I have kinfolk spread out throughout the country, so our vacations are usually family-oriented. We’re either visiting family, hosting family, or
Planning a family vacation can be one of the most rewarding—and stressful—experiences. With kinfolk spread across the country, our vacations are usually family-oriented. We’re either visiting family, hosting family, or meeting up at a fun destination.
Last year, we met up with our southern family in Myrtle Beach, a perfect halfway point for everyone. And in two weeks, a few of my family members are visiting Virginia Beach (and no, not all of our trips involve beaches).
I don’t have to tell you how planning with a large group can be challenging. If you’re not careful, it can also wreak havoc on your budget. With my big family, skipping these trips would be scandalous (at least according to my aunts!). And while I love seeing everyone who lives hundreds or even thousands of miles away, I’m just as happy when it’s time to say goodbye. I’m an introvert, and spending extended time with people can be draining. But I love my family, and these vacations are a necessary, if sometimes overwhelming, part of staying connected.
So, if you’re planning a trip with the family any time soon, here are some budget-friendly tips that will help you save money and keep your sanity.
1. Plan, Plan, Plan
When you’re coordinating with family, planning is essential. Start early and communicate often to make sure everyone’s on the same page about destinations, travel dates, and expectations.
2. Go During the Off-Season
Once you’ve decided on a destination, plan your trip during the off-season. Not only will this save money, but you’ll also avoid the crowds. Check with the destination about their low seasons, which vary from place to place.
3. Avoid Hotels
Unless you find a stellar deal or can use points, skip the hotel and book a vacation rental instead. It’s a much better option for large groups. My family and I rented a big home through Airbnb for our Myrtle Beach trip, and it was perfect. We had plenty of room for family coming from Arkansas, Maryland, and North Carolina, and everyone was comfortable. Plus, we were able to cook meals and save on dining out. Platforms like Vrbo and HomeAway are also great alternatives.
4. Set a Budget Early
Decide on your spending limits for travel, accommodation, food, and activities before you start making plans. Setting a budget ahead of time helps prevent overspending. You can use the EveryDollar App to track your spending throughout the trip.
5. Use a Group Travel Planning App
Coordinating with family members spread across different locations can get tricky. Keep everyone on the same page with a group travel app like TripIt. It organizes flight itineraries, accommodation details, and schedules in one place, so no one gets confused.
6. Look for Free Activities
You don’t need to break the bank to have fun. Many destinations offer free or low-cost activities like hiking, local festivals, and historic landmarks. Websites like TripAdvisor or AllTrails are perfect for finding free options.
7. Split Costs
When traveling with family, splitting expenses can make the trip more affordable for everyone. Share the costs of accommodation, groceries, and transportation. Tools like Splitwise make it easy to divide and track expenses, so no one feels left out.
8. Pack Snacks
Food costs can add up quickly, especially when you’re on the go. Pack snacks like granola bars, nuts, and sandwiches for road trips to avoid expensive gas station stops. If you’re driving, an insulated cooler like the YETI Roadie 24 Hard Cooler can keep your food and drinks fresh for hours.
9. Use Cash Back Credit Cards
If you’re using credit cards for travel, pick one that offers cash back or travel rewards. Cards like the Chase Freedom Unlimited or Capital One Venture Rewards help you earn money while you spend, making travel more affordable. Just remember to pay off the balance to avoid interest fees.
10. Research Discount Sites for Activities
Websites like Groupon or LivingSocial are gold mines for discounts on local attractions, restaurants, and tours. You can score great deals on fun activities without spending a fortune.
11. Carpool or Use Rideshare Options
If everyone isn’t traveling together, consider carpooling or using a service like Turo to rent a large vehicle for the group. Carpooling reduces gas costs and allows the family to stay together during travel.
12. Book Flights with Fare Alerts
When flying is part of your trip, use tools like Hopper or Google Flights to track flight prices. Set fare alerts to get notified when prices drop so you can snag the best deal possible.
Family vacations don’t have to drain your wallet or drive you to the brink of exhaustion. By planning ahead, using technology, and being mindful of your budget, you can make the most of your time with family while still keeping your finances in check. So, the next time you’re planning a trip with the kin, use these tips to save money, minimize stress, and enjoy every moment—well, almost every moment!