Summer is fast approaching, and it’s the perfect time to start planning your bucket list. Many people eagerly anticipate the summer season as an opportunity to travel, particularly families whose children have been studying throughout the year. However, considering the cost of airfare, accommodation, food, and various other travel expenses, an average family holiday can range from $2,000-$4,000, or even more. This substantial amount might disconcert many, considering it’s only for a short break.
In case you’re still planning your family vacation for this summer or fall short of $2,000 to invest in a trip, you still have ample low-cost options for spontaneous summer family holidays.
1. CAMPING
Camping is not only an affordable but also an exciting way to strengthen bonds within your family. The beauty of camping is that you control the budget. You can even save more by choosing a campsite close to home to save on fuel. Camping sites offer affordable rates, sometimes as low as $15 per night for local residents and $30 for international tourists. If you need a vehicle, you might find decent weekend deals. Similarly, camping equipment can be rented or borrowed to save money.
A campground visit will allow you to indulge in economical activities like fishing, hiking, biking, canoeing, and much more, in addition to cheap stay-over rates. You can also carry your own foodstuff to cook during your trip. Camping provides an inexpensive yet fun-filled family vacation. It gives you an opportunity to explore the wilderness, simplify life, and connect with your loved ones away from electronic distractions.
2. VISITING RELATIVES
Want a change of scenery for a few days? Consider visiting your relatives living out of town or in another state. If accommodation isn’t a problem at your relative’s place, your lodging expenses can be reduced significantly. Most relatives would be delighted to host you and spend some quality time together. By saving on accommodation, you can spend more on travel food and contribute to food costs during your stay. Explore your relatives’ hometown and its attractions. As locals, they will guide you to the most worthwhile places to visit.
3. WATER PARK RESORT
Water Park resorts are not only quite popular but also affordable with some cheaper options as well. Choosing a smaller, lesser-known resort can be ideal as the package deals can provide savings, offering lodging, entry to the water parks, and in some cases, even food and other attractions. For instance, last spring, I found a Groupon discount offer for a water park resort that cost just $50, including full-day water park tickets and arcade passes for four, along with a large pizza, all just an hour away.
4. BEACH WEEKEND
If you prefer a hotel accommodation, you can still fit that within your budget by reducing other trip-related expenses. Seaside weekends are delightful, inexpensive ways to de-stress. Across the country, several natural beaches, whether ocean or lake, are open to the public free of charge. Essential beach items like sandwiches, drinks, towels, sunscreen, and a beach ball can be packed from home. The hotel you choose may have additional amenities to enhance your stay, such as free breakfast, a swimming pool, nightly entertainment, a spa, and more.
To further reduce your hotel expenses, seek online deals on platforms like Groupon, Living Social, or Kayak. If you use credit cards, check your rewards or cashback points if they can offset some of your room charges. Some credit cards offer signup bonuses that can cover a few nights’ stay if used wisely, while certain conditions are met in the first few months. However, it’s essential to understand the card’s terms and avoid carrying over the balance each month to prevent credit card debt.
BALANCE YOUR WANTS AND NEEDS
You may feel you need a vacation this summer, especially if you’ve been working hard all year without much time off. However, it doesn’t mean you need to drain your pocket. Luxury cruises or visits to Disney World may be fun, but cheaper options offer equal relaxation and family bonding. When planning your vacation this year, prioritize relaxation, new experiences, and family time over extravagant tourist spots, especially if they exceed your budget. These penny-wise trips will give you peace of mind since you can pay for them in cash or rewards.
