Summer Travel With The Kids: Five Ways To Do It On A Budget
Filed under: Budgeting & Planning, Economizer, Family Finances, Food & Drink, Saving, Shopping, Travel, Holidays
With school out for over a month now you've noticed that the kids are in your hair 
for more hours every day. One potential remedy is to to get out of the house to exhaust them before they exhaust you. But the great family summer getaway seems a bit out of reach these days for many. Here are some tips on getting out and about for less, whether it's a vacation or a staycation you're embarking on:
1. Find The Deals
There are fun-filled amusement parks in most cities across Canada. But the high-calorie snacks and gut-busting rides offered at these institutions can add up, especially if you're taking the entire clan. By planning ahead and scouring theme park websites, you can find family deals and group discounts on offer. If you think you'll visit a recreational facility a few times over the summer, it may be worth it to buy a membership instead of individual day passes. For example, a visit to the Toronto Zoo will cost two adults and two kids (ages 4-15) $80 for admission not including taxes or parking, while a one-year family membership costs $160.00 with the option of buying an unlimited parking pass. So, if you go more than once you'll end up saving a few bucks that could otherwise be spent on a camel ride or a slice of pizza.
2. Let Apps Be Your Guide
Rather than loading up your suitcase with guidebooks, take advantage of the many free travel apps you can download onto your smartphone. Not only can you find advice on kid-friendly places to eat and stay but there are apps dedicated to helping you save money and stay organized on your vacation.
Here are a few suggestions:
GasBuddy finds gas stations in your area with the best prices
TripAdvisor and Yelp are two apps that provide restaurant reviews and track where to find good eats
XE Currency gives updated exchange rates if you're traveling abroad
Booking.com is an easy way to book a room
Evernote is a program that helps you keep your bookings organized as well as your itinerary.
3. Travel With Another Family
Of course this depends on whether you're willing to spend your much-valued vacation time with people outside your family circle. But, traveling with another family (or even your extended family) means you can save money by renting a house or cottage together and split costs when it comes to food and your five o'clock cocktails. You can also take turns babysitting and get out for some quality time with your spouse.
For affordable vacation rental options, check out Vacation Rentals By Owners (vrbo.com).
4. Rent Rather Than Buy
Need a crib? Highchair? Boogie board? Motor boat? If you're hitting a major city or vacation spot, it's pretty much guaranteed you can rent what you need. If you're flying, renting certain big-ticket items means you'll save in the extra baggage fee department. If you're driving, you're affording yourself extra space and comfort.
5. Take Public Transit
This is a great way to explore a city and you'll save on gas and parking expenses while taking in the sights and smells at ground level. The kids will also burn off more energy if they're out of the car. Ask about day/weekend/weekly passes whether you're traveling by bus or subway and you'll save by avoiding one-way fees.
Related Links:
Summertime Activities: Keeping the Kids Busy Without Spending a Cent
Summer Sports: What You Need to Know About Affording Good Gear
Why You Need Travel Insurance
Liked this article? Don't miss another one. Follow us on Twitteror Facebook.
for more hours every day. One potential remedy is to to get out of the house to exhaust them before they exhaust you. But the great family summer getaway seems a bit out of reach these days for many. Here are some tips on getting out and about for less, whether it's a vacation or a staycation you're embarking on:
1. Find The Deals
There are fun-filled amusement parks in most cities across Canada. But the high-calorie snacks and gut-busting rides offered at these institutions can add up, especially if you're taking the entire clan. By planning ahead and scouring theme park websites, you can find family deals and group discounts on offer. If you think you'll visit a recreational facility a few times over the summer, it may be worth it to buy a membership instead of individual day passes. For example, a visit to the Toronto Zoo will cost two adults and two kids (ages 4-15) $80 for admission not including taxes or parking, while a one-year family membership costs $160.00 with the option of buying an unlimited parking pass. So, if you go more than once you'll end up saving a few bucks that could otherwise be spent on a camel ride or a slice of pizza.
2. Let Apps Be Your Guide
Rather than loading up your suitcase with guidebooks, take advantage of the many free travel apps you can download onto your smartphone. Not only can you find advice on kid-friendly places to eat and stay but there are apps dedicated to helping you save money and stay organized on your vacation.
Here are a few suggestions:
GasBuddy finds gas stations in your area with the best prices
TripAdvisor and Yelp are two apps that provide restaurant reviews and track where to find good eats
XE Currency gives updated exchange rates if you're traveling abroad
Booking.com is an easy way to book a room
Evernote is a program that helps you keep your bookings organized as well as your itinerary.
3. Travel With Another Family
Of course this depends on whether you're willing to spend your much-valued vacation time with people outside your family circle. But, traveling with another family (or even your extended family) means you can save money by renting a house or cottage together and split costs when it comes to food and your five o'clock cocktails. You can also take turns babysitting and get out for some quality time with your spouse.
For affordable vacation rental options, check out Vacation Rentals By Owners (vrbo.com).
4. Rent Rather Than Buy
Need a crib? Highchair? Boogie board? Motor boat? If you're hitting a major city or vacation spot, it's pretty much guaranteed you can rent what you need. If you're flying, renting certain big-ticket items means you'll save in the extra baggage fee department. If you're driving, you're affording yourself extra space and comfort.
5. Take Public Transit
This is a great way to explore a city and you'll save on gas and parking expenses while taking in the sights and smells at ground level. The kids will also burn off more energy if they're out of the car. Ask about day/weekend/weekly passes whether you're traveling by bus or subway and you'll save by avoiding one-way fees.
Related Links:
Summertime Activities: Keeping the Kids Busy Without Spending a Cent
Summer Sports: What You Need to Know About Affording Good Gear
Why You Need Travel Insurance
Liked this article? Don't miss another one. Follow us on Twitteror Facebook.
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