As a mom, you learn how to micromanage just about everything. In fact, most moms can simultaneously juggle multiple tasks all at once without ever missing a beat. Kudos to the moms! But even as inspirational as moms are, there’s one thing many struggle with: affordable travel with children. Traveling alone can be expensive, but once you add children into the mix, the cost can double or even triple. For moms on a budget, this often means sacrificing a much-needed vacation just to save money. Thankfully, there are ways to vacation with kids for less.
Financial Planning
Before you book a flight, you need to look at your finances. Even low-cost vacations can put a dent in your wallet, so you need to plan ahead. Typically, it’s best to start saving for a vacation several months in advance. However, if you’ve done that and don’t have enough, you might want to consider options. First off, you can look for all-inclusive packages where everything is bundled together. Oftentimes, resorts offer these packages as a way to encourage family travel. Kids usually stay for free and at some places, may even eat for free. This can literally save you hundreds of dollars.
Alternatively, you can also look into other financial options. In addition to using credit cards to fund your vacation, you can apply for a loan or consider getting a life settlement. You can sell certain types of life insurance policies and pocket the cash. It’s important to note that the payout isn’t as much as the actual death benefit. However, you can get a portion of the cash value. If you choose to get a life settlement, even some types of term policies can qualify. Just be sure to weigh the pros and cons before moving forward.
Swap Houses
Many vacationers are foregoing pricey hotel stays and instead swap houses. The way it works is that you and another person swap house in each respective location. Both you and the other party then stay for free in each other’s homes. You can save plenty of money by doing this, however, make sure you follow some house swapping tips and use a reputable service to find a suitable match.
Use Reward Miles and Points
If your credit card offers points and rewards, you can cash these in for your next vacation. Depending on the terms, and how many points or miles you have, you can sometimes fly for free or cut your hotel bill in half.
Travel Off-Season
If you want to cut costs on vacation when you travel is just as important as where you go. Peak season usually equates to higher prices, especially in popular vacation spots. If possible, book early and travel in the off-season. Tropical locations are warm all year round, so opting for an early fall vacation will be just as rewarding as one in June.
You can save even more by taking advantage of lower car rental rates during the off-season and driving instead of using public transport or joining tours. You’ll be able to enjoy your vacation destination at your own pace and convenience. Make sure you’re prepared to rent and drive a car by getting a valid international driving permit (IDP), a document that allows you to drive in foreign countries.
Choose a Boutique Hotel
You may love all the perks you get at large hotel chains, but they usually aren’t free. These perks are actually factored into the price, which means they aren’t really freebies. Smaller boutique hotels are usually less expensive and family friendly. You can even opt for a quaint B&B as well.
Thank you,
Glenda, Charlie and David Cates
