Have you spent time checking out advice from experts like Skyscanner, on how to make the holiday a great experience for everyone? Now, all you need to do is enjoy it, right? Unfortunately, for every family holiday there is a financial cost that comes along for the ride. You need to make sure that you get this right, especially if you really want to enjoy the vacation. Spend too much money, and you could end up regretting it once you are back, and still have bills to pay. The good news is that there are ways you can save money on your family holiday, making the trip even more enjoyable.
Be flexible about times and dates
Unless you really have to go on holiday on a specific date, and at a certain time, you should be flexible in your choice. If you can leave midweek, early in the morning or late at night, you can make significant savings.
Use frequent flyer schemes for everyone
Frequent flyer schemes are common place. You may think nothing of building up frequent flyer miles yourself, while forgetting about the kids. You will be surprised at just how many miles can be accumulated if the whole family participates.
Avoid roaming charges
If you and other family members phone home while you are away, roaming charges can soon mount up. Do not forget the advantages of using Skype or Viber where you have access to free Wi-Fi.
Purchase your tickets before you travel
Planning ahead can make things a whole lot easier if you are traveling as a family. It means everything is in place and you have less to think about while you are actually on holiday. Booking tickets for excursions and theme parks ahead of time can also save you money, and help you avoid queues. If you return to theme parks on a regular basis, it’s worth checking out whether buying season passes could lead to even bigger savings.
Not every activity costs money
Even with the best will in the world, the cost of entertaining children on holiday can start to mount up. This is why it’s a good idea to research your destination before you travel, and find all the free things you can do. You can visit parks, museums and beaches. There may even be free festivals or concerts taking place while you are in town.
Do you really need to rent a car?
Your first instinct may be to rent a car at your destination; but do you really need to? Is your accommodation within walking distance of most activities? Is public transport good? Is Uber or Lyft in operation? There is a good chance that hiring a car may not be the best option, so make sure that you do your research.
If you are going to eat out, eat outdoors
Eating out at restaurants can be expensive and difficult if you are in the company of bored younger children. Why not just head to a local store, buy some goodies and take a picnic to a local park? This solution a much more affordable way to eat than using a restaurant and the kids can run around and make as much noise as they want.
Don’t be afraid to ask for savings
Savings on the cost of a holiday are not necessarily out of the question once you have booked. If you see that your trip has been discounted since you made your booking, ask for the discount to be applied. Do not forget that holiday companies are looking for business, so they want to keep customers happy.
Give the kids a budget
Kids tend to think that you suddenly develop bottomless pockets when you are on holiday. It’s easy to get carried away with giving into demands, and end up spending a considerable amount of money. To stop this from happening, give each child a budget each day, for snacks, treats and gifts. It’s up to them whether they spend it all on the one day, or save it up. But that is all the money they get, for the extras that they want.
Have a joint holiday
You can get excellent discounts on group bookings and activities. So, why not team up with family members and friends, and go on a joint holiday. Of course, you should choose people that you get on with, and should still be prepared for the odd disagreement.
