport apps such as Grab  or  Uber  are another great way to find cheap local transport. You install the app, ask for a driver and they come and pick you up. Some countries even have their own local versions, such as Go Jek in Indonesia.

Be sure to install the app before you leave, and buy a SIM card at the airport. That way you can already book one of these on your arrival, instead of the very expensive airport taxis.

We found these apps to be very handy and cheap, especially with family. Four bus tickets were often more expensive or equal to using Grab or Uber , and these cars drop us off at our location. The only downside is it isn’t allowed in some places or even in some countries. Again, do your research before you leave .

Read more: 10 travel apps every traveler should have

Relocate a vehicle

A great way to save money while travelling is t o relocate a campervan or car .

The concept is that the rental company has a vehicle in place A, but they need it to be in B because someone is renting it there. So instead of paying someone a wage to replace the vehicle, they look for people who are willing to do it for them.

They usually charge only a couple of euros/dollars per day. Maybe a bit more if you want extra insurance. And they often even give you some free fuel too!

A great way to travel cheap, although the downside is most of the time you don’t get a lot of time . You’ll have to travel a bit faster. We did a relocation of a big campervan in New Zealand, from Christchurch to Auckland, and we are wildly enthusiastic about it! A great site is for example Imoova .

Read more: Travel Diary: The northern island of New Zealand with our relocation campervan

Repositioning cruise

Have you ever heard of a repositioning cruise?

Neither did we before we looked into the subject. The principle is a bit the same as relocating a van or car, although you won’t be behind the wheel ?.

Cruise companies need to reposition their ships in spring and autumn from one continent to the other to prepare for high seasons. When they do that, they let you come along for really cheap prices.

For example, cross the Atlantic Ocean for €60/$50 a day or sometimes even half that price. Which is really cheap if you think about it. You have accommodation, food, transport, and a great experience! No need to buy a plane ticket anymore. CruiseDirect is a great site to find these deals.

How to save on activities when traveling on a budget

Entrance fees to attractions, buildings, touristic highlights, and other activities can easily blow up your budget.

Unfortunately, most of the real fun activities cost a lot. But don’t despair, you’ll still have an amazing family trip if you don’t try to do all the highlights or at least choose those that are budget-friendly .

Appreciate active experiences over attractions .

You could book a tour or guide to see a viewing point. But you’ll appreciate the experience so much more when you walk over there with the kids, really breathe the air, and see all of the surrounding nature and animals.

When you want to take the kids out for the day, choose to go for a walk through the city, maybe stop at the playground and have a picnic in the end, instead of a theme park.

We always research the free things to do when we visit a city or region. We’ve been to amazing playgrounds, have seen fountain or light shows, beautiful performances, stunning musea and so much more, all for nothing!

And last but not least, check for family discounts . Don’t be afraid to ask. When we book a tour, we always ask for discounts for the kids.

Go to the visitor center and ask for any multi-passes, city cars or discount cards . Especially when you are exploring a city, these can make a huge difference! Also, check the free museum days . A lot of them have 1 or 2 days a month where they let you visit the museum for free. Have fun!

Family travel on a budget: how to save on food or drinks 

Snacks – snacks – snacks.

Everybody who has kids knows the drill for a day out, pack enough snacks for on the go !

Don’t buy your snacks at the tourist hot spot.

If you want to travel on a budget, go to a supermarket and buy all your snacks there, enough to survive the rest of the day. Take some fruit, cookies, and biscuits and you’re all set!

Make sure you have everything with you when one of the kids suddenly gets all cranky or even completely unmanageable ?. We all know what I am talking about!

Another huge money saver is to eat local !

Although we do realize kids often don’t like local food, you’d be surprised how much they will appreciate it in the end! Look for those local restaurants , away from the main highlights and tourist streets.

Have you tried street food before?

In Asia for example, you can eat an entire meal for only €1/1$ per person if you give those street stalls a chance! You won’t be sick, I promise. The one thing you need to be sure, of is they cook or bake it right in front of you. Never buy fresh food there.

We had our best food experiences, also with the kids, trying out local street food!

Prepare it yourself

Although in some places eating street food is cheaper than preparing the food yourself, most of the time cooking your own meal is a real money saver !

An important tip, however, is to focus on the local products . Don’t try to buy all of the ingredients you would purchase at home. You’ll have to say goodbye for a while to your favorite cheese, spread or vegetable and embrace the local cuisine.

Book a room or apartment with a kitchen. A lot of hostels and guesthouses give you the opportunity to prepare your own meal, but Airbnb apartments are perfect too! If you have a fridge, don’t throw away your leftovers! Another way to save some money.

And last but not least, eat out in the open ! Prepare yourself for a picnic , instead of eating in a restaurant. The scenery will probably be much nicer, the kids can run around and you’ll enjoy your quality moment.

Or when you are camping, what’s a better experience than preparing a delicious barbecue or having a campfire cook ! Those will be the moments you’ll remember!

Choose wisely at the restaurant

If you do go to a restaurant, first of all, enjoy! But still, don’t lose sight of your expenses.

You can easily spend your weekly budget if you’re not paying attention!

Our kids usually share a plate , which saves us an extra meal. They wouldn’t finish it anyway.

In some restaurants, kids eat for free or you have family discounts . And then, of course, most of the times there is a kids menu .

If you don’t want them to eat only fries, chicken nuggets or spaghetti, you might consider sharing a plate of the adult section!

Save on drinks

By carrying your own water bottles , you’re not only looking after our planet and reducing your plastic waste, but it will also save you a couple of bucks.

In a lot of guesthouses, public areas, tourist highlights, … you have the opportunity to fill up those bottles.

Something else to consider is to limit the drinks you order in a restaurant . Save that juice, wine or beer for later and order a cheaper drink. Later on, go to a supermarket or street stall and you’ll still get that delicious drink.

That’s all folks! Hope you enjoyed reading our guide to family travel on a budget and got some ideas to plan an affordable family vacation!

If you have any comments or other tips we should add to this guide, please leave us a message!

And of course, enjoy your family travels!!  

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13 thoughts on “family travel on a budget: the ultimate guide to travel with kids on a budget”.

That’s a great article! Totally agree with you about travelling off season. With 5 we could never afford high season! And apologies here in New Zealand is expensive ???

Glad you liked it! Absolutely, the prices in high season are outrageous! New Zealand totally makes up for it by being so beautiful ??!

Great tips! Thanks for sharing!

Thanks so much for reading and commenting ?! Glad you liked it!

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Thank you very much for sharing this super interesting information, it is very efficient content.

Thanks a lot for this information. I really enjoyed reading this blog. Keep sharing

This article is a powerpack of knowledge for travelers because at the end of the day who wants to add extra costs?!! Agreeing with you on how to save money on accommodation, the solution to which has been for me to book homestays!! Homestays cost almost nothing compared to high-end lodging categories that charge you a fortune for the warm welcome and courteous attention you experience there. I’d also like to mention that HomestayHaven is another trusted homestay booking website that I’ve been using for a while now! thanks for sharing!

This is a great article. Very helpful. What one can also do is save up on ATM and bank fees. Get a fee free card like revolut, wise. and then also save up on ATM side of the fees with apps like ATM Fee Saver – it gives a list of atms in many countries who do not charge fees or have much lower fees than others. quite a life saviour. worth adding to your list of tricks!

That is indeed a good tip. Thanx for sharing. We will add it to the list.

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Cheap Family Vacation Destinations: Explore Top Cities with FREE Attractions & Affordable Lodging!

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Traveling on a budget? You can take cheap family vacations even to popular travel destinations! Here’s how!

Pack up the kids and get away – without breaking the bank!

When you think about taking the entire family on a vacation, you may be picturing one of two paths: An expensive trip or a boring one. But there are cheap travel destinations that allow you to have a blast while spending very little!

We combed through all the most popular spots and asked our Hip readers for their favorite cheap family vacation locations. This guide includes many of the hottest vacation destinations and we’re spilling where to find affordable lodging and FREE things to do. Next time you plan a trip, use our guide to ensure your next family vacation isn’t boring or expensive. 🙌

Hip Tip: Many of these places have City Passes that allow you access to tons of activities at a discounted rate. Check it out because it’s definitely a bang for your buck!

Cheap vacation ideas in the Southwestern US:

Top Choice: San Diego, California – we recommend staying in La Jolla!

Calling all sun-seeking explorers! Families will love the laid-back vibe of San Diego, and the city’s climate is close to perfection year-round. It’s a great fit for families wanting to both relax and explore, and we’d recommend getting started with a stroll along the famous Coronado Beach .

San Diego may not be the first destination that comes to mind when thinking about cheap places to visit, but it can be affordable if you know where to stay and what to do!

San Diego is also super close to La Jolla, which Collin & her fam visited recently and loved! She said, “ It’s a little pocket right by San Diego that is so FUN! Great restaurants, shops, and beautiful beaches to explore.”  And as a bonus, you’ll find that staying in La Jolla is a little more budget-friendly than staying right in downtown San Diego. 🙌

When you’re ready to wash off the sand, check out these other affordable San Diego area attractions:

• Take the family on a harbor cruise with children’s tickets starting at $24.75 . This can get pricey for bigger families, but the views are incredible. Just remember to pack your sunscreen, especially if you go in the afternoon.
• Soak in amazing views for FREE or cheap. Take a FREE hike on the La Jolla Coast Walk Trail or head to The Children’s Poo l to view the harbor seals. You can also look for sea lions at La Jolla Cove  and then for $6 per child you can visit Sunny Jim’s Sea Cave , a century-old bootleggers tunnel that winds through the sandstone cliffs.
• Have a picnic at the photograph-worthy Ellen Browning Scripps Park . Then head to Shell Beach for some tide-pooling and shelling.
• Art enthusiasts can visit the La Jolla Murals and The Stuart Collection for FREE. Take a self-guided tour to see the area’s amazing artwork and sculptures.
• Entrance to San Diego’s Balboa Park is 100% FREE ! Be sure to check out the botanical park and San Diego Museum of Art, which is FREE for anyone 17 and under .
• No trip to San Diego would be complete without a visit to the zoo ! At $55 for children and $65 for adults, the ticket prices to enter the San Diego Zoo are a little bit of a splurge–especially for larger families–but it’s totally worth the expense! Plus, there are a ton of other free attractions to offset the spendier ticket costs.

Runner Up: Grand Canyon, Arizona

If you don’t visit on an entrance fee-FREE day , you may need to pay to enter the park. However, once inside there are plenty of FREE things to do!

Plus, your Junior Ranger can hold an official title at the Grand Canyon! The Grand Canyon is clearly a milestone of every trip to this area, but your kids can solidify their interest by becoming a Junior Ranger at no extra charge, where they’ll be tasked with helping preserve the park’s beauty.

Once your kids have confirmed that the park is pristine, consider these activities.

• Experience the spotlight in the picturesque Antelope Canyon with Navajo Tours . Tickets start at around $92 per person, and you can only experience Antelope Canyon via a guided tour. The opportunity to visit this magical place is truly worth the cost!
• Ride a classic train car on the Grand Canyon Railway . People of all ages will love the old-fashioned experience and gorgeous views of the canyon.
• Hike along the FREE Rim Trail . While the Grand Canyon is filled to the brim with hiking trails, many of them are fairly difficult, even for experienced hikers. The Rim Trail is a wonderful, FREE-to-explore trail that the little ones will be able to enjoy as well. Once you’re done with that trail, try some of the other FREE trails inside Grand Canyon National Park .
• For more stunning views, head to the Desert View Watchtower. Admission is FREE.
• Spend a day in nearby Flagstaff for some FREE fun . If you’re willing to drive an hour and a half to Flagstaff, there is plenty to do on the cheap. Play one of Flagstaff’s many disc golf courses , stroll the First Friday Art Walk , look for wildlife at the Hart Prairie Preserve , take a self-guided ghost tour , hike Flagstaff’s extensive trail system , or check out the Flagstaff lava tubes . If you’re visiting in summer, look for FREE events like Flagstaff’s Concerts in the Park and Movies on the Square.

Hip Tip : Maximize your savings & check this website for fee-FREE days to Grand Canyon National Park !

Hip Favorite : Zion National Park, Utah

Trek along the steep red cliffs in Utah’s first National Park . The park offers entrance fee-FREE days and also week-long passes for just $35 or less, and trust us–you’ll want to use all those days to explore as much as possible. Our Hip teammate, Lina, actually used the awesome RVshare service to vacation in Zion, and you can read about her experience here !

Once you’re settled in for the week, you can hit the trails and check out these attractions in and near the park.

• Take a scenic drive through the Kolob canyons .  Take in all the crimson cliff walls and walk along with one of the hiking trails if you’re up for it!
• Visit the Zion Narrows . One of the park’s most popular areas, it’s accessible via the paved, kid-friendly, and wheelchair-accessible Riverside Walk.
• Join in on a ranger-led activity . Zion National Park has some awesome, educational, and fun ranger-led activities that everyone will enjoy, including a program that addresses the ways we can protect the canyon’s ecosystem.
• Make a quick stop at Belly of the Dragon on your way to or from Zion National Park. It’s FREE to hike this .5 mile made-man tunnel with unusual views.
• Explore Snow Canyon State Park . Here, you’ll walk among extinct volcanos and lava flows! Or, try Sand Hollow State Park where you can engage in water activities or the Coral Pink Sand Dunes where you can camp for cheap or ride ATVs.
• Cruise over to the Kanab Sand Caves and take a FREE hike. Explore these impressive manmade caves for FREE. Afterwards, you can visit the Moqui Cave Museum for a small fee of about $5 per person. The museum has Native American artifacts, dinosaur tracks, and fluorescent minerals.

Hip Tip : If you have the time, visit the reader-favorite Gunlock Reservoir . You may be one of the  very  lucky few who get to see the stunning waterfall!

These may be the coolest family vacation locales in the Northwest.

Top Choice: Seattle, Washington – We recommend staying in Kent!

Don’t let the rain deter you from visiting this exciting city. Seattle is actually one of the cheapest places to vacation if you know where to go. It has so  much to offer for every type of traveler, and it’s the best mixture of wilderness and city amenities.

To keep the cost of your Seattle trip down, we recommend staying in nearby Kent. While it’s a part of the same metropolitan area as Seattle, a quick Airbnb search shows that the cost of a short-term stay in Kent can be significantly cheaper than staying right in Seattle. Plus, the town has its own set of parks, museums, and FREE outdoor activities to enjoy!

After a long drive to get there, stretch your legs at Seattle’s unique Gas Works Park . Remember to bring a kite to fly through the wide-open fields! Other parks worth exploring are  Centennial Park and Discovery Park ,

After you’ve had some fun, head out to these other attractions.

• Stop by Pike Place Market . Visiting city markets is often one of the best cheap family vacation activities, and Pike Place is no exception! The market is a classic Seattle institution and a must-visit according to locals!
• Live out your retro dreams at the Seattle Pinball Museum . Adults will love the chance to experience a piece of their childhoods, and kids will love learning some new pinball tricks!
• Explore the FREE Olympic Sculpture Park . It’s operated by the Seattle Art Museum and is covered with stunning art pieces.
• Visit botanical gardens for FREE. Stop by the highly-rated Washington Park Arboretum , Woodland Park Zoo Rose Garden , or the Carl S. English Botanical Garden (at the Ballard Locks).
• Tour the Seattle Aquarium . Aside from the amazing sea creatures, they also offer wonderful public programs for those passionate about marine wildlife.
• Experience the iconic Space Needle . You don’t want to miss this infamous building, and you can’t beat the views! Tickets start at $26 for children under 13 and $35 for adults.
• See a free art exhibit. Visit the Centennial Center Gallery in Kent or the Roq La Rue in Seattle.

Runner Up: Yellowstone, Wyoming

Delve deeper into Yellowstone! Once you pay the entrance fee to the park, there are dozens of FREE things to do inside like hiking the trails, looking for wildlife at Hayden Valley , and visiting landmarks like Old Faithful , the Grand Prismatic Spring , Norris Geyser Basin , Mammoth Hot Springs , and Yellowstone Lake .

After exploring Yellowstone National Park , strap on a life jacket and hit a whitewater tour or a scenic float adventure. Pricing starts at $59 each through Yellowstone Raft Company .

Lodging near Yellowstone can get pricey. One way to keep costs down is to consider camping at one of the Yellowstone’s 12 campgrounds where you can stay for as low as $20 a night.

Prefer to stay out of rough waters, or even just dry land? Consider these options!

• Explore Bridge Bay Marina with Yellowstone Boat Rentals .  Boat rentals start at an affordable $68/hour for parties of up to six people.
• Visit the National Elk Refuge . The refuge houses many species of endangered animals & is a great experience for the whole family.
• Experience a classic rodeo . No trip to Jackson Hole is complete without it!

Hip Favorite : Whitefish, Montana

Whitefish, Montana may be a resort town, but you don’t have to pay high resort prices. It’s a gateway to a ton of inspiring outdoor activities and makes the perfect jump-off point for an active, exciting family vacation! We recommend starting out with a simple walk through downtown Whitefish where you can stretch your legs & window shop at all the cool artisan shops.

Once you’re warmed up, seek out these other adventures.

• You can’t miss the chance to visit Glacier National Park . Known as the “Crown of the Continent,” there’s really nowhere in the country like it, and a 7-day permit is only $35 per vehicle. You can also check it out on a fee-FREE day , but you’ll probably want more than a day to explore. If you’re up for a hike, don’t miss the 5-mile Avalanche Lake Trail .
• Visit the largest lake west of the Mississippi.  Flathead Lake is cradled in picturesque mountains and tons of other scenic areas, and it’s sometimes surrounded by food stalls and fruit vendors in the summer. It’s a must-see! If you’re looking for a beach day, try Les Mason State Park which is a favorite with the locals.
• Take advantage of Whitefish Mountain Resort . No matter what time of year you visit, you can bet there’s something exciting happening at the resort, from night skiing in the winter to mountain biking & zipline tours in the summer.

The Southeastern US has some top choices for cheap family vacations!

Top Choice: Outer Banks, North Carolina

Once you’ve got a real wild horse chase out of your system, check out the local favorites:

• Relive some history at the Wright Brothers National Memorial and Junior Aviator Experience .  Learn all about the Wright Brothers and their life-changing achievements.
• Visit the North Carolina Aquarium . You might catch one of the FREE daily programs that happen throughout the year!
• History buffs will love the Island Farm Living History Site. You can get a taste of the way the mysterious Roanoke settlers lived and catch one of the live demonstrations.
• Experience Jockey’s Ridge State Park . It’s the tallest sand dune on the east coast and is completely FREE to experience! Plus, you can’t beat the ocean views.
• Look for wildlife while enjoying a FREE hike. Visit the highly-rated Nags Head Woods Preserve , Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge , or Currituck Banks Coastal Estuarine Reserve . Take in the stunning scenery and learn about all the diverse wildlife!
• Spend a night camping at the Cape Hatteras National Seashore . It costs as low as $20 a night.

Hip Tip: Many readers recommend looking for a rental directly through a realty company or rental agency. Many times, it ends up being the same homes on Airbnb and VRBO but cheaper because there are no additional fees!

Runner Up: Virginia Beach, Virginia – We recommend staying in Chesapeake!

And we all know beach towns are usually a little (or a LOT 😱) more expensive, so we’d recommend staying in Chesapeake, Virginia if you want to score a better deal on accommodation. It’s a beautiful city also located on a waterway & just a short drive away. Just because it’s not directly on the beach, it’s significantly less pricey than some surrounding areas.

Once you finish drying off, visit the nearby hotspots.

• Tour the Military Aviation Museum . Tickets to enter are super affordable at only $7.50 for youth ages 6-17 and $15 for adults.
• Check out an event at the Back Bay Wildlife Refuge . The tours usually consist of a short hike and the chance to see some pretty cool wildlife!
• Like many coastal cities, Virginia Beach houses a great aquarium . Keep an eye on their calendar of events to see what cool shows they have coming up.
• Enjoy a FREE day at the Chesapeake Bay Arboretum . This park has a picnic area, gazebo, historic farm house, a propagation center, 3.5 miles of walking trails, and the 3-acre Lake Hughes.
• Head to the ViBe Creative District for a FREE self-guided tour of the Virginia Beach murals . Download the Walking Tour Map which will take you to around 60 amazing murals all within a one-mile distance!
• Wind down at the Chesapeake Bay Distillery . Adults can enjoy a tasting for just $8!

Hip Tip: Try these ingenious beach hacks and enjoy your stay!

Hip Favorite : Gatlinburg, Tennessee

Rent a cozy cabin in this fun mountain getaway. Gatlinburg is one of the best family vacations on a budget in the Southeast, and for good reason! There are tons of activities for kids–and kids at heart 😉–and all the restaurants, attractions, and outdoor activities you could possibly ask for, including the unique Sky Bridge !

It’s hard to pick from all the options, but these are some classic Gatlinburg experiences that won’t break the bank.

• Take a hike in the most popular national park in the country . The Great Smoky Mountains National Park has over 500,000 acres to explore–and it’s totally FREE to enter! Even if you’re not super into outdoor activities, a sunset drive up to Clingmans Dome is well worth the trip. Don’t forget to picnic in Cades Cove !
• Tour the impressive Ripley’s Aquarium . Kids will love the weird and wonderful sights & exciting glass bottom boat adventure !
• Visit nearby Pigeon Forge .  Only about 15 minutes away from Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge has its own fun set of attractions (including Dollywood Theme Park ), and a visit to one almost wouldn’t be complete without stopping by the other!

Hip Tip: Patriot Getaways often has cabin deals. We’ve seen them going for up to 50% off!

The Northeastern US has something for everyone–including world-famous museums!

Top Choice: Niagara Falls, New York – We recommend staying in Buffalo!

You can ride a boat through the heart of Niagara Falls’ iconic waterfalls. Riding on the Maid of the Mist allows you to take a boat trip right into the heart of the spray, at prices starting at $16.50 per child and $28.25 per adult.

To avoid paying tourist prices when you visit, skip staying in Niagara Falls and stay in nearby Buffalo, NY instead. My Hip sidekick, Emily, lives there and says you’ll find plenty to see and do with the gorgeous and lively waterfront, insanely delicious eats (it is the birthplace of Buffalo wings!), and stunning architectural history.

Not only will the places in Buffalo be more cost-effective for your cheap family vacation, but you’ll also have more options, as those Airbnbs and hotels right by the Falls are scooped up pretty quickly during peak seasons.

Plus, Buffalo also has several affordable museums where tickets cost $20 or less. These include the Buffalo Museum of Science , Buffalo AKG Art Museum , the Pierce-Arrow Museum , the Burchfield Penny Art Center , and Buffalo Botanic Gardens

Once you venture out to Niagara, explore these affordable activities!

• Relive a bit of history at Old Fort Niagara . Visitors can soak in over 300 years of history, and better yet, kids under 5 can enter for FREE!
• Bring out your inner spelunker at the Cave of the Winds .  Or, well… sort of. “Cave” of the Winds might be a bit of a misnomer, but it still gets you up close & personal with the powerful waterfall.
• Have a once-in-a-lifetime zipline adventure .  Families with older children can take advantage of this awesome zip line ride to see the falls from a whole new perspective!
• Visit the FREE and spectacular Dufferin Islands . Explore 10-acres of nature where different islands are connected by footbridges and paths. If you visit in the winter, you’ll see the Winter Festival of Lights here.
• Stroll the Niagara Parks Botanical Gardens for FREE . Enjoy the gorgeous flowers, including the park’s world-famous rose garden.
• Widow shop in Niagara-on-the-Lake . This charming town is considered Ontario’s prettiest.
• Tour Maple Leaf Place and taste maple syrup. Admission and parking are FREE. Plus, you can redeem this coupon to get a FREE syrup tasting for two !

Runner Up: Bar Harbor, Maine

Maine’s scenery is nothing short of memorable and that’s why it’s one of our favorite family vacation ideas. One of the most popular tourist destinations is Bar Harbor and Acadia National Park.

The entrance fee to Acadia National Park is only $35 per vehicle (depending on if they’re open when you go), and it’s worth the cost to see the only National Park in the Northeast! Make sure to stop by the Jordan Pond Tea House for their famous pop-overs and a walk around the lake. If it’s nice out, head to Sand Beach to see the clear water and then take a hike on Ocean Trail .

And if you want to save a buck on lodging, consider camping at the Mount Desert Campground . It’s a higher end campground with nice bathrooms and waterfront campsites on Somes Sound . You can rent kayaks, canoes, and SUPs. Plus, there is a gathering place where you can get ice cream, coffee, and snacks.

Once you’ve got your fill of the park, check out these cheap vacation ideas:

• Enjoy the Great Maine Lumberjack Show . You can see 12 exciting events in a one-hour show, and kids can get in for only $11!
• Enjoy walking through the Mount Desert Land & Garden Preserve . The public can tour these beautiful gardens on Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays, and children under 12 can enter for FREE.
• Visit the unusual Dive-In Theater . Push the captain overboard in his dive gear and watch as he interacts with creatures on the seafloor, with tickets starting at $25 each for kids.
• Catch a sunrise from Cadillac Mountain .
• Take a nature cruise. We recommend the Bass Harbor Island Cruises which is always highly-rated. When your cruise is finished, check out the Bass Harbor Lighthouse or grab a bite at Seaside Dairy Bar & Lobster Pound .

Hip Tip: Book and save with these smart and effective travel scheduling tips !

Hip Favorite : Washington, D.C. – We recommend staying in Arlington, Virginia!

History, fun, and FREE world-class museums all wrapped up in one city? You’ll find all that–and a ton more!–in the US capital. D.C. proves that cheap family vacations can still be inspiring and exciting. Though you may need to pay a little more for lodging, most of the best attractions in the city are completely FREE which makes it one of our favorite cheap travel destinations!

We can’t think of a better way to start than by visiting the FREE Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History , the most-visited natural history museum in the world. When you’re done there, visit one of the many other free Smithsonian museums like the National Air and Space Museum , National Archives , or the National Gallery of Art – Sculpture Garden .

When you’re done with the museums, head over to see the many FREE monuments and memorials. These include the Washington Monument , Lincoln Memorial , World War II Memorial , Vietnam Veterans Memorial , Jefferson Memorial , and more! It’s amazing how much you can do for no extra cost so D.C. is truly one of the best family vacations on a budget.

The hotel and Airbnb prices right in D.C. can be downright scary for us frugal folks 🤣, so we’d recommend searching Arlington, Virginia for more reasonable accommodation prices. It’s only about 20 minutes from the heart of D.C. and has its own set of historical attractions.

Once you’ve seen all the displays at the museums (which, to be honest, is probably an impossible task in a single day), venture out to these other sites:

• Take an afternoon walk around the District Wharf . You’ll find free kids activities, like oversized bocce ball sets, fountains, and swings, as well as $18/hour kayak rentals and even the occasional free concert!
• Smell the roses at the US Botanic Gardens . Entrance is totally FREE to this living flora museum which includes plants from all different habitats.
• Go around D.C. on a bus tour. There’s  so much  to do & see in D.C., and a bus tour will show you all the highlights without being overwhelming. Plus, you won’t have to worry about the little ones getting tired of walking around.
• Explore Smithsonian National Zoological Park . This zoo is completely FREE and even has giant pandas! Plus, it is AZA-accredited (Association of Zoos & Aquariums), so you can rest assured knowing they take top care of the animals and habitats! We recommend reserving your FREE pass at least 4 weeks in advance. Also, though the zoo is FREE, parking is not. Plan for a $30 parking fee if bringing a vehicle.
• Visit some of the FREE hidden gems of DC . There are many off the beaten path activities in Washington D.C. and many won’t cost you an entrance fee. Check out the street murals at the DC Alley Museum , look for turtles at the Kenilworth Park & Aquatic Gardens , or visit Tudor Place Historic House & Garden , the home to several of Martha Washington’s descendants.
• Don’t miss visiting nearby historic Alexandria . Make the most out of a day trip to Alexandria by purchasing a Key to the City Pass for $20 (a $60 value). It grants you access to 9 exciting historical sites and gives you 40% off entry to George Washington’s Mount Vernon , a pass to the City Cruises Alexandria Roundtrip Potomac Water Taxi, or entry to the tall ship Providence . You’ll also get a 10% off coupon for select museum purchases and receive recommendations for FREE activities.

Hip Favorite #2 : Watkins Glen, NY

Visiting the Finger Lakes area of New York? Enjoy a family-friendly vacation in charming Watkins Glen. Here you can enjoy the jaw-dropping view of the Watkins Glen State Park . There is a $10 vehicle entrance fee and it’s worth every penny. The park houses multiple hiking trails, 19 waterfalls, and 200-ft cliffs. The park even has a playground for the kiddos.

You can also camp in the park for between $18 and $35 or rent a rustic cabin for $65 per night or less. If that’s not your style, consider staying nearby in an AirBNB on the gorgeous Seneca Lake .

When you’re done exploring the park, try these other memorable activities:

• Stroll charming downtown Watkins Glen. Window shop the touristy stores or grab a bite to eat at the many delicious restaurants. Street parking downtown is FREE and you can also snag 2-hour FREE parking in the lot behind the Schulyer County Visitor Center  (located on Third Street).
• Visit Watkins Glen International . This racetrack has different events each weekend so there is almost always something fun happening.
• Rent a kayak on Seneca lake. Summit to Stream Adventures rents kayaks starting at $20/hour.
• Take a sightseeing cruise. Take a scenic 50-minute boat ride on the Seneca Spirit for $27.50 per adult and just $12 for children ages 3-12. Those under 3 are FREE. For a luxury experience, try Captain Bill’s Legacy Cruise which serves a delicious dinner onboard.
• Tour the Finger Lakes wine region. There are wineries galore on the Seneca Lake Wine Trail ! The area is also home to several breweries , a mushroom farm, and a U-Pick apple farm .

The Midwest is a haven for cheap family vacation ideas and activities.

Top Choice: Cincinnati, Ohio

Looking for budget family travel? Don’t underestimate the Queen City! There’s a lot more to Cincinnati than meets the eye! It’s one of the more affordable family vacations and the city is packed with fun, frugal activities for families.

Start at the do-not-miss Cincinnati Art Museum where the entrance fee is always FREE (certain exhibits may cost extra). The museum is one of the oldest in the states and houses over 67,000 pieces of art. You’ll spot pieces by renowned artists like Sandro Boticelli, Claude Monet, Vincent van Gogh, Pierre-August Renoir, and Peter Paul Reubens.

Art lovers can then make their way to the FREE Contemporary Arts Center where there is always a new exhibit or performance to see. Don’t forget to check out the affordable Taft Museum of Art to see a real Rembrandt. Kids under 18 are free, and if bought online, senior tickets are just $8 and adults just $10.

Other affordable museums are the Cincinnati Museum Center , the Cincinnati Observatory , the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center , the American Sign Museum , and the FREE William Howard Taft National Historic Site .

After browsing the museums, keep your mind further stimulated with a visit to the city’s escape room , where tickets start at under $25 per person, and work together to solve the puzzles in time!

Once you’ve found the way out, explore these other Cincinnati must-sees.

• Window shop at Findlay Market . The whole family will love exploring the market and seeing all the happenings, from the weekend farmer’s market to the special events and street performers that sometimes pop up there. Better yet, the entrance is totally free!
• Check out one of the gems of Cincinnati, the Krohn Conservatory . It’s located in the beautiful Eden Park and costs just $10 per ticket. Peruse the Bonsai Collection, Desert Garden, Orchid Display, Tropical House, and more. You’ll see over 3,500 plant species from all over the world!
• View sea creatures at the Newport Aquarium. They have sharks, eels, fish, alligators, and more! Tickets for those 13+ start as low as $22.99. Tickets must be bought in advance.
• Take photographs of Cincinnati’s beautiful architecture. Take in the sights for FREE. Gaze at the impressive John A. Roebling Suspension Bridge or the Purple People Bridge . Or, take a gander at the Gothic Revival architecture of the famous Spring Grove Cemetery and Arboretum .
• Visit the King’s Island Amusement Park . Thrill-seekers will love the attractions at the nearby amusement park, and daily tickets (which include a pass to the sister park Soak City ) start at only $45!
• Just like San Diego, the Cincinnati Zoo can’t be missed! It’s one of the best in the United States, and with general admission tickets starting as low as $5.50 for kids and $15.50 for adults, it’s also a total bargain!

Runner Up: Rapid City, South Dakota

View Mt. Rushmore and so much more in this South Dakota town. Mt. Rushmore may be what Rapid City is known for, but this town also boasts a FREE seven-acre play area that’s also home to bounce houses, carousels, and train rides for just $3 each at Story Book Island . It’s  the  spot to visit in South Dakota for affordable family vacations!

Check out these other family-friendly activities in town.

• Tour the Museum of Geology .  The museum houses a ton of exhibits on paleontology and mineralogy, and kids will think the skeleton & fossil collections are super cool!
• Relax at the Reptile Gardens . This is a must-see for any animal-loving bunch, and the garden has way more than just reptiles!
• Take in the stunning view of the Chapel in the Hills . This chapel is a replica of the famous Borgund Stave Church in Norway and it is completely FREE to visit.
• Tour the City of Presidents for FREE . Use the self-guided tour map to walk around downtown to see a series of life-sized bronze statues of various U.S. presidents. You can then head over to Art Alley and view the street art for FREE.
• Visit the FREE Presidential Pawnshop . It’s a museum where everything is for sale! It’s free to enter and you’ll see unique items like Michael Jackson’s early concert glove.
• Practice your archery skills at Archery Park , the FREE archery range at the Outdoor Campus-West . You can then enjoy a FREE nature hike on the trails. Other highly-rated parks with trails or paths include Canyon Lake Par k, Skyline Wilderness Area Park , and Hanson-Larsen Memorial Park .

Hip Favorite : Duluth, Minnesota

There’s more to Minnesota than the Twin Cities and Mall of America! Duluth is a small port city on Lake Superior, but it has no shortage of fun, cheap family vacation activities. This getaway is absolutely perfect for anyone who loves exploring & a cheap family vacation that makes having fun a top priority! Start your vacation with a swim along Brighton Beach on the banks of Lake Superior.

Once the cold water has woken you up, check out these cheap places to visit:

• Rent a Surrey bike and work together to peddle around Canal Park . Surrey rentals start at only $30 per hour and the kids will have a blast exploring the park this way! You can also see the Aerial Lift Bridge which is one of Duluth’s most recognizable landmarks or visit the FREE Lake Superior Maritime Visitor Center .
• Swim out to explore the legend of “ Uncle Harvey’s Mausoleum ” just feet away from the bank of Lake Superior . There are a lot of stories surrounding the building’s history, and kids & adults alike will enjoy peeking through the ruins.
• Go for a sleigh ride with Positive Energy Outdoors . These folks can take you on a dog sled ride, how cool is that!? But if that’s a little over your budget, don’t worry, they also have affordable kayak & paddleboard rentals, rock climbing, and other seasonal activities.
• Tour the Tweed Museum of Art for FREE. It’s located at the University of Minnesota Duluth.
• Take a cruise tour with Vista Fleet . They offer various different sightseeing tours for around an average of $20 per person. It’s a great way to view the city!
• Explore Enger Tower and get a scenic view . The tower is FREE to visit. When you’re done, you can play a round of golf at the nearby Enger Park Golf Course .
• Enjoy a hike at Hawk Ridge . Embrace the great outdoors at this stunning nature preserve. Plus, it’s also a bird observatory! What sounds more relaxing than some bird watching?

Hip Tip : Although it’s a bit further north of Duluth, one Hip reader said that Split Rock Lighthouse is also a must-see! Visit it while you cruise down the North Shore All-American Scenic Drive

Want to travel oversees? Thailand is one of the cheapest places to visit.

Thailand is one of the best cheap travel destinations. You may need to splurge on the plane tickets, but once you arrive in Thailand, it’s incredibly easy to vacation on a budget. At the time of this article, 1USD (US Dollar) is equal to 35.40THB (Thai Bhat).

According to Taverna Travels , the main dish at a local Thai restaurant will only run you around $2 – $4 and you can pick up street food, like Pad Thai, for around $1!

This site estimates you can enjoy a vacation in Thailand from $25/day for a budget trip to just $100/day for a more luxurious vacation. This matches what my coworker, Sara’s, neighbors had to say. They recently stayed for an entire summer and were able to eat delicious and fresh food at the Thai restaurants for just around $10 for their whole family of 5!

Travel + Leisure advises that the most expensive time to visit Thailand is November to March (high season) and the cheapest time is July through September (low season). If Thailand sounds like a dream vacation to you, Taverna Travels recommends shooting for shoulder season so you get decent weather and decent prices.

Don’t get weighed down by luggage — check out our tips to keep from overpacking !

About the writer:

Kaitlyn has a Bachelor's Degree from St. John's University with 2 years of writing experience for LinkedIn, Celeb Magazine, and other various publications.

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Comments 136.

You’re also in Acadia National Park’s backyard when you visit Bar Harbor – stunning hiking and biking trails, with a chance to watch the earliest sun rise in the continental US! And of course don’t forget the opportunity to eat super fresh, super inexpensive seafood. We are life-long Maine residents and feel so lucky to live in such a gorgeous natural environment!

Hi Michelle, I’m traveling to Maine with young kids this fall and would like some inputs on what to do and how to do them best from locals like you. Pls share your email or email me shilthemommy @ gmail.com Thank you.

Were also thinking about visiting Maine this summer! Please share any must do’s! My kids love the ocean so any kid beach friendly areas you can suggest would be greatly appreciated! TIA

Check out old orchard beach! Kennebunkport is great too. The Portland Head lighthouse, you can climb all over the rocks when the tide is out. The highlight of our last trip for our 3 kids was blueberry picking in the summer!

We visited Acadia last weekend and Bar harbor is great for sovenier shopping and restaurants. We also went to portland. YOu can take ferry for casco bay lines to Peak island. Its a very nice place. You can take your car on ferry, or go walk in. At the island they have bikes and golf carts to rent. Sand beach, cadillac mountain, thunder spot are main attractions in acadia.

We are also wanting some travel info, it would be greatly appreciated

Forgot my email lol amberleeminix @ gmaildotcom

I would love some information as well please! My email is [email protected] . Thanks you so much!

We had a chance to stay in Bar Harbor at the Black Friar’s Inn July 4, 2017 and loved seeing the fireworks out over the water! Acadia National Park is a must for anyone who enjoys hiking and we highly recommend Beal’s Lobster Pier!

I grew up spending summers in Maine. The best family beaches, in my opinion, are at Wells and Ogunquit. Those beaches are next to each other. For Ogunquit, go to the Footbridge Beach. When down there, make sure you drive into Perkins Cove and walk on the Marginal Way. The boats come in there, and there are fabulous restaurants all over the cove.

We traveled to Maine a few years back and went to Acadia National Park. By far, one of our favorite family trips. My youngest still talks about the blueberries and the night we boiled fresh lobsters. Out of all the National Parks we have been to, this one has had the best Junior Ranger programs. My boys became best friends with Ranger Genevieve.

I live in St. Louis. The Zoo is a must…and it is free! Also, the Arch grounds and museum have been recently renovated and is also a must visit on a trip to the STL. The City Museum is also an a unique, amazing place to visit.

I agree! The zoo is awesome and I don’t mind spending extra on souvenirs because it’s free and amazing!

Another St Louis underrated event-a Cardinals game. Buy online cheap (I usually pay less than $20/ticket for bleachers) and can bring in your own FOOD AND BOTTLED WATER). https://www.mlb.com/cardinals/ballpark/information/guide

Yes, native STL person here and totally disagree with the list they put together! No Arch, no City Museum, no Grant’s Farm, no Botanical Garden? A simple Google search would get better information than this list. And so many free attractions! Makes for a fantastic trip for families, or really, anyone. Dig deeper for better ideas if you are planning a STL trip! There is lots to do!

We just got back from St Louis. The zoo, science center, history center and Grant’s farm are all free! The arch is really affordable as well. City museum wasn’t cheap but well worth it.

314parent here. I was surprised they didn’t prioritize to highlight all the free attractions. And if we are talking about kids here…. then city museum is a must! Even if don’t have kids. City museum is still a must!

Bye your arch tickets early! I waited in case we didn’t go and the whole day sold out in minutes. Oops! My 5 year old is still mad. Lol

There’s free parking for the science museum if you’re willing to walk the bridge over the interstate. Which we did and was soooo fun!

We also stayed in st Charles which had a super cute historical area with restaurants and shops. So much to do!

Oh my goodness that is so funny!

The funny part was your cute 5 yr old not the fact you missed a fun adventure. Sorry… 🙂

Our family is visiting St. Louis for 3 days July 2nd – 4th. We have the City Museum, Zoo, Science Center, Arch & Incredible Pizza on our list. Are we missing any must sees? or Events taking place at this time?

Fair St. Louis will be going on July 4-6. Music, air shows, etc. on the Arch Grounds. Be sure to stay for the fireworks that take place on the riverfront as well!

Awesome! Thank you!

I agree. The waterfront fireworks on the 4th are a must.

Definitely take advantage of the “free” attractions. The zoo-museum districts are free for visitors to enjoy but are paid for by Saint Louis City and County taxpayers. They include the Zoo, Art Museum, Science Center, Botanical Garden and History Museum; all these attractions in or around Forest Park are fabulous. https://fun4stlkids.com/ has a listing of activities/events going on in the area. So many family friendly attractions in STL. Aside from city museum, if you have young ones, they may enjoy the Magic House (a children’s museum). There’s also Annheiser Busch brewery house tours, Purina Farms, and much more. Definitely try STL style pizza at IMOs and BBQ @ Bogart’s or Pappys and Ted Drews Frozen Custard. Many of our community pools are also like mini water parks.

I would say skip incredible pizza. I recommend botanical garden instead or grants farm.

Pappy’s Smokehouse. They were on Man vs. Food. Will not be disappointed. Get in line right when it opens!

Soulard Market is a must in St. Louis!

We are doing a quick stop in St Louis on our road road trip from CO-PA and our friend said top places to go are zoo, city museum, and of course the arch. We have 3 kids and are only planing to be there for 8 hours but excited to hopefully do those 3 things.

You might want to do two of the three. If I were to pick, I would say the Zoo and Arch are the top two. We spent 6 hours at the zoo alone! I would say that you should allow at least 2 hours for City Museum and, since it is pretty expensive, if you don’t have that kind of time then just do the Zoo and Arch and pass on City Museum. The Science Center and the Art Museum are both near the zoo and are both free so you could spend any extra time in those. Or, plan for more time in the Lou!

We’re leaving for Kill Devil Hills, Outer Banks this Sunday! You know what I discovered this year while searching for a rental? I’m sure lots of others already know this, but this was a new discovery to me! Often it’s cheaper to rent thru a rental agency than to find a place on Airbnb or VRBO. If you search on Airbnb, it will usually list the rental company. So just go to the rental agency site and prices may be cheaper. One house we looked at was $600 cheaper on the realty website as opposed to Airbnb or VRBO. Or obviously if you know the realty company just go right to their website and search.

I agree about using a realtor/rental company over Airbnb or VRBO. The fees they add on have gotten ridiculous. Also, sign up for their emails. I was able to save 20 percent on our house. I used to love VRBO but the last time I went to rent there, the fees added up to over $700.

How do I contact the realtor company your speaking about?

If you go to Airbnb or VRBO and search the area and dates you’re looking for, it will bring up a list of places, right? Ok so then click on one that you interested in. Just a bit underneath the picture it will say “Owned by” or “Managed by” and often it will be a realty company, but not always. So then you just Google that realty company and (hopefully) perform the same search and find the same house.

OR if the property has a name just Google the property name and it might come up under a realty company.

Thank you TJ

I agree with all of this! We own a beach property, and we have it listed with our property manager and with VRBO. Price to rent is the same either site, but the extra fees VRBO charges make it incredibly more expensive!!

So true! I found this out last fall. We saved over $400 on a 4 night vacation by using the realty company that was listed on the VRBO website. And it still included the cleaning and everything. It is easier in my opinion also because the company has after hours numbers if there are issues and you could run into trouble if you can’t get hold of the host from VRBO. I also received an email from a cabin we had rented on VRBO, the owner gave us contact info as they were no longer going to use VRBO to list the cabin. They noted that the fees keep going up for us and for them as renters and they wanted to offer an affordable stay.

How do I find the realty company? I don’t see anything listed with the VRBO.

Some of the properties are just listed by the owners. It will say just under the picture of the property when you click on it. It says “owned by” or “managed by” or something like that. And then it might say just the owner’s name or it might say the name of a realty company. Good luck!

We’ve been vacationing in the OBX twice a year for over 20 years. We’ve stayed in every town top to bottom of the OBX and stayed in alot of different rentals. Now we only go to Carolla and book with Twiddy. We’ve found our sweet spot.

Thanks for those extra tips, ladies! I’m going to sign up for the realty company’s emails so we can prepare for next year.

Sheila, I found several nice houses in Corolla but hubby wanted to go just slightly south this year. He grew up going to OBX but this will be my first time there. I love history so I’m planning to take the family to the Wright Bros. memorial and Roanoke. Anything else you would suggest?

If you will be more south….Jockeys Ridge state park, Nags Head, free. Its the tallest sand dune on the east coast and you can see the sound and the ocean at the top. I really enjoyed the Elizabethan garden on Manteo, not free, but a great change seeing all the greenery as the ocean areas don’t offer much. There’s also Bodie Island lighthouse if their your thing. I mean who doesn’t love a lighthouse. But most importantly food! I’ve Got Your Crabs in kill devil hills is awesome and the Blue Moon Grill in nags head are the first that come to mind for your area. All of OBX is littered with fab food so look at yelp and other reviews as eating great food is a great part of a beach vacation.

Hey I was wondering what is fun and cheap in the south or the best deals in that area

What part of the South did you have in mind? Alabama and Florida beaches are beautiful. We don’t spend much money because we split the room cost between our family, eat all meals in the room, and avoid the tourist traps.

Thanks for replying and I was thinking about Biloxi Mississippi but am looking for any ideas on free/ cheap ideas I have 4 kids it doesn’t have to be that specific area

In Biloxi there is a Margaritaville that is strictly for kids. I’m not sure of the price but you can go for the entire day. It’s a HUGE water park and arcade. (My grandkids are not fans of arcades anyway.) But my daughter takes her kids there and they LOVE it. Also check out Ship Island. There’s a boat that runs every so often but it gets you past the muddy brown water. You would swear you’re in Florida.

There is also some sort of marine park in Gulfport. (We haven’t checked that out yet.) And of course you can make a day trip to New Orleans. The zoo and aquarium are awesome and you can usually find discounted tickets through coast radio stations.

Check out the Lynn Meadows Discovery Center. It’s a children’s museum. There is a free train museum on Pass Road in Gulfport. It’s Lego trains not full size trains but it was pretty cool for a free adventure.

Sorry but Biloxi beaches are awful & nasty from the casinos. We have family that lives there & they even told us never get in the water because it’s so nasty. And there aren’t any waves either. I’d go over into AL if I wanted to visit a beach.

Have you looked into Orange Beach or Gulf Shores, AL area? We were just there in May and had a great time! We went to beaches, drove into Mobile to tour the USS Alabama, visited Fort Morgan and Gulf State Park, and went on a Dolphin Cruise. It was very fun!

In Florida it is a good idea when trying to avoid tourist traps to remember Groupon, Living Social and the numerous coupon books that are free at gas stations and restaurants. There is also something called Explorer Pass that you pay a set amt for and depending on what option of pass you choose you can do a variety of things. Some let you pay such n such and do any 3 choices of the many, some passes let you pay a set mt and you can do anything and everything on the list in a 2-3 day time frame. Many cities have them but its really cool in the Orlando area for when you have been there done that with Universal or Disney. Or you just need a break.

I live in Mississippi and while I do love Biloxi, For just a bit further drive you can have white sandy beaches with clearer water such as Gulf Shores or Orange Beach ,Alabama. Biloxi has more of a brown water. To me the best free entertainment is the beach and pool at whenever we stay. We don’t do all the “extras”or buy souvenirs, really. I just have “the talk” with my kids before we go and let them know we are going to the beach to enjoy the beach. If you do choose Gulf Shores and decide to eat out, Lulu buffets is a cool place that has fun games to do while waiting on a table that my kids love. Consider staying in a less expensive place like the town before Gulf Shores(Foley) for less money then visit the public beach. Pensacola beach is also nice but there is a toll bridge on the way in and out and you will have to use for things like going to Walmart. We have been going to Panama City Beach, Florida for the past few years. I give my kids a little money to spend at “the everything’s a dollar” stores(like Dollar tree but stranger stuff) for a treat. If you go to any of these places on July 4 there will be free fireworks on the water, weather/wind permitting.

I just booked hotels for Niagara Falls a few weeks ago…. taking a roadtrip with my boyfriend who just moved to PA from Texas …. I’ve been there before so I sorta know where to go and what to see but it’s been his bucket list item since before we met…. got a train ride in Pa planned then onto Erie to see the lighthouses and then all the way up to NY… there is so much to see and do on a roadtrip from Erie to Niagara

https://visitanf.com/kinzua-sky-walk-kinzua-bridge-state-park/

This might be on your way! This forest is BEAUTIFUL & smells amazing! Ha!

This is on my list of things to do on the way home and I havnt seen it before so I’m super excited to get there and explore haha😄 I have a full 4 days packed with things to do

What else are you doing?

If you love the beach make sure you consider a stop in Rhode Island. Especially if driving by in order to go to other destinations. Miles upon miles of beach and just when you think your done.. look to the left and there is more beach !! 😃 Lots of incredible seafood of course too..

The “other things to do” sections for Niagara Falls and Bar Harbor are switched!

Thanks so much for pointing that out, Lauren! We are getting those fixed up now!

I grew up by Rapid City, SD and Storybook Island is a must for families with littles ( although mine are older and still love it!). Another great place to visit in RC is Dinosaur Park, its a free park with huge statues of Dino’s. It is alot of stairs, but if you can make it, it’s worth it!

Headed to Duluth, MN for some mountain biking. We will be camping. Any locals on here that can mention some “must see” activities? We have a teen and 8 year old. Thanks

Duluth MN is beautiful!! I’d make sure to check out Canal Park and eat at Grandmas!

I would highly recommend watching the big ships come in under the lift bridge and taking a tour on the Vista Fleet of Lake Superior. If you are into animals, the aquarium is neat.

If you head about 20 minutes further North, Two Harbors is a cute smaller town and to go Gooseberry State Park. The waterfall is wonderful, lots of scenic hiking, and the view is great. In fact the whole trip up the north shore to Grand Marais is great if you have time to explore. In Duluth, the Lake Walk/Canal Park, watching ships come in, Hawk Ridge (great hiking and migrating bird viewing), Park Point, Enger Tower/Park. Guessing if you are mountain biking, you are looking at Spirit Mountain already, but don’t skip their alpine coaster, it is a fun and pretty ride down the rails!

Split Rock Lighthouse is further north of Duluth (up near Gooseberry and Castle Danger) but if you have time, it is beautiful and the tour is great!

We went to Duluth last summer with a teen and a 10 year old. We loved Gooseberry Falls a little further north, you can actually swim in the waterfalls. There is a famous pie shop (I can’t remember the name, but order ahead if possible because the lines are crazy) along the way and it’s a beautiful drive, have fun!

Betty’s Pies… deeeeelish!

Headed to Spirit Mountain??? We camped there two summers ago. Pretty good biking for the Midwest. Not too far there is a skate park called Superior Skate Park in Superior, Wisconsin. Also, depending which way you are coming from (we were traveling from Iowa) check out Cottage Grove Bike Park in Cottage Grove, MN.

Yes love to see my city Houston, tx!

Love how everyone is swapping travel info everyone is so friendly I love it!!!!

Any tips for Seattle?

I’m from the Seattle area and this list is a little bewildering. I can’t believe Pike Place Market, the Space Needle, or Woodland Park Zoo weren’t included. Go to TripAdvisor and scroll through the top attractions there; far better “iconic Seattle” than this list.

born and raised. Pike place is a must every time you’re in the city, not just once…it’s iconic, it’s amazing, and it supports local vendors/farmers. Woodland park zoo is fantastic, but expensive if you have a large family. Dicks burgers are cheap and make up for the zoo cost, it’s just a couple miles away. The space needle was a do it one time and i’m fine with that, but I still think it’s cool to say you’ve done it and see the view. we love the experience music project, the paramount and 5th avenue theaters if you want to take in a show

In regards to Seattle I also don’t understand why Kent was choose as the less expensive place to stay. There are so many more fun “less expensive” places to stay.

If you’re heading to Seattle and want to do attractions get the CityPass it will save you $. Free stuff Pike Place, Olympic Sculpture Garden, go to west Seattle and hit Alki Beach.

How is the Outer Banks on this list, but not DC? OBX rentals are pricey in the summer. DC has dozens of museums to check out (most of them are free), plus a free Zoo and a lot of other free events all summer.

😀 I was thinking how did Virginia Beach make the list and not D.C.? Smithsonian museums are awesome. But still fun to read and good info.

We are headed to DC next week and the hotel was very affordable, everything we are doing is free… Even the bus is free.

OMG Obx hotels were $400 a night for an average, 2.5 star type of place🤪 Airbnb would be better but obviously those all have certain time requirements etc. Va Beach is expensive in the summer as well if you stay at the tourist area. In the same sense, safe locations in DC can get up there however, all the Smithsonians are free!

our family is traveling to galveston tx area in three weeks looking for free cheap things people would recommend there, also any recommended places to eat would be helpful, flying into Houston Hobby staying near League City Thanks

It’s a bit on the pricey side but I just come back from visiting Galveston and the Moody Gardens rainforest pyramid is spectacular you get to walk through the rainforest and there are no berries between you and a lot of the animals …. the birds fly free and so do the monkeys…. some animals are contained for safety purposes but it was an experience I will never forget

*barriers not berries lol

Kemah Boardwalk

NASA is close to where you are staying. It’s pricey but really a great experience when you do the tram to Mission Control. In Galveston – do The Strand which has cute shops In Galveston – We like the beaches past the seawall so you can park at one of the Beach Pocket spots and it’s quiet at those beaches. You can get at Walmart or Academy a boogie board for a great price then just give it to someone when you leave town. It’s worth the $10 for fun on the waves. Do Tex Mex and Seafood (especially shrimp) in Galveston Moody Gardens is nice too and it is kind of pricey. If you do things in Houston – BBQ and taco and steak places are great ideas. you can find good options if you google. Have fun!

Does anyone have any suggestions for Jacksonville Florida for early December? I’m traveling down for a wedding but planning to stay a couple of days extra to explore. Where to stay and what to do would be greatly appreciated!!! Thanks! 🙂

We spent a week in Amelia island Fl just outside of Jacksonville in April. It’s one of my favorite places I have visited. We were a few doors down from John Grisham’s house (I was informed by a local as I had no idea)lol. He picked a good island!!

Jax resident…Any of the beach areas are great to visit with many things to do – Jax beach, Neptune beach, Ponte Vedra or close by St Augustine, FL (30 mins away) even in early Dec the weather should still be nice enough for the beach

I’d drive a little and check out St. Augustine, although it can be crowded once they start the Christmas lights. Just walking around all the shops is free but there at least a dozen little tours/reenactments/museums (including the fort) that each have a small admission fee, which makes it very customizable to your interests and budget. You could also get a trolley pass from one of the tour companies but I think it’s very walkable. We live about two hours away and my mom, tween daughter and I made a day of it pre-COVID and we all enjoyed ourselves. We could easily spend another day checking out everything we ran out of time to do. At night the atmosphere is more grown-up but during the day it’s very tame.

Def research the various beaches along the coast of Jax. It’s interesting how much they vary as you drive north to south. (Powdery white to course shell beaches within 20 minutes of each other) Ponte Vedra Beach area is very nice (more expensive, upscale). Jacksonville Beach area is more casual with lots of free beach parking, restaurants, ice cream shops within walking distance. My fave: Maple Street Biscuit Co. St. Augustine is 45 min south of Jacksonville and will be for those who enjoy touristy stuff (gift shops, old historical fort on the coast, burgers/ice cream, etc). I would not go to St. Aug if you want to spend the day sunbathing on the beach.

Ok. I hope someone gets use out of this sweet little tip! So hundreds (if not thousands) of museums have what is called the “passport program ” where you can buy your family pass at any museum and it is good at all the other museums that participate in the program for FREE or very very low cost. We have done this for years and last May my daughter graduated from college in LA. We drove down with the other 7 of us and hit free museums all along the way. It was great and a huge money saver when you have a family of 8! We bought our pass at the least expensive museum that was semi close to us and got so much use out of it. Also, many many museums offer nearly free entry if you are on govt food assistance(which I think is awesome😁), always worth a phone call to ask😁.

Yes! We recently bought a membership to our local museum, which was $65 and on our vacation used it to get into McWane Science Center (would have cost us $93) and U.S. Space and Rocket Center (would have cost us $143). Definitely a good investment and we felt like we could stop at places for just a couple hours without feeling guilty about the cost. If I find a museum/zoo we want to visit on a trip, I look to see what reciprocal program it’s part of and then look to see what’s in our area or if we already have a membership to a museum that’s in the same network.

Anybody have vacation tips for Denver in August? I have two college age girls (no shopping, please :). Staying for three days. Thanks!

Red rocks amphitheater, Estes Park, Rocky Mountain National Park, Denver Zoo, Boulder farmer’s market (so many local vendors and artisans, food trucks, music, and so on), Broomfield Butterfly Pavillion, Broomfield Bay Aquatic Park (so cheap!), Flagstaff Mountain, so many places to hike, downtown Boulder is great. My kids have been to CO and Disneyworld and they are on the same level of awesomeness – and CO cost a fraction of Disneyworld. I hope you have a great time and add to the memory bank!

Downtown: Elitch Gardens (theme park and water park), Denver Aquarium, Rockies game at Coors Field, and museums like Molly Brown House and Art Museum. Greater Denver area: Water World water park, Denver Museum of Nature & Science which is next to the Denver Zoo, and Red Rocks (unique but quick stop). If you’re willing to travel further and plan your day around: Estes Park/Rocky Mountain Nat’l Park), Georgetown Loop Railroad, or Idaho Springs for Argo Mine Tour, eat a mountain pie at Beau Jo’s, ziplining or river rafting at CO Adventure Center, plus drive up Mount Evans.

Hello there fellow H2Savers: we will be traveling to the Grand Canyon next spring (Mid May) with a high school graduate. (Grand Canyon was at his request). Any suggestions for the 3 of us? (one adult with minor disabilities, such as stairs & uneven ground, but willing to try)Curious about the railway tour & possibly a rafting experience for him & his dad. TIA

Love your site, but I noticed 2 things on this post. Fist, I live in Houston & the picture shown doesn’t look like any skyline I am familiar with. Could the picture be from another city? Also, the picture shown for Grand Canyon is of Horseshoe Bend in Page, AZ, which is a 2hr drive from Grand Canyon. We just got back from a vacation where we visited both of those places. Just thought I’d warn others incase they expected to see these vistas on their visits. Thanks!

Any tips for Grand Canyon? Or surrounding areas. I’m leaving for that area on Friday. Southern Utah also.

Desert View @ Grand Canyon & any viewpoints on the way from Grand Canyon Village. The drive to Page is a must for Antelope Canyon (upper or lower). Horseshoe Bend was a long walk from the parking lot, but worth the view. Be ready to pay for parking. Everything is close together in Page so very convenient if driving. In Utah we went to Zion -gorgeous scenery, fun drive & several wild animals to see.

My tip for the grand canyon is go to the north rim!!! WAY less crowded, not as hot And there are various mule rides, which are amazing and totally worth the $! Zion get there EARLY. Crowds have gotten crazy. Get out and hike some of the trails (note many are still closed due to flooding last year) It is totally different from up high! Zion is my fav national park and I have been to and hiked almost all of them out west. Bryce canyon is less crowded and if you want even less crowds, Kodachrome basin state park is amazing.

I’m in Southern Utah! Zion is amazing, Snow Canyon State Park is beautiful, amazing red rocks etc. Gunlock Falls is a phenomonem that only happens about every 7- 8 years when one of our reservoirs overflows. Its so amazing – but be careful! The North Rim of the grand canyon and mule rides there are so fun! If you have time, Bryce Canyon National Park is my personal favorite.

Just a heads up that this year the waterfalls at Gunlock Reservoir are all dried up. We’re going through a serious drought right now in Utah.

Any suggestions for Memphis or Branson?

Branson- Silver Dollar City, the Aquarium, Ripley’s Believe it or Not, the Titanic Museum. There are lots of mini golf and go carts. Go on the Branson Ferris Wheel. You could go to the lake as well.

Any suggestions for Ocean City, Maryland? Places to go, things to do, restaurants? Going for a week in July 🙂

My husband I go to Ocean City every year, and one thing we always do is take the after-dinner scenic cruise offer by The Angler ( https://www.angleroc.net/ ). It’s just $5 a person if you eat dinner at the restaurant first, and it’s a relaxing hour of spotting dolphins offshore or learning more about some of the properties on the bay (depending on the weather). For affordable (for the shore) eats, we like Touch of Mediterranean ( https://www.facebook.com/TOUCH-of-Mediterranean-809870112540376/ ), OC Poke ( https://www.ocpokesushiandteriyakihouse.com/#/ ). Also, sometimes we’ll spend a day kayaking in Snow Hill ( https://pocomokeriverpaddle.com/ ) and the food there is generally more affordable.

Houston has an awesome zoo they have been updating and children’s museum! There’s a weekend pass you can get for the aquarium, kemah and pleasure pier (Galveston).

any suggestions for St. Petersburg, FL area? Thanks everyone!

Any suggestions for a hotel stay in La Jolla or San Diego? Reasonable within walking distance to any beach?

We like the Catamaran Hotel in Mission Bay. You can walk to the beach, but is also on the Bay. They usually have a luau complete with dancers and singers one day a week, but aren’t starting that up again until next year. They have a paddle wheel boat that goes across the bay to their sister property.

Catamaran is a great option – also check out the Bahia Resort and Paradise Point, which also have great beach access. Anything on the beach in La Jolla is going to be very expensive so I’d try looking in the Mission Bay area if you want to find something a little more affordable. I would avoid Pacific Beach with kids, it’s a very young college party crowd.

just as an aside- if you are in any new town trying to hit all the ‘usual’ sites – check out citypass. It has saved us a lot of money over the years!

Any suggestions for Vero Beach, Port St. Lucie, or Okeechobee Florida area in the summer?

There is a Disney Vacation Club resort in Vero Beach. You could look into renting points for a stay. Lots of family friendly activities at the resort.

We did South Dakota/Mt Rushmore and the kids liked that more than Disney World. We bought a fundraiser type booklet and got B1G1F entrance to many places, and freebies like kids meal or ice cream in others. Did a kids’ program at the Mammoth Site where we left our two boys in their care and they dug for bones (fake, not in the real dig site). They loved it. My husband and I went to Niagara Falls a couple years ago and loved it. Lots of things to do for families – kind of like Gatlinburg. We did stay on the Canadian side right overlooking the falls. Parking is high on the Canadian side though at the time if you stayed in the casino it was either free or very inexpensive. I just looked at going again, at Embassy Suites where we stayed before, and parking is an additional $75. Check Groupon – they do have packages with free meals and attractions. We were able to get Ruth Chris Steakhouse $200 discount as well as a few others.

FYI The Canadian border is still closed to non Canadians. If you plan a trip to Niagara Falls you’ll have to stay on the American side unless you’re a Canadian citizen or permanent resident.

Just an FYI for those visiting Utah. Springdale the gateway city to Zion has had recent flash flooding causing significant damage to roads and building. I would recommend checking before you go on accessibility. All of Utah is in a severe drought. Gunlock falls does not currently exist. I’ve also heard rumor they may divert the spill over water in the future because of overcrowding and safety issues. Too many people with reckless behavior visiting the site. My spouse is law enforcement for natural resources and has had to rescue way too many people from avoidable dangers. And some have not been rescued as well 😢.

Any suggestions for staying near the South rim at the Grand Canyon. I found that all the hotels are so expensive around there and they’re nothing special. Appreciate any tips. 🤗

If you don’t mind driving back and forth, you can stay in Williams, AZ. The accommodations are decent and cheaper. It’s an hour drive to the south entrance. That’s what we did a few years ago. I traveled with my 2 young kids, so it’s doable. It really helped our budget because we spend a few days in that area. If you’re going to AZ, I recommend Slide Rock State Park. It’s fun for the kids (and me too) 😁

Amazing post! Thanks H2S and readers!!

You’re welcome!

Mid Aug .. going to Maine from NJ… 2 kiddos 6 and 9…need a hotel with kitchen due to food allergies… any info/advise please?

Any tips/recommendations for a trip to Boston with kids and small dogs?

Haha! Rapid City has nothing on Custer State Park, Badlands, Toadstool Geological Park, or evening Mt. Rushmore. Stay in Custer for a truly wonderful vacation! Yes, there are a few things to do in Rapid City, but who travels to South Dakota to visit a city??? Bear Counery is fun, but WILD animals in the Black Hills are better!

This is true. I was born in Rapid City. The entire state is full of adventure. Camping, fishing at the lakes (Angostura, Sheridan, Pactola), climbing mountains, state parks, Rushmore, Dinosaur Park, Badlands, many forts, and it has hundreds and and hundreds of the highest rated public cave systems in America. Wind caverns, Rushmore caves, Jewel cave, Winderland cave, Black Hills cave, etc. Custer, hot springs, spearfish, Rapid city are great. I live in Fl now since ’97 but have been all over the US and abroad. All of the recs H2S listed are great! Thanks for posting😀

I live in San Diego and work in La Jolla. I rarely take vacation days bc I can’t fathom going anywhere else. Staycations are my jam and I’ve lived here for 20 years and still find new and fun things to do each weekend. Last weekend my son and I went kayaking on Mission Bay. Thanks for all you do- you really help me save SO much $ which can afford me to live here!

Any tips to save on rental cars or are they just all super high because of extra Covid cleaning? We’ve found $56 the absolute lowest price , in comparison two years ago the same location $22 (which we thought was high😆!) I’ve found cheaper airfare than car rental TBH!

Any Michigan vacations tips, upper peninsula or northern?

Any suggestions for Fort Worth, Texas?

This article should be updated. Post-Covid and inflation have dramatically increased travel expenses. The article doesn’t give much, if any, useful tips on saving money.

Thanks I just booked a Niagara Falls trip. Any tips on what to do and great places to visit.

How exciting! Be sure to click through the link suggestions on that one above for each Old Fort Niagara, Cave of the Winds and Zipline adventure! Hope you have a wonderful trip! 🥰🤗🙌

Being from the Seattle area and living in Kent actually, I find it funny that Kent got showcased. Unfortunately Seattle is not what it once was 🙁 be prepared to be shocked. The outlying cities are great though.

Two trips planned late May and early June. Disneyworld/Universal Studios staying at Cabana Bay. Cape Cod for a week flying in Boston and staying in Hyannis. Any tips, suggestions and advice appreciated.

I love that Ohio was mentioned in this post. I have lived in Ohio my whole life and I promise that we have quite a unique piece of the Country. If you haven’t been here you are definitely missing out. In addition to King’s Island we have Cedar Point home of so many former and current record breaking roller coasters. We have Great Wolf lodges and Kalahari water park and many other water parks. We have the Rock and Roll hall of fame and the Pro Football hall of fame. Ohio is home to Hocking Hill please google Hocking hills if you are not familiar because my words can’t do it any justice. We have the largest nature preserve in the entire country. It’s called The Wilds an amazing place to see a few things you can’t find in North America unless you visit The Wilds. We have the Cuyahoga County scenic railway where you can go on a grape escape or ails on rails tour while sampling wine and beer. We have the Neal Armstrong Museum and the Air and space museum both great places to visit. I assure you that I have forgotten at least a few great places our zoos in Cleveland Columbus and Toledo rival any zoo in America. We have great restaurants and breweries. Come and check up out you will be pleasantly surprised at our beautiful state ❤️

Thanks for sharing all of the great places to visit in Ohio! ❤️

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13 Expert Tips for Family Travel on a Budget

Whether you’re throwing the kids in the minivan and heading out to see the Grand Canyon , or jumping on a jet and heading to Paris for some croissants and a tour of the Eiffel Tower, the truth is, it can cost a lot more when you travel with kids.

Before we traveled with our kids, we just had to worry about airfare for the two of us, and hotel rooms that would fit a couple. Today, our airfare costs are now times four instead of two and while we’re gone, we also need more room for the kids to sleep. Plus, we need more reliable access to laundry since kids are messy.

In hot countries, we also find that the kids are a lot more susceptible to extreme heat and humidity, so we often use air conditioning to keep them happy and comfortable. All of that adds up to spending more on family trips than when traveling as a couple.

Despite the extra cost and logistics, we love to travel with our kids , and we’ve traveled with them to every continent except Antarctica.

No, we definitely didn’t win the lottery, and we don’t have a huge trust fund. We can travel with our kids because we’ve discovered ways to save money on family vacations that lets our dollar go farther and last longer.

So whether you’re staying someplace for a day or a week, here are some tips for saving money when traveling with kids.

Stay Longer

Yikes, that doesn’t seem to make sense, now does it?

However, we’ve found that that the longer a trip lasts, the lower the per day cost.

The reason for this is simple. When you have more time, you have time to do things differently. Instead of renting a car or taking expensive tours, you can can jump on a bus and see something on your own.

Even better, arrange for an affordable campervan to rent, pack the kids in the RV, and head off on an adventure! You can slow your schedule down to see what you want to see, exactly how you want to see it.

Expert tip: Condo and house rentals can be less expensive the longer you stay. We’re found time and time again that we’ve been able to rent a condo for two weeks for the same prices as for a full month. We’ve found this to be true for rentals we’ve booked in Spain , Costa Rica , Ecuador and Mexico , among other places.

Bonus: Longer vacation.

Con: Figuring out a way to get extra time off work and potential lost income (though you’d be surprised how much time you can get if you ask and make sure it’s not your companies busiest time of the year).

Travel Farther

We realized long ago that there’s a cost to living no matter where you hang your hat at night. It’s just that there are many places where you can live much cheaper than in North America.

So while it might be tempting to jump in the car and tour a few States or Provinces over, jumping on a plane and heading someplace different might end up costing you less. This is especially true if you do some of your own cooking while you travel.

Bonus: Wine in Southern Europe is $2 a bottle

Con:  Getting out of your comfort zone (but maybe this is actually a plus!)

Now eating in on holiday doesn’t sound appealing, but the reality of eating out with kids everyday for a week or two is enough to deter even the hardiest of family traveler.

Let’s face it, kids can be temperamental and fussy at times, and making sure they’re always on their best behavior can get tiring awfully quickly. I wish I could say our kids ate everything we set in front of them, but that’s not the case. We have days where the kids both turn up their noses if the mac and cheese is simply the wrong consistency.

My suggestion? Eat breakfast in your room before heading out and eat every third supper in. Keep it simple, with a bowl of cereal and fruit for breakfast and make your simplest (yet favorite) supper. The kids will enjoy the comfort of home and you still get to eat out most nights on your trip.

There’s one surprising bonus to this – you get to shop at your destination. It can be a lot of fun to browse markets and find new foods and products all over the world!

Bonus: The kids will have more energy for the day if they can eat and then play while you get the day’s activities ready.

Con: You have to buy groceries and cook (though we love browsing in different grocery stores around the world since it gives us a great understanding of popular dishes and eating styles).

It doesn’t matter if they’re two or ten, kids have smaller stomachs and need to eat more often than adults. Instead of wasting the entire family’s time and money in a restaurant, pack snacks for on the go.

Whether that means cutting up some local fruit to take with you, or a couple of packages of Handi-Snacks or squeeze applesauce packages, it’s up to you. The reality is that no one wants to deal with a hangry child, at home or on vacation, so take something with you whenever you go.

Bonus: Not having to stand in long lines for things you can buy at the corner store for a fraction of the price.

Con: Snack prep time (however checking out local fruit and snacks can be an adventure in itself).

Get comfortable

It may seem counter-intuitive, but making sure the kids (and you) are comfortable can save you money!

When we first traveled with our first baby when he was a little over a year old, we decided to save some money and stay in a room without air conditioning in the Philippines. Big mistake! The little guy wasn’t used to the heat, and he developed a case of heat rash.

By the time we bought ointment, upgraded to the (pretty expensive) air conditioned unit in the same hotel, and lost a lot of sleep and beach time, we were wishing we’d just planned to keep him cool and comfortable the whole time!

The same can be said for most travel gear! Plan to keep your kids comfortable with great toddler travel beds , a diaper bag that’s big enough to hold all the essentials, and even packing cubes to keep everything organized.

Bonus: Hopefully not needing to deal with more crises (like a toddler with heat rash) than you can handle!

Con: A bit of pre-planning.

Bundle and save

Just like shopping in bulk saves you money, buying attraction passes all at once can save a lot as well.

I’d love to say that we practice this ourselves, but we find that we travel too last minute, and like to leave our options open most of the time. That said, using multi-passes and city cards can save you a lot of money if you plan on visiting a lot of attractions.

Using a company that offers city tourist passes for multiple places all on one card not only saves you from standing in long lines (especially in summer) but if you’re an energetic family it allows you to save tons while getting to see some of the best sites a city offers. We like CityPASS cards , as they cover a lot of European and North American cities.

Get CityPASS deals here.

Bonus:  Families can split up and visit different attractions depending on what their interests are.

Con: If you don’t visit enough attractions, these multi-passes aren’t a great value (though it does force you to get out and see more).

Family Discounts

Does your family size make the Brady Bunch look small? If so, many major attractions around the world have deals for large families.

We usually find that our family of four doesn’t get much of a deal, but if you have five or more in your family then the savings can add up quickly. If you’re a group of eight or 10 you can usually get group rates (sometimes even on airfare!) so if you’re traveling with another big family it’s worth looking into group savings.

Bonus: Renting a limousine or van for a big group is often cheaper than taking a bus.

Con: The logistics of group travel can be a challenge (though you might get to ride around in a limo!)

Kids stay or eat for free

This is one of our favorite discount tips for travel with kids!

Some parents don’t know that most hotels, even all-inclusive hotels, don’t charge for kids under 12. Sure, you might need to pay for their flights if you’re going somewhere far, but once you’re there, the kids may not cost you a dime. The same goes for restaurants, lots of restaurants offer free food for toddlers and even small children.

Bonus : Most resorts offer free kids clubs during the day that will occupy your kids while you relax by the pool and drink margaritas.

Con:  Kids over 12 often don’t qualify. Our oldest just turned 12, and we’re feeling the pinch a bit (though he can now babysit so that’s a plus).

Rent a house

Sure, an all inclusive down in Cabo might sound divine, but you can likely stay twice as long if you stay in a  VRBO  house or condo.

You might have to do a little more cooking, but with the money you save you can hit some of the nicer restaurants. You’ll also have more space for a little extra privacy than a hotel room would offer and there will be more areas for the family to spread out so when you’re tired from your long day of adventures, everyone gets their own space to relax.

Bonus: You can even do your own laundry.

Con : You can do your own laundry (though at least you can rest assured it will come back and be in one piece when it’s done).

Kids fly free before age two

Want to sit on the beach in Bali or go visit family on the other side of the country, but the thought of three airplane tickets leaves you in a cold sweat?

If you have a child under age two, there’s good news, as nearly every airline offers free flights to kids under age two. Sure, they have to sit on your lap for the entire duration but chances are, at that age they’re going to anyway.

Bonus: Strollers and car seats aren’t included in your baggage restrictions.

Con: You’ll have a wiggly kid in your seat for the flight (though that might make your neighbor move to another seat giving you and your family the entire row).

Free museum days

Want to go check out the Guggenheim museum, but know your kids won’t last an hour?

The good news is that a lot of museums around the world, like Madrid Spain , have free museum days. Sure, they can be a little busy, but with that extra bit of saved cash you can afford that extra large mocha cappuccino. Just make sure you don’t take it into the museum, they frown on that.

Bonus: There are usually more kids on free days so if yours are a little hyper they’ll fit right in with the rest.

Con: Museum time with the kids (though there are some great children museums out there too).

Extra carry-ons

With the abundance of low cost airlines out there, you can save a pretty penny by sticking to a budget airline. Unfortunately, that low cost can get quickly eaten up if you have to pay for every bag you carry.

The good news is that every person, regardless of size, gets the same luggage allowance. That means that with many airlines, even budget airlines, your three year old is allowed a full size carry-on and a personal item. So instead of packing one massive bag for everyone, split your stuff up with a bag for each of you and get the kids to carry little backpacks with a few of their stuffies or toys so you don’t have to.

Don’t think you can manage carry-on only? Check out our post on how we travel carry-on only for a family of four .

Bonus: Smaller bags are lighter to carry, easier to throw in a trunk or boot and make looking for your kids socks much easier.

Con: If your kids are little, you’ll need to manage more little suitcases (though they will be lighter than a massive one and kids love pushing rolling suitcases around).

Bonus miles

Whether you generally fly with one airline or many, most companies won’t let you use your reward number for your kids flights.

It might sound like more work than you want to do, but if you fly with one airline more than the rest it makes sense to sign up each person in your family so they can start earning miles. Some miles can be spent on things like lounge passes and even on plane refreshments so they won’t go to waste.

Bonus:  A lot of companies use the membership number to prefill your flight information when you go to book so you won’t need to enter everyone’s info every time you book a flight.

Con: The hassle of applying for, and managing, multiple rewards cards (sorry, no upside to this, it sucks but it’s worth it).

Bring your own car seats

This may sound like a no brainer, but if you’re flying somewhere and planning to rent a car once you’re there, you can save money by bringing your own child seat.

Car rental places often charge $7 to $15 a day for car seat rentals, so you can save a bundle if you’re renting for a while.

Pro tip! We used to buy car seats in foreign countries when the kids were young since it was less than half price to buy a brand new one than rent a beat up one for the week. We just gave them to other harried parents as we returned the car or left them in there. We even brought a few home and sold them since child seats fly free.

Bonus: You’re guaranteed to have a good seat if you bring your own.

Con: You need to lug the seat on the plane and to your hotel (though you can use some car seats in the plane to make the kids more comfortable).

Travel off-peak times

Yes, winter break, summer holidays and spring break make the most sense to take the kids on a cross country trip, however everyone else is also doing it. What that means is that prices are jacked way up, availability is limited, and you’ll face lineups everywhere you go.

Instead, go a week before or a week after the holidays. You’ll get the same weather and the same experience, but with a fraction of the people and a fraction of the price. If you can, book travel before and after peak times.

Bonus: It’s easier to book time off from work in the shoulder seasons and you might be eligible to get double time if you’re the only one working over the holidays to help pay for the trip.

Con: You may have to pull the kids out of school for a few days.

Do you have any tips for saving money on a family vacation? Let us know! 

Wow, this is a great post! So many awesome tips. We have a toddler and a baby, and I really want to be able to travel with them when they’re a little bit older, but we are worried about the cost of everything. You have some excellent ideas here that we can try. I am bookmarking this post for future reference!

Nice tips.. I totally agree on the food point and the off peak season..I try to travel off season to get better rates and food is my favorite part lol i love exploring new cuisines..

Wow, this is a great post! I have a plan to visit different places with my family, but i have limited budget.

I never thought about the cost per day of a vacation before! I guess when you look at it that way, you could get the costs lower! Thanks for the tip! I will see if my kids want to stay longer!

This is awesome content and it is really important to be careful in traveling. We make lot of mistake about health while visiting different paces. your guide will help me lot. Thanks

Thank you for your information. This has been so budget-friendly to all travellers.

I have always admired parents who travel with their children. Growing up we did not travel much and now I can’t stop. My sisters however, do not travel. Such a great blog that is truly inspiring for those who wonder if it is possible to travel with children. Will revisit often.

Ohh… Great Blog Post. Every one wants to travel in their budget,this article is definitely help them.

Nice and basic tips which need to be follow as I am totally agree with the food cost as it is the biggest expenses of the country as food is the favorite part of everyone and all of us wants to eat new variety of foods daily and this would cause high budget while travelling.

Many thanks for this extremely useful article. I often travel on a budget, so I bookmarked your tips.

Traveling as a family can be a great way to explore new cultures and become closer to one another. You should remember about hidden costs before you commit to booking if you want to avoid racking up the euros or dollars while you travel.

Thanks for sharing the info. This gonna help me to plan my upcoming Family trip in the budget.

I’m not an expert on budget family travel but my budget travel tips are 1. look for homestays for accomodation. 2. travel by government transportation services.

I want to travel around 3 countries but i didn’t have enough money. Because your tips i will realize my dream!

Hi, those tips are awesome and really helpful! By the way, considering transportation laws, lugging car seats can be a nightmare! Did you know that Kidmoto can solve that problem for you? Ditch the car seats when flying with a baby! A life-saver, I promise! 🙂

I never took into account the fact that we can even spend less when we book a flight and take a trip somewhere farther. I should look at my options and even get the help of a family vacation planner to find affordable trips. My husband and I haven’t actually had a flight together yet, so it must be a great idea to do so if we can find a package that will be within our limited budget for our anniversary this year.

I like that you talked about riding a bus and seeing things on your own based on your preferences. Since I am taking my family with me, it must be a good idea to get a bus rental when going to Delaware, Ohio. We can make our own itinerary for our summer vacation trip this year.

Hi Charles,

Great point about taking advantage of discounts and deals at museums! This is a great way to save some money, all while getting in some fun cultural experiences.

I also like your point about buying tickets in bulk. Some big cities offer multi-day or weekly transit passes. If you’re staying for a few days, it’s usually a lot cheaper to buy a pass if you’re hopping on and off the bus, subway or train multiple times a day!

Personally, my favorite way to save money on travel is to price compare hotels and book ahead of time. Prices sometimes drop last-minute, but it’s usually cheaper to reserve ahead of time.

If someone is just getting started with family budget travel, which is the number one tip you think they should implement and why?

– Jani, Frugal Fun Finance

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21 best all-inclusive resorts for families

Whether you spend your days relaxing on the beach or searching for adventure, the best family vacations should leave the whole family feeling rested, rejuvenated and inspired.

When you vacation at an all-inclusive resort , you have more opportunities to welcome those feelings of relaxation and discovery because there's no need to worry about being nickel-and-dimed for every meal or activity — most of those costs are already included in your room rate. That's not to say all-inclusive resorts are all the same, though.

In the same way that all families are different, every all-inclusive resort is unique in terms of its locale, accommodations, dining options and service, among other factors. One thing they all have in common, though, is that the price you pay covers your room, dining and many on-site activities (and occasionally alcoholic beverages for the adults). That means you can leave the everyday grind behind and enjoy a cost-conscious vacation without sacrificing quality.

Without further ado, these are our favorite family-friendly, all-inclusive resorts to consider booking for your next vacation.

Hyatt Ziva Cap Cana is only 15 minutes from Punta Cana International Airport (PUJ) along the shores of Juanillo Beach. The resort has 375 oceanfront suites, including swim-up suites for families with children ages 13 and older. Dining options range from local Caribbean specialties to a wellness-focused restaurant with smoothies and vegan offerings and 24-hour room service for a late-night bite.

The resort's water park has winding waterslides for older kids and adults, a splash area with pint-size slides for the littles plus a lazy river the whole family can enjoy together. Parents who want to retreat to a private cabana for the afternoon can drop the kids off at the kids club (complete with an indoor treehouse). There's also a teen club for guests ages 13 to 17.

Pricing for Hyatt Ziva Cap Cana starts at around $630 or 35,000 World of Hyatt points per night for a family of four.

The Hard Rock Hotel Riviera Maya is actually two resorts in one. The Hacienda section welcomes adults and kids, while the Heaven section is for adults only.

Kids ages 4 to 12 can play the day away at the Hard Rock Roxity Kids Club while parents relax and enjoy bottomless cocktails at the adults-only pool or indulge at the full-service spa (for an additional fee). There are also daily activities like treasure hunts, crafts projects and pool games that families can participate in together.

The family can meet back up for a swim at the resort's private beach, enjoy family time at the Rockaway Bay water park and have a meal in one of the resort's eight dining establishments, such as the wood-fired pizzas at Pizzeto.

The ideal room type for families is the two-bedroom deluxe family room with one king and two double beds. It also has a balcony with a hammock, separate minibars for kids and adults and cozy bathrobes for adults and kids (how adorable is that?). True to the brand's rockin' roots, you can have a Crosley turntable or Fender guitar delivered to your room to use during your stay.

Pricing for Hard Rock Hotel Riviera Maya starts at around $500 per night for a family of four staying in a room with two double beds.

Hilton Rose Hall Resort & Spa offers 489 guest rooms in one large building, meaning you are never too far from the resort's exciting amenities. All rooms have a private balcony (or terrace if you are staying on the first floor) and picture windows that let you revel in the gorgeous Caribbean views even when you retreat to your room.

Related: 7 things to know before booking a stay at Montego Bay's Hilton Rose Hall Resort

The resort boasts two private beaches — a small beach near the pool complex and an expansive beach area with shaded chairs and daybeds on the sand. The friendly staff will not hesitate to get you involved in the included activities — a befitting perk for outgoing families. Guests can also borrow kayaks and paddleboards to take out on the water.

Hotels with water parks are a key ingredient for successful family vacations, and Hilton Rose Hall's Sugar Mill Falls water park is one of Jamaica's largest. There's a large pool, a lazy river and a multilevel waterslide.

The spa offers indoor and beachside treatments (for an additional fee). There are also separate clubs for kids and teens with age-appropriate games and activities.

Pricing for Hilton Rose Hall Resort & Spa starts at around $550 or 100,000 Hilton Honors points per night for a family of four. Children under age 3 stay for free.

Giraffe Manor is not your typical all-inclusive resort. The resort has only 12 rooms — no two alike, but all equally charming — split between the Manor House and Garden Manor. Some rooms are situated in such a way that the namesake giraffes may wander up to your window in search of a small snack, but there are ample opportunities to interact with all of the giraffes who reside here.

Related: Book this ultimate day pass in Nairobi to unplug and hang out with giraffes

You are likely to encounter a friendly giraffe poking his head in the window as you eat breakfast or strolling up to the terrace as you enjoy your afternoon tea. Don't worry, the hotel provides feeding pellets so they won't come after your meal (feeding pellets are provided in guest rooms with giraffe-feeding access, as well).

Pricing includes accommodations, airport transfers, all meals, most alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages and select activities.

Fully inclusive pricing for Giraffe Manor starts at $1,168 per person for adults and $805 for children.

As soon as you pull up to Nickelodeon Hotels & Resorts Riviera Maya , there's no denying it's a vacation destination designed for kids … and kids at heart. Included activities range from pajama character breakfasts to live game shows. Dining, kids club access (for kids ages 4 to 12) and water park admission also come with the cost of your stay.

Brightly decorated rooms are a nod to popular Nickelodeon cartoons "SpongeBob SquarePants" and "Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles." There are daily character meet-and-greets, and, yes, you really can have gallons of green slime dumped over your head (you'll even get a photo to commemorate the experience).

The resort offers fun-filled seasonal events like the Summer of SpongeBob, Nick Jr. Friends Event and holiday celebrations. Another perk kids and parents will love: All rooms have swim-up access to either the main resort pool or your own balcony pool.

Pricing for Nickelodeon Hotels & Resorts Riviera Maya starts at around $1,100 per night for a family of four. Certain dates require a three-night minimum stay.

Club Med has probably the most comprehensive lineup of activities and experiences of any all-inclusive brand.

For those with relaxation in mind, Club Med Punta Cana has three outdoor pools, shaded loungers lining the beach and spacious, ocean-facing family suites where you can listen to the waves gently crashing when you need some downtime. The family suites have a sleeping area for parents with a king bed, a separate room for kids with two twin beds and a living area that opens to a furnished terrace.

Restaurants serve international and local cuisines and are convenient to the beach, the lagoon pool and the resort's main bar.

If you prefer an always-on-the-go vacation, you can perfect your acrobatic skills at circus school, head out on the water in a kayak or on a stand-up paddleboard, or test your skills with a bow and arrow.

While most all-inclusive resorts do not provide complimentary care for infants and toddlers, Club Med's kids clubs are available to kids as young as 4 months of age.

Pricing for Club Med Punta Cana starts at around $500 per night for a family of four. Children age 3 and under are free.

The Sheraton Samui Resort is a budget-friendly resort located directly on Chaweng Noi Beach. Chaweng Noi is quieter and more secluded than other nearby beaches, leaving its wide swaths of soft sand and calm, crystalline waters (don't forget your snorkeling gear) wide open for families looking for a laid-back tropical vacation.

Unlike traditional all-inclusive resorts, you must choose the all-inclusive package to receive all-inclusive benefits. Room-only rates are also available. The base all-inclusive package includes meals, nonalcoholic beverages, activities, a one-hour beachside massage, a cooking class and airport transfers. You can upgrade to packages that include alcoholic beverages and additional spa treatments.

The resort has two pools — one freshwater and one saltwater — where kids can swim while parents lounge on one of the poolside daybeds. There's also a beachfront kids club with toys, games and activities that kids can enjoy while parents visit the spa for a massage or hit the tennis courts for a friendly competition.

All-inclusive room rates for Sheraton Samui Resort start at around $360 per night for a family of four. Marriott Bonvoy points cannot be redeemed for the all-inclusive package.

Spice Island Beach Resort is an upscale resort on pristine Grand Anse Beach, a 2-mile expanse of fine white sand and cerulean waters. Its location also offers stunning views of Granada's tree-covered mountains in the distance. And with only 64 suites, you may feel like you have the beach (practically) all to yourself.

Each villa-style suite opens to the beach, pool or gardens. Some even have their own private plunge pool and furnished terrace. Spice Island Beach Resort is one of only a handful of AAA Five Diamond-rated properties in Grenada, and you'll experience the luxury that earned such a prestigious designation in all-inclusive offerings like fresh, flavorful cuisine, creative cocktails and activities like cycling, golfing, snorkeling and beachside yoga. An on-site kids club is available for kids ages 3 to 12.

Pricing for Spice Island Beach Resort starts at around $1,100 per night for a family of four.

Want to switch up your typical family vacation? Look no further than Colorado's C Lazy U Ranch .

This luxury, all-inclusive dude ranch is open year-round, with activities that vary by season. Visit in the summertime , and you can try your hand at archery, fly-fishing, hiking, mountain biking, swimming and more. In the winter , activities shift to cold-weather favorites like skiing, ice skating, sleigh rides and snow tubing. Horseback riding is available all year long.

There are seemingly endless activities that families can enjoy together. However, you may have trouble pulling your kids away from the supervised activities designed just for them. Kids ages 3 to 17 are split into groups for age-appropriate excursions, including preparing for the weekly "Shodeo" that's held weekly throughout the summer. During the Shodeo, kids have the opportunity to take to the riding ring and show off the skills they've learned during their time at the ranch.

Pricing for C Lazy U Ranch starts at $587 per person, per night for adults and $392 per night for kids.

When you think of Margaritaville, sunny days spent relaxing on the beach immediately come to mind. That's exactly what you'll get at Margaritaville Beach Resort Ambergris Caye in Belize. This family-friendly tropical retreat has 55 suites, two pools, a beachfront restaurant, two bars and a full-service spa. It's also located along the second-largest coral reef in the world, giving families ample opportunity for underwater exploration.

Related: All-inclusive resorts you can book with points

Suites have one, two or three bedrooms, and many offer views of the crystal-clear Caribbean Sea. All suites have private furnished terraces, large living areas and a style that embodies the term "laid-back luxury." Rather than a traditional all-inclusive resort, the Margaritaville Beach Resort Ambergris Caye offers a " Chef's Package " that includes breakfast, lunch, dinner and alcoholic and nonalcoholic beverages for an additional fee.

Pricing for Margaritaville Beach Resort Ambergris Caye starts at $200 per person, per night. The all-inclusive Chef's Package costs $125 per person, per day.

You wouldn't expect the farm-to-table cuisine, countless activities and a fun-filled kids club to be included in the cost of staying in a castle-like Victorian hotel in the middle of New York's Hudson Valley, but that is exactly what you'll get at Mohonk Mountain House . This historic 143-year-old resort offers elegant accommodations with postcard-worthy mountain or lake views.

Related: 8 quintessential summer resorts offering fun for the whole family

Included in your stay are three gourmet meals per day, unlimited activities like boating and paddleboarding in the summer and ice skating and tubing in the winter, evening educational lectures and music, access to hiking trails and, in the summer months, supervised kids programming.

Activities vary by season, but you'll be happy to know that when it's too cold to swim in the lake, you can head for the heated indoor pool.

Pricing for Mohonk Mountain House starts at around $1,000 per night for a family of four. Children ages 3 and under are free.

Open since late 2021, the Hilton Cancun feels modern and fresh. The all-ocean-view resort caters to families with children with a host of family-friendly offerings like two-bedroom suites, an all-you-can-eat ice cream and churro shop, a family pool and water playground, and fun-filled clubs for kids ages 4-12 and teens ages 13-17.

Related: Great for families: A review of the stunning new Hilton Cancun, an All-Inclusive Resort

The resort has two large beachfront infinity pools, but families will most likely gravitate to the one near the kids club — this is where you'll find the waterslides and splash playground. With five specialty restaurants serving everything from Mexican cuisine to Southeast Asian delicacies and 24-hour room service, you can try something new every day during your stay.

Pricing for Hilton Cancun starts at around $400 or 300,000 Hilton Honors points per night for a family of four.

When you book a vacation at the Emerald Maldives Resort & Spa , you'll be whisked away on a scenic seaplane or speedboat ride and taken to your private island retreat.

Spanning the entire island, the resort is designed to blend in with the natural landscape. Of the 120 luxury villas, 60 are on the beach and 60 are overwater bungalows.

The all-inclusive rate includes fitness facilities, nonmotorized water sports, a kids club with indoor and outdoor play spaces and unlimited meals and drinks from the resort's high-end dining outlets. For an additional fee, you can bliss out at the on-site spa , embark on scuba or snorkeling excursions or take to the waters on a Jet Ski.

Pricing for Emerald Maldives Resort & Spa starts at around $960 per night for a family of four.

Beaches Turks & Caicos is a sprawling island resort with five "villages" designed to resemble locales such as the Florida Keys, the Italian Riviera and a charming French village.

Its large size means you'll have access to 21 restaurants, 12 miles of beach, 10 pools, a 45,000-square-foot water park and more. These are situated around the various villages, so you are never too far from your next dip in the pool or a bite to eat.

Older kids will love the surf simulator, splash playground, slides, lazy river and kids-only swim-up bar at the Pirates Island water park. Younger kids will relish the opportunity to meet their favorite "Sesame Street" characters at Camp Sesame.

Pricing for Beaches Turks & Caicos starts at $424 per night for adults and $38 per night for children.

The Westin Reserva Conchal perfectly embodies the "pura vida" way of life, with accommodations and amenities that make you feel at one with nature. The resort's main pool is surrounded by tropical flowers and trees, most rooms have large terraces where you can soak up the sun, and you are likely to make friends with the iguanas, birds and monkeys who call the resort grounds home before you check out.

Families will love the included Westin Kids Club, where kids can participate in indoor and outdoor activities like treasure hunts and nature exploration. There are also family-friendly options at all of the resort's dining locations, including all the ice cream you can eat at the main buffet. Family suites are available that offer more space, close proximity to the pool and kids club, and a family club lounge with snacks, drinks and activities.

Pricing for the Westin Reserva Conchal starts at around $610 or 73,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night for a family of four.

With only six villas that sleep from four to 13 guests, Bluefields Bay Villas offer comfort, privacy and an expertly trained staff that can help you bring to life the all-inclusive vacation of your dreams.

Villas boast ocean and island views, private pools, a personal chef and a 24-hour butler to coordinate meals (including beach snacks and cocktail hours) and activities during your stay.

Pricing at this ultra-exclusive resort includes chef-cooked meals served in your villa's dining room, water sports, snorkeling, glass-bottom boat cruises, hiking and more. Child care and complimentary laundry service are also included in the cost of your stay. We can't think of anything better than returning home with a suitcase full of clean laundry.

Pricing for Bluefields Bay Villas starts at around $1,550 per night for a family of four, and a four-night minimum stay is required.

When you stay at Paradisus Playa del Carmen , you'll spend your days splashing in the clear, warm waters of Mexico's Caribbean coast, swimming in the pool (or resting in one of the submerged loungers) and climbing and sliding at the resort's on-site water park.

There is fun to be had outside the water, as well, with a kids club and daily activities like crafts, dance classes and more. You can indulge your carnivorous side at Sal Steak Cave or take your pick of global cuisines at the Naos buffet, all included in the cost of your stay.

If you choose to splurge and upgrade to the Nikte package, you'll receive a premium suite, access to a VIP pool and beach area, concierge service and priority dining and activity reservations.

Pricing for Paradisus Playa del Carmen starts at around $300 per night for a family of four on a standard package or $420 per night with the upgraded Nikte package.

At Paradisus Grand Cana (formerly Falcon's Resort by Melia), guests have access to a shopping, dining and entertainment district as well as the Caribbean's first true theme park, Katmandu Park.

It's easy to find fantastic water parks in the Caribbean, but you won't find funhouses, virtual roller coasters or 4D laster-shooting games unless you visit Katmandu Park. Theme park admission is included in the cost of your stay, but how often you can visit depends on which package you purchase.

The entertainment extends to the resort itself, where families can experience a pool, a water park, a supervised kids camp and more.

Pricing for Paradisus Grand Cana by Melia starts at around $308 per night for a family of four booking a standard package.

Moon Palace Cancun has over 2,000 guest rooms divided between two distinct sections: Sunrise and Nizuc. Guests have access to activities, games and dining in both sections.

Families with younger kids may prefer Nizuc, which is where you'll find a pool with a winding waterslide and family suites with connecting bedrooms — one with a king bed and the other with two double beds.

Families traveling with tweens and teens should opt for the Sunrise section for easy access to the surf simulator in the pool and the Wired Lounge with table and arcade games that kids and adults will love. This is where you'll also find the resort's Noir nightclub for drinks and dancing when the sun goes down (while the kids are having the time of their lives at the kids club, open until 10 p.m. daily).

Pricing for Moon Palace Cancun starts at around $465 per night for a family of four, with additional discounts available if you prepay in full.

The Hilton Tulum Riviera Maya All-Inclusive Resort is a sprawling resort in a natural setting along a secluded bay that feels like your own private slice of paradise. The resort has 735 rooms and suites with private balconies that offer either ocean or nature views. The resort's family suites give families easy access to the pools, waterslides, splash park and kids club, as well as perks like nightly turndown service, a souvenir beach bag and minifridge items chosen specifically for kids.

With 13 restaurants to choose from, everyone in the family is sure to find something that will please their palate, from traditional Mexican fare to seafood to fresh juices and smoothies. Resort guests can participate in a variety of activities to help them connect and unwind, like yoga, music and art workshops and beach games.

Pricing at Hilton Tulum Riviera Maya All-Inclusive Resort starts at around $540 or 100,000 Hilton Honors per night for a family of four.

Even though Coconut Bay Beach Resort & Spa is less than 2 miles from St. Lucia's Hewanorra International Airport (UVF) and less than an hour from popular area attractions like the Pitons and Sulphur Springs, it feels like a secluded island paradise.

It helps that the resort sits on a 1-mile stretch of beach and has eight restaurants, seven bars and five pools to serve only 250 guest rooms. Among the dining options, don't miss the Jerk Treehouse on the beach or the Silk fine dining fusion restaurant for dinner.

The rooms are split between an adults-only Harmony section and a family-centered Splash section . At Splash, families can stay in spacious rooms with private balconies that overlook the waterslides, lazy river and water playground at the water park .

In addition to the typical kids club activities , children have access to an animal sanctuary, nature walks and meet-and-greets with the resort's larger-than-life coconut mascots, Coco and Loco.

Pricing for Coconut Bay Beach Resort & Spa starts at around $369 per night for a family of four.

What is typically included at an all-inclusive resort?

So, what does "all-inclusive" mean? It means there is a good chance you won't have to pull out your wallet even once while you are at your resort. More specifically, most meals, drinks, activities, minibar items, kids club access and water sports — and sometimes gratuities — are included in the cost of your room. Things that aren't included are typically specialty meals (like beachfront dining), spa treatments and excursions.

Because your room rate is all-inclusive, the cost of your room is based on the number of adults and children in your room. At some all-inclusive resorts, children can stay for free or at a reduced rate, so be sure you input the correct information when pricing out your vacation.

How do I choose an all-inclusive resort for my family?

There are a lot of all-inclusive resorts in the world, and many offer high-quality experiences for the whole family. So, how do you narrow it down? When you're trying to choose the best all-inclusive resort for your own family, you'll want to consider a handful of factors. Aside from the obvious ones, like location and budget, think about the types of experiences your family will enjoy. If you're an outdoorsy group, consider properties that offer lots of excursions, whether that's snorkeling and kayaking or zip-lining and guided hikes. If you're a food-focused family, you might want to opt for a resort that's known for its incredible dining options.

Another thing to consider is whether the resort has a kids club. Often, parents will want a little time away from the kids (or vice versa!) and on-site kids clubs can ensure that activities are tailored to different age groups.

Related articles:

• TPG's guide to the best all-inclusive resorts you can book with points
• 25 best all-inclusive resorts in the world, according to frequent travelers
• The most luxurious all-inclusive resorts around the world

How to Travel Cheap on a Family Vacation

By: Author Teresa

Posted on Last updated: March 1, 2024

Categories Travel with Kids

Are you planning a family vacation and wondering how to travel cheaply? You want to have a great trip but you also don’t want to break the bank. I have found traveling on a budget with a family can be easier than you think.

Our family loves to travel and figuring out ways to budget travel has allowed us to travel even more. The family bonding and fun your family has together on vacation just can’t be duplicated at home.

So, let’s figure out how to travel on a budget and still have fun while saving you money. I created some easy money-saving tips to help you save money and not feel like you are missing out on a fabulous vacation.  

This post contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases . If  you choose to buy something using my link, I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. For more information, see my disclaimer  here .

How to travel cheaply with family, travel on a budget – hotel deals  .

Best Travel Times  

To get the best bang for your buck, travel at off-peak times to get lower rates on hotels and airlines. If you don’t want to go at off-peak times when the weather might not be the best, try looking for deals in what the Travel Industry calls it Shoulder Seasons.

These are the travel seasons between peak and off-peak seasons, which typically are April through May and in the Fall after the kids go back to school. These are great options because the weather is still good but rates are lower than peak season.  

Hotel Deals with Younger kids  

If you have younger children not in school yet, try traveling during the school year or during the week. Rates tend to go up during the summer, spring break, Thanksgiving break, and winter break.

Take advantage of the time before they start school by traveling during the school year for off-peak rates, especially if you are headed to a more family-friendly location such as Disney, waterpark resorts , and other family amusement areas.  

Make your hotel stay easier using our Genius Hotel Hacks with Kids . You won’t believe you didn’t think of these before. 

Travel Website  

Do your research and check travel websites to find the best deal. If you are flexible on the hotel check out booking.com (our favorite) or one of the many other travel sites and see which hotel can give you the best deal.

I like using Booking.com because you can search for a large number of hotels and see which ones have the best price and most amenities. I also like to use Groupon for hotel stays or activities because you will often get something extra, like kids’ activities or a spa day.   

Also, check out the website of the hotels and go under specials. A lot of times, the hotels will offer package deals for families. These might include breakfast or an activity at the hotel  which is a great money saver.

Rent a Condo or House  

Have you ever looked into renting a condo or house while on vacation? Often, you can rent a condo for the same price as a hotel room. Some of the big benefits include getting a kitchen to make meals, extra space for the kids, and all the amenities of the condo building or association, such as a pool.

My family really likes having a kitchen to make breakfast in the morning or a quick dinner. It’s also a big plus to have more than one bedroom so the family can spread out.   

If you choose to do this, make sure the owner has pictures up on the website so you can see if the place is up to date. Also, check reviews on the rental unit to make sure you are getting what is listed.

Type the location into Google to find the most reviews on a location. I also recommend going through an Owner rental website so you can contact someone if you have any issues.

A few we have liked are VRBO.com ,  Airbnb.com , and  Homeaway.com. 

Share a Vacation Rental   

Looking to get a bigger or nicer rental unit and save some money? Consider going on vacation with family or friends and splitting the cost of the rental condo or house. This way you can save some money and have a great company to enjoy your vacation with.   

Hotel Family Travel Hacks

Save money while staying at a hotel with simple travel hacks. Families can pack breakfast to have in-room and use the ironing board as a table. Share beds with the kids by placing a pillow down the middle to keep them from getting kicked. Plus baby proof the room with a simple roll of painter’s tape.

Want more easy Hotel Tips? Check out these 20 Genius Hotel Hacks to simplify your vacation.

Kids Stay Free and Eat Free  

Many resorts, especially all-inclusive resorts, will have Kids Stay Free and Eat Free specials. Take advantage of these great deals. You will save on food and hotel so all you are paying for is the kid’s airplane tickets.  

Driving vs. Flying  

If you really want to save money traveling with kids, drive to your destination. You will save the cost of plane tickets for each family member plus the car rental fee.

I also find a great bonus to driving is you can bring everything you need and not have to buy stuff on vacation. We like to drive on beach vacations because you can bring along chairs, umbrellas, sand toys, coolers, and more.

Save money by bringing all the toys you need and packing food from home. This can be a huge game-changer in saving money on vacation.

If you do plan to fly we like to use Baby Quip to rent baby strollers, cribs, high chairs, and other kid items. This is especially helpful if we are staying with friends or family who don’t have kids’ stuff. The best part is Baby Quip will deliver it right to your destination. 

Related Article – 15 Best Road Trip Games & Activities from Dollar Tree   

Trip Cost Calculator

Find out the full cost of your upcoming vacation with my free Trip Cost Calculator . Use this easy tool to help build your travel budget and get a better idea of how much you need to save for a vacation.

You can adjust each travel item cost until you find a total amount that you can afford. Then build your dream vacation around your personal travel budget.

  Travel on a Budget – Free Travel Apps  

Don’t spend money on travel apps to help you find the best travel route, lowest gas prices, places to eat along your route, and last-minute hotel deals. Use a free travel app!

The question is which free travel app will help you the most. Well, I already did the research for you and tested out the best free apps available. Check out my list of 5 Free Travel Apps for Road Trips  to know which I recommend for your family vacation.

Money-Saving Tips – Meals  

Breakfast  

Have breakfast in your hotel room. This is one of my biggest easy money-saving tips. Why spend all that money on breakfast when you can eat something quick in your room.

Most hotel rooms now have mini-refrigerators and microwaves so take advantage of them. Bring along some bagels, cream cheese, fruit, yogurt drinks, and breakfast is served. It’s also a great time saver to feed the kids while you’re getting ready in the morning so you can head out early to all the local attractions.  

An even better option is finding a hotel that serves free breakfast in the morning. This saves you money and the kids will love picking out the food they like.   

Lunch / Snacks  

Pack a picnic for the day. Many attractions now provide picnic benches for families to have lunch. Pack something special in the lunch that the kids really like to make them feel like it’s special and not just their regular school lunch.   

Bring along fun and filling snacks for the family to eat while visiting tourist sites. Hungry kids tend to get crabby which can put a damper on the trip. Avoid this and save money by bringing your own snacks instead of buying snacks at expensive tourist locations.

For the hotel room, I like to bring microwave popcorn for the family. It’s easy to throw in a suitcase and a quick snack to settle them down with a movie or after late-night swimming in the hotel.  

Pack Drinks  

Water bottles can get expensive, especially at hotels. I suggest bringing along a case of water, juice boxes, and maybe even a bottle of wine for the adults.   

Order Pizza In  

Save money on eating dinner out by ordering a pizza to your hotel room one night. You have your own drinks already so the expense is a lot less than dinner out at a restaurant. Most pizza restaurants will even bring napkins and paper plates if you ask.    

My family really likes to do this when we have a hotel with a pool. The kids would rather eat quickly and go swimming than sit at a long dinner in a restaurant. It’s a win-win, the kids are happy and you save money.  

Grocery Delivery  

Don’t have a car to pick up food for breakfast or lunch in your room? No problem, try out one of the many grocery store delivery services to help you.

Here are a few to try –  Insta Cart ,  Shipt  and even Target will now deliver your groceries. Just order online and you’re set.   

Travel on a Budget – Travel Games  

Travel Games   

Keeping the kids busy and happy will make the trip easier for everyone. I like to bring several different travel activities to play in the car, for airplane rides, or in the hotel.

I save money buying games by shopping at Dollar Tree . Load up on activities before you go so that you don’t have to buy anything at the expensive hotel shops.

Want some ideas of what your kids will love at Dollar Tree? Take a look at my 15 Best Road Trip Games for Kids at the Dollar Tree

I also found some economical travel games and gadgets on Amazon if you don’t have time to run to Dollar Tree before your trip. Get some fun travel game ideas by reading Boredom Busting Road Trip Games for Kids .

Travel on a Budget – Free Family Activities  

Before you head out on vacation, do some research on free activities in the city you are going to visit. You would be surprised how many fun free things there are to do even at popular tourist destinations. Look for some of these fun family-friendly activity ideas.

Town’s Website  

Look up the town’s or city’s website and see what local free events they have going on while you are visiting. There are often free concerts or movies in the park, community events for kids, and local festivals – all fun events you won’t have to pay for.  

You will be amazed at how much you find even in more expensive touristy areas. A great example is our family’s vacations to Naples, Florida. It’s a pretty expensive area but we were still able to find fun & free activities for the whole family.

Take a look at my article on 10 Free Things to Do in Naples to get an idea of what you can find.

Local Parks, Forest Preserves,  and State Parks

Spend a couple of hours in the outdoors on local hiking trails or discovering the area’s cool playgrounds.  Save money on lunch by packing a picnic to eat at the park.

Museums Free Days  

Most museums offer some type of free day or discounted day. Look on their websites to see when they are or just Google the museum name and free days. If you are visiting during the week, you will find more options than on busy weekends.  

Here is an example of Chicago Museum Free Days  

Smaller towns often have small free museums to showcase their town history. It’s a great way for kids to learn more about the history of the city you’re visiting, plus it’s another fun free outing. 

Museum Reciprocal Programs  

Do you have a membership to a local museum, zoo, or aquarium? Check and see if your pass is reciprocal to museums in other cities. Often you can get in free or with a discount to sister museums.

Another option when on vacation is to buy a membership at a museum you are visiting if they have reciprocal memberships to a museum in the town you live in. Both ways can save you some money and give your family extra museums to visit.

Related Article – Best Chicago Museums and Attractions with Kids

Travel on a Budget – Use a Packing List

It’s so hard to remember everything you need to pack for vacation, especially when you are packing for a whole family. So, I created an easy packing list I use for my family trips that I think will help you too.

Click here to download my free Family Vacation Packing List and never forget anything again!

Did you get inspired by these Budget Travel Money-Saving Tips? I hope you learned how to travel cheaply on a family vacation. It is definitely a lot more fun to travel if you are not stressed about money.

Let me know in the comments which ideas you liked and any great money-saving tips your family likes to use. I love to hear from my readers!  

Don’t forget to try out my Trip Cost Calculator too to get your personalized travel budget!

After all the stress of vacation planning and saving money, do you need a laugh? Follow me on Facebook for daily parenting jokes to make you smile.

Check out my Instagram and Twitter too for great family travel ideas, parenting tips, and easy family meals.

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10 Tips For Traveling On A Budget With Family (That Are Actually Helpful)

• Choose inexpensive destinations like Greece or Mexico for a budget-friendly family vacation with lower costs of living and attractions.
• Travel during off-seasons or shoulder seasons to save on transportation, lodging, and activities, but be aware of potential closures.
• Book flights ahead of time and search for package deals to maximize savings, and consider flying midweek or to nearby cities for cheaper airfare. Utilize local transportation options and save on food costs by packing lunches and taking advantage of free experiences. Remember to prioritize experiences over souvenirs for a budget-friendly trip.

Traveling the myriad corners of the earth is a wonderful way to experience the incredibly diverse cultures, cuisines, and natural wonders of the world. And, for those traveling with a family, it's also an amazing way to create new experiences that will undoubtedly be cherished for years to come.

But traveling with the family unit, whether it be a small brood or a larger household, means vacation costs can add up quickly. Want to book a trip of a lifetime but are unsure of how to budget travel ? Here are some tips and cheap ways to travel with a low budget for families looking to embark on an exciting getaway that won't break the bank.

Related: 10 Amazing Family Vacation Ideas (That Also Happen To Be Budget-Friendly)

Choose An Inexpensive Destination

This one goes without saying, but a tourist can really get the most out of their dollar by picking their travel destination wisely.

For those eager to travel abroad, in lieu of choosing destinations that are notoriously expensive , such as England or St. Barts (the latter of which has accommodation rates that run an average of $1,770 per night!), opt for a location that has a low cost of living and favorable exchange rates . These places will generally be cheaper in terms of food, lodging, and attractions.

Countries that generally have a low cost of living include Greece (average daily cost of $131), Turkey (average daily cost of $23), Hungary (average daily cost of $70), Mexico (average daily cost of $93), Thailand (average daily cost of $52), Indonesia (average daily cost of $47), and Laos (average daily cost of $15), as per Kiplinger .

Travel In The Off-Season

There are a number of tourist towns in the US to visit during the off-season . And, since fewer people travel during the off-season, the period of time when activity is lower in any given region, prices are generally lower.

Off-seasons vary depending on the location, but it typically runs from November to February in the Northern Hemisphere and from June to August in the Southern Hemisphere.

It's important to note that due to extreme weather or the drop in demand, many places or modes of transportation may not be open during the off-season, such as restaurants, attractions, hiking trails, museums, ferries, shuttle buses, and more, so be sure to double-check any potential closures prior to booking.

Travel During The Shoulder Seasons, Too

Whether traveling within the US or abroad, opting to travel during the shoulder seasons — which typically fall between a destination's peak season and its offseason — is generally cheaper in terms of transportation, lodging, and activities.

Of course, shoulder seasons greatly vary by location; for example, Park City, Utah's peak season is winter, whereas Orlando, Florida's peak season is during the summer. But in addition to the savings, another added perk of traveling during the shoulder seasons is that tourists won't have to deal with the off-season closures.

In terms of budget-friendly flights, plane tickets booked for the shoulder season were an average of 23 percent cheaper compared to peak travel season, per a 2021 study by NerdWallet .

Related: 10 Island Destinations That Will Help You Plan A Budget-Friendly Vacation

Book Flights Ahead Of Time

When it comes to airfare, savings can be had by booking ahead of time instead of last minute.

In terms of flights, it's best to purchase plane tickets about three weeks to two months before the scheduled departure date , as this time period tends to see cheaper rates.

However, the opposite can usually be said for hotel accommodations. A 2019 study by NerdWallet found that it's moderately cheaper to book hotel rooms only 15 days out compared to four months in advance 66 percent of the time.

Search For Package Deals

From booking an affordable Disney World vacation to embarking on an all-inclusive cruise, when it comes to traveling with a family, there's probably no better way to save money than by opting for family package deals, which usually feature plane tickets, hotel accommodations, and sometimes even local attraction tickets.

Try looking for package deals off-season or during the shoulder seasons, too, for added savings.

Snag Cheaper Flights

Avoiding the usually high costs of airfare is possible, which can mean a lot of money saved for a family on the move. In addition to seeking flights during the off-season or shoulder seasons, consider flying during the midweek. Per Google , the off-peak days of Mondays, Tuesdays, and Wednesdays tend to be about 12 percent cheaper than weekend flights.

And, while it may seem the opposite, opting not to fly directly to a chosen travel destination — meaning flying to a nearby city and then boarding another flight or train to the final destination — may also result in cheaper airfare. Keep in mind that this may not be a favorable option for those with younger children as the total time spent in the air will be longer.

Compare cheap airfare online using websites like Skyscanner.com .

Take Local Transportation

Some things travelers should go cheap on, while others should be splurged on . Getting around the travel destination each day is definitely one thing that shouldn't be expensive.

Depending on where a tourist chooses to vacation, there is usually a myriad of affordable (sometimes even free) public transportation options, including local buses, subways, ferries, light rails, and trams.

Be sure to plan out public transportation routes ahead of time in order to have a stress-free family vacation.

Related: These Are The Cheapest Ghost Towns To Visit If You're On A Tight Fall Budget

Save On Food Costs

Another costly aspect of travel is eating out, so reduce food-related expenses by packing lunches to-go and carrying refillable water bottles.

Prioritize accommodations with kitchenettes or kitchen access so that meals (whether eaten there or on the go) can be made in lieu of eating out every day.

Also, be sure to keep refillable water bottles and snacks on hand to help save on food expenses throughout the day.

Take Advantage Of Free Experiences

Before settling on a travel destination, do a quick Google search to see if any free experiences or attractions are available in the area , including museums, state parks, historic sites, and natural wonders, such as lakes, hiking trails, and scenic overlooks.

Some museums and other attractions may also offer free or discounted admission on certain days of the month.

Related: 17 Cheap Weekend Getaways In The US Perfect For Any Budget

Collect Experiences, Not Things

There's no better way to spend less than by...spending less, so a great way to cut back on travel spending is by forgoing the trinkets and souvenirs.

If collecting mementos while on a trip is an absolute necessity, then be sure to set a budget for souvenir spending ahead of time.

For travel keepsakes that won't cost a dime, take lots of pictures or save ticket stubs, boarding passes, receipts, hotel cards, local newspapers, or maps of the local area.