How To Plan a Great Trip on a Tight Budget

Budgeting for a family vacation is hard when everything you want to do is so expensive. Here are some tips on how to significantly lower the amount of money you spend on your trip.

Rent a House

It may seem extravagant to rent a whole house for your family getaway, but some vacation rentals Bald Head Island may actually be less expensive per person than simply renting nice hotel rooms, particularly during peak seasons. In addition to the reasonable rates you can find for vacation homes, another perk is that they come with a kitchen. You can save a lot of money on food if you have a space to cook most of your meals and limit restaurant dining to a few special evenings out.

Find Inexpensive Transportation

Sometimes, the most expensive part of the trip is just getting to your destination. When you compare the cost of different types of transportation, you may be surprised which option turns out to be the least expensive. If you are just traveling a hundred miles from home, it makes sense to drive. However, by the time you take into account extra car maintenance, gas and parking, you may find that it’s cheaper to fly, especially if you are willing to adjust your departure and return dates to avoid pricey flights. A little extra research can save you a lot of money.

Avoid Tourist Traps

Before you go on your trip, you are likely to search for popular attractions to see while you’re there. Many of the places listed on sites for tourists have high price tags, though. Instead, search for national parks, museums or free things to do for entertainment. Even if you have one expensive outing, you can save money overall by enjoying some of the more affordable options most of the days you are there.

You don’t have to break the bank to have a fun trip with your family. Choosing less expensive options whenever possible can make your vacation budget go farther.