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Cheap family vacations in the U.S. for 2024

Find the ideal family trip to create incredible memories without breaking the bank this year

Photograph: Courtesy Washington, D.C.

Pulling off an enjoyable family vacation on a budget is an Olympic feat—there's the researching, the planning, the booking, the packing, the traveling, and the wrangling. So much wrangling. While trips with children, especially young ones, can be a lot of work, they can be worth it for the quality time and memories. There's something special about being away from the daily grind, connecting as a family and watching kids explore a new place. 

A key component of a family trip is picking a place that won't break the bank. To help make planning for 2024 easier on you, we've rounded up 18 of our favorite budget-friendly destination ideas that are both kid  and  wallet-friendly.

If your brood is outdoorsy, you'll be happy to see plenty of national parks  on the list, including iconic spots like Yosemite , Yellowstone and the Grand Canyon . But if you aren't interested in centering a trip around outdoor adventures , we have you covered with plenty of urban centers and under-the-radar locales alike. From the free museums of  Washington, D.C ., to laid-back vibes of  Asheville, North Carolina to the mouthwatering cheap eats of  Portland, Oregon —take your pick from this list and rest assured your money will go a long way.

Been there, done that? Think again, my friend.

Fun cheap family vacation in the U.S.

1.  destin, fl.

Seek fun in the sun in Destin, Florida , known for its fishing spots, sprawling white sand beaches and being conveniently less expensive than other popular destinations in the state.

Family-friendly activities include boating, snorkeling, parasailing or just strolling along the Destin Harbor Boardwalk. Use the money you saved to indulge in a sunset cruise on a glass-bottom boat or a high-speed racer. And don't miss  Henderson Beach State Park , which offers quiet and secluded beach access with a hiking route through the sand dunes. 

2.  Hunter Mountain, NY

If you've never properly explored upstate New York , you'd be forgiven for thinking it's not much more than a big farm where pets go when they're very old. And while that's probably still partly true, there is so much more to explore, especially around the Catskills mountains and the town of Hunter . Located at the foot of Hunter Mountain, the town looks like it's been forgotten by time, with lots of local shops mostly still with their colonial-style outdoor aesthetic. There are very few, if any, rubber-stamp brands here, the economy is supported by local businesses.

Hunter Mountain is an all-year-round destination. During the summer, there are paths to hike, trails to mountain bike along, nearby streams to play in and so much open space, it boggles the mind. During the winter, the natural beauty of the area is covered in a thick, soft white blanket and it's only one of a few locations on the east coast that offers really good skiing and snowboarding runs. Rentals and Airbnb accommodations are available, but none beat the Hunter Mountain Sanctuary . Rest your aching legs in the evening, sitting outside on a big, wooden patio with a glass of your favorite wine, and as the sun sets, gaze upon those very same slopes you were carving up only a short time ago.

3.  Kings Canyon National Park, CA

Want to really impress your kids? Head to  Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks in California , where they can stand among giants (giant sequoia groves, that is) and meet General Grant (the second largest tree in the world).

The parks also boast 240 caves, a scenic segment of the Sierra Nevada mountain range (including the tallest mountain in the contiguous US), parts of the Kings River and San Joaquin River, and the towering Moro Rock formation. Because of how isolated it is, Sequoia National Park also has some of the darkest skies in the country, making it one of the best  places to stargaze for amateur astrologers alike.

4.  Yellowstone, WY

No other place on earth is like Yellowstone National Park . The massive natural sanctuary (3,471 square miles of greenery) mesmerizes all visitors with its mountains, canyons, geysers, and subalpine forests (don’t be surprised if you spot buffalo, too). With challenging hikes into the backcountry as well as handicap-accessible wooden boardwalks, the wonders of Yellowstone are for everyone. Bring a tent and get here early to take advantage of the affordable campgrounds (seven of which are first-come, first-served and five require reservations ) with fire pits for flame-grilled meals—or if camping is not your thing, book a room at a local hotel .

5.  Grand Canyon, AZ

It’s one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, and for good reason: The Grand Canyon is a sight like no other. The kiddos might complain when you get out of Wi-Fi range, but they’ll remember hiking these trails forever. For an overnight at the Grand Canyon , opt for the North Rim, less crowded and has no-fuss, first-come-first-served campsites. More experienced hikers can switchback steeply down to the river, a mile below the rim, where secluded campsites reward the effort.

6.  Washington, D.C.

The nation's capital is a perfect spot for a family vacation—not only are there plenty of activities that bring history to life for kids in Washington, D.C ., but a large percentage of them are completely free. Visiting the National Mall, monuments, or other historic buildings such as the Library of Congress won't cost you a penny. On top of that, all of the 17 Smithsonian museums are free to enter—from the National Museum of Natural History to the National Zoo . Stop by the American History Museum to see Dorthoy's ruby red slippers, the National Archives Museum to see the original Constitution or the National Air & Space Museum  to see the largest collection of aviation and space artifacts in the world. 

7.  Oak Hill, WV

Located on 1,500 wooded acres adjacent to New River Gorge National Park, the ACE Adventure Resort  is a one-stop shop for all of West Virginia 's outdoor possibilities. ACE offers  white water rafting trips  on the New and Gauley Rivers,  zip line tours  with views of the Gorge, rock climbing, mountain biking and lake adventures. And a ny family on a budget will appreciate the multi-day, all-inclusive package deals that allow for spending without worrying about added charges.

8.  Asheville, NC

For families who love the great outdoors and great food,  Asheville  in North Carolina is for you. Hiking the Blue Ridge Mountains and seeing the beautiful waterfalls at the Pisgah National Forest are free and, in town, you’ll find lots of family fun ideas like minor league baseball  during the summer season. Feel like splurging? The beautiful gardens and grounds of the Biltmore Estate are well worth the price of admission. Inside the historic mansion, you'll find works by Renoir and others. 

9.  Portland, OR

The eccentric city of Portland is ultra-kid-friendly, with plenty of affordable and free activities to keep little ones entertained during any season. Explore the bounty of nature in this section of Oregon: hike through Forest Park (featuring 50 different trails), get up close to waterfalls (don't miss Wahkeena Falls in the Columbia River Gorge) and visit the famous International Rose Test Garden . Nearly every section of the city features well-manicured parks and playgrounds for kids to get their energy out, plus plenty of cheap eats to fuel their adventures. Another great way to get a sense of Portland's artistic culture without breaking the bank is to head to First Thursdays, where you can enjoy local artwork, food and drink vendors, and more. 

10.  Williamsburg, VA

If your squad’s favorite subject in school is history—or riding roller coasters—then make the trip to Williamsburg,  Virginia . Families can explore  Historic Williamsburg (a Colonial-era living history museum complete with horse-drawn carriages) and then seek thrills at Busch Gardens , where you'll find coasters, animals, and more. If it's summer vacation, add on a visit to Water Country USA (the season opens May 2023). Check out the area’s package deals like the Kids Play Free Package , which includes your choice of hotel (from selected partners) and free admission to multiple parks to save some cash. 

11.  Durango, CO

Durango and its nearby mountains and mesas are a thrill in any season. In warmer months, you'll find everything from epic hiking to white water rafting, plus one of the most spectacular train rides in the country: the historic Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad (if you visit during snow season, it’s one of the best winter train rides in the country). 

Mesa Verde National Park and its incredible cliff dwellings are just a short drive away, and you can camp for free nearby or check out the railroad's hotel packages for discounts on overnights in the charming former mining town. In winter months, Purgatory Ski Resort  is less expensive and less crowded than Colorado competitors like Aspen, but with equally majestic slopes.

12.  Outer Banks, NC

The Outer Banks are a series of barrier islands off the coast of North Carolina, separating the mainland from the Atlantic Ocean. The beautiful, breezy coastline incorporates open-sea beaches, state parks and shipwreck diving sites, making them a popular holiday destination. The area positively drips in history: Roanoke Island was the site of England’s first settlement in the New World; aviators Orville and Wilbur Wright took their famous first flight at Kill Devil Hills and the pirate Blackbeard fought his last battle at Ocracoke. But this archipelago, often referred to as just OBX, isn't just an Aladdin's cave for history aficionados. It also offers fishing, windsurfing, snorkeling, scuba diving or even just wildlife watching. It's a definite must-see if you're exploring the eastern seaboard.

13.  Moab, UT

If you're an outdoorsy crew with an affection for national parks, look no further than Moab, Utah for your next family vacation. With its proximity to two national parks—Arches National Park and Canyonlands National Park—plus several majestic state parks, your days will be packed hiking, rafting, boating, and ATVing through the red rocks. Another perk: the area has a lot of campsite options or affordable cabins to rent. 

14.  Bandera, TX

Giddy up to the  Flying L , a genuine dude ranch outside of San Antonio , for some Western-themed fun. Whether you’re dying to try horseback riding or just hoping to relax in a resort where kids can entertain themselves, this ranch has you covered. There are plenty of fun outdoor activities for the whole family including creekside fishing, horseshoes, 18-hole putt putt and a full golf course, plus courts for basketball, tennis, volleyball, and even pickleball.

15.  Myrtle Beach, SC

Though the sand at Myrtle Beach, South Carolina can get crowded, you’re sure to find a spot for your umbrella (six feet away from everyone else). Just wander along the Grand Strand—a 60-mile stretch of white sand beaches from the North Carolina border south to Georgetown with Myrtle Beach at the center. If sand isn't your thing, book a room at the Sea Mist Oceanfront Resort , which just underwent a renovation and boasts its own lazy river and water park-like pool. Better yet, visit on weekdays for better rates, and save some extra dough. 

16.  Yosemite, CA

Yosemite is not just one of California's most awe-inspiring landscapes, it's one of the most impressive examples of natural beauty in the world. Nearly 1,200 square miles of God's gorgeousness includes waterfalls, thousand-year-old sequoia trees and some of the most daunting rock formations in the U.S.

Despite the sheer enormity of this national park , most tourists flock to an 8-sq-mile area of Yosemite Valley where the park's most well-known landmarks are located, including the Half Dome  rock formation and infamous, monolithic El Capitan, along with enjoyable hiking trails through the natural monuments. Take note that reservation and permit procedures are often changing. Be sure to check out the recreation.gov site for more details before you make travel plans.

17.  Old Orchard Beach, ME

The quaint, peaceful beauty of Maine is on full display at historic Old Orchard Beach —a vacation destination for over 170 years. Here, your family will find gentle waves perfect for swimming, fishing, sailing, kayaking, and top-notch whale watching. In the summer, treat your kids to Palace Playland , New England’s only beachfront amusement park (open seasonally), with over a dozen rides and an arcade. Keen to pinch some more pennies? Plan ahead, pitch a tent and save some money by camping on the beach .

18.  Niagara Falls, NY

Everyone on Earth has heard of Niagara Falls and most are probably at least vaguely aware of its history, but nothing will quite prepare you for the moment you first see the 188ft drop in person and hear the roar of water pouring over the precipice at nearly 70mph. There are plenty of things to do here; many are free, but most will require a credit card or cash.

Parking availability isn't too bad, but it's not exactly cheap and sadly, in recent years, the site of outstanding natural awesomeness has taken a turn towards a somewhat commercialized Vegas look and feel. But in all fairness, if you're not too far away and have never visited, it's worth appreciating the mighty force of Mother Nature, even if it's just once.

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22 Best Cheap Family Vacations – Affordable, Fun, Kid Friendly Ideas!

By: Author Tanner Wilkes

Posted on Published: May 18, 2020  - Last updated: June 10, 2023

Are you ready for a trip filled with laughter and cherished memories without breaking the bank?

Look no further, for we have a plethora of affordable, kid-friendly vacation ideas that will leave your family beaming with joy.

From beachfront locations and bustling resorts to quaint countryside retreats, a world of possibilities awaits you.

Immerse yourselves in excellent indoor and outdoor activities and stay in spacious accommodations, all while staying within your budget.

Selecting the best cheap family vacations that suit your interests and budget might be challenging.

And that’s why I am here to help you by reviewing the top cheap and fun destinations.

I have visited many affordable destinations with my family, and we learned a few things during our trips.

I will also include the insights I learned from conversations with other families.

Moreover, I have rated each place according to its family-friendliness, affordability, educational value, and other essential criteria.

So, what are you waiting for?

Prepare for a fun-filled and affordable getaway as you read our reviews below.

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Best Cheap Family Vacations Compared

From comfortable hotels to family-friendly resorts, affordable family vacations are within your reach.

We have provided our top-pick destinations in our reviews below.

Editor’s Choice

Esme Miami Beach

Esme Miami Beach is a stunning oceanfront hotel in the heart of Miami Beach, Florida.

• Family-friendliness: 4/5
• Affordability: 4/5
• Educational Value: 3/5
• Entertainment Variety: 5/5
• Accessibility: 4/5

#2nd Best Choice

Las Vegas Hilton At Resorts World

Located on the iconic Las Vegas Strip, the Las Vegas Hilton at Resorts World offers you a memorable experience.

#3rd Best Choice

Tahoe Seasons Resort

Tahoe Seasons Resort is a charming mountain retreat nestled in the breathtaking landscape of South Lake Tahoe in California.

• Affordability: 3/5
• Entertainment Variety: 4/5

Here are the top 22 cheap vacations for families.

1. Esme Miami Beach (Editor’s Choice)

1438 Washington Ave Miami Beach, FL 33139 (305) 809-8050 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Ratings Criteria

• Fantastic ocean views
• Convenient location
• High noise levels during peak seasons

This boutique hotel offers a range of amenities and a luxurious and comfortable experience.

You can spend the day swimming at the pool, relaxing at the spa, or exploring the nearby beaches.

The hotel also offers a kids’ club, which provides your children with fun and engaging activities while you relax.

Additionally, the hotel has a children’s pool, and the nearby beaches provide a range of family-friendly activities.

Water sports, beach volleyball, you name it.

Esme Miami Beach will give you the fun and relaxation you deserve.

Recommended Hotel: Teton Mountain Lodge and Spa, a Noble House

2. Las Vegas Hilton At Resorts World

999 Resorts World Ave Las Vegas, NV 89109 (702) 676-7000 Visit Website Open in Google Maps

• Various entertainment options
• Well-equipped and spacious rooms
• Crowded elevators and common areas

The hotel has a world-class casino, multiple pools, a spa, and a fitness center.

You can also indulge in excellent dining options, with various restaurants and bars available on-site.

Plus, the hotel hosts live entertainment shows and performances, creating a vibrant atmosphere for guests.

While Las Vegas is known for its adult-oriented entertainment, it offers several kid-friendly activities.

Your family will enjoy the outdoor pool complex with water slides and splash zones.

The nearby Adventuredome Theme Park also offers rides and attractions suitable for all ages.

Related: California Family Vacations

3. Tahoe Seasons Resort

3901 Saddle Rd South Lake Tahoe, CA 96150 (530) 541-6700 Visit Website Open in Google Maps

• Relaxing and serene atmosphere
• Various outdoor activities
• Limited educational or cultural activities within the resort

Surrounded by majestic pine trees and stunning lake views, this resort provides a perfect getaway for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Tahoe Seasons Resort offers a range of amenities to enhance guests’ experience, including an outdoor heated pool, hot tubs, and a sauna.

The resort’s location provides access to many activities throughout the year.

You can enjoy skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing in winter at the nearby slopes.

In the warmer months, Lake Tahoe offers swimming, boating, fishing, and hiking opportunities on the surrounding trails.

The resort also organizes kid-friendly events and provides a game room for entertainment.

Related: Washington DC Restaurants

Related: Best Family Hotels in Washington D.C.

4. Hilton Vacation Club Mystic Dunes Orlando

7600 Mystic Dunes Ln Celebration, FL 34747 (407) 396-1311 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Hilton Vacation Club Mystic Dunes Orlando is a fantastic family-friendly resort in the heart of Orlando, Florida.

The resort offers spacious and beautifully appointed villas, providing you and your family with a comfortable and home-like experience.

The resort also boasts a championship golf course, a fitness center, a spa, and tennis courts.

Your kids will also love the resort’s multiple swimming pools, including a big lagoon-style pool with a water slide and a lazy river for relaxation. 

The resort offers a children’s playground, a kids’ club with supervised activities, and a game room.

Furthermore, its proximity to popular attractions like Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando Resort ensures endless entertainment for your kids.

5. Grand Canyon, AZ

Grand Canyon Village, AZ (928) 638-7888 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

One of the most amazing sights in the world, the Grand Canyon affords some of the best views at almost no cost.

All you need is to hike along the Bright Angel Trail or the Rim Trail or drive the Desert View Drive where you can picnic or visit the Tusayan museum and ruin site.

There are not many eateries here, so head out to Flagstaff, Arizona, for tasty but cheap menus.

Since it can get overcrowded in spring and summer, book your rooms and campsites in advance.

Recommended Hotel: Drury Inn & Suites Flagstaff

Related: Arizona Family Vacations

6. Myrtle Beach, SC

Myrtle Beach, SC (800) 356-3016 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Myrtle Beach has calm waters, is not very crowded and offers a cheap family vacation package.

Banana boat rides and parasailing are among the many diversions.

Amusement and water parks, mini-golf courses and an aquarium give something for every member of the family.

There is a 350-acre Broadway at the Beach entertainment and shopping center that can keep you busy.

During summers, it also hosts complimentary concerts for music lovers.

If you are a sports enthusiast, you may want to indulge in some baseball games at Pelicans Ballpark.

Recommended Hotel: Hilton Grand Vacations Club Ocean Enclave Myrtle Beach

Related: Best Myrtle Beach Resorts for Families

7. San Diego, CA

San Diego, CA (619) 232-3101 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

San Diego has many attractions that make it ideal for a family visit.

It is also where you can visit the world-famous San Diego Zoo that also houses the Balboa Park.

USS Midway Museum exposes you to history for those who enjoy it.

Otherwise, there are many beaches where your little ones can play in the sand.

While you will have to book your hotel or resort in advance to get good deals, you can also look for a vacation rental that can prove to be a real money saver.

Recommended Hotel: Pendry San Diego

Related: Good Restaurants: San Diego

Related: Best Family Hotels in San Diego

8. Destin, FL

Destin, FL (850) 837-6241 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Yet another spot is Destin , known for its fishing spots and sprawling beaches, having a gala time splashing in the water or building sandcastles.

Your entire family will find the fishing or boat tour very appealing.

You can also go snorkeling or parasailing.

Stroll along the Destin Harbor Boardwalk for a leisurely time with the family.

You will also find that staying in Destin is cheaper than in the other popular Florida beach towns.

Use the money you have saved to indulge in some sunset cruise on a glass-bottom boat or a high-speed racer.

Recommended Hotel: Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort

Related: Best Family Resorts in Destin, Florida

9. Niagara Falls, Canada

Niagara Falls, Ontario, Canada (905) 356-6061 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Waterfalls, waterfalls and more waterfalls.

And you will find that there is nothing called ‘enough waterfalls’!

You can view the waterfalls from the US or the Canadian side , the favorable dollar rates making it affordable.

You can also get reasonably priced hotels and attractions, and if you visit in late spring or early fall, you can even give the crowds a miss as well as benefit from offseason rates.

That’s not all, you can go hiking if your family loves the outdoors, including the Dufferin Islands and Niagara Glen.

This is an ideal destination for a cheap and fun holiday.

Recommended Hotel: The Oakes Hotel Overlooking the Falls

10. Ocean City, MD

Ocean City, MD (800) 626-2326 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

This Maryland beach town is the most affordable family vacation you can find because of the time you can spend in the free beaches and parks dotting the city.

It gives you unadulterated time to bond with your family as you soak up some sun.

There are year-long festivals where you can participate with your children in the evenings.

There is also mini-golf for you to indulge in with your family.

Look for vacation rentals that will work out easier on your pocket than staying in a hotel.

Recommended Hotel: Princess Royale Oceanfront Resort

Related: Best Family Hotels in Ocean City, Maryland

11. The Catskills, NY

Catskill Mountains, NY Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Away from the regular holiday activities, The Catskills in New York is a budget-friendly getaway where your little ones can try out new things such as farms where they can feed the animals.

Located in southeast New York , you can also go rock climbing, fishing and bumper boating in the summer.

Winter brings with it its own set of activities such as skiing and sledding.

You will be able to find all-inclusive, family-oriented resorts.

Or if you are up to roughing it out in a local campground, you will be able to save extra.

Recommended Hotel: The Roxbury

12. Gatlinburg, TN

Gatlinburg, TN (865) 436-4178 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Head to Gatlinburg in Tennessee , located just north of Great Smoky Mountains National Park, for an inexpensive vacation.

You can indulge in several outdoor activities as the entry to the park is free.

You can go hiking, biking or visit historical exhibits, all of which are free of cost.

What’s more, you can attend innumerable festivals of music, art and nature anytime of the year, all of which is also free.

And what’s more, if you visit in March, April or September, you can save further on accommodation as well.

Recommended Hotel: Margaritaville Resort Gatlinburg

Related: Places to Eat in Gatlinburg

13. Branson, MO

Branson, MO (417) 334-4084 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Nestled within the Ozarks in Missouri, Branson has a reputation for being the ideal quintessential family vacation destination.

What’s more, it is also affordable and fun!

There is a 19th-century themed amusement park that is truly amusing, a water park and a life-sized replica of the Titanic.

You can go swimming in Table Rock Lake or visit the Shepherd of the Hills Fish Hatchery at no cost.

Select from one of the many reasonably priced family-friendly restaurants and cafes for menus ranging from buffets to barbecues.

Recommended Hotel: Grand Crowne Resort by Capital Vacations

Related: Best Family Resorts Near Branson

14. Chicago, IL

Chicago, IL (312) 567-8560 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Does the thought of a deep-dish pizza or loaded hot dogs make the pretty mouths of your children water?

Head out to Chicago to indulge them the food they love.

But Chicago is not just about the food.

You can take architecture boat tours, visit science and art museums, or spend time in free parks.

If your family is into baseball, then a visit to Wrigley Field is a must.

Pro tip: visit the city in spring or fall to benefit from best deals from hotels.

Recommended Hotel: The Langham Chicago

Related: Chicago Restaurants

Related: Best Hotels in Chicago for Families

15. South Padre Island, TX

South Padre Island, TX (800) 213-5869 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

South Padre Island is a cheap and friendly family vacation destination with several kid-friendly activities.

The island has a pleasant temperature for the most part of the year, so you can visit anytime you want.

Children can take a swim in the sea, visit the Dolphin Research & Sealife Nature Center and even touch critters or visit Sea Turtle, Inc., to watch turtle feedings.

For nature lovers, this is a bird-watching haven and costs nothing.

All you have to do is head to the South Padre Island Birding and Nature Center with your binoculars.

If you want to avoid the crowds, skip the spring break crowd in March.

Recommended Hotel: Hilton Garden Inn South Padre Island

16. Adirondacks, NY

Adirondack, NY Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

For those who love the outdoors, the Adirondacks offer an array of options.

During winter, families can indulge in skiing, snowshoeing and dog sledding.

In spring and summer, you can go hiking, biking, fishing and whitewater rafting.

Expose your little one to the Olympic history by visiting Lake Placid’s Olympic museums and sports complexes and avail discounts by purchasing the Olympic Sites Passport.

You can also get discounts on several other activities.

A vacation rental may be easier on your pocket than lodging.

Recommended Hotel: The Whiteface Lodge

17. Williamsburg, VA

Williamsburg, VA (757) 229-6511 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

If you are looking for an inexpensive vacation spot, Colonial Williamsburg in Virginia would be the ideal getaway.

A history buff’s haven, you can meet historical townspeople and be part of one of the several popular tours ranging from ghost walks to carriage rides to experience life in the past.

Water Country USA and Busch Gardens Williamsburg are closeby, a great appeal for the younger ones in the group.

Opt for combo tickets to cut costs as the park tickets can be expensive.

Save on accommodations by visiting in the fall, winter and early spring.

Recommended Hotel: The Colonies at Williamsburg

Related: Food Places in Williamsburg

Related: Best Family Vacations in Virginia

18. Hilton Head, SC

Hilton Head, SC (800) 523-3373 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Find cheap family vacation packages in Hilton Head , a South Carolina barrier island, through local resorts where the parents can tee off on the golf course and also enjoy wide, clean beaches at no cost.

Pinckney Island National Wildlife Refuge’s animal-filled hammocks are a must see for nature lovers, and attract no admission fee.

You can explore the place on foot or by bike.

Shelter Cove Harbour & Marina hosts live music and various events, also free of cost.

You can also explore the island by going on a kayaking trip or spend some quiet time fishing.

Recommended Hotel: Sonesta Resort – Hilton Head Island

Related: Restaurants in Hilton Head, SC

Related: Best Hilton Head Resorts for Families

19. Denver, CO

Denver, CO (800) 233-6837 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Denver offers something to do for everyone.

Art lovers will find art festivals, concerts and museums just up their alley.

Then there are walking tours that the entire family will enjoy.

Affordable eateries offer cheap and best dishes catering to different tastes, be it for Italian food or classic American fare.

Relax in the parks or take a stroll.

The Denver Zoo with more than 4,000 animals is a treat for the little tykes.

They will also be thrilled to ride in the carousel or the train that winds its way through the complex.

They can have a great movie experience in the 4D theater.

Spring or fall will be the best time to get the best rates.

Recommended Hotel: The Curtis- A DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel

Related: Best Hotels in Denver for Families

20. Bar Harbor, ME

Bar Harbor, ME (800) 288-5103 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Bar Harbor has much to offer by way of vacation activities.

You can go swimming, and the calm waters at the freshwater beach at Echo Lake will be a novel experience for the family.

You can take a walking tour down the “Museum in the Streets” or find trails for hiking, walking and cycling.

Acadia National Park is another favorite spot for hiking, camping and coastline views.

If you are there between July 17 through August 21, free popcorn and kid-friendly movie viewing at Agamont Park will be a great hit with the family, especially the younger ones.

Recommended Hotel: Holiday Inn Bar Harbor Regency Hotel

Related: Best Restaurants in Bar Harbor

Related: Best Family Vacations in Maine

21. Winter Park, CO

Winter Park, CO (970) 726-4118 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Winter Park is not only a winter destination but just as great in summer.

What’s more, summer discounts at the Winter Park Resort make it within reach of all budgets.

Families can go hiking, biking, horseback riding, rafting, zip-lining and experiencing Colorado’s longest alpine slide.

The United States’ only summer tubing hill is also nearby at the Snow Mountain Ranch.

You can also go for miniature golf.

Other activities include swimming, climbing walls indoor and outdoor.

Hideaway Park organizes free concerts and events throughout the summer.

Recommended Hotel: Best Western Alpenglo Lodge

Related: Colorado Family Vacations

22. Pittsburgh, PA

Pittsburgh, PA (412) 281-7711 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

It’s not for nothing Pittsburgh is called “Kidsburgh”.

Be it the Pittsburgh Zoo or the Children’s Museum, there is much that children will enjoy here.

Summer also sees a 10-day Grand Prix where vintage cars can be sighted.

Walking tours give you a glimpse of the city or you can go around downtown in subway lines that offer free rides along the Golden Triangle.

Have mouth-watering lunch for under $10!

You can go biking along the Great Allegheny Passage to enjoy scenic vistas as you ride over bridges and in tunnels along a 150-mile trail.

For those reasons and more this is one our favorite places to go for the best cheap family vacations.

Recommended Hotel: Cambria Hotel Pittsburgh – Downtown

Related: Best Places to Eat in Pittsburgh

Related: Best Family Resorts Near Pittsburgh

Vacationer’s Guide

Comparing destinations: which one is right for you.

Choosing the best cheap family destinations is a breeze.

You can compare each destination’s rate offers, services, amenities, and drawbacks or limitations.

Then, you and your family can select the best place that suits your interests.

Esme Miami Beach offers fantastic ocean views, and its convenient location will put you near various attractions and dining options.

But one drawback of the hotel is the potential for high noise levels during peak seasons.

The Las Vegas Hilton at Resorts World provides many entertainment options and well-equipped and spacious rooms.

But given the popularity of this hotel, the elevators, and common areas can get crowded, especially during peak travel seasons.

Meanwhile, the Tahoe Seasons Resort offers a relaxing, serene atmosphere and various outdoor activities like skiing and hiking.

But the resort has limited availability of educational or cultural activities.

If you’re searching for an alternative to Tahoe Seasons Resort, Hilton Vacation Club Mystic Dunes Orlando is a must-stay.

This resort offers various amenities and activities for all ages.

However, the resort offers limited on-site dining options.

How I Picked The Destinations 

As an avid traveler, I always look for cheap family destinations.

I stayed at the hotels and resorts on our list and did careful and thorough reviews.

I also examined each destination’s services, amenities, accommodations, and more.

Apart from that, I engaged with my fellow travelers and talked to them about their experiences and tips to make my reviews more precise.

Our Rating Method 

I rate these family vacations based on the following criteria. 

• Affordability: I use this to evaluate the affordability of every destination or property. Are food and entertainment included in the prices? Is it worth the money? What packages do they offer? These are the questions I ask myself when assessing the affordability of the vacation destination.
• Safety: This is used to assess the safety of the destination. Is the area safe? Is the environment family-friendly? How are the crime rates? I ask these to ensure the safety of the stay. 
• Kid-Friendly Activities: I use this to assess the activities available for kids. Are there playgrounds or waterparks? Are there museums nearby to visit? Do they have kids’ clubs? I use these factors to assess how kid-friendly the activities on-site are.
• Accessibility: This criterion is used to assess the convenience of the location. Does it have good transportation options? Is it located near airports or major highways? Are there restaurants and local attractions within walking distance? I ask these questions to evaluate the accessibility of the destination. 
• Accommodations: I use this criterion to rate accommodations. Are the rooms available spacious or interconnecting? Are kitchenettes available? Can you request a crib or high chair? Do they offer complimentary breakfast? These are the factors I consider when rating the accommodations.
• Ease of Travel: This evaluates the accessibility of the destination. Is it in a convenient location that is easy to get to? Is it easily accessible by public transportation? Does it have enough parking space? Is it wheelchair accessible? I use these questions to assess this criterion. 

Frequently Asked Questions 

How do i budget for a family vacation.

To budget for a family vacation, estimate your expenses for accommodation, transportation, meals, and activities, and allocate a specific amount for each category. Prioritize your spending based on what is most important to your family and adjust accordingly to stay within your budget.

Are There Any Beach Destinations That Provide Affordable Accommodations And Family-friendly Activities?

Yes, there are beach destinations that provide affordable accommodations and family-friendly activities. Some of these are Esme Miami Beach and Clearwater Beach, Florida.

Conclusion 

Based on the ratings, it is clear that the best cheap family vacations offer something unique for everyone.

The Las Vegas Hilton at Resorts World was a whirlwind of excitement for my family.

We couldn’t contain our excitement as we explored the various entertainment options.

The kids’ eyes sparkled brighter than the Strip lights as we indulged in the many fun-filled family activities. 

Their delight in every moment turned our vacation into a priceless treasure trove of memories.

At Tahoe Seasons Resort, we were enchanted by the serene atmosphere and the chance to immerse ourselves in outdoor adventures.

We also loved the fantastic pools and the mini-golf course at Hilton Vacation Club Mystic Dunes Orlando.

But Esme Miami Beach gave us the best family vacation.

Our days were filled with laughter and splashing at Esme Miami Beach. 

The kids adored the children’s pool, their giggles echoing under the sun. 

And the sunsets? 

Simply breathtaking.

We enjoyed playing at the beach and discovering seashells on the shorelines.

We also appreciated the hotel’s convenient location, which allowed us to explore the exciting attractions of Miami Beach.

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30 Cheap Family Vacations You Haven’t Thought of Before

Budget-friendly picks for the whole brood.

PureWow editors select every item that appears on this page, and the company may earn compensation through affiliate links within the story. All prices are accurate upon date of publish. You can learn more about the affiliate process here .

Planning a great family holiday can feel like a challenge, especially if you are working within a specific budget. Instead of doing the same old thing (or just giving up and going to Disney World again, which, let's be honest, is anything but cheap), it’s possible to come up with a creative idea that doesn’t require flying around the world or spending a ton of cash.

We scoured the map looking for the best cheap family vacations across the country, where you can find accommodations for $250/night or less (for a family of four), plus a bevy of free and inexpensive things to do. From camping in Yellowstone to small, charming Southern towns , here are 30 cheap family vacations for your next trip with the whole squad.

20 of the Best All-Inclusive Resorts in the U.S.

1. Yellowstone National Park, WY

• Why We Recommend It: legendary national park, varied outdoor activities for all ages and abilities, close proximity to Grand Teton National Park
• Free Things to Do: Old Faithful Geyser, Mammoth Hot Springs, Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone River
• Getting there: 30 minutes from Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport
• Where to Stay: Mountain Family Cabin (from $123/night, sleeps 7); Cozy Yellowstone River Cabin (from $185/night, sleeps 8); Log Retreat by Yellowstone (from $199/night, sleeps 10)

Why leave the country when we’ve got one of the most majestic places in the world right here? Take the kiddos for adventures at Yellowstone National Park —we’re talking watching wildlife in Lamar Valley, visiting the Midway Geyser Basin (aka the largest hot spring in the U.S.) and spending the day splashing around at Yellowstone Lake. You can get a seven-day private vehicle pass for $35.

2. San Diego, CA

• Why We Love It: museums, beaches, gardens and great eats can all be found in this coastal SoCal town
• Free Things to Do: sunsets on La Jolla cove, Gaslamp Quarter, Mission Bay Park, Mission Beach Boardwalk
• Getting there: San Diego International Airport
• Where to Stay: San Diego Bungalow (from $84/night, sleeps 4); Lemon Grove Home (from $148/night, sleeps 9); Tropical Paradise Home (from $236/night, sleeps 6)

Drive south from Los Angeles and you’ll hit San Diego, a sunny enclave on the coast filled with activities kids and adults will love. You can birdwatch at the Tijuana Estuary or let the little ones run through Balboa Park while you admire the Spanish Colonial Revival architecture and gardens. Need a nighttime activity? The San Diego Astronomy Association hosts monthly stargazing events. Check out the murals at Chicano Park and don't forget to to experience one of the city's famed, otherworldly sunsets.

3. Hershey, PA

• Why We Love It: dive into a world of chocolate with an amusement park, museums and other Hershey attractions
• Free Things to Do: chocolate tour, horse racing, Swatara Creek
• Getting there: 20 minutes from Harrisburg International Airport
• Where to Stay: Sunny Hershey Abode (from $147/night, sleeps 6); House in the Heart of Hershey (from $149/night, sleeps 9); Hershey Historical Home (from $163/night, sleeps 8)

Known as the “Sweetest Place on Earth,” Hershey is a great family destination for those who want to experience a theme park without the sky-high prices. The town is home to Hersheypark and ZooAmerica , as well as The Hershey Story Museum and Hershey Gardens . Need to burn off all that sugar? Swatara Creek and the Hershey Medical Center Trail are great places for outdoor activities, including 10 trails for hiking, biking, walking and kayaking.

4. Outer Banks, NC

• Why We Love It: endless ocean views, serene ambience, lots of outdoor activities
• Free Things to Do: Bodie Lighthouse, National Scenic Byway, see the Corolla Wild Horses
• Getting there: 2 hours and 30 minutes from Norfolk International Airport
• Where to Stay: Dolphin View Beach House (from $184/night, sleeps 8); Oceanfront Condo (from $119/night, sleeps 6); Home in Nags Head (from $159/night, sleeps 6)

Sea salt air and uncrowded beaches makes the Outer Banks an ideal spot for a relatively serene family vacation. You can spend the day sprawled out and getting a healthy dose of vitamin D (just don’t forget to pack sunscreen ) at Rodanthe, Nags Head or Waves beaches. For some fun and adventure with the kiddos, you can opt for climbing the Currituck Beach Lighthouse or the Bodie Island Lighthouse or spend the day taking historic monuments at Wright Brothers National Memorial and Chicamacomico Life-Saving Station Historic Site and Museum .

5. Fort Myers, FL

• Why We Love It: laid-back, colorful town, easy beach and water access
• Free Things to Do: Six Mile Cypress Slough Preserve, Fort Myers River District, Bunche Beach
• Getting there: 30 minutes from Southwest Florida International Airport
• Where to Stay: Charming Cape Coral Home (from $119/night, sleeps 6); Cape Coral Canal Home (from $150/night, sleeps 8); Fort Myers Home (from $156/night, sleeps 6)

Nothing screams rest and relaxation quite like the white sand beaches of Fort Myers. That means there’s plenty of opportunity for tons of water-based activities—deep-sea fishing, kayaking and jet skiing with the family. You can also ditch the kids and spend the day golfing or catch a sunset cruise for just you and your beau.

6. Myrtle Beach, SC

• Why We Love It: 60 miles of beaches, stand-out golf courses, boardwalk, iconic amusement park
• Free Things to Do: Broadway at the Beach, Myrtle Beach Boardwalk, South Carolina Hall of Fame, Conway Riverwalk
• Getting there: 10 minutes from Myrtle Beach International Airport
• Where to Stay: Grand Cayman Oceanfront Suite (from $61/night, sleeps 8); Beach Side Vacation House (from $59/night, sleeps 4); Oceanfront Family Suite (from $79/night, sleeps 6)

Between the amusement and water parks, mini-golf courses and an aquarium, you’ll find so many activities to do in Myrtle Beach, a week’s vacation won’t seem like it's enough. After a fun-filled day spent at tourist hot spots like Alligator Adventure or Blackbeard's Pirate Cruise you can either ramp up the energy and head over to the Carolina Opry for an entertaining variety show, or go slow by taking a leisurely stroll with your brood on the beach. If you’re simply not sure what you’re in the mood for at any given time, head over to Broadway at the Beach —a 350-acre entertainment and shopping center—where you’re guaranteed to find something that tickles your fancy.

7. Williamsburg, VA

• Why We Love It: part of the "Historical Triangle" with Jamestown and Yorktown, living history museum
• Free Things to Do: hiking in York River State Park, Yorktown Trolley, York County Historical Museum, Williamsburg Botanical Garden
• Getting there: 27 minutes Newport News/Williamsburg International Airport
• Where to Stay: Historical Williamsburg Condo (from $93/night, sleeps 6); Resort Apartment (from $115/night, sleeps 6); Cozy Single Family Home (from $154/night, sleeps 6)

Busy the mini-me’s (and yourself) with wild rides at Busch Gardens or a day filled with historic reenactments at Colonial Williamsburg . For some family bonding time, you can also sail the York River, ride horses, hike or bike through the 30 miles of trails York River State Park offers. The options are plenty.

8. Niagara Falls, NY

• Why We Love It: iconic, massive waterfall and vibrant city with many outdoor activities and attractions
• Free Things to Do: drive Niagara Parkway, Niagara River Recreation Trail, Niagara Parks Botanical Gardens
• Getting there: 14 minutes from Niagara International Airport
• Where to Stay: Riverway Village Charmer (from $103/night, sleeps 8); Home with River Views (from $116/night, sleeps 11); Grand Island Townhome (from $158/night, sleeps 4)

Those on the East Coast can easily pack up the car and head north to Niagara Falls, where they’ll find a vibrant city filled with museums and parks and of course, the Niagara Falls themselves. There’s a lot to see in this vivacious city, from the Niagara Parks Botanical Gardens to the history museum and endless beautiful drives that all can enjoy.

9. Bowling Green, KY

• Why We Love It: great for car enthusiasts, small-town charm, historical attractions
• Free Things to Do: Fountain Square Park, Lost River Cave, Hobson Grove Park
• Getting there: 1 hour and 25 minutes from Nashville International Airport
• Where to Stay: Modern Chic Apartment (from $115/night, sleeps 8); Cozy Duplex (from $102/night, sleeps 6); The Candle Loft (from $145/night, sleeps 4)

For families with children currently bewildered by cars, trucks and the like, Bowling Green may be the unexpected destination where your kids will have the time of their lives. The city is the only place in the U.S. that manufactures Corvettes, and a trip to the General Motors GM Bowling Green Assembly Plant allows visitors to see the step-by-step production of the sleek sports car. The Corvette Museum also includes one-of-a-kind prototypes, that were designed but never manufactured, among other cool Corvette relics.

10. Denver, CO

• Why We Love It: perfect mix of outdoor adventure, art, history and culture year-round
• Free Things to Do: Golden Triangle Creative District, Colorado State Capital, United States Mint, Denver Central Library
• Getting there: fly into Denver International Airport
• Where to Stay: Spacious Denver Guest Unit (from $116/night, sleeps 9 guests); Bright 2-Bedroom Escape (from $120/night); Historic Home with Garden (from $99/night, sleeps 10)

While Denver may be a popular hotspot for winter vacationing , it’s not a shabby destination for some summertime family fun. You can spend the day watching elephants swim, orangutans swing and lions roar at the Denver Zoo . You can also explore fossils and dinosaurs, ponder the mysteries of space at the Denver Museum of Nature and Science , which is right next door.

11. Grand Canyon Village, AZ

• Why We Love It: make this iconic trip even less expensive by camping
• Free Things to Do: Yavapai Point, cycle on Hermit Road, South Rim Trail
• Getting there: 15 minutes from Grand Canyon National Park Airport
• Where to Stay: Cozy South Rim Home (from $73/night, sleeps 4); Grand Canyon Countryside Lodge (from $149/night, sleeps 10); “Altitude Adjustment” Cabin in Kanab (from $180/night, sleeps 6)

Fair warning: A trip to Grand Canyon Village—which houses the widely popular Bright Angel Trail—will not be the quietest vacay to go on. However, looking at the vast wonder that is the Grand Canyon itself will be well worth it. Located at the South Rim, the buzzy town is chock full of things to do with the kids. You can hike and set up a picnic at Shoshone Point (the trail is only a mile long), head over to the Yavapai Geology Museum where kids can touch a 3D large topographic relief model of the area and if you plan for a trip in June, you can even join in on one of the Grand Canyon’s Annual Start Party where you spend the night stargazing.

12. Washington D.C.

• Why We Love It: world-class museums, historical sites and cultural attractions
• Free Things to Do: Smithsonian museums, National Mall, Library of Congress, National Archives, Georgetown, Museum of Natural History
• Getting there: fly into Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport
• Where to Stay: Gorgeous Townhouse (from $110/night, sleeps 8); Capitol Hill Apartment (from $120/night, sleeps 4); Townhouse in Greener Part of Town (from $129/night, sleeps 8)

The main draw of Washington, D.C. is the National Mall , where all the museums offer free entry to visitors. Most of the national monuments are also free to explore, and the National Zoo welcomes guests for no charge every day of the year. Just make sure you reserve passes in advance for everyone, including infant children.

13. Catskill Mountains, NY

• Why We Love It: tranquil refuge from bustling NYC, easy drive from the city for a family weekend getaway
• Free Things to Do: Slide Mountain, Dutchman's Landing, Pratt Rock, Hudson-Athens Lighthouse
• Getting there: 2 hours and 22 minutes from JFK International Airport
• Where to Stay: Modern Townhouse (from $220/night, sleeps 6); Lakefront Cabin in Ferndale (from $139/night, sleeps 6); Woodland Valley Bungalow in Phoenicia (from $210/night, sleeps 6)

Another destination mostly popular for its cold-weather festivities, the Catskills can be equally amusing during the summertime. While you won’t be able to go skiing or anything like that, you can still get your adrenaline pumping at Hunter Mountain's New York Zipline Adventure Tour where you can fly through the air on the longest, fastest and highest zipline canopy tour in North America. You can also get up close and personal with the tigers, bears, alligators, camels, ostriches and farm animals housed at Bailiwick Ranch and Animal Park . And for some truly vacation-appropriate eats, head over to Mama's Boy Burgers where you can fill up on grass-fed black angus beef burgers and top it off with your choice of 26 flavors of frozen custard and yogurt or Jane’s homemade ice cream.

14. Branson, MO

• Why We Love It: diverse entertainment acts in historic theaters, amusement park and outdoor, kid-friendly activities
• Free Things to Do: Grand Village, Historic Downtown, hiking in the Ozarks, Branson Landing
• Getting there: one hour from Springfield-Branson National Airport
• Where to Stay: Boho Gated Condo (from $96/night, sleeps 7); Loft Condo (from $97/night, sleeps 8); Branson Home (from $89/night, sleeps 9)

Don’t let the drama of Netflix’s Ozark dissuade you from exploring this lovely city. It is filled with tons of options for things to do with the kids. Silver Dollar City is a rousing amusement park, popular with both locals and visitors. Not only can you find thrilling rides and entertainment, but the park has a 19 th century vibe to it and offers an array of shops selling souvenirs and homemade candies. Also included on your itinerary should be a trip to the Titanic Museum —where there’s tons of hands-on exhibits and hordes of Titanic artifacts— Promised Land Zoo , and Ripley’s Believe It Or Not located in the Branson Theater District.

15. South Padre Island, TX

• Why We Love It: resort town with calm waters and plenty of wildlife
• Free Things to Do: bird watch at the World Birding Center, Laguna Madre Nature Trail, Andy Bowie Park, Whaling Wall, Palmito Ranch Battlefield
• Getting there: 40 minutes from Brownsville Airport
• Where to Stay: Luxurious Ground Condo (from $121/night, sleeps 10); Island Treasure Townhouse (from $170/night, sleeps 12); Aquarius Condo (from $150/night, sleeps 6)

If your kids are hardcore animal lovers, a trip to this little island off the southern coast of Texas is the perfect pick. The island is packed with plenty of venues to interact with animals they otherwise wouldn’t have the opportunity to interact with. Sea Turtle Inc. , for example, is an educational yet fun-filled facility actively engaged in rescuing sea turtles. Equally thrilling is the SPI Birding, Nature Center and Alligator Sanctuary where the fam can observe the birds, butterflies and natural wildlife. Maybe just try to avoid March and April when spring breakers take over like wildfire.

16. Orange Beach, AL

• Why We Love It: 32 miles of white sand beaches, championship golf, nature trails, excellent cuisine
• Free Things to Do: Gulf State Park, Orange Beach Indian & Sea Museum, The Coastal Arts Center
• Getting there: 15 minutes away from Jack Edwards National Airport
• Where to Stay: Beachfront Condo (from $180/night, sleeps 6); The Sandy Hideaway (from $129/night, sleeps 13); Escapes Resort 1304 (from $207/night, sleeps 6)

Orange City may be small (population is currently at 6,607), but this tiny town packs a punch. Known as a water sports hub, it’s no wonder this is hands-down one of the best destinations for a beach vacation. You can partake in regular ole’ water activities such as fishing, paddle boarding, parasailing. But if you really want to dial up the fun factor, you can also book a once in a lifetime dolphin or pirate cruise .

17. Ocean City, MD

• Why We Love It: resort town with theme-park attractions, wildlife and miles of beaches
• Free Things to Do: Ocean City Boardwalk, Movies on the Beach, Assateague Island 
• Getting there: 2 hours and 36 minutes from Baltimore International Airport
• Where to Stay: Oceanfront Condo (from $93/night, sleeps 6); Edgewater Escape (from $83/night, sleeps 4); Beach Paradise Townhouse (from $66/night, sleeps 12)

A beach vacation doesn’t have to include a five-star resort. Ocean City, Maryland, is a great place to experience the best of the shore, from a lively boardwalk to seaside vacation rentals, and it also offers access to Assateague Island National Park , where the wild ponies run free. (How much will your horse-obsessed 6-year-old love that?) Spend a day on the vibrant boardwalk where you can hit up Marty’s Playland —a video arcade built in the 1940s—as well as The Kite Loft , where you can get the rundown on everything you didn’t think you needed to know about flying kites, which is to say, a lot.

18. Bar Harbor, ME

• Why We Love It: peaceful coastal New England town, gateway to Acadia National Park
• Free Things to Do: Shore Path, Bar Island, downtown Bar Harbor
• Getting there: 20 minutes from Bar Harbor Airport; 4.5 hours from Boston Logan International Airport
• Where to Stay: Sunset Studio (from $65/night, sleeps 4); Bar Harbor Condo (from $83/night, sleeps 4); Talley Cottage (from $150/night, sleeps 5)

Acadia National Park is popular for a reason—its rocky and rugged coastal landscape, wildlife on land and sea and the highest point on the United States’ East Coast, Cadillac Mountain—but that’s only the tip of the iceberg. Hop on one of Lulu Lobster’s Boat Tours where you can spend two hours learning all about lobster fishing and even catch some yourself. You can also book one of Bar Harbor Whale Watch Company’s magnificent for a chance to possibly spot some whales off the Gulf of Maine.

19. Gatlinburg, TN

• Why We Love It: charming town at the base of the Smoky Mountains, beautiful views, nature activities, arts, history and culture scene
• Free Things to Do: Gatlinburg Parkway, Little Pigeon River, Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail, Gatlinburg Tunes and Tales
• Getting there: 1 hour and 10 minutes from Knoxville McGhee-Tyson Airport
• Where to Stay: Pigeon Forge Cabin (from $143/night, sleeps 7 guests); Smokies Log Cabin (from $170/night, sleeps 10); Sevierville Cabin (from $90/night, sleeps 10)

This resort town is a coveted hotspot because of the fact that it’s a gateway to the roughly 520,000-acre Great Smoky Mountains National Park . You can hike the Clingmans Dome , which is only a mile long and leads to a watchtower you can climb, overseeing the entire national park. You also have the option to either drive or hike to three waterfalls in the park—Mingo Falls, Abrams Falls as well as Grotto Falls, if your squad is not yet able to hike long distances. Just be sure to head there early as the fall tends to get crowded.

20. Milwaukee, WI

• Why We Love It: lively city on the shores of Lake Michigan with an impressive food scene, museums and history
• Free Things to Do: Riverwalk, Lake Michigan, Milwaukee Public Market, Lakeshore State Park, Old World 3rd Street, Milwaukee Central Library
• Getting there: Milwaukee General Mitchell International Airport
• Where to Stay: The Little Gray House (from $206/night, sleeps 9); Cozy Modern Guest Cottage (from $105/night, sleeps 5); Cream City Inn and Gallery (from $153/night, sleeps 10)

Milwaukee is a vibrant Midwestern city overflowing with art, culture and food. Here, beer and cheese flow in equal measures, thanks to the city's German roots. Take the whole family to sample fare at establishments such as The Bavarian Bierhaus or Café Bavaria. There is also a plethora of farm-to-table restaurants serving up the best the seasons have to offer. With a whopping 17 museums located downtown, everyone in the family will find something to discover, but we think the kids will be especially entertained by the Milwaukee Public Museum . Keep a sharp eye out for murals by local artist David Mark Zimmerman, whose creations appear in the most unlikely places. Want to get moving? Kayak in the Milwaukee River , play at the beaches of Lake Michigan and stroll the historic Mitchell Street Neighborhood.

21. Atlanta, GA

• Why We Love It: Southern charm gets an international spin
• Free Things to Do: BeltLine, Arabia Mountain, Atlanta Monetary Museum, Centennial Olympic Park, Georgia Governor's Mansion
• Getting there: Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport
• Where to Stay: Modern Atlanta Home (from $120/night, sleeps 6); Artist House in Hip Poncey-Highland (from $128/night, sleeps 4); The Gorgeous Historic Monroe House (from $205/night, sleeps 6)

Atlanta may be sweet like a Georgia peach, but beneath the Southern skin is a thriving multi-cultural identity that makes it a captivating destination for the whole family. Let the kids run down their energy on the 22-mile BeltLine , a pathway with trails and parks that weave between Atlanta's neighborhoods, filled with art installations and city views. Arabia Mountain is an easy drive if you want an outdoor excursion, featuring farmland, trails, lakes and a nature preserve. Be sure to also hit the Buford Highway, renowned for its worlds of cuisine, from Korean barbecue to tacos and bubble tea. In town the kids will get a kick out of meeting Kermit the Frog at the Center for Puppetry Arts , which is free if you check the museum pass out at the library. Other can't-miss activities? The Coca-Cola Museum and Trap Music Museum , which dives into the world of hip-hop.

22. Glacier National Park, MT

• Why We Love It: over 700 miles of hiking trails, water activities and access to Whitefish
• Free Things to Do: Hidden Lake, Going-to-the-Sun Road, Logan Pass, Huckleberry Lookout
• Getting there: 1.5 hours from Glacier Park International Airport
• Where to Stay: Historic Cottage on Foys Lake (from $245/night, sleeps 4); Martin City Log Home (from $117/night, sleeps 8); Kalispell Log Farmhouse (from $253/night, sleeps 7)

Whether you're all keen to see the breathtaking vistas of the Continental Divide or want to test your athleticism with a vertical five-mile hike to Huckleberry Lookout, Glacier National Park is a family-friendly destination that everyone can enjoy. The entrance fee is just $35 per vehicle ($25 in the winter) for a vehicle, and you can camp in the park for a nominal fee. If you're driving in, a free shuttle runs through the park, making it easy to hit the sites without worrying about your car. Whitefish is nearby, with all the charm and amenities you'd expect from a resort town.

23. Oklahoma City, OK

• Why We Love It: cowboy culture meets fine art and outdoor fun
• Free Things to Do: Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art, drive Route 66, Keystone Ancient Forest, Conoco Museum, Oklahoma State Capital
• Getting there: 20 minutes from Will Rogers World Airport
• Where to Stay: The Village Home (from $85/night, sleeps 8); Modern Oklahoma City Home (from $96/night, sleeps 6); The Billen Ave House (from $118/night, sleeps 6)

Oklahoma City is proof you don't need a pile of cash to have a good time. With so many free things to do, you'd be surprised. Budding artists and art appreciators will enjoy the Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art , which houses 16,000 artworks, including some by Vincent van Gogh and Georgia O'Keeffe. At the Conoco Museum , your family can learn about the city's past as an oil town. Need a little old-fashioned adventure? Cruise the famed Route 66 highway itself. At the Salt Plains National Wildlife Refuge , the kids can spend hours searching for hourglass selenite crystals, and if you want a really big thrill, check out Robbers Cave . The former outlaws hideaway now offers rappelling, mountain biking and swimming.

24. Thousand Islands, NY

• Why We Love It: historic sights, water activities, natural beauty
• Free Things to Do: Heart Island, 1000 Islands History Museum, Amherst Island Ferry, Antique Boat Museum (free for children)
• Getting there: 40 minutes from Watertown International Airport
• Where to Stay: Modern Home in Leeds and Thousand Islands (from $110/night, sleeps 13); Entire Home in Alexandria Bay (from $190/night, sleeps 4); Hideaway on the Bay (from $85/night, sleeps 6)

An overlooked gem near the New York-Canada border, Thousand Islands New York is a serene and incredibly beautiful destination that boasts plenty of things to do for families. The fairytale magic and romantic story behind Boldt castle will charm all members of your brood and the sparkling blue waters of the St. Lawrence River provides ample opportunity for a wide range of activities, including boat tours, kayaking, fishing and swimming. Be sure to tour as many islands as you can during your stay— Singer Castle on Dark Island is well worth a visit—and learn a little bit about the history of the region with a visit to 1000 Islands History Museum and the Antique Boat Museum , too.

25. Traverse City, MI

• Why We Love It: lake beaches, wine tasting, natural beauty
• Free Things to Do: Point Betsie Lighthouse (free for children under 6), Haserot Beach Park, Torch Lake
• Getting there: Cherry Capital Airport
• Where to Stay: The Gristmill Apartment (from $69/night, sleeps 4); Modern Cabin in Bellaire (from $99/night, sleeps 4); The Loft on Union Street (from $199/night, sleeps 6)

Traverse City, Michigan is a beloved vacation spot for many, and it’s not hard to see why. The northern Michigan city has long been a top destination due to its abundance of freshwater beaches, vineyards and natural attractions—most notably the bluffs, sand dunes and lush forests at the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore . Downtown Traverse City is a vibrant place with an excellent culinary scene that will make foodies of all ages swoon, and there’s no shortage of outdoor activities on offer in the surrounding area—including rock hunting, biking, hiking, kayaking, canoeing and good old fashioned sand castle building. Let’s just say you’re unlikely to hear the words “I’m bored” when you bring your family here.

26. San Antonio, TX

• Why We Love It: lots of green and scenic places, rich with history
• Free Things to Do: Brackenridge Park, River Walk, the Alamo
• Getting there: San Antonio International Airport
• Where to Stay: Pearl Townhouse (from $132/night, sleeps 4); Entire 2 Story Home Near Downtown (from $115/night, sleeps 4); 15 Acre Tiny Farmhouse (from $37/night, sleeps 4)

There’s lots of history and a boatload of free educational activities to be found in San Antonio, Texas. The Alamo is an obvious choice, but other attractions like the San Antonio Museum of Art and the Institute of Texan Cultures are not to be missed. Carve out time in your itinerary for a leisurely picnic in beautiful Brackenridge Park and don’t sleep on the opportunity to stroll the scenic River Walk , where you’ll find top-notch restaurants, boutiques and numerous street performers bringing the city’s vibrant energy to life.

27. Savannah, GA

• Why We Love It: family-friendly beach, public parks, Savannah Children’s Museum
• Free Things to Do: Forsyth Park, Tybee Island, Ellis Square splash pad, Hutchinson Island Ferry, Fort Pulaski National Monument, Savannah Botanical Gardens, Skidaway Island State Park
• Getting there: Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport
• Where to Stay: Downtown Riverfront Condo (from $159/night, sleeps 4); Sophisticated Home in Historic District (from $129/night, sleeps 4); Renovated 1900s 2-Bedroom Apartment (from $76/night, sleeps 4)

Oak trees weeping Spanish moss, charming cobblestone streets, riverboat cruises, trolley tours and a vibrant art and food scene make Savannah one of the most appealing places to visit in the South. Forsyth Park is a beautiful public space that boasts two stellar playgrounds and plenty of scenic places to picnic. The city's iconic River Street—lined with candy shops, boutiques and restaurants—is a perfect place to take a stroll, and the Savannah Children’s Museum and Savannah National Wildlife refuge are well worth a visit as well. Oh, and we’d be remiss not to mention that a family beach day at Tybee Island is an absolute must during the warmer months.

28. Nashville, TN

• Why We Love It: hip and artsy vibes, great music and food scene, lots of parks
• Free Things to Do: Arrington Vineyards, Frist Art Museum, Musician’s Corner, Metro Nashville Parks
• Getting there: Nashville International Airport
• Where to Stay: Edison Condo (from $49/night, sleeps 8); Electric Ave Parkside Retreat (from $71/night, sleeps 6); Dream Treehouse (from $224/night, sleeps 4)

Head to Reese Witherspoon’s stomping grounds for a one-of-a-kind and decidedly budget friendly vacation in Music City. History buffs, blues enthusiasts, foodies and energetic kids itching for a public park to romp around in will all find what they’re looking for in Nashville. In fact, the greater Nashville area has a whopping 243 public parks, so you’ll never be wanting for a splash pad, playground or picnic spot. Centennial Park is a nice spot to spend a leisurely afternoon, while Radnor Lake State Park and the Edwin and Percy Warner Parks are ideal for hiking and enjoying the region’s natural beauty. Both kids and adults will enjoy the Frist Art Museum, Nashville Zoo and Adventure Science Center, as well. Best of all, affordable accommodations are easy to find and none of the aforementioned activities will break the bank, either.

29. Charleston, SC

• Why We Love It: local beaches, excellent food scene, vibrant culture and history
• Free Things to Do: historic district, public beaches, Arthur Ravenel Bridge
• Getting there: Charleston International AIrport
• Where to Stay: Downtown Charleston Home (from $152/night, sleeps 6); Southern Comfort Townhouse in Mount Pleasant (from $150/night, sleeps 6); Folly’s Treehouse (from $199/night, sleeps 5)

The old-school Southern charm and laid back vibes of Charleston are hard to beat—and for families seeking a perfect balance of relaxation and entertainment, this destination does not disappoint. Explore the beautiful historic district and Charleston City Market, pay a visit to the South Carolina Aquarium (and then eat some of the amazing seafood you can find all over the city) and soak up some sun on one of the numerous pristine and family-friendly public beaches before you head to your budget-friendly lodging to sip some ice cold lemonade on the porch while the kids play in the yard. Perfection.

30. Newport, RI

• Why We Love It: local beaches, scenic, low-key vibes
• Free Things to Do: Cliff Walk, Bowen’s Wharf, Castle Hill Lighthouse
• Getting there: 35 minutes from Rhode Island T.F. Green International Airport (PVD)
• Where to Stay: Wyndham Newport Onshore Resort (from $98/night, sleeps 6); Newport Harbor View Retreat (from $199/night, sleeps 8); Newport Unforgettable Condo (from $183/night, sleeps 5)

Newport has long been Rhode Island’s most popular vacation destination, and for good reason. This New England gem affords its visitors access to beautiful, windswept beaches, historic landmarks, amazing seafood and incredible seaside mansions, many of which are open to the public for tours. The Cliff Walk is the thing to do for a restorative stroll—it’s studded with said mansions and features oh-so scenic coastal views—and Bowen’s Wharf is a picturesque commercial center where 18th century buildings house art galleries, boutiques, souvenir shops and some of the best seafood restaurants on the east coast. And if your kids aren’t tuckered out after a day at the beach, sample some fudge at the Newport Fudgery and take them to the playground at the historic Miantonomi Park or the arcade at Ryan Family Amusement Center to burn off the last of their energy.

20 Summer Vacation Ideas to Try This Year, Whether You Want a City Escape, Beach Getaway Or Nature Retreat

Freelance PureWow Editor

Protect Your Trip »

The 15 best affordable family vacations.

From the Grand Canyon to Niagara Falls, these budget-friendly locales will appeal to the whole family.

(Getty Images) |

These destinations deliver on fun and affordability.

15. Virginia Beach, Virginia

14. Tampa, Florida

13. Minneapolis – St. Paul

12. Williamsburg, Virginia

11. Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

10. Destin, Florida

9. Gatlinburg, Tennessee

8. Niagara Falls

7. Hilton Head, South Carolina

6. Outer Banks, North Carolina

5. Ocean City, Maryland

4. Yellowstone

3. Grand Canyon

2. San Diego

1. Branson, Missouri

If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content.

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FAMILY TRAVEL ON A BUDGET: HOW TO AFFORD FAMILY TRAVEL

Post Summary: The ultimate guide on how to do family travel on a budget from former full-time family travelers. Our best travel tips, hacks, how-tos, and budgeting advice for family vacations on a budget.

Do you dream of traveling to charming or adventurous destinations together as a family? Who doesn’t, right? Family travel is where lifelong memories get etched into the storybook of a family. But if you’re like most families, you’re probably wondering…is frugal family travel even a thing?

Absolutely. Family travel on a budget is possible ! With the right know-how, resources, and proper planning, you can learn how to afford family travel .

Traveling with a family does provide a good dose of challenge and hearty problem-solving, but money doesn’t need to be the reason you don’t travel together.

Here is our complete guide on budget family travel , including planning a family vacation on a budget and tips for reducing costs. It’s long and thorough and based upon our own trial and error experiences.

READ NEXT: 50 Bucket List Ideas For Family Travel In The USA The Best National Parks In The West 50 Inspirational Quotes About Family Travel

*This family travel on a budget post may contain affiliate links, which means we might earn a small commission if you purchase from them. This is at no extra cost to you. We only suggest what we think is truly awesome.

HOW TO DO FAMILY TRAVEL ON A BUDGET

Family Travel Needs To Be A Priority

I present this one first because I think there has to be a mental shift in your perspective if you desire to travel with family. Finding the means to travel as a family is a priority for us. It’s never IF we’re going to travel; it’s WHEN are we going to travel.

I say this with caution since I know there are people ready to clamor and shout, but but but I have work ! But but but the kids are in school . I know. Those are all real and valid points , and I would never reduce the realities of everyone’s day-to-day circumstances. Let’s be clear that traveling with family requires the privilege of time and finances.

AND, if what you want is to travel, you’ll have to open a window (just a crack) in your mind to allow for the possibility of making travel happen for your family.

Just Say No To Spring Break Travel

If you’re looking to do a family trip on a budget, you have to stop traveling during the high season. It’s basic supply and demand. The more people traveling, the more expensive lodging and airfare will be. If you choose to go to Florida in April during spring break, hotels will be astronomically expensive. If you fly to Europe in July and August, airfare will be at its highest.

Visit Arches National Park in winter or Paris in the fall, and you can cut your hotel and airfare costs by 40-70%. We visited Glacier National Park and Whitefish, Montana, in winter and paid $95 a night for a room that costs $400 a night in the summer. I kid you not!

Just because you’re traveling in the off-season doesn’t have to mean cold weather and rainy days. We traveled to Croatia in October when the cruise ships and crowds had left, and we had 80-degree days and plenty of sunshine.

An extra perk of traveling in the off-season is the crowds are gone. We traveled to the Virgin Islands with our son in the off-season, and it was delightfully quiet. Imagine an entire picture-perfect beach with only a handful of people.

In addition, look into traveling right after a major holiday. Instead of traveling on the 4th of July, Memorial Day Weekend, or Labor Day Weekend, look at getting away right after that to see if you can get better hotel and airfare rates. You’re almost always guaranteed a cheaper stay.

KEY TAKEAWAY: Traveling in the shoulder season or after a major holiday is one of the most tried and true tips on how to afford family travel. Research a destination you’re interested in and find out when their off-peak times are.

Consider Taking Your Kids Out Of School

Traveling in the off-season can be difficult when you have kids in school. Consider taking them out for a short period to have your fantastic budget family getaway.

I know. I know. It’s not as easy as it sounds. It’s disruptive, your school might frown on it, and some kids might not want to miss school.

This is a personal decision that you and your family have to figure out. If you’re hesitant about pulling them out of school, talk about it with their teacher and listen to their concerns so you can work with them to find a solution. Perhaps you have to schedule time on your vacation for the kids to do homework or lesson plans. It’s a great thing to do on the flight! Or maybe you work with the teacher to figure out a time in the school year when it’s not as burdensome for them to leave. For instance, not going right before a big project or test is on the schedule.

KEY TAKEAWAY: Take your kids out of school for a short period of time to get the best off-season rates.

Travel Where Your Money Goes Further

If you’re looking to learn how to travel cheaply with kids, you have to expand your mind outside of typical “family destinations” like Hawaii and popular theme parks. You need to travel where your money goes further. Instead of Hawaii, consider other destinations with just as stunning (maybe even better) beaches like Panama, Nicaragua, Indonesia, Thailand, and the Philippines. Instead of France or Italy, consider other magical countries in Europe like Montenegro, Bosnia, Slovenia, and the Czech Republic. These places are just as charming and, if you travel in the off-season, ridiculously cheaper than other popular European destinations.

Many of the cheaper alternatives listed above can be done with a daily budget of $50-$100 a day. We spent eight days in Nicaragua and paid $800 per person, including airfare! Yes, airfare will probably be your most expensive item, but we’ll get tips on finding good deals later.

KEY TAKEAWAY: Traveling on a budget means trying out destinations that aren’t as “popular” but are easy on the wallet. If you have a dream destination like Hawaii, google “cheap alternatives to Hawaii” and see what comes up.

Credit Card Points Are Your Friend

Credit card points are one of my favorite ways to earn money for a trip. Many people opt to use debit cards as their sole card, but not using credit card points to your advantage is letting your money go to waste!

Now let’s be clear, the following advice is ONLY if you can pay your total balance every month. If you can not, this advice is not meant for you. Any points you earn will quickly become worthless with the interest you pay by holding a balance, not to mention the health of your credit score.

Some people go really in-depth into the points world. They hold multiple credit cards, do all the sign-up bonuses, chat on points and miles forums, and have intricate spreadsheet systems detailing their credit card points. That is not me. I keep it really simple. I use the credit card that’s best for my spending habits, and that’s it. While there are credit cards that offer great rewards for travelers, it’s only beneficial to you if you travel A LOT. Why get a card that offers Uber credits, lounge access in airports, and 5X points for airfare if you only go on a trip once a year?

I use the American Express Blue Cash Preferred Card because it’s a cashback card that offers 6% back on groceries, 3% cash back on gas and transit, and a $300 sign-up bonus. Because groceries are our biggest credit card expense, it’s a no-brainer for us to have a card that gives us 6% cash back on groceries. Last year, I earned $900 in cashback. If you’re saving for a big trip, $900 goes a long way to help cover airfare or lodging. You can learn more about it with my referral link to the Blue Cash Preferred Card.

A common travel hack is to open up a credit card with a big sign-up bonus to capitalize on that extra windfall. Most sign-up bonuses for credit cards entail spending a certain amount of money within an allotted time, for example, $5000 in the first three months. For me, it’s only worth it if your everyday expenses are that much or if you know you’ll be buying a big-ticket item like a new washer/dryer or plane tickets.

Another way to capitalize on the sign-up bonus is to sign up for a hotel credit card like Marriott or Hilton, which both offer a generous sum of points at sign-up. That lump sum of points could get you a few days free in a hotel. A great choice if you know you have travel plans in the future and want to reduce lodging costs. Just make sure to get the credit card several months in advance to ensure you have the points for when you need to book.

We also use the Southwest Credit Card since we fly Southwest a lot, and it’s a convenient airline for our needs. I discuss it in the “choosing a family-friendly airline” section.

KEY TAKEAWAY: Let your spending earn you money by using a credit card with a great cashback or points system that you can use toward your family travel budget.

Price Compare Home Rentals and Hotels

There was a time when peer-to-peer rental services like Airbnb and Vrbo offered the best bang for your buck when traveling as a family. With rising service fees and outlandish cleaning fees, I’m not entirely convinced that home rental services are the best way to go. That being said, it’s still the first place I look when scouring out lodging deals for a destination. When making a price comparison of a hotel to a home rental, you’ll want to budget in the extra perks of staying at a home rental which includes a kitchen to cut down on eating out, multiple rooms, laundry, a backyard for your kids to play in, and the privacy of your own home.

In general, if you’re only staying somewhere for one to two nights, a hotel will be cheaper since the cleaning and service fees can make the final bill more expensive than a hotel. If you’re staying for longer, a home rental typically wins out.

When looking for a hotel, take advantage of a site like booking.com that offers immediate discounts for email subscribers and a straightforward cancellation policy. The cancellation policy is great when you’re in the travel planning stage because you can book something and secure a rate while continuing to look for better offers. Booking also has a free loyalty program that offers 10-20% off, free breakfast, and upgrades if you consistently book with them.

KEY TAKEAWAY : Compare home rentals to hotels to see where the best price is, but don’t forget the value of having your own kitchen, more room, and the private space of a home rental.

Consider Camping, Glamping, or an RV Rental

If hotels and home rentals are too steep, a camping trip is ideal for family travel on a budget. When we were planning a trip to Yellowstone , we were shocked by how expensive the hotels were in the park. The only way we could swing it was to camp in the park. We spent seven days camping in the park and paid roughly $225 for our entire stay. $225 is not even enough to cover one night at a hotel in Yellowstone! Plus, we entered the park on one of their annual free days , so we didn’t even pay to visit the park.

Camping does have some significant upfront costs (buying a tent, sleeping bags), but the good thing is you can use it repeatedly, allowing the investment to be worth the price. You can also look into renting camping gear from REI if you don’t want to own camping equipment.

If camping isn’t how you love to vacation, you can look into renting an RV, travel trailer, or campervan through the peer-to-peer site Outdoorsy or the campervan rental site Escape Campervans . You can rent a cozy RV and stay at a lovely campsite for a long weekend or try a long road trip exploring the National Parks of the East Coast or the beaches of the Pacific Coast Highway. You could even boondock and find free camping spots to further reduce your costs.

KEY TAKEAWAY: If hotels and house rentals are too expensive, look into camping or renting an RV as an alternative.

READ NEXT: Our Best Tips For Camping With A Toddler

Find Alternative Lodging

A unique way to do family travel on a budget is to do a home swap. The basic idea is you swap homes with someone in a destination you would like to visit. Typically, you would need to come up with an agreement with another family, but Home Exchange has made it easier by also offering the ability to stay at someone’s house without needing to swap. That’s convenient if you don’t live in a location where people want to visit.

You can sign up for free, but if you register, you get a bunch of free points that could get you three to five days at a coveted destination for the cost of a $175 registration fee. My advice is to at least sign up for free to get some signup points. Browse around the site, and you’ll see that it’s a fantastic choice when looking for cheap ways to travel with family. You can use my referral code here to get extra sign-up points .

Score Cheap Airline Tickets

That title is a little misleading because I’m not sure I would ever call plane tickets “cheap,” but there are certainly ways to reduce the costs of airline tickets. As a general rule, you’ll want to try to fly from Tuesday to Thursday. Weekends tend to be more expensive simply because more people are traveling.

I suggest using Skyscanner or Scotts Cheap Flights when looking for good flight deals.

Scott’s Cheap Flights is a paid membership program with a pared-down free version. We started with the free membership but ended up upgrading because we liked it so much. They send out emails with mistake fares, and you can sign up to get specific updates to certain areas and airports. If you’re flexible, you can use it to inspire travel. We once saw a deal for a round-trip flight to Japan for $170. It was insane! It took everything we had to not immediately board a plane to Japan. You can learn more about Scott’s Cheap Flights here .

Skyscanner is another excellent tool that is essentially an aggregator. With so many different aggregator sites to choose from, it comes down to ease of use. Skyscanner is simple, straightforward, and best of all, you can sign up for price alerts and get notified when prices drop for a flight path you want to take. That’s a KEY feature and something you’ll definitely want to do if you have a set destination in mind. You can also use the site to browse cheaper destinations. Just put “everywhere” for where you want to go, a departing airport, and they’ll show you a long list of options. You can learn more about Skyscanner here .

If you can remain open about our destination, a good tactic is to see where you can get cheap flights and choose to explore that place.

Don’t forget to check out smaller airlines that might not appear in aggregator searches like Avelo Airlines and Frontier . They are budget airlines that reduce amenities (drinks, choosing your seat) to bring costs down.

KEY TAKEAWAY: Use smart tools and price alerts to find cheaper flights, but also be open to not having a set destination and traveling to a place where you can score low-cost flights.

READ NEXT : How To Survive Flying With A Baby

Choose Family-Friendly Airlines

When choosing a flight, most people will understandably pick the cheapest airfare but don’t forget to include extra costs that airlines tack on to the price. The cost to check luggage for a family can easily be an additional $100 for a roundtrip flight.

While Southwest Airlines isn’t an illustrious airline with a highly developed tiered class system or a fancy airport lounge, they are GREAT for family travelers. What do we love about them? Everyone gets two bags checked for free . While I love to pack light, traveling with a family often means a lot of stuff, so getting to check your luggage for free is ideal.

Whenever you’re searching for flights, remember to go direct to Southwest since they NEVER show up on aggregator sites like Skyscanner or Kayak. Cross-reference the prices and factor in the cost of checking luggage.

Southwest is our ideal choice since they have multiple options for domestic flights, affordable tickets, free checked luggage, and they have a companion pass !!

The companion pass is a benefit you earn where a single person can fly with you FOR FREE for the year you earn it and the following calendar year. Anyone can acquire the pass by applying for a Southwest Credit Card and flying 100 one-way flights or earning 125,000 points.

Most people won’t be able to swing either of those in a year, though it’s not impossible, especially if you’re using a Southwest business card and you have high business expenses.

Realistically, your best bet is to get a companion pass when they offer it as a promotional bonus for signing up for a credit card. That’s how we did it! We signed up for the credit card and earned the companion pass plus a slew of bonus points. We did it right before we knew we were going into a year of high travel and used it countless times. We saved well over $1000 using our companion pass for one year. Also, we were traveling with a child under two, so three of us got to travel, and we only paid for one person. It felt like winning the lottery!

Get on their email list and keep an eye out for when they do the Companion Pass promotion. I notice they do it about once a year. You can use our referral link here to learn about the different Southwest Credit Cards .

*Many people don’t like Southwest’s open seating policy where it’s first come, first served for seats. Families traveling with young kids always get to board between the A and B groups, so you’re guaranteed to sit together. We’ve never had a problem getting seats together.

KEY TAKEAWAY: Don’t forget about the cost of checking luggage and factor that into your budget. Also, don’t forget about Southwest Airlines since they don’t appear in aggregator searches.

Use Turo For Car Rentals

If you’re at a location that requires a car, the first place to look for budget car rentals is Turo . It’s a peer-to-peer car rental service, and you can find GREAT DEALS. We have used the service twice and love it. We used it when living in Asheville when we needed to rent a car for two months. We paid $10 a day for our rental!

Typically, there is a set destination for picking up and dropping off, but the great part of using Turo is you’re dealing with a real person. One time we didn’t even have to drop off our rental at the airport since it was more convenient for the car owner to come to our home rental. We literally left the car on the street where our Airbnb was, and he picked it up himself. It was so easy!

If Turo and its fees are too expensive, check out rentalcars.com to see if you can find better rates.

KEY TAKEAWAY: If looking for a car rental, first see if you can get a better deal at Turo, a peer-to-peer rental service.

Embrace The Road Trip

You can do all the travel hacking in the world and still not be able to find cheap flights. Even if you find cheap flights, if you have a large family, the deal isn’t so great when you multiply it by six. When flying is out of your budget, it’s time to embrace the road trip.

Yes, gas is expensive, but it’s still cheaper than flying. We are a family that road trips A LOT, and I tell you, once you do it a few times, you realize it’s really not that bad to be in the car for that long. In fact, we made a cross-country road trip in our renovated vintage camper with our three-year-old! The road trip will always be the top choice for anyone looking for how to travel cheaply with family.

Do some research to see what is nine to ten hours from you. Or make a family road trip that extends over several days where you hit up a few different places spread throughout an area. An epic family bucket list item is to make a Utah National Parks road trip .

K EY TAKEAWAY: When flights aren’t doable for your family, pack up the car and go on a road trip.

READ NEXT: How To Road Trip With A Toddler Like A Boss 8 Phenomenal Cross-Country Road Trips

Limit Eating Out

Not eating out every night is perhaps our biggest tip for when you’re trying to do family travel on a budget. We never eat breakfast out and often try to do all three meals at home. And I’m someone who LOVES to eat out. Believe me, I would much rather enjoy fresh local food than make turkey sandwiches for lunch, but it’s a small sacrifice to make for the pleasure of traveling and being together.

If you still want to enjoy eating out while on a family vacation, try to do two meals at your rental or hotel and one meal out a day. At the very least, eat breakfast by bringing cereal, milk, yogurt, or oatmeal or staying at a hotel that offers complimentary breakfast.

If we’re staying at a house rental, we bring groceries with us or buy some once we get there so we have supplies in the house. Even if we’re staying at a hotel, as long as it has a mini-fridge and a microwave, we can make a few meals with that setup. Our go-to hotel meal with only a mini-fridge and microwave is Rotisserie chicken from the grocery store, ready-made salad packs, and bread and olive oil. Traveling with small packets like this Marconi Olive Oil are game-changers!

KEY TAKEAWAY: Don’t forget about the cost of food on your travel budget! Plan to have 1-2 meals at your hotel or rental to majorly cut down on costs.

TIP : If your hotel room doesn’t have a microwave, you can sometimes call ahead, and they’ll put one in the room for you. It’s worked for me many times!

Look For Free Things To Do

When planning your itinerary, try to do a few free things to curb costs. Waterfall hikes, days at the beach, and self-guided walking tours are excellent kid-friendly activities that are all FREE. Here is where Google is your friend. When researching your destination, do a simple search for “free things to do in XYZ” to discover some exciting options in the area.

National Parks are a great choice since it’s typically one flat rate per vehicle and lasts for seven days. For inspiration, you can read our article about 12 fantastic National Parks For Kids .

KEY TAKEAWAY : On your family trip, plan a few activities that are free to offset costs of pricy tours and activities.

Check Out Package Deals

I’m going to be straightforward; our family doesn’t tend to do package deals. But in the interest of giving you the best information possible on how to score family travel on a budget, I feel remiss if I leave package deals out of our article.

Here’s the deal: a package deal MIGHT be cheaper, and it also MIGHT NOT. In my experience, it’s not more affordable, but it is definitely more convenient. For family travelers, convenience isn’t something to ignore. Sometimes it’s nice to have everything taken care of in one go. We are independent travelers who prefer to have more control over our choice of lodging.

My advice is to cross-reference and check out the individual costs of the flight and hotel to see if you’re truly saving money.

We can’t recommend any package deals personally, but Costco Travels seems to be the one everyone touts as having the best vacation deals. Check it out and see if their prices (plus the convenience factor) are cheaper than individually buying airfare and lodging.

KEY TAKEAWAY: Package deals could potentially save you money, but you should always individually check the direct hotel and airfare price to see if it’s truly saving you money.

Travel With Friends or Family

Consider traveling with friends as a way to afford family travel. Splitting the cost of a three-bedroom VRBO can significantly reduce your costs.

For example, say you’re planning a long weekend in Boise and need three nights at a hotel. Three nights in June in Boise at a mid-tier hotel for one room would cost you around $700 in total. An upscale three-bedroom home for three nights in June in Boise would cost also you around $700. Except, now you’re splitting it in half, bringing your total to $350, and you have a kitchen, backyard, a separate room for your kids, and free parking. It’s a no-brainer to me!

Plus, traveling with friends and family means your child or children have other people to bounce their all-consuming energy onto.

KEY TAKEAWAY: Traveling with friends and family can cut your lodging costs in half. Find good travel companions and make some memories!

Think Outside Of The Box

Finally, trying to do family travel on a budget requires flexibility, planning, and creative thinking. It might require more work, but there’s something so satisfying about working hard to pull it all off. Or is that just me?

Decide what’s most important to you and let that be the North Star that guides your vacation planning. For us, it’s always about exploration, ease, and having fun together. None of those things require spending a lot of money.

To have your dream family vacation on a budget, you might need to road trip to your destination, camp for two days, and stay at a home rental for three days to make the trip work. You might need to make all of your meals at home and enjoy free activities like playing at the beach or hiking to a lookout point. It might mean scrapping your vision of frolicking on the beaches of Hawaii and instead exploring the pastel homes of St. Augustine, Florida.

I can practically guarantee you that your children value time spent with their family in a loving environment more than they need expensive trips to far-flung destinations.

Are you ready to plan some epic family travel on a budget? We hope our post on how to afford family travel helps you out.

If you have any other tips or tools for planning a family vacation on a budget, let us know in the comments below. We love to hear tips from fellow travelers.

Happy Travels!

Hi, we’re Christina and Brad, Idaho based writers and photographers who live to explore. We did a short stint of traveling full time with our two year old and discovered we're much happier as part time nomads. What does that mean? We travel a lot! And then we go home. We love helping fellow parents and everyday adventurers discover new places and experiences.

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One comment.

Amazing post!!! These tips are very handy if you have a big family and a limited budget. Even I agree that travelling off-season is the best if you want to save money on your entire travel. Keep sharing such helpful posts with the readers.

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23 Affordable Family Travel Destinations, Ideas, & Money-Saving Tips 2024

Are you trying to plan a family trip on a budget? These 23 affordable family travel destinations for 2023 are perfect for budget-family trips the whole family will love.

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23 Affordable Family Travel Destinations

Between flights, food, hotels, and activities… family vacations can be pretty pricey. But you don’t need to go into serious debt just to take your family on a nice vacation.

Here are some really affordable family-friendly vacation ideas the whole family will enjoy.

1 – Myrtle Beach , South Carolina Coast

Myrtle beach is a gorgeous stretch of land on the coast of South Carolina that is both family and budget family. Affordable condos (with full kitchens!) line the beach. And there are plenty of activities to keep the family busy from parasailing to banana boats and even an amusement park.

Check out: Myrtle Beach Surf Lessons

2 – Caribbean Cruise

Cruises are actually more affordable than most people think. And with food included and on-ship activities for kids, a cruise to the Caribbean can be both a very affordable family vacation and very kid friendly. Not to mention fun for parents with free daycare on board.

3 – Cozumel, Mexico

Cozumel is an island located near Cancun and has a quieter, more laid-back atmosphere than other cities in Mexico. With tons of family-friendly, all-inclusive hotels lining the calm waters of the gulf coast, it’s a great beach vacation kids will love.

Best Cozumel Resort For Families: The Explorean Cozumel All Inclusive

4 – Sanibel Island, Florida

One of the quieter beaches in Florida, Sanibel Island is both gorgeous with its white sand beaches and also warmer waters because it’s located on the gulf side, close to Fort Myers. You can also find very affordable hotels up and down the coast.

Best Place To Stay On Sanibel Island: Island Inn

5 – San Diego, Califiornia

San Diego is a great family-friendly affordable vacation with beaches, hiking, restaurants, and shopping. You can easily find a 4-star hotel to stay in at an affordable price or a condo right on Mission beach.

Best Family Resort on the Ocean in San Diego: Bahia Resort Hotel

6 – Yellowstone National Park

If you’re looking for something other than a beach vacation, check out Yellowstone. It’s so much more than just driving. You can go horseback riding or white water rafting. And your kids will love all the wildlife such as buffalo that walk right down the road.

Best Place To Stay In Yellowstone: Elkhorn Cabins and Inn

7 – Scottsdale, Arizona

Scottsdale is becoming one of the fastest-growing vacation spots in the U.S. You’ll find tons of resorts with water parks and activities for kids. And plenty of outdoor fun like kayaking, paddle boarding, or renting boats on one of the nearby lakes.

Most Family-Friendly Resort in Scottsdale: Hyatt Regency Scottsdale

8 – St. James Club Morgan Bay, St. Lucia

Want to go international? St. James Club Morgan Bay is all-inclusive and super family-friendly. Even though the island has many attractions, you can enjoy this Caribbean Island without having to leave your resort.

Book here for Best Deal: St. James’s Club Morgan Bay Resort – All Inclusive

9 – South Padre Island, Texas

With plenty to do in neighboring towns, you’ll find plenty of affordable beachfront accommodations and miles of beach for the kids to play at. Look for private Vrbo properties with full kitchens or resorts with included activities to keep the kids busy.

Best Place To Stay In South Padre Island: Isla Grand Beach Resort

10 – Wisconsin Dells

Located just outside Madison, Wisconsin, Wisconsin Dells has everything to keep the family busy. Visit one of the biggest waterparks, Noah’s Ark. Take a Duck boat tour. Play mini-golf or feed Deer at an outdoor sanctuary.

Most Exciting Resort in Wisconsin Dells: Polynesian Hotel Wisconsin Dells – Near Noah’s Ark

11 – The Jersey Shore, New Jersey

The Jersey shore is more than just a bad TV show. It’s miles and miles of small towns located on the shore of New Jersey. You’ll find plenty of hotels along the shore. There are miles of beaches to play at, restaurants, and a fun boardwalk with shops, games, and even amusement parks.

Where To Stay In Wildwood, New Jersey: The Starlux Hotel and Resort

12 – Hershey, Pennsylvania

Just a short drive from the Jersey shore, Hershey is home to Hershey Park, a chocolate-themed amusement park you could spend an entire day at. It’s also located near Philadelphia for some sightseeing there as well.

Best Resort Near Hershey Park: Bluegreen Vacations Suites at Hershey

13 – New York City

Because of the abundance of flights and hotels, it’s pretty easy to score a good deal in New York City. Especially if you visit in the off-season (Spring break is SUPER cheap). With all the museums and sightseeing, you can easily be kept busy. Or even spend an entire day at Central Park visiting the zoo and many gardens.

See related: What To Do In New York City with a Teenager

14 – Washington D.C.

With plenty of museums and outdoor spaces you can visit for free, Washington D. C. is a great choice as an affordable family travel destination. Check out the Smithsonian Institute where you can see fun things like Dorothy’s red ruby slippers and more.

Best Washington D.C. Tour: Hop On Hop Off Bus Tour

15 – Gatlinburg, Tennessee

Home to the Great Smokey Mountain National Park which is free to visit. You can also go hiking, bike riding, camping, and horseback riding. There is plenty to do and Tennessee resorts and hotels are extremely affordable.

Best Family Resort in Gatlinburg: Bearskin Lodge on the River

16 – Puerto Rico

Puerto Rico is a fun and affordable family vacation if you are looking to experience another culture. Being a US territory, you don’t need passports and most of the hotels and resorts are very affordable. You can play on the beach or visit shops and museums.

Best San Juan Resort with Waterslides: El Conquistador Resort – Puerto Rico

17 – Red Rock Ranch, Wyoming

This fun dude ranch includes several activities from horseback riding trails, to fly fishing and hiking. You are also super close to the Grand Teton Mountains where you can find an abundance of family-friendly activities.

Best Family Tour: Half-Day Snake River Scenic Float Trip from Jackson

18 – Seattle, Washington

For a fun city experience, Seattle is a great place to take kids. Pike Market is free to walk around as are the many parks along the coast. Or take a family-friendly harbor cruise to see the city. There are tons of museums and aquariums to visit and all at very affordable prices.

See related: Spending a Family-Friendly Weekend in Seattle, Washington

19 – Minneapolis, Minnesota

Minneapolis is a fun place to visit in the summer months with lots of concerts and events happening around the city. And you can’t pass up a chance to go to the world’s biggest mall, the Mall of America. You can spend an entire day here alone with its indoor amusement park. Or visit one of the many lakes in the area for some outdoor fun.

Best Deals on Family Resorts in Minneapolis search HERE!

20 – Sedona, Arizona

The beauty of Sedona is a favorite among adults and kids. With tons of outdoor activities like ATV rides, water activities, hiking, shopping, and some of the most unique scenery on earth… your entire family will love this affordable location for a family vacation.

Best Kid AND Dog Friendly Hotel in Sedona with Amazing Views: Sky Ranch Lodge

21 – Bar Harbor, Maine

Parents can enjoy a fresh seafood feast while kids will love all the outdoor activities at Acadia National Park. Check out a lobster boat tour or even go whale watching. Plenty of resorts here have included activities as well to keep kids busy.

Best Family-Friendly Hotel in Bar Harbor: Atlantic Oceanside Hotel 

22 – Alaskan Cruise

If you like the outdoors but the affordability of a cruise, check out an Alaskan Cruise. Royal Caribbean has an indoor pool on most of its ships and kids’ clubs. Food is included on the ship and most of the towns are free to walk around and explore.

What It’s REALLY Like On An Alaskan Cruise

23 – Punta Cana, Dominican Republic

If you’re considering a tropical vacation, Punta Cana is one of the most affordable family travel destinations. Almost every resort on this island is all-inclusive so you save money on both food and activities. And with the many pools and waterslides, you’ll never need to leave the resort.

Search Punta Cana Resorts HERE!

Affordable Family Travel: Money-Saving Tips

✔️ Book trips in the off-season if you can. New York City is half the cost if you visit in the spring or fall and avoid the summer crowds. Arizona is the cheapest in the summer and you can often find really good deals at that time.

✔️ Book early! You can usually find the best deals the earlier you book. But also keep an eye on prices after you book. Most resorts will honor any specials or deals they have even after you book.

✔️ Look for all-inclusive deals. Including food and drinks in your resort price will save you tons of money. And sometimes you can even bundle your flights to make them more affordable.

✔️ Use Credit card points. I have a Southwest Card to build flight points and Chase Sapphire for hotels and rental cars. I charge what I can and pay it off at the end of the month to avoid interest, but this builds points super fast!

✔️ Create a travel budget. It’s a good idea to set aside a certain amount for your family vacations but you can also tuck away small amounts of cash for spending money.

See Related: How To Realistically Save Money For Traveling

What Is A Good Budget For A Family Vacation?

The average family of four can expect to spend approximately $4500 on a 7-day vacation. While it is possible to spend less, it’s a good idea to use this number as your budget.

All vacations vary and will depend a lot on how far you need to travel. Airline tickets for a family of 4 alone can cost over $2000 on average so looking for cities you can visit within driving distance from your hometown will help save a significant amount of money.

Can A Family Go On Vacation For Under $500?

It can be tough but not impossible! Look for resorts or special deals in your own City. You can take a really nice staycation without the hassle and expense of travel fees.

Look for off-season times and sign up for mailing lists from nearby resorts to see when they are offering specials and deals.

Or consider a road trip! You can pack up the car and go to several fabulous places like Yosemite National Park, Yellowstone, or even Glacier National Park.

Conclusion: Affordable Family Travel Destinations & Tips 2022

From the beach to the mountains, if you are looking for affordable family travel destinations, you came to the right place! T

his list is all you need to plan an amazing vacation that every member of your family will love. And you won’t have to go bankrupt doing it.

You May Also Be Interested In:

• Why Your Family Needs To Take a Caribbean Cruise
• The Best Family Friendly Resort in Scottsdale, Arizona
• How To Save Money at the Atlantis, Bahamas
• Sky Ranch Lodge: The Best Family Friendly Hotel in Sedona with Killer Views

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9 Secrets to Family Travel on a Budget

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Family vacations often result in some of the best memories, whether you’re road-tripping across the country or flying around the world. But paying for travel for the whole gang can get expensive fast.

Fortunately, no matter your clan size, you can travel far and spend less. Here are eight tips for planning budget family travel.

1. Choose your destination wisely

The first hurdle to planning budget-friendly travel for your family is choosing a destination wisely. If the goal is to save some cash relative to all of your options, where you go matters.

For starters, will you fly or drive ? If you have a large family, selecting a destination closer to home that you can drive to is likely cheaper than paying for airfare for multiple people.

But suppose you already know you want to visit an international destination or a city on the other side of the country. In that case, the destination itself can be costly or inexpensive, depending on exchange rates and the cost of living.

If you’re looking for a budget-friendly adventure, choose your destination based on what you’d like to do, the price of things in that destination and how far the U.S. Dollar will go when you exchange it for local currency .

A beach vacation in Hawaii , for example, will cost more than a beach vacation in Guatemala (where everything from food to accommodations, transportation and activities will be less expensive).

» Learn more : How to plan a trip

2. Travel during shoulder seasons

Selecting when you travel is just as important as where. That’s because most destinations are more expensive during peak travel times, whether you’re paying in cash or points. Peak travel periods in some destinations usually include holidays like Thanksgiving and Christmas, as well as spring and summer school vacations.

» Learn more: How to get travel deals in the shoulder season

Other destinations depend on seasons and the weather for their peak seasons. For example, you’ll likely find hotels in ski resort areas more expensive in the winter versus summer, whereas other destinations might be more expensive in the summer.

Generally speaking, a shoulder season — like fall — is a more budget-friendly time to travel to many places. If you have the option, conduct a few different date searches on airline or accommodation websites to see what times of the year they typically charge less.

» Learn more: Weather or not — How to book better shoulder season travel

3. Be flexible

That said, if school or work schedules don’t allow flexibility to travel during off-peak seasons, you can still save money by choosing the right day to travel .

For example, if you’re willing to fly on Thanksgiving day or the Fourth of July, you’ll likely save more than a few bucks on airfare. Just altering a search by a few days can potentially save hundreds.

» Learn more: There’s just one trick to traveling cheaply — flexibility

4. Consider transportation costs

Zipcar allows you to book rental cars by the hour or day. Since they're usually parked in small lots around cities and can be unlocked via the Zipcar app, you don't even need to speak to a human at the car rental counter. (Photo by Sally French)

Airfare aside, if you want to save on transportation, consider all of your options once you arrive. For example, if you’re staying in a walkable city or small town, renting a car might be a waste of money. Public transportation and the occasional rideshare or pedicab may be more cost-effective. In other cities like Honolulu where parking and gas prices are high, you might just want a rental car in Honolulu for one day.

The exception? When you're traveling in large groups and your trip involves a lot of driving from place to place. In these scenarios, a taxi or a dozen bus fares might be unfeasible. Instead, research budget car rental options or even consider rental car alternatives such as Turo and Getaround .

» Learn more : Where to find rental car discounts

5. Search for free experiences

Attraction and experience fees can add up fast when traveling as a family. Fortunately, no matter where you go, there are likely free and inexpensive tourist options.

Many cities offer free museum days where you can explore world-renowned art or history museums at no cost. In other cities, there may be free walking tours (tips are still appreciated).

There’s also a chance you'll find a free version of a popular attraction — like hula performances in Hawaii — which could save you big bucks over paid experiences (and you won't feel as bad if young children get fussy and you have to bail).

From museums and tours to outdoor movies and festivals, be sure to search for free things to do wherever you’re headed to save some dough.

» Learn more: Tips for flying with a toddler

6. Get creative with accommodations

Sometimes vacation rentals offer way more space, which can be convenient for families. This Vacasa in Wilmington, North Carolina had a massive living room to spread out. (Photo by Sally French)

Sure, hotels and resorts, especially ones that let kids stay or eat free, are always a valid option, but a quick search on a vacation rental platform — like Airbnb or Vrbo — can unearth many possibilities that might be less expensive and more comfortable for a large group.

For a unique experience, consider a home exchange where you swap houses with someone in a different destination for an annual fee, or housesitting, which offers a way to stay in a local’s home and take care of their pets or plants, also for just an annual membership fee.

» Learn more: Are Airbnbs really cheaper than hotels for large groups?

7. Stock up on snacks at the supermarket

When in Hawaii, buy poke from the ABC Stores. It's typically just as tasty (but far cheaper) than what you'll get at a restaurant. Grab your poke to go and eat it on the beach for an oceanfront meal on a budget. (Photo by Sally French)

Costs for dining out every day can add up fast (especially in today's economy ). To save on meals, plan to prepare and eat one or two meals every day at your accommodation, especially if your room has a kitchen. Stock up on groceries and snacks at the supermarket.

That goes for days you’ll spend in a car or on an airplane, too, where you’ll pay for the convenience of readily available snack foods.

Alternatively, explore the street food scene or go to local markets instead of dining out at a sit-down restaurant. You’ll likely find more unique foods from stalls and carts.

Restaurants near tourist areas may upcharge versus those that cater to locals. You can save more money the farther you dine from popular tourist areas.

8. Get travel insurance

Travel insurance may sound like an extra cost when it comes to planning family travel on a budget, but it can save you hundreds, if not thousands, if something goes wrong.

If you need to cancel your trip, someone gets food poisoning or needs stitches and has to go to the hospital, or the airline loses your bag, comprehensive travel insurance can save the day by footing the bill.

Just make sure you read policy details and understand what’s covered in the policy you select.

» Learn more: What to consider before buying family travel insurance

9. Design trips that accommodate a range of family budgets

If you're traveling on a multigenerational family trip with multiple family units, consider designing the trip so each person can book their own lodging, activities and transport there. Then, intersperse plenty of meetup events so the family units can get together.

For example, decide on a date and city for the family trip. Then, let each family book their own lodging. Some families might choose an Airbnb, while others might go for a hotel. Even within those two options, one family might book a cheap motel while another might go for the 5-star resort. Opening up lodging options allows everyone to pick something that suits their travel styles and budgets.

Budget family travel, recapped

Family travel on a budget is possible. You just need to be flexible, get creative, weigh your options and choose your destination wisely to stretch your dollar wherever you go.

How to maximize your rewards

You want a travel credit card that prioritizes what’s important to you. Here are some of the best travel credit cards of 2024 :

Flexibility, point transfers and a large bonus: Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

No annual fee: Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card

Flat-rate travel rewards: Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

Bonus travel rewards and high-end perks: Chase Sapphire Reserve®

Luxury perks: The Platinum Card® from American Express

Business travelers: Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card

on Chase's website

1x-5x 5x on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3x on dining, select streaming services and online groceries, 2x on all other travel purchases, 1x on all other purchases.

60,000 Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $750 when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.

1.5%-5% Enjoy 5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery service, and unlimited 1.5% cash back on all other purchases.

Up to $300 Earn an additional 1.5% cash back on everything you buy (on up to $20,000 spent in the first year) - worth up to $300 cash back!

on Capital One's website

2x-5x Earn unlimited 2X miles on every purchase, every day. Earn 5X miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel, where you'll get Capital One's best prices on thousands of trip options.

75,000 Enjoy a one-time bonus of 75,000 miles once you spend $4,000 on purchases within 3 months from account opening, equal to $750 in travel.

40 of the Best Affordable Family Vacations in the U.S.

Finding a budget-friendly destination that makes the whole family happy just got easier.

National parks are always a top choice for low-cost travel, but don't forget about cities. Places like San Antonio, Nashville , and New Orleans offer unique cultural experiences and cost-friendly attractions, including museums, festivals, and delicious cuisine—and there are plenty of beach options (like Myrtle Beach, Gulf Shores, and Outer Banks) with modestly priced family-friendly activities, such as swimming, fishing, and exploring the coastline.

No matter what your family's interests are, there is a budget-friendly vacation spot waiting to be explored right here in the United States.

Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming

With an affordable admission fee and reasonable camping and lodging costs, Yellowstone offers an incredible natural experience at a low cost. Visitors can stay at campsites within the park, like the stunning Bridge Bay Campground , and enjoy the park's many free activities, like hiking, wildlife viewing, and attending ranger-led programs.

San Antonio, Texas

A hotbed of Texas history, San Antonio has plenty of free and educational attractions for visitors of all ages. One of the city's most popular attractions is the historic Alamo, but you can also explore the River Walk—a scenic network of walkways along the San Antonio River and often a hub for street performers and live music. The city is also home to several parks and green spaces, such as the Brackenridge Park and the San Antonio Botanical Garden , and many museums and cultural institutions, like the San Antonio Museum of Art and the Institute of Texan Cultures . Plus, you can't beat the Tex-Mex!

Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

If you're hoping for beach time this summer, Myrtle Beach is the way to go, with miles of sandy shores ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and playing in the waves. Visit the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk—which features numerous shops, restaurants, and arcades—and enjoy free events, like live music and fireworks shows. Not to mention, the town has plenty of affordable, family-friendly activities—think miniature golf and water parks—and welcoming resorts, like The Strand .

Mount Rushmore National Memorial, South Dakota

In South Dakota's scenic Black Hills—under an hour drive from Rapid City , an ideal place to anchor the family for the trip—enjoy the iconic presidential sculptures, attend ranger-led park programs, and explore hiking trails. Outside of Mount Rushmore, Crazy Horse Memorial and Custer State Park are also nearby.

Williamsburg, Virginia

You might be familiar with Colonial Williamsburg, the famed living history museum that re-creates life in the 18th century, but this Virginia city is home to several other affordable historical attractions, like the Jamestown Settlement and Yorktown Victory Center . If you're itching for an active getaway, explore the Virginia Capital Trail , a 52-mile biking and walking trail that connects Williamsburg to Richmond.

Gulf Shores, Alabama

With white sandy beaches and warm Gulf waters, it's easy to visit Gulf Shores and not spend a dime. The area is also home to Gulf State Park, which has hiking and biking trails, alongside fishing and wildlife viewing opportunities. Other family- and summer-friendly activities include dolphin cruises, water parks, and miniature golf. Don't miss Matt's Homemade Alabama Ice Cream for a sweet treat after a long day in the sand.

Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona

With so many free activities and attractions within the park, the Grand Canyon is a classic family vacation spot. Hike along the popular Bright Angel Trail, or stop at one of the breathtaking scenic viewpoints along the South Rim for the trademark canyon views. Camping within the park is an affordable option, with campsites starting at just $18 per night, and the many nearby towns and cities, such as Flagstaff and Williams, offer additional lodging and dining options at a reasonable cost.

Dollywood, Tennessee

Looking to pack a whole lot of attractions and activities into one trip? Head to Dollywood , an iconic theme park in the heart of Tennessee with more than 40 attractions, including roller coasters, water rides, and shows. Bonus: There are plenty of free things to do here, including the Eagle Mountain Sanctuary and the Southern Gospel Museum and Hall of Fame .

Lake Tahoe, California and Nevada

Whether you're visiting the California side or the Nevada side of this West Coast landmark, you can enjoy swimming, boating, and fishing in the crystal-clear waters of the lake—and hiking or biking on the many trails around the lake—all accessible for free. Plus, Lake Tahoe has plenty of other attractions, like the Tahoe Science Center . If you're visiting during winter, the area is known for its ski resorts and other winter activities, like sledding and snowshoeing.

St. Augustine, Florida

The oldest city in the U.S., having been first settled in the 16th century, St. Augustine is an excellent budget-friendly family vacation spot because of its many free and low-cost attractions. Explore the historic district, which features landmarks such as the Castillo de San Marcos National Monument and the Oldest Wooden School House . Other fun attractions include the St. Augustine Alligator Farm Zoological Park , St. Augustine Pirate & Treasure Museum , and of course, the crystal-clear public beaches.

New Orleans, Louisiana

Vibrant and culturally rich, New Orleans truly offers something for everyone. It's easy to spend hours wandering around the historic French Quarter or exploring attractions, like the Audubon Aquarium of the Americas and the Audubon Zoo . The city is also known for its delicious (and affordable!) food, with local favorites, such as beignets and po' boys stealing the show.

Niagara Falls, New York

This upstate New York hotspot delivers for anyone looking for outdoor adventure. It's always free to walk into the park and experience the falls, where the waters of four the Great Lakes convene into the Niagara River Gorge. (Pro tip: If you want to get up close and personal with the falls, check out Cave of the Winds, a remarkable natural cave behind Bridal Veil Falls.) Plus, Niagara Falls State Park , the oldest state park in the U.S., has ample trails and picnic areas for exploration.

Branson, Missouri

Full of fun for adults and kids alike, Branson is home to plenty of free activities, like Branson Landing , which offers a wide variety of shops, restaurants, a spectacular water and fire show, and the Lake Taneycomo beaches. Plus, don't miss the famous Silver Dollar City , a theme park with various rides and attractions, and the Titanic Museum, which offers a unique look at the historic ship. The city is also known for its live entertainment, which ranges from music shows, featuring local and national acts, and theater performances.

Custer State Park, South Dakota

Within the park's 71,000 acres, you can do everything from hiking and fishing to swimming and wildlife viewing—and you might even spot bison, pronghorns, and elk during your visit, most of which can be seen from many of the park's scenic drives and hiking trails. Lodging in the park is extremely affordable, with campsites starting at just $19 per night—and the park offers family-friendly activities, like scenic drives, horseback riding, and boat tours.

Charleston, South Carolina

Charleston boasts many free attractions, like the historic district, and affordable activities, like the South Carolina Aquarium , Charleston City Market , and walking the Ravenel. Plus, public beaches, inexpensive lodging options, and tasty seafood restaurants make it easy to enjoy a unique mix of history, culture, and beauty without breaking the bank.

Yosemite National Park, California

If you and your clan are hoping to explore the great outdoors, the park's iconic waterfalls, Half Dome, and Yosemite Valley offer incredible scenery and hiking trails for all skill levels. Plus, visitors can take a scenic drive through Tioga Road, explore the Mariposa Grove of giant sequoia trees, and stargaze at Glacier Point.

Gettysburg, Pennsylvania

If you're looking for a history lesson and natural beauty all rolled into one, head to Gettysburg National Military Park . Visitors can explore the battlefield with a free self-guided tour or attend a ranger-led program. Meanwhile, nearby Catoctin Mountain Park offers hiking trails, trout fishing streams, and affordable campsites. The town itself is home to plenty of excellent attractions and restaurants, including the Dobbin House Tavern , a historic B&B loaded with Civil War history.

Asheville, North Carolina

An increasingly buzzy vacation spot in recent years, Asheville is set amid one of the East Coast's most beautiful natural settings. Hike and explore the Blue Ridge Parkway, or relax in one of the city's popular green spaces, like Pack Square Park and Carrier Park. Not to mention, Asheville has several affordable cultural attractions, such as the Asheville Art Museum and the Thomas Wolfe Memorial . The city is known for its vibrant food scene, including the always-popular Mamacita's Taqueria .

Mackinac Island, Michigan

A quintessential family vacation spot in Michigan's charming Upper Peninsula, Mackinac Island has activities for the whole clan. You can explore its charms on foot, by bike, or via horse-drawn carriage. Visit Fort Mackinac and the Wings of Mackinac Butterfly Conservatory , and don't leave the island without trying some delicious fudge. Family-owned May's Candy Shop is a favorite year after year.

Santa Fe, New Mexico

Spend your days enjoying the idyllic Santa Fe Plaza, surrounded by shops and art galleries, or enjoy the city's plethora of museums, ranging from the Museum of International Folk Art to the Santa Fe Children's Museum . The city is also known for its colorful architecture and scenic outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing, skiing, and more.

Laura Ratliff is a New York City-based writer, editor, and runner. Laura's writing expertise spans numerous topics, ranging from travel and food and drink to reported pieces covering political and human rights issues. She has previously worked at Architectural Digest , Bloomberg News , and Condé Nast Traveler and was most recently the senior editorial director at TripSavvy . Like many of us, Laura was bitten by the running bug later in life, after years of claiming to "hate running." Her favorite marathon is Big Sur.

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Travelers recommend these 11 cheap family resorts that make vacations more affordable

Family vacations can be expensive, no matter the size of your crew. Between flights , rental cars , accommodations , and meals and activities, it all adds up. For many of us, saving money on vacation without compromising on the quality of the trip is always a goal.

That's why I drew on my own experiences and also spoke with parents across the country to find out about their favorite budget-friendly hotels and resorts in the United States . These cheap family resorts offer prime locations and plenty of amenities, and they come personally recommended by real travelers.

SAVE MONEY: Kids stay free at these 10 family-friendly all-inclusive resorts

1. The Village Hotel on Biltmore Estate

Asheville, North Carolina

When I stayed at the Village Hotel on Biltmore Estate a few years ago, it was a love-at-first-sight kind of moment. Our room was done up in modern farmhouse style (the hotel sits on what was once the estate’s center of agriculture), with a window seat my daughter quickly claimed as her own. And while the Vanderbilts lived a life of luxury at the Biltmore House, the Village Hotel is a lot easier on the wallet.

KID-FRIENDLY: 19 best family resorts and hotels in the U.S.

Right outside the hotel’s doors is the charming Antler Hill Village, which you can access for the length of your stay. Here you can watch craft demonstrations, visit with farm animals, and find kid-friendly dining options like a barbecue food truck and ice cream shop. Grownups can head to the Biltmore Winery for a complimentary tasting.

With an on-site fitness center, heated year-round outdoor pool, and hiking and biking trails just steps from the hotel, you could find plenty of things to do without ever leaving the immediate area. But marveling at the massive Biltmore House is a must-do, and the Village Hotel has special offers and packages that include length-of-stay daytime admission to the estate. Stay here and you’re also close to downtown Asheville , the Blue Ridge Parkway , and other local sights .

2. Red Jacket Beach Resort

South Yarmouth, Massachusetts

Book a stay at the Red Jacket Beach Resort on Cape Cod and you'll definitely get a lot of bang for your buck. Amenities include a 1,000-foot stretch of private beach, heated indoor and outdoor pools, a tennis court, summer beach yoga, and kids programming. But wait, that’s not all! You’ll also have access to the beaches, pools, and activities at four sister Cape Cod resorts, including the mini-golf course, private beach, and playground at Green Harbor Resort . Rates start at $230 a night, and lodging options include standard guest rooms, suites (some with bunk beds), and cottages.

WORLD’S BEST: Life’s a beach at the 11 best all-inclusive beach resorts in the world

A major multimillion-dollar renovation at the resort means everything will have a fresh new look this summer, too. "The Red Jacket Resort in South Yarmouth is located on a gorgeous stretch of Cape Cod beach that faces the Nantucket Sound and is ideally located near many restaurants and activities like mini-golf," says Keri Baugh, a New England-based travel writer who runs the family travel blog Bon Voyage With Kids . "Our family visited this resort for the Fourth of July a few years ago, and it was an outstanding family resort on gorgeous Cape Cod. It’s ideal for a full week-long vacation or even a long weekend."

3. Holiday Inn Club Vacations at Orange Lake Resort

Orlando, Florida

Spread out over more than 1,100 acres, Holiday Inn Club Vacations at Orange Lake Resort will keep the whole family busy. There are seven pools, including a 1,200-foot lazy river-style pool with waterslides; three arcades; four golf courses and two mini-golf courses; a kids activity center; two fitness centers; tennis, basketball, racquetball, and volleyball courts; and eight dining options.

"Holiday Inn Club Vacations at Orange Lake Resort in Orlando offers so much on-site family fun that you could skip the theme park expense and still have an action-packed Orlando vacation," says travel writer and mom of two Monica Fish . "We stayed there last spring break and loved it."

BEST TRIP EVER: 50 best family vacation ideas for all ages

Accommodations include one- to four-bedroom villas that can fit families of all sizes, and a standard two-bedroom villa has an average rate of $185 a night. “We chose the two-bedroom, two-bath West Village accommodation, as they are single-story duplex homes complete with a yard, full kitchen, washer and dryer, living room, and dining room,” says Fish. “We even had an Easter egg hunt in the backyard!”

4. Kona Kai San Diego Resort

San Diego, California

Set on San Diego Bay in the city’s Shelter Island neighborhood, the recently renovated and expanded Kona Kai San Diego Resort offers 170 guest rooms and suites done up in SoCal style with private balconies or patios for taking in the views. The pet-friendly property also has a slew of amenities ideal for families, from the Tiki Pool overlooking the bay and a private beach to in-room tents that can be reserved and waiting for kids upon arrival. Rates can start as low as $259 a night depending on the season.

ROOM TO SPARE: 15 best all-inclusive resorts for large families of 5+

“Kona Kai San Diego Resort is an absolute gem for families seeking both affordability and quality experiences,” says Nicky Omohundro, owner and chief content creator of Little Family Adventure . “With complimentary beach cruisers available, you can easily explore the island or head over to Point Loma for some stunning views at the Sunset Cliffs Natural Park. But the real magic of Kona Kai lies in its family-friendly activities. From lawn games and nightly bonfires to paddle boarding and kayaking rentals, there’s never a dull moment.”

5. Beach Place Guesthouses

Cocoa Beach, Florida

Located along Florida’s famed Highway A1A, Beach Place Guesthouses combines an oceanfront hotel with an apartment-style stay for an easy-breezy family beach vacation. Each guesthouse has its own style and theme, with options from one-bedroom suites to three-bedroom villas that can sleep up to 12 people. Amenities include an on-site barbecue deck, Saturday morning yoga classes, a rec room with board games and books, and an array of beach gear for getting out onto the sands of Cocoa Beach and into the Atlantic Ocean.

NO COMPLAINTS: 10 all-inclusive family resorts even teenagers will love

“You’re really not going to find a more beautiful stretch of coastline anywhere,” says mom of two Terry Ward, a FamilyVacationist contributor and cofounder of the travel blog Florida Beyond . “I love this property for a few reasons: A talking parrot greets you outside reception, the grounds are strung with hammocks, and there are loaner surf and boogie boards. It feels like a secret once you walk onto the tropical grounds; it feels like Florida, but also like somewhere else.”

6. Massanutten Resort

Massanutten, Virginia

The 6,000-acre, four-season Massanutten Resort resort in Virginia’s Shenandoah Valley offers a range of lodging options to match any budget or group size. There are traditional hotel rooms, townhomes, and villas, with some positioned in close proximity to the resort’s skiing and winter sports area and other accommodations located closer to the indoor and seasonal outdoor waterparks, which feature all kinds of slides, pools, and other ways to make a splash.

Other amenities include two 18-hole golf courses, hiking trails, playgrounds, outdoor sports courts, and multiple dining spots. Rates can start as low as $134 a night, and special deals and packages are frequently available.

ULTIMATE RELAXATION: Who doesn’t love a lazy river? These 14 family resorts have the best ones in the U.S.

“The on-property amenities are sure to thrill every parent and child,” says Kirsten Maxwell, travel expert at Kids Are a Trip and Groups Are a Trip . “There's everything from a ropes course and mountain biking to escape rooms and pickleball courts. This resort is one families will return to time and time again!”

7. Ashore Resort and Beach Club

Ocean City, Maryland

Located beachfront on the Atlantic Ocean, the recently renovated Ashore Resort and Beach Club makes a great choice for an easy-on-the-wallet family getaway. Room rates start at $103 a night, and amenities include an outdoor pool, fitness center, multiple dining options, and access to boogie boards, kids beach toys, and complimentary bicycles. Plus, the resort offers easy proximity to Ocean City family favorites like the Jolly Roger Amusement Park, Candy Kitchen, several mini-golf courses, and the Ocean City Boardwalk.

DON'T OVERPAY TO GET AWAY: 13 cheap family vacations that are super fun

Guest rooms are done up in fresh, beachy style and most have ocean views. “At Ashore Resort and Beach Club, we’ve always been committed to providing an exceptional experience for families, and our recent property-wide renovation has taken that commitment to a whole new level,” says Katie Cosgrove, Ashore’s director of sales and marketing. “Our Premium Ocean View Sunset Suites, with their generous space and breathtaking views, are tailor-made for families seeking that extra touch of comfort and luxury.”

8. Squire Resort at the Grand Canyon, BW Signature Collection

Grand Canyon, Arizona

Rest up before or after exploring one of America’s greatest natural wonders at Squire Resort at the Grand Canyon, BW Signature Collection . Just seven miles from Grand Canyon National Park’s South Rim, the hotel features pillow-top mattresses for a good night’s sleep and in-room mini-fridges and Keurig coffee makers plus on-site dining options for easy refueling. Room rates average about $200 a night throughout the year and can get down into the $100s during slower periods.

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While you may fill your days with outdoor adventures, there’s lots to do at the hotel as well. Families can cool off at the outdoor pool and splash pad, head to the bowling alley and arcade for a little friendly competition, or sit around the outdoor fireplace in the evening while gazing at the stars. The pet-friendly property also has a fitness center.

9. Kartrite Resort and Indoor Waterpark

Monticello, New York

The weather’s never a worry when you’re staying at Kartrite Resort and Indoor Waterpark . At this Catskill Mountains getaway just 90 minutes from New York City, the temperature’s always 84 degrees inside New York State’s largest indoor waterpark. Eleven different attractions include the Puddle Ducks section for little ones, the Nor’easter and Krakken waterslides for thrill seekers, and a “not-so-lazy river.” Admission to the waterpark for up to four guests is included with a stay.

WATER WORLDS: 13 best indoor water parks in the U.S.

But there’s lots of fun beyond the pools and slides at the resort, like an arcade, ropes course, escape room, miles of outdoor hiking trails, and even goat yoga. Seven on-site food and beverage options should keep the whole family satisfied, and there are Catskills sights and attractions to explore in the surrounding area too. Junior suites start at $189 per night on the weekends. Frequent promotions can bring that price down even lower and add some extra perks to the mix as well.

10. The Abbey Resort

Fontana-On-Geneva Lake, Wisconsin

An easy drive from cities like Chicago and Milwaukee, The Abbey Resort sits on 90 acres and rates as Lake Geneva’s only full-service resort. Guest rooms, suites, and villas are done up in lake cottage style, with some offering water views. Rates can start as low as $129 a night, and guests can enjoy amenities like an indoor pool with separate children’s wading area, seasonal outdoor pool, and scheduled evening bonfires with fireside s’mores.

FORGET THE THEME PARKS: These Orlando hotels are just as much fun as Disney or Universal

The resort’s Immersion Entertainment center has an arcade, on-site frisbee/disc golf course, board games to-go, “make and take activities,” and various planned family-friendly events. Complimentary bicycle and sports equipment rentals make it easy to enjoy the 26-mile Lake Geneva Shore Path. If you overdo it on the exercise, book some recovery time at the full-service Avani Spa or a lakeside dinner at 240 West restaurant.

11. Running Y Resort

Klamath Falls, Oregon

Located near Crater Lake in the foothills of the Cascade Mountains, Running Y Resort is an almost unbelievably scenic spot for an outdoorsy family getaway. Kids stay free here, and amenities aimed at the younger set include a playground, mini-golf, kids pool, and game room. You can also hit the outdoor tennis, basketball, and sand volleyball courts, play a little cornhole or horseshoes, or do some bird and wildlife watching at the resort.

MAKE MEMORIES: 25 best family vacation spots in the U.S. for all ages

"We have an abundance of wildlife, from breathtaking eagles to deer, wild turkeys, and spectacular birds that call the resort home," notes Elizabeth Mabou, Running Y’s director of sales and marketing. Walking and biking trails wind throughout the 3,600-acre, all-season resort, where guests can also book guided trail rides on horseback or take part in youth horse programs.

There’s ice skating in the winter, roller-skating during the warmer months, and an Arnold Palmer-designed golf course on-site. Lodging options range from standard guest rooms to vacation homes, with double queen rooms starting at $149 per night.

11 cheap family resorts that make vacations more affordable originally appeared on FamilyVacationist.com .

More from FamilyVacationist:

7 best Florida all-inclusive resorts for families

11 best family beach vacations in the U.S.

21 best all-inclusive resorts in the U.S. for families

The views and opinions expressed in this column are the author’s and do not necessarily reflect those of USA TODAY. FamilyVacationist.com and TourScoop.com are owned and operated by Vacationist Media LLC. Using the FamilyVacationist travel recommendation methodology , we review and select family vacation ideas , family vacation spots , all-inclusive family resorts , and classic family vacations for all ages. TourScoop covers guided group tours and tour operators , tour operator reviews , tour itinerary reviews and travel gear recommendations .

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Cheap family resorts that make vacations more affordable

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Family Travel on a Budget: The Ultimate Guide to Travel with Kids on a Budget

Wondering how we have been travelling the world with our kids for less than $100 per day ? In this guide about family travel on a budget, we give you all of our tips and tricks for affordable family vacations !

Table of Contents

Although we travel with our kids on a budget, sometimes we just like to do something wild as well! So not all of our trips are on a budget of $100 a day. Cheap family travel, however, is the only way we are able to travel a lot and see the world.

As a family, the costs add up quickly!

That’s why we wrote this article. For everybody who wants to travel more and longer with their kids.

Whether you travel in your own backyard or far away, for a short break or a long-term vacation, this guide will provide you with all the tricks and tips to travel with kids on a budget.

How do we afford to travel?

I can’t travel with my kids, I don’t have enough money for that! That’s one of the main reasons people don’t book a trip with their family, they simply (think they) can’t afford it. We believe, more often than not, that’s not true!

People pay way too much for travel! Simply because they don’t know how to travel with kids on a budget.

It is actually the question we get most: ‘ How do you fund your travels? ‘. A few people even accused us of secretly winning the lottery. And although that would be fantastic, we haven’t ?, I promise you!

So how can we afford to travel the world, even though we are not rich?

We minimize our travel expenses and costs as much as possible. Besides rich people, who are probably not reading this article, we all want to get travel costs as low as possible without giving in on the experience !

The only reason we could afford to travel full-time is that we travel the world on a budget, as a family. So being experts in turning every coin, we’d love to give you all our tips !

General tips for family travel on a budget

Later on in this article, we’ll talk about saving money on accommodations, transport, activities, food, and drinks. But let’s start with some general tips on budget family travel.

1. Choose your destinations wisely

Where to go.

One of the easiest ways to save on money is to choose a destination where the cost of living is very low .

We know how tempting it is… You just want to go for the easy option, which is fine too of course. Take the car for a trip to France or discover another state in the US, maybe drive down the coast of Australia when that’s your home country.

You would think a trip to your own continent is much cheaper than taking a plane to an exotic destination.

That’s often not true! Although your flight over there can be rather costly, you will easily even that out once you are there. A lot of countries in Asia, Africa, the Americas, and even some in Europe are perfect for family travel on a budget.

In the end, you might be spending less than on your normal vacation. Or at least you’ll have some amazing new experiences for the same budget.

Our advice: pick your destination wisely and travel further! 

Exchange rate

While choosing your destination, also check the exchange rate. Pick a destination with favorable exchange rates. It will save you a lot of money!

Another thing to consider when choosing your travel destination is the cost of visas .

When we were planning our long-term family trip, we first wanted to go to China. As Belgian citizens, the visa would cost us €164,5/$183 per person. That would be €658/$735 for the whole family, just to enter the country!

We needed an affordable family destination, so we decided to choose a country with a low visa cost or even a free entry .

We did, however, go to China on a transit visa . It allowed us to enter China and visit Shanghai for 5 days, without any visa fees.  

Read more: How to visit Shanghai on a budget  and discover how much we actually spent there

Cheapest destinations

Probably you all know that Australia and New Zealand are rather expensive, as are many countries in Europe and North America.

Here is a list of countries with low cost of living , where you can easily travel around as a family for a budget of less than €100 per day. For example in Malaysia, we spent less than $70 per day.

This list is not exhaustive, but we chose these destinations that are also known for their exquisite travel experiences.

Cheapest countries in:

• Asia: Nepal, India, Vietnam, Laos, Northern Thailand, Cambodia, The Philippines, Malaysia and Sri Lanka and Myanmar.
• North- and South-America: Mexico, Bolivia, Colombia, Guatemala, and Nicaragua.
• Europe (or near Europe): Romania, Hungary, Poland, Greece, The Baltic States, Turkey, Czech Republic, Bulgary, Georgia, Ukraine, and Croatia

2. Travel off-peak times

Embrace the less than ideal weather.

Most of us want to have sunshine and as less rain as possible. Oh yes, and maybe not too hot either. We are still travelling with our kids which is an adventure in itself without them being overheated the entire trip.

This means you’ll catch the best weather if you travel during the peak season to the most popular destinations. There popular during those months for a reason of course… And you’ll pay loads of money for being there at the right time of the year.

But if you want to travel with kids on a budget, you better consider travelling when the weather is less than ideal .

That does not mean it will rain the entire time or has to be freezing cold. If you’re only able to travel during school holidays, you could consider going to the tropics. In a lot of countries in South-East Asia, Middle-America, … it is shoulder season then because of the monsoon.

Those countries are still perfect for travelling then, you’ll just have to deal with a shower every day for an hour or more. The good thing is it doesn’t get cold, so you’ll still feel like being on a vacation.

Stay out of season/festivals/holidays

Cheap family travel is very hard when you visit a destination during the high season, festivals, or holidays. Accommodations prices easily double or triple, activities tend to cost a lot more and the budget options sell out quickly!

Travelling off-season can be difficult if you’re bound to school holidays. Your options are to travel further (the other hemisphere and the tropics) or to embrace the less perfect weather as we mentioned above.

Another thing to consider is avoiding big holidays or festivals . Don’t travel to popular places in Asia during Chinese New Year or The Golden Week. Prices will be crazy as all the Chinese people travel around.

Be sure to check the season, festivals, and holidays of your destination but don’t forget to check the entire region as well.

3. Travel outside the school holidays

One of the biggest frustrations for us, travelling parents, is the school holidays.

If your kids attend a school or you are a teacher, you are bound to fixed holidays to travel the world. This immediately means travelling during peak times, resulting in higher costs for transportation, accommodation, and activities.

Not ideal if you want to travel with kids on a budget. What are the solutions ?

Homeschooling

The first thing you could do to avoid travelling during school holidays is to take your kids out of school ? !

A little drastic, I know, but have you ever considered it? A lot of you are probably thinking you could never teach your own kids! Or that your job doesn’t allow it. What will the effect on the kids be?

Just think about this, what if the world was your kids’ classroom ?

What if you can travel the world together without having to worry about school and the fixed holidays? We took our kids out of school, to start our full-time travel adventure. So we know what we are talking about.

It is not always easy, but we wouldn’t have wanted it any other way!

Travel when the kids are young

Another way to avoid school holidays is travelling when the kids are young.

In Belgium, until they are 5 or 6 years old, you can take them out of school for a couple of weeks and travel without having any problems. I know it is like that for a lot of other countries too.

That’s why we were very busy travelling in those early baby and toddler years . We’ve been to the USA, Ireland, Israel, and Thailand, … all during off-peak times.

Travel long term / Full-time travel

It is not everybody’s dream to travel long term. But it is the perfect way to avoid school holidays. Plan a gap year, a couple of months, or travel full-time.

That way you can easily avoid high season everywhere.

Go to New Zealand in their spring or autumn, and avoid their summer months (January and February). Go to Thailand in February or March, when it is still cold in Europe but ideal there! Try Italy in the autumn months. And so one…

You will save lots of money by travelling full-time.

Read more: 10 essential steps for planning long term travel with kids

4. Prepare your cheap family travel before you leave

Do your homework.

Family travel on a budget already starts before you leave. If you want to travel with kids on a budget, you need to do some research .

There are two things I generally do before I leave: buy a Lonely Planet and skim the internet with all my questions. I read lots of travel blogs, look for budget accommodations and their reviews, and look for cheap ways to travel from one place to another, …

It takes quite a lot of time, but it will save you lots of money! And planning the journey, is part of the joy, don’t you think ?.

Read more: Our best family travel planning resources and inspiration

Don’t spend big before you go

It is a mistake we made in the beginning…

You’re leaving for a holiday, whether it be short or long, and you want to be prepared. So you go shopping for the right gear, some new clothing, and some other stuff you see along the way.

In the end, you have spent quite a lot of bucks before you even left, which doesn’t help if you want to travel with kids on a budget.

Especially when you are heading over to countries with a low cost of living, don’t spend big ! They’ll have everything there, for much cheaper prices!

A second thing to consider is, that you really don’t need that much!

Travel light, less is more!

We were heavily overpacked for our full-time family travel journey. Share and wear , you’ll spend less and be happier when you have to move your luggage from one place to another.

Cashback sites

If you do have to shop and you’re buying online, consider cashback sites. They will give you a little bit of ‘cash’ back, when you buy your goods on your favorite webshop, through their site.

This works of course only if that webshop subscribed to the cashback site. Sometimes, when you need to buy some more expensive pieces for your family travel, such as luggage, it can pay off to check these cashback sites.

Read more: Find the best travel luggage for kids

5. Adjust the way you travel and spend

Organize your travels by yourself.

If you are willing to plan everything yourself , you’ll save loads of money.

That means you arrange your own transport, book your own hotels, and plan your own activities and tours .

Sometimes we book an organized tour, especially if that is the only way to reach certain spots or really enjoy a highlight.

But it will be much cheaper if you plan it by yourself. Take the local transport to that temple, bring along your guidebook and walk around by yourself. Ask a local boatman to take you on that snorkel tour, instead of booking an expensive organized tour.

Get off the beaten track

Of course, we all want to see those highlights. But family travel on a budget will not be possible if you run from one highlight to another and only stay at those really touristic places.

Leave the beaten track, and explore the undiscovered ! Or not even undiscovered, but the less famous path. Your spending will drop considerably!

Slow travel

The faster you travel, the more you’ll spend.

And let’s face it, isn’t it nicer anyway to travel slower with kids? Because in the end, besides exploring the country, we want to have fun! This also means, relaxing, wandering around a place without hurrying, and giving the kids time to play.

So our advice is, even when you are flying to a destination further away, take it slow! Don’t try to do it all in a couple of weeks. Stay longer at one location .

Not only will everybody be more relaxed and happy, but you also get to really know a place and meet its people. It will buy you some free time just to do nothing.

If you are travelling full-time, it’s even a great idea to stay somewhere for a couple of weeks. We did that in Kuala Lumpur and we loved it. For a while, we went back to the ‘normal’ life, only in another country. And those weeks were our cheapest weeks of all!

Collect experiences, not things

Another great way to save money is by reducing the amount spent on souvenirs or other things you see during your travels.

Value experiences more!

Of course, we all like to have some beautiful souvenirs. If you decide to buy some, however, go to local artists . They are often the same or even better quality for much less. It will save you a lot of money. Don’t buy them in the tourist hotspots, prices can really be outrageous there!

6. Bank/Mobile/IT issues

If you need to stay online during your travels or if you want to book local transport, buy a local SIM card ! It will save you a lot of money. You can find them at the airport, or in more tourist places.

It can help to look up some information before you leave, to make sure which providers have the best coverage or have the best mobile/data plan for you.

Another thing to consider is getting a local bank account . This only pays off when you are staying in a country for a longer period of time .

It will prevent you from paying loads of money on bank fees. Every time you withdraw money from the ATM with your credit or debit card, you pay a rather large bank fee or percentage. This adds up quickly if you are travelling for a few weeks or more.

If you don’t take a local bank account, check in your home country which bank charges the least on foreign withdrawals . There can be big differences between banks so you might want to consider a new credit or debit card before you leave.

And one last tip, don’t change any money at the airport ! You’ll pay way too much! Either withdraw money from the ATM or change once you are in the city.

Cheap family accommodation for family travel on a budget

Accommodation can easily soak up most of your budget if you don’t watch out! Especially with children , as you need more beds and bigger or multiple rooms.

To travel with kids on a budget does not necessarily mean, however, you only get to sleep in dodgy guesthouses with 4 in one bed. Although that might have happened to us ?. But we also had beautiful apartments, with a swimming pool, fitness and sauna for only €30/$35 per night.

How do we find those cheap family accommodations?

It all depends on where you are travelling. In those countries who have a low cost of living, you can easily find some gems without breaking your purse. In big cities or more expensive countries, it’s sometimes impossible to find a decent spot for a cheap price.

One golden rule, we always rely on reviews and didn’t have a lot of disappointments during our travels.

Here are our tips on finding cheap family accommodations !

1. Be thoughtful when you book your accommodation

You either want to book your hotels, guesthouses, or hostels way ahead or really last minute . You always lose when you book somewhere in between.

We usually book last minute through for example booking.com and it never got us in any trouble. Especially in Asia, that is the best way to go. We got to stay in some amazing places, often with a lot of discounts because we booked so late.

Don’t be afraid to ask for an extra discount either, or an extra free breakfast. Often they just want to fill up the room and agree to what you ask for.

However, by booking last minute, the real budget gems might be gone. So when you, during the planning of your travels, bump into an amazing place for a very reasonable price with great reviews, book!

2. Be creative, there are other options

If I talk about booking accommodation, we all immediately think about going to booking sites and looking for hotels, resorts, guesthouses, hostels, …

But think outside the box, be creative! There are lots of other options!

Most of you probably know Airbnb by now. Airbnb is an amazing site to book a room, complete apartment or even a house for cheap prices. We use this site all the time and it got us some fantastic places to stay!

Housesitting or house swapping

This is an amazing opportunity to go on vacation and stay in that country for free !!

The concept of a house swap is a people staying at your house, while you stay at theirs. You exchange houses. There are lots of great websites out there to meet other interested families, such as HomeExchange .

A housesit means you look after the house (and often the pets), while the owners are off on a vacation. Again, there are a lot of great websites, such as TrustedHousesitters .

We had our own housesits in Brisbane, Australia. It was a great way to live like a local for a while, without having to pay for the accommodation. A win-win situation!

Read more: 20 best websites for house sitting, house swapping, and homestays

Couchsurfing

Couchsurfing is another great way to find accommodation. The concept is you can stay in people’s homes, sometimes on a couch (hence the name Couchsurfing ) but it’s also possible you get your own room.

Even with kids , it can be a good option! The site allows you to filter on how many people need to be accommodated and if it’s kid-friendly or not.

We had some amazing experiences with this, for example in Malaysia. It allows you to really go local, meet amazing people and even end up with friends! Especially if they have kids of their own, your children will be delighted!

Go local and pay less!

During our travels we often try to stay with locals . Either in a homestay or a very local guesthouse. That way we support the local people, get more out of the experience and pay less.

A really nice site is HomeStay . HomeStay has a database of thousands of local hosts, that let you stay at their homes. A cool feature is you can even filter on hobbies, which makes it possible to match your interests. You’ll easily have an amazing experience with local people through a site like this one.

3. Let’s go camping

Camping with a tent or van is a great option to travel with kids on a budget! Especially in those countries where it is rather expensive to book accommodation, such as Australia, New Zealand, North America, and Europe. Although the cost of renting a campervan is not to be underestimated, it’s still cheaper than sleeping in hotels and renting a car.

There are some great ways to reduce costs when you are camping . For example, check the possibilities for free camping . It is not allowed everywhere, but if it is, you often get the best spots for free!  

4. Kids discounts

Don’t always book a separate bed for each kid . A lot of hotels let the kids stay for free if they don’t use extra beds. This means if they sleep on the couch, with two in one bed or in between their parents in the big bed, that’s perfectly allowed.

Especially in expensive cities or countries, we sometimes book a bigger room for two or three and the staff agrees to bring one or two extra mattresses for the kids.

Because after all, how much time do you really spend in your room while travelling with kids.

5. Save up a night during travel days

When you are travelling from one place to the other, consider traveling during the night .

Take a night bus, train or flight and you’ll save a night’s accommodation. Those moments probably won’t be your most enjoyable memories, although they will be memorable ?!

Another thing to consider is staying at the airport if you have a very early flight. We did that once in Auckland, New Zealand. The kids found it exciting and slept on the couches after a while. And, we didn’t sleep much but oh well, we survived and didn’t have to pay for very expensive accommodation in Auckland!

Family travel on a budget: how to save on transport

Getting a cheap flight.

There are tons of articles on how to find cheap flights. One article we love a lot on finding cheap flights is this one by The Flashpacking Family .

Family travel on a budget isn’t possible if you can’t find cheap flights .

Try to be flexible when you’ll fly and where to. Especially if you are travelling long term, don’t decide where you’ll go just yet. Let the price of the plane tickets make the decision for you. We do that all the time during our full-time travels.

One of our favorite sites to achieve that is Skyscanner . On Skyscanner , you can put ‘Everywhere’ as your destination. That way the cheapest destinations will show up.

We always use different flight comparison sites such as Skyscanner , Momondo , or Google flights . They also check budget airlines and smaller companies.

Subscribe for flight deals and ask them to notify you when prices on a flight drop. And last but not least, a lot of people fly cheaper through the use of miles collected from earlier flights or with purchases through a credit card (travel hacking).

Check this amazing article by Nomadic Matt to learn all about travel hacking and collecting miles.

Flying with budget airlines saves you a lot of money if you only have carry-on luggage and bring your own food . Travelling with kids and too much luggage? Try to check only one bag for every two people.

During our time in Asia and Oceania, we flew a lot with Air Asia , a low-cost airline with excellent service!

Our last tip is, that before the age of 2, kids fly for free (if they don’t occupy a seat). The only thing they need to pay is a little tax.

Use local transport

Finding transport will never be a problem, but pay attention to what you book or you will pay way too much.

If you want to go really cheap, always take local transport. A local bus or train will bring you to your destination for a lot less than a taxi or private minibus. The downside is this kind of transport is often slow, busy and doesn’t always have air conditioning.

Transport apps such as Grab  or  Uber  are another great way to find cheap local transport. You install the app, ask for a driver and they come and pick you up. Some countries even have their own local versions, such as Go Jek in Indonesia.

Be sure to install the app before you leave, and buy a SIM card at the airport. That way you can already book one of these on your arrival, instead of the very expensive airport taxis.

We found these apps to be very handy and cheap, especially with family. Four bus tickets were often more expensive or equal to using Grab or Uber , and these cars drop us off at our location. The only downside is it isn’t allowed in some places or even in some countries. Again, do your research before you leave .

Read more: 10 travel apps every traveler should have

Relocate a vehicle

A great way to save money while travelling is t o relocate a campervan or car .

The concept is that the rental company has a vehicle in place A, but they need it to be in B because someone is renting it there. So instead of paying someone a wage to replace the vehicle, they look for people who are willing to do it for them.

They usually charge only a couple of euros/dollars per day. Maybe a bit more if you want extra insurance. And they often even give you some free fuel too!

A great way to travel cheap, although the downside is most of the time you don’t get a lot of time . You’ll have to travel a bit faster. We did a relocation of a big campervan in New Zealand, from Christchurch to Auckland, and we are wildly enthusiastic about it! A great site is for example Imoova .

Read more: Travel Diary: The northern island of New Zealand with our relocation campervan

Repositioning cruise

Have you ever heard of a repositioning cruise?

Neither did we before we looked into the subject. The principle is a bit the same as relocating a van or car, although you won’t be behind the wheel ?.

Cruise companies need to reposition their ships in spring and autumn from one continent to the other to prepare for high seasons. When they do that, they let you come along for really cheap prices.

For example, cross the Atlantic Ocean for €60/$50 a day or sometimes even half that price. Which is really cheap if you think about it. You have accommodation, food, transport, and a great experience! No need to buy a plane ticket anymore. CruiseDirect is a great site to find these deals.

How to save on activities when traveling on a budget

Entrance fees to attractions, buildings, touristic highlights, and other activities can easily blow up your budget.

Unfortunately, most of the real fun activities cost a lot. But don’t despair, you’ll still have an amazing family trip if you don’t try to do all the highlights or at least choose those that are budget-friendly .

Appreciate active experiences over attractions .

You could book a tour or guide to see a viewing point. But you’ll appreciate the experience so much more when you walk over there with the kids, really breathe the air, and see all of the surrounding nature and animals.

When you want to take the kids out for the day, choose to go for a walk through the city, maybe stop at the playground and have a picnic in the end, instead of a theme park.

We always research the free things to do when we visit a city or region. We’ve been to amazing playgrounds, have seen fountain or light shows, beautiful performances, stunning musea and so much more, all for nothing!

And last but not least, check for family discounts . Don’t be afraid to ask. When we book a tour, we always ask for discounts for the kids.

Go to the visitor center and ask for any multi-passes, city cars or discount cards . Especially when you are exploring a city, these can make a huge difference! Also, check the free museum days . A lot of them have 1 or 2 days a month where they let you visit the museum for free. Have fun!

Family travel on a budget: how to save on food or drinks 

Snacks – snacks – snacks.

Everybody who has kids knows the drill for a day out, pack enough snacks for on the go !

Don’t buy your snacks at the tourist hot spot.

If you want to travel on a budget, go to a supermarket and buy all your snacks there, enough to survive the rest of the day. Take some fruit, cookies, and biscuits and you’re all set!

Make sure you have everything with you when one of the kids suddenly gets all cranky or even completely unmanageable ?. We all know what I am talking about!

Another huge money saver is to eat local !

Although we do realize kids often don’t like local food, you’d be surprised how much they will appreciate it in the end! Look for those local restaurants , away from the main highlights and tourist streets.

Have you tried street food before?

In Asia for example, you can eat an entire meal for only €1/1$ per person if you give those street stalls a chance! You won’t be sick, I promise. The one thing you need to be sure, of is they cook or bake it right in front of you. Never buy fresh food there.

We had our best food experiences, also with the kids, trying out local street food!

Prepare it yourself

Although in some places eating street food is cheaper than preparing the food yourself, most of the time cooking your own meal is a real money saver !

An important tip, however, is to focus on the local products . Don’t try to buy all of the ingredients you would purchase at home. You’ll have to say goodbye for a while to your favorite cheese, spread or vegetable and embrace the local cuisine.

Book a room or apartment with a kitchen. A lot of hostels and guesthouses give you the opportunity to prepare your own meal, but Airbnb apartments are perfect too! If you have a fridge, don’t throw away your leftovers! Another way to save some money.

And last but not least, eat out in the open ! Prepare yourself for a picnic , instead of eating in a restaurant. The scenery will probably be much nicer, the kids can run around and you’ll enjoy your quality moment.

Or when you are camping, what’s a better experience than preparing a delicious barbecue or having a campfire cook ! Those will be the moments you’ll remember!

Choose wisely at the restaurant

If you do go to a restaurant, first of all, enjoy! But still, don’t lose sight of your expenses.

You can easily spend your weekly budget if you’re not paying attention!

Our kids usually share a plate , which saves us an extra meal. They wouldn’t finish it anyway.

In some restaurants, kids eat for free or you have family discounts . And then, of course, most of the times there is a kids menu .

If you don’t want them to eat only fries, chicken nuggets or spaghetti, you might consider sharing a plate of the adult section!

Save on drinks

By carrying your own water bottles , you’re not only looking after our planet and reducing your plastic waste, but it will also save you a couple of bucks.

In a lot of guesthouses, public areas, tourist highlights, … you have the opportunity to fill up those bottles.

Something else to consider is to limit the drinks you order in a restaurant . Save that juice, wine or beer for later and order a cheaper drink. Later on, go to a supermarket or street stall and you’ll still get that delicious drink.

That’s all folks! Hope you enjoyed reading our guide to family travel on a budget and got some ideas to plan an affordable family vacation!

If you have any comments or other tips we should add to this guide, please leave us a message!

And of course, enjoy your family travels!!  

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13 thoughts on “family travel on a budget: the ultimate guide to travel with kids on a budget”.

That’s a great article! Totally agree with you about travelling off season. With 5 we could never afford high season! And apologies here in New Zealand is expensive ???

Glad you liked it! Absolutely, the prices in high season are outrageous! New Zealand totally makes up for it by being so beautiful ??!

Great tips! Thanks for sharing!

Thanks so much for reading and commenting ?! Glad you liked it!

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Thank you very much for sharing this super interesting information, it is very efficient content.

Thanks a lot for this information. I really enjoyed reading this blog. Keep sharing

This article is a powerpack of knowledge for travelers because at the end of the day who wants to add extra costs?!! Agreeing with you on how to save money on accommodation, the solution to which has been for me to book homestays!! Homestays cost almost nothing compared to high-end lodging categories that charge you a fortune for the warm welcome and courteous attention you experience there. I’d also like to mention that HomestayHaven is another trusted homestay booking website that I’ve been using for a while now! thanks for sharing!

This is a great article. Very helpful. What one can also do is save up on ATM and bank fees. Get a fee free card like revolut, wise. and then also save up on ATM side of the fees with apps like ATM Fee Saver – it gives a list of atms in many countries who do not charge fees or have much lower fees than others. quite a life saviour. worth adding to your list of tricks!

That is indeed a good tip. Thanx for sharing. We will add it to the list.

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How to Travel Cheap on a Family Vacation

By: Author Teresa

Posted on Last updated: March 1, 2024

Categories Travel with Kids

Are you planning a family vacation and wondering how to travel cheaply? You want to have a great trip but you also don’t want to break the bank. I have found traveling on a budget with a family can be easier than you think.

Our family loves to travel and figuring out ways to budget travel has allowed us to travel even more. The family bonding and fun your family has together on vacation just can’t be duplicated at home.

So, let’s figure out how to travel on a budget and still have fun while saving you money. I created some easy money-saving tips to help you save money and not feel like you are missing out on a fabulous vacation.  

This post contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases . If  you choose to buy something using my link, I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. For more information, see my disclaimer  here .

How to travel cheaply with family, travel on a budget – hotel deals  .

Best Travel Times  

To get the best bang for your buck, travel at off-peak times to get lower rates on hotels and airlines. If you don’t want to go at off-peak times when the weather might not be the best, try looking for deals in what the Travel Industry calls it Shoulder Seasons.

These are the travel seasons between peak and off-peak seasons, which typically are April through May and in the Fall after the kids go back to school. These are great options because the weather is still good but rates are lower than peak season.  

Hotel Deals with Younger kids  

If you have younger children not in school yet, try traveling during the school year or during the week. Rates tend to go up during the summer, spring break, Thanksgiving break, and winter break.

Take advantage of the time before they start school by traveling during the school year for off-peak rates, especially if you are headed to a more family-friendly location such as Disney, waterpark resorts , and other family amusement areas.  

Make your hotel stay easier using our Genius Hotel Hacks with Kids . You won’t believe you didn’t think of these before. 

Travel Website  

Do your research and check travel websites to find the best deal. If you are flexible on the hotel check out booking.com (our favorite) or one of the many other travel sites and see which hotel can give you the best deal.

I like using Booking.com because you can search for a large number of hotels and see which ones have the best price and most amenities. I also like to use Groupon for hotel stays or activities because you will often get something extra, like kids’ activities or a spa day.   

Also, check out the website of the hotels and go under specials. A lot of times, the hotels will offer package deals for families. These might include breakfast or an activity at the hotel  which is a great money saver.

Rent a Condo or House  

Have you ever looked into renting a condo or house while on vacation? Often, you can rent a condo for the same price as a hotel room. Some of the big benefits include getting a kitchen to make meals, extra space for the kids, and all the amenities of the condo building or association, such as a pool.

My family really likes having a kitchen to make breakfast in the morning or a quick dinner. It’s also a big plus to have more than one bedroom so the family can spread out.   

If you choose to do this, make sure the owner has pictures up on the website so you can see if the place is up to date. Also, check reviews on the rental unit to make sure you are getting what is listed.

Type the location into Google to find the most reviews on a location. I also recommend going through an Owner rental website so you can contact someone if you have any issues.

A few we have liked are VRBO.com ,  Airbnb.com , and  Homeaway.com. 

Share a Vacation Rental   

Looking to get a bigger or nicer rental unit and save some money? Consider going on vacation with family or friends and splitting the cost of the rental condo or house. This way you can save some money and have a great company to enjoy your vacation with.   

Hotel Family Travel Hacks

Save money while staying at a hotel with simple travel hacks. Families can pack breakfast to have in-room and use the ironing board as a table. Share beds with the kids by placing a pillow down the middle to keep them from getting kicked. Plus baby proof the room with a simple roll of painter’s tape.

Want more easy Hotel Tips? Check out these 20 Genius Hotel Hacks to simplify your vacation.

Kids Stay Free and Eat Free  

Many resorts, especially all-inclusive resorts, will have Kids Stay Free and Eat Free specials. Take advantage of these great deals. You will save on food and hotel so all you are paying for is the kid’s airplane tickets.  

Driving vs. Flying  

If you really want to save money traveling with kids, drive to your destination. You will save the cost of plane tickets for each family member plus the car rental fee.

I also find a great bonus to driving is you can bring everything you need and not have to buy stuff on vacation. We like to drive on beach vacations because you can bring along chairs, umbrellas, sand toys, coolers, and more.

Save money by bringing all the toys you need and packing food from home. This can be a huge game-changer in saving money on vacation.

If you do plan to fly we like to use Baby Quip to rent baby strollers, cribs, high chairs, and other kid items. This is especially helpful if we are staying with friends or family who don’t have kids’ stuff. The best part is Baby Quip will deliver it right to your destination. 

Related Article – 15 Best Road Trip Games & Activities from Dollar Tree   

Trip Cost Calculator

Find out the full cost of your upcoming vacation with my free Trip Cost Calculator . Use this easy tool to help build your travel budget and get a better idea of how much you need to save for a vacation.

You can adjust each travel item cost until you find a total amount that you can afford. Then build your dream vacation around your personal travel budget.

  Travel on a Budget – Free Travel Apps  

Don’t spend money on travel apps to help you find the best travel route, lowest gas prices, places to eat along your route, and last-minute hotel deals. Use a free travel app!

The question is which free travel app will help you the most. Well, I already did the research for you and tested out the best free apps available. Check out my list of 5 Free Travel Apps for Road Trips  to know which I recommend for your family vacation.

Money-Saving Tips – Meals  

Breakfast  

Have breakfast in your hotel room. This is one of my biggest easy money-saving tips. Why spend all that money on breakfast when you can eat something quick in your room.

Most hotel rooms now have mini-refrigerators and microwaves so take advantage of them. Bring along some bagels, cream cheese, fruit, yogurt drinks, and breakfast is served. It’s also a great time saver to feed the kids while you’re getting ready in the morning so you can head out early to all the local attractions.  

An even better option is finding a hotel that serves free breakfast in the morning. This saves you money and the kids will love picking out the food they like.   

Lunch / Snacks  

Pack a picnic for the day. Many attractions now provide picnic benches for families to have lunch. Pack something special in the lunch that the kids really like to make them feel like it’s special and not just their regular school lunch.   

Bring along fun and filling snacks for the family to eat while visiting tourist sites. Hungry kids tend to get crabby which can put a damper on the trip. Avoid this and save money by bringing your own snacks instead of buying snacks at expensive tourist locations.

For the hotel room, I like to bring microwave popcorn for the family. It’s easy to throw in a suitcase and a quick snack to settle them down with a movie or after late-night swimming in the hotel.  

Pack Drinks  

Water bottles can get expensive, especially at hotels. I suggest bringing along a case of water, juice boxes, and maybe even a bottle of wine for the adults.   

Order Pizza In  

Save money on eating dinner out by ordering a pizza to your hotel room one night. You have your own drinks already so the expense is a lot less than dinner out at a restaurant. Most pizza restaurants will even bring napkins and paper plates if you ask.    

My family really likes to do this when we have a hotel with a pool. The kids would rather eat quickly and go swimming than sit at a long dinner in a restaurant. It’s a win-win, the kids are happy and you save money.  

Grocery Delivery  

Don’t have a car to pick up food for breakfast or lunch in your room? No problem, try out one of the many grocery store delivery services to help you.

Here are a few to try –  Insta Cart ,  Shipt  and even Target will now deliver your groceries. Just order online and you’re set.   

Travel on a Budget – Travel Games  

Travel Games   

Keeping the kids busy and happy will make the trip easier for everyone. I like to bring several different travel activities to play in the car, for airplane rides, or in the hotel.

I save money buying games by shopping at Dollar Tree . Load up on activities before you go so that you don’t have to buy anything at the expensive hotel shops.

Want some ideas of what your kids will love at Dollar Tree? Take a look at my 15 Best Road Trip Games for Kids at the Dollar Tree

I also found some economical travel games and gadgets on Amazon if you don’t have time to run to Dollar Tree before your trip. Get some fun travel game ideas by reading Boredom Busting Road Trip Games for Kids .

Travel on a Budget – Free Family Activities  

Before you head out on vacation, do some research on free activities in the city you are going to visit. You would be surprised how many fun free things there are to do even at popular tourist destinations. Look for some of these fun family-friendly activity ideas.

Town’s Website  

Look up the town’s or city’s website and see what local free events they have going on while you are visiting. There are often free concerts or movies in the park, community events for kids, and local festivals – all fun events you won’t have to pay for.  

You will be amazed at how much you find even in more expensive touristy areas. A great example is our family’s vacations to Naples, Florida. It’s a pretty expensive area but we were still able to find fun & free activities for the whole family.

Take a look at my article on 10 Free Things to Do in Naples to get an idea of what you can find.

Local Parks, Forest Preserves,  and State Parks

Spend a couple of hours in the outdoors on local hiking trails or discovering the area’s cool playgrounds.  Save money on lunch by packing a picnic to eat at the park.

Museums Free Days  

Most museums offer some type of free day or discounted day. Look on their websites to see when they are or just Google the museum name and free days. If you are visiting during the week, you will find more options than on busy weekends.  

Here is an example of Chicago Museum Free Days  

Smaller towns often have small free museums to showcase their town history. It’s a great way for kids to learn more about the history of the city you’re visiting, plus it’s another fun free outing. 

Museum Reciprocal Programs  

Do you have a membership to a local museum, zoo, or aquarium? Check and see if your pass is reciprocal to museums in other cities. Often you can get in free or with a discount to sister museums.

Another option when on vacation is to buy a membership at a museum you are visiting if they have reciprocal memberships to a museum in the town you live in. Both ways can save you some money and give your family extra museums to visit.

Related Article – Best Chicago Museums and Attractions with Kids

Travel on a Budget – Use a Packing List

It’s so hard to remember everything you need to pack for vacation, especially when you are packing for a whole family. So, I created an easy packing list I use for my family trips that I think will help you too.

Click here to download my free Family Vacation Packing List and never forget anything again!

Did you get inspired by these Budget Travel Money-Saving Tips? I hope you learned how to travel cheaply on a family vacation. It is definitely a lot more fun to travel if you are not stressed about money.

Let me know in the comments which ideas you liked and any great money-saving tips your family likes to use. I love to hear from my readers!  

Don’t forget to try out my Trip Cost Calculator too to get your personalized travel budget!

After all the stress of vacation planning and saving money, do you need a laugh? Follow me on Facebook for daily parenting jokes to make you smile.

Check out my Instagram and Twitter too for great family travel ideas, parenting tips, and easy family meals.

Don’t forget to Pin this for Later  

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7 Cheap International Vacations for the Entire Family

Posted on Published: November 26, 2023

Categories Family , Travel

Are you dreaming of exploring exotic destinations together but worried about the cost? Great news! Embarking on a memorable international vacation with your entire family doesn’t have to drain your wallet. Yes, you heard it right! We’re here to guide you through the exciting possibilities of cheap international family vacations, where budget-friendly meets unforgettable experiences.

Why Cheap International Family Vacations?

Sure, there are lots of things to see and do in the United States. But, giving your family exposure to different cultures, unique flavors, and  enriching historical lessons abroad  is priceless. And the best part? It doesn’t have to be expensive. With smart planning and our insider tips, cheap international family vacations can be your gateway to exploring the world without financial stress.

In this post, we’ll uncover some of the most amazing places that offer a perfect blend of adventure and affordability. You could try a road trip across Eastern Europe or a beach holiday in South America, our list of cheap international family vacations is about to make your travel dreams a reality, all while keeping your budget in check.

So, pack your bags and get ready to embark on a journey filled with laughter, learning, and lots of fun, all without breaking the bank. We’re uncovering the world of cheap international family vacations so you can discover how easy, accessible, and absolutely incredible they can be!

• 7 Cheap International Family Destinations
• Family Travel Advice
• Budgeting Your Vacation
• International Travel Safety Tips

Affordable Global Family Getaways

Unlocking the world on a budget.

Have you ever wondered what makes cheap international family vacations so special? It’s not just about saving money, it’s about unlocking new horizons for your entire family without the hefty price tag.

Cultural Richness Within Reach

It’s not impossible to introduce your children to the diverse range of global cultures and keep your finances in check. From the vibrant street markets of Asia to the sandy beaches of Central America, cheap international family vacations open a gateway to a world of learning and discovery. These experiences enrich young minds, offering a glimpse into different cultures and ways of life, all while fostering a sense of global citizenship .

Natural Wonders Without the Splurge

Nature lovers, rejoice! Affordable family getaways often lead to some of the most stunning natural landscapes our planet has to offer. Standing in awe at the majestic grandeur of the Grand Canyon or the lush rainforests of Costa Rica, these trips provide an  incredible backdrop for family bonding  and adventure. And the best part? Experiencing this natural beauty doesn’t have to come with a hefty price tag.

Building Bonds on a Budget

Perhaps the greatest value of cheap international family vacations lies in the memories you create. These are the moments when laughter fills the air, stories are shared, and bonds are strengthened. A simple day trip to a nearby national park or a week-long stay at a  beach resort  with white-sand beaches, these experiences are priceless, proving that the best family vacations don’t have to cost the an arm and a leg.

Priceless Experiences, Affordable Prices

So, as you see, cheap international family vacations are not just about being budget-friendly. They’re about opening up a world of experiences, learning opportunities, and priceless family moments, all within the reach of your budget. 

In the next section, we’ll start exploring some amazing destinations that are among the best places for families seeking both adventure and relaxation. These destinations offer a perfect blend of affordability, adventure, and unforgettable family experiences.

The good news is that many of these international destinations are easily accessible with direct flights from major cities like New York City and San Francisco, making them convenient options for a family trip. And if you’re looking for a getaway during spring break or planning a special family holiday, these locations promise an array of activities for quality time together.

Top 7 Destinations for Affordable Family Fun Abroad

Embark on a journey of discovery and savings.

Get ready to explore our handpicked list of the top 7 destinations for cheap international family vacations. Each location promises not only affordability but also a treasure trove of experiences, ideal for the whole family.

I share products I love with you through affiliate links, which means if you buy something through one of these links, I get a small commission at no extra cost to you.

1. Krakow, Poland

Top 3 Cheap Family Friendly Things to Do in Krakow:

• GOair! Air City Park
• Walking Tour of Old Town & Wawel Castle
• Diocesan Museum

Step back in time in Krakow, Poland. This Eastern European city is not only budget-friendly but rich in history and culture. Visit the Wawel Castle, stroll through the old town, and savor local delicacies without stretching your wallet. 

It’s a great place for families to experience a UNESCO World Heritage Site while enjoying the charms of a small town. Beyond its historical allure, Krakow is emerging as one of the best international family vacations, with its vibrant cityscape offering  amusement parks and water parks , perfect for a fun-filled family day out. 

For a little bit of adventure, horseback riding in the picturesque Polish countryside can be an unforgettable experience. Plus, with numerous family-friendly accommodations offering amenities like free breakfast and hot tubs, it’s no wonder why Krakow is fast becoming a popular attraction for quality family holidays.

2. Quito, Ecuador

Top 3 Cheap Family Friendly Things to Do in Ecuador:

• Heaven’s Gateway Basillica Towers
• La Ronda Street Night Tour
• CotoPaxi National Park

Quito, nestled in the Andean foothills, offers a unique blend of colonial history and natural beauty. It’s a perfect place for families seeking adventure and culture.

Enjoy the vibrant street life, visit the equatorial line, and explore nearby volcanoes. Ecuador’s favorable exchange rate makes this a surprisingly affordable destination. For families visiting during spring break, Quito emerges as one of the best places, offering mild weather and vibrant local festivities. 

Close to Quito, the Mindo Cloud Forest is a must-visit for nature lovers, where you can see amazing things like colorful birds and perhaps even sea turtles if you’re lucky. Plus, the city’s array of family-friendly accommodations, some even boasting a hot tub, ensures a comfortable and memorable family trip.

3. Hoi An, Vietnam

Top 3 Cheap Family Friendly Things to Do in Hoi An:

• Visiting My Son Sanctuary
• Local Market Cooking Class
• Basket Boat Ride

Discover the ancient city of Hoi An, where history meets the beauty of the South China Sea. With its well-preserved Ancient Town and stunning beaches, Hoi An is a great option for families. 

Enjoy boat rides, local food markets, and tailor-made clothes at prices that are a fraction of what you’d pay elsewhere. Often considered the best time to visit, the dry season from February to May offers perfect weather for exploring its white sand beaches and unique heritage sites. 

This international destination is becoming increasingly popular, because of it’s low cost high quality experience. While  language may be a barrier , the welcoming nature of the Vietnamese people is sure to give you a positive vibe about  future travels in Asia .

4. Sofia, Bulgaria

Top 3 Cheap Family Friendly Things to Do in Sofia:

• Museum of Illusions
• Outdoor Escape Communism Game
• Bulgarian Dance Class

Sofia, the capital of Bulgaria, offers a rare mix of historic sites and scenic mountain backdrops. This less-traveled destination means lower prices and fewer crowds. Explore Orthodox churches, Roman ruins, and enjoy the local cuisine. 

Bulgaria’s affordability makes it a great choice for cheap international family vacations. Plus, the city’s hot springs are perfect for relaxation after a day of sightseeing.

While it’s not as frequented as some of the most popular destinations European capitals, Sofia’s charm lies in its unique cultural tapestry. For families interested in history, visiting Sofia be sure to grab a local SIM card to stay connected to maps and language translation apps. 

5. Cape Town, South Africa

Top 3 Cheap Family Friendly Things to Do in Cape Town:

• District Six Apartheid Museum
• Hop-on-Hop-off Canal Cruise
• Flying Dutchman Rail Ride

At the tip of Africa, Cape Town is a world of its own. From Table Mountain to Boulders Beach with its famous penguins, there’s something for every family member. With a favorable exchange rate and numerous outdoor activities, this place is a wonderful way to experience Africa without overspending. 

While it’s a world away from the bustling cities of the United States, Cape Town offers a unique blend of adventure and culture. Its vibrant city life and natural wonders present a compelling reason for families seeking a new continent to explore. 

In Cape Town, every day is an opportunity to create unforgettable family memories, all within a budget-friendly framework.

6. Antigua, Guatemala

Top 3 Cheap Family Friendly Things to Do in Antigua:

• Spanish Lesson
• Chocolate Making Workshop
• Historic Walking Tour

Antigua offers a colorful, cobblestone-lined gateway to Central America’s rich history and stunning volcanoes. It’s a perfect place for families who love exploring ancient ruins and natural wonders. Plus, Guatemala is known for its affordable accommodations and outdoor markets, making your stay both memorable and economical. 

As one of the 21 Spanish speaking countries of the world, you will get to immerse yourself in a new language and experience new traditions. You’ll love the slow pace of life in Antigua which is a good thing for escaping the high anxiety life of North America.

7. Chiang Mai, Thailand

Top 3 Cheap Family Friendly Things to Do in Chiang Mai:

• Art Illusion Museum
• Rage Room Experience
• Organic Garden Cooking Class

Chiang Mai is a haven for families seeking an exotic experience on a budget. From elephant sanctuaries to night markets and Buddhist temples, this city in northern Thailand offers an unforgettable experience. The low cost of living and the abundance of cheap, delicious food make it a top choice for cheap international family vacations. 

One of the most amazing things about Chiang Mai is its ability to offer an immersive cultural experience at affordable prices, allowing families to enjoy quality time without financial worry. Exploring its rich heritage and vibrant street life provides plenty of good reasons to choose this destination for your family holidays. 

A World of Affordable Wonders Awaits

There you have it – seven amazing destinations where adventure meets affordability. Each offers a unique experience for the family as a whole, from exploring ancient cities to enjoying natural wonders, all without putting a strain on your budget. 

Discover beautiful beaches that are a perfect escape during the peak season, offering a serene and picturesque setting for relaxation and play. These destinations are also a great place for a variety of outdoor activities, ensuring every family member finds something exciting to do. 

Budgeting and Planning Your International Family Vacation

Navigating the financials of your global adventure.

Embarking on cheap international family vacations is exciting, but it’s the smart planning and budgeting that truly makes them a success. Let’s dive into some key strategies to ensure your family’s trip is as affordable as it is memorable.

Off-Peak Travel Timing

Timing is everything when it comes to affordable travel. Planning your trip during the off-peak season can significantly reduce costs. Not only do you get better deals on hotel rooms and flights , but you also avoid the crowds. This means more space and time to enjoy those beautiful beaches and scenic parks with your family.

Budget Airlines and Affordable Accommodations

One of the best ways to keep costs down is to look for budget airlines and affordable accommodations. Many destinations offer a variety of lodging options, from family-friendly hotels with an indoor pool to quaint guesthouses. And don’t forget to check out budget airlines for cheap flights – they’re a great way to save, especially on shorter, regional trips.

Currency Exchange Rates

Keep an eye on exchange rates when planning your trip. Countries with a favorable exchange rate can offer more value for your money, making expensive destinations surprisingly affordable. This can mean more fun activities for the family as a whole without stretching your budget.

Free and Low-Cost Attractions

Exploring free or low-cost attractions is a great way to enjoy a destination without spending a lot. Many cities offer free museums, public parks, and historic sites. Look for destinations known for their natural beauty, like national parks, or those with rich history, offering plenty of opportunities to explore without hefty entrance fees.

Plan and Book in Advance

Advance planning can lead to significant savings. Booking flights , accommodations , and even some activities early often comes with early-bird discounts. Choosing the best time to book hotel rooms can also play a crucial role in budget management, as prices can vary significantly based on season and demand. Additionally, knowing the best time to visit your chosen destination can result in more affordable options and a better overall experience. Plus, it gives you a clear idea of your budget, allowing you to allocate funds for other fun activities or unexpected expenses.

Embrace Local Experiences

Immersing yourself in local experiences not only enriches your trip but can also be more economical. Enjoying local food, participating in community events, and exploring off-the-beaten-path attractions often cost less than typical tourist activities and offer a more authentic experience.

Affordable Family Vacations Are Within Reach

With these tips, cheap international family vacations become not just a dream but a practical, achievable reality. Planning an international vacation especially when kids are involved can be scary. You get nervous that you might not make the right choice and that leads you to make no choice at all, in essence always procrastinating the trip. Being nervous is not a good reason to avoid epic experiences.

Maximizing Fun Without Maximizing Costs

Unleashing the Full Potential of Your Affordable International Getaway

You’ve planned and budgeted for your cheap international family vacations, but how do you ensure you make the most of them? Here’s how to enjoy a fulfilling and memorable trip with your family without overspending.

Embracing the Great Outdoors

Nature offers some of the best experiences, often for free. Whether it’s a day at the beach, a hike in a national park, or a scenic drive, these activities not only bring families closer to nature but also keep costs low. Destinations with natural beauty offer endless opportunities for exploration and adventure without the need for expensive tickets or tours.

Cultural Immersion

One of the best things about traveling is experiencing different cultures. Participate in local festivals, visit historical sites, and try street food. These activities not only offer a rich understanding of diverse cultures but are also light on the wallet. For families, it’s a wonderful way to educate and entertain at the same time.

Utilize Free or Low-Cost Attractions

Many destinations boast free or low-cost attractions that are perfect for families. From free museums and public art installations to historic walking tours, these options can significantly enhance your travel experience while keeping costs down. It’s a wonderful way to see the best of a city or country without spending a lot.

Plan a Mix of Activities

Balance is key when planning activities. Mix up paid attractions with free ones. For instance, after a day at a theme park, consider a relaxing day at a public beach or a visit to a local market. This not only keeps your budget in check but also offers a variety of experiences for the family as a whole.

Dine Like a Local

Dining out can be one of the biggest expenses on a trip. To save money, try  eating where the locals eat . Local food markets, street food stalls, and small, family-run restaurants often offer delicious meals at a fraction of the cost of tourist-centric places. Plus, it’s a wonderful way to experience the local cuisine and culture.

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Document Your Journey

Lastly, don’t forget to document your travels. Taking photos , keeping a travel journal , or collecting small souvenirs are inexpensive ways to preserve your memories. These mementos are priceless, helping you relive your amazing family vacation for years to come. Plus, these captured moments are tangible reminders of what makes these trips the best family vacations, proving that affordable family vacations can indeed be rich in joy and memories.

Affordable Vacations Filled with Priceless Memories

By following these tips, your cheap international family vacations can be rich in experiences and memories, proving that you don’t need to spend a fortune for a fulfilling family holiday. In the next section, we’ll delve into some insider tips for family travel, ensuring your journey is as smooth and enjoyable as possible.

Discover our practical advice on making your family’s travel experience comfortable, safe, and fun!

Seamless Family Travel Experience

Navigating the world with your loved ones made easy.

Traveling with your family is an enriching experience, filled with unforgettable memories. However, it can also come with its challenges. Here are some insider tips to make your cheap international family vacations as smooth and enjoyable as possible.

Packing Smart

When traveling with the family, it’s tempting to pack everything but the kitchen sink. Resist this urge!  Packing light  makes moving around easier and can save you on baggage fees. Bring versatile clothing and travel-sized items. Remember, most places have shops where you can buy what you need.

Keeping Kids Engaged and Happy

Traveling with young children or older kids? Keep them engaged by involving them in the trip planning. Let them choose some activities or attractions. Also, pack small games, books, or download apps that can keep them entertained during long journeys. Remember, a busy kid is a happy traveler!

Staying Safe and Healthy

Safety and health are paramount when traveling abroad. Make sure your family’s vaccinations are up to date and pack a basic first aid kit . Research and adhere to local safety guidelines, especially in unfamiliar environments. Also, consider travel insurance – it’s a small price for peace of mind.

Exploring Accommodation Options

Look beyond traditional hotels. Vacation rentals, family hostels, or guest houses can offer more space and kitchen facilities, often at a lower cost. Plus, they provide a more authentic living experience. Some might even have family-friendly amenities like a game room or an outdoor pool.

Eating Healthy on the Go

Maintaining a healthy diet while traveling can be a challenge. Opt for accommodations with a kitchenette to  prepare some meals . When dining out, choose restaurants that offer local, fresh foods. It’s a wonderful way to explore the local cuisine and ensure your family is eating well.

Planning for Downtime

While it’s tempting to pack your itinerary, remember to schedule some downtime. Travel can be exhausting, especially for young children. Plan for relaxed evenings, leisurely mornings, or a lazy day at the beach. This downtime is essential for recharging and enjoying each other’s company.

Embracing Flexibility

Lastly, be flexible. With family trip, things might not always go as planned. Embrace the unexpected and be willing to adapt. Sometimes, the most memorable moments come from unplanned experiences.

Smooth Sailing on Your Family Adventures

By incorporating these insider tips, your cheap international family vacations will not only be budget-friendly but also filled with joy, learning, and ease.

Safety on Your International Family Vacation

A stress-free journey for the whole family.

Safety and convenience are crucial for a successful cheap international family vacation. With the right preparation and knowledge, you can ensure a smooth and secure trip for your loved ones. Let’s explore some essential tips to keep your family safe and comfortable during your global travels.

Research Your Destination Thoroughly

Before you embark on your journey, do your homework. Research the safety standards, local customs, and health requirements of your destination. This knowledge not only prepares you for a safe trip but also helps you avoid any cultural faux pas. Understanding local norms is key to a respectful and trouble-free travel experience.

Keep Important Documents Accessible

Always have copies of important documents like passports, visas, and insurance information. Keep digital copies in a secure online location and physical copies in different bags. This preparation is crucial in case of loss or theft and ensures you have easy access to vital information when needed.

Stay Connected

In today’s digital age, staying connected is easier than ever. Make sure you have a way to communicate while abroad, whether it’s through international phone plans or local SIM cards. This allows you to stay in touch with each other and access important information like maps and local guides.

Prioritize Health Precautions

Health should be a top priority. Pack a travel health kit with essentials like medications, band-aids, and  hand sanitizers . Be aware of food and water safety in your destination to avoid illnesses. If traveling with young children, know the location of the nearest hospital or clinic for emergencies.

Choose Family-Friendly Transportation

When it comes to getting around, opt for safe and reliable transportation. Research the best ways to travel within your destination, whether it’s renting a car , using public transport, or hiring a taxi. Ensure that the mode of transport you choose is suitable for your family’s needs and comfort.

Accommodation Safety

Select accommodations that are not only budget-friendly but also secure. Check for family-friendly features like 24-hour security, safe locations, and child-friendly amenities. Reading reviews from other families can be very helpful in gauging the suitability of a place.

Be Prepared for Emergencies

Finally, be prepared for any emergencies. Know basic emergency phrases in the local language, keep a list of emergency contacts, and be aware of the local emergency services. This preparation can make a significant difference in unexpected situations.

Safe Travels for Priceless Memories

By prioritizing safety and convenience, your cheap international family vacations can be enjoyable and worry-free. 

Unforgettable Journey of Affordable Family Fun

As we conclude our journey through the exciting world of cheap international family vacations, let’s reflect on the key takeaways. Affordable travel doesn’t mean compromising on experiences. With careful planning, smart budgeting, and a dash of adventure, these vacations can offer a world of experiences, cultural richness, and unforgettable memories for your family. Exploring the most popular destinations can be the best way to ensure your trip combines the thrill of international travel with the comfort of easy access to amenities. Choosing a great option among the best family vacations often leads to international destinations that balance adventure with accessibility, making them ideal for families eager to discover the world together.

Are you ready to embark on your next family adventure? Embrace the opportunity to create lasting bonds and share joyous moments, diving into the vibrant tapestry of global cultures. Remember, the best family vacations are those where every member discovers something new and exciting, whether it’s through outdoor activities, local food, or historical exploration. Let’s turn these travel dreams into reality, setting off on a journey that’s both enriching and affordable for the entire family.

Start Planning Your Dream Vacation Today!

Now is the time to start planning your family’s next adventure. Remember, the world is vast, and there are countless cheap international family vacations waiting for you to discover. From the beaches of Thailand to the historical streets of Krakow, your next family adventure is just a booking away!

Happy travels, and we can’t wait to hear about your next family adventure!

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FAQ: Cheap International Family Vacations

What makes a destination a good choice for a cheap international family vacation.

A good destination for a cheap international family vacation typically offers a combination of affordable accommodations, inexpensive dining options, free or low-cost attractions, all with a family-friendly environment. Places with favorable exchange rates and off-peak travel seasons also provide more value for your money.

How can I find affordable flights for my family?

To find affordable flights, consider using budget airlines, booking in advance, and being flexible with your travel dates. Watching for flight deals and using flight comparison tools online can also help you snag the best prices for your cheap international family vacation.

Are there any tips for saving on accommodation during international family trips?

Save on accommodation by looking for family-friendly hostels, vacation rentals, or hotels with amenities like kitchenettes. Booking in off-peak seasons and comparing prices online can also lead to significant savings. Also, staying a little outside the main tourist areas can be cheaper.

What are some recommended activities for families on a budget?

Families on a budget can enjoy a variety of activities like visiting free or low-cost attractions (museums, parks, historical sites), spending time at beaches, hiking in national parks, exploring local markets, and participating in community events. These activities are not only affordable but also enriching.

How can I ensure my family’s safety during an international vacation?

Ensure your family’s safety by researching your destination thoroughly, staying in reputable accommodations, keeping travel documents secure, and following local guidelines and safety norms. Also, keep a list of emergency contacts and consider travel insurance for added security.

What’s the best way to plan a budget-friendly family vacation itinerary?

Plan a budget-friendly itinerary by mixing paid and free activities, eating local foods, and avoiding tourist traps. Include downtime for relaxation and opt for experiences that offer more value, such as cultural immersion or outdoor adventures. Research and plan ahead to avoid last-minute expensive choices.

Can I still have a rich cultural experience on a budget?

Absolutely! You can have a rich cultural experience on a budget by exploring local neighborhoods, trying street food, participating in local festivals, and visiting free cultural sites. Engaging with local communities and learning about their way of life can be incredibly rewarding and cost-effective.

Veronica Hanson blogs from whatever country she happens to be in at the time, currently she's hanging out in Japan. She's been living as a nomad remote entrepreneur with her family since 2020.

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If you're looking to save, be sure to set filters for any budget limitations you may have in your search. Additionally, you can sort by price to automatically put the cheapest options first in your search results. Weekend getaway packages can be relatively inexpensive as well if you are looking for cheap getaways. 

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Budget-friendly travel is easy when you book with Expedia, as we can help you keep prices low via search filters, but that's not all. There are general trends to keep in mind regarding prices, such as travel packages generally being cheaper during the off-season of your vacation destination. Additionally, the higher the quality amenities you opt for, the higher the price typically is.

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Top vacation spots include cheap Caribbean vacations and European vacation packages . With rich culture, history, and stunning natural beauty, a vacation package to these destinations can provide an unforgettable adventure. 

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Where to go on vacation on a budget?

Cheap vacation ideas can still take you to a variety of great cheap vacation destinations, including Yellowstone vacations and Glacier National Park vacations . Parks and outdoor experiences tend to be free, so national park vacations are excellent for a budget-friendly trip. 

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All-inclusive vacations to the Bahamas and all-inclusive vacations to Cancun are some of the best options available, putting you in a Caribbean paradise. However, all-inclusive vacations are more varied than you might think, with worldwide options. 

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Traveling with kids means you'll need to find fun for the whole family, and Orlando vacation packages can put you and your little ones in the world's theme park capital. Of course, a vacation package to Anaheim offers a similar experience on the West coast. 

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One of the best destinations for luxury is a Las Vegas vacation package , as the city was essentially designed to make visitors feel luxurious. Of course, a Lake Tahoe vacation package can be just as fulfilling as a more outdoor-oriented experience. Golf vacations also tend to be quite elegant. 

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15 Cheap Family Activities to Do in Kentucky

Posted: March 13, 2024 | Last updated: March 13, 2024

Kentucky has much more to offer than its heritage as the epicenter of equestrian activities. Visit stunning parks, forests, and caverns. Enjoy life-sized dinosaurs, water parks, rollercoasters and go-karting. The family won’t be bored in Kentucky; many of these activities are free or budget-friendly.

1. Mammoth Cave National Park

Mammoth Cave National Park, near Brownsville, is a pet-friendly, 400-plus-mile-long limestone cavern in Kentucky. It has miles of hiking trails suitable for various levels of experience. Entry is free unless you want to camp overnight or take a planned tour of the caverns.

2. Dinosaur World

Dinosaur World, in Cave City, is one of the most popular attractions in Kentucky. This amusement center has hundreds of life-sized dinosaurs and a dinosaur-themed children’s playground. The center welcomes dogs on leashes in all areas except the indoor museum. Dinosaur World has a 5,000-square-foot gift shop to buy dinosaur-themed artifacts, games, and toys.

3. The Louisville Zoo

The Louisville Zoo houses more than 1,700 animals from across the world. The exhibits include Cats of the Americas, Africa, The Islands, South America, Glacier Run, Gorilla World, and HerpAquarium. The one-mile paved trail around the zoo is suitable for the whole family. After admiring the animals, head to the nautical-themed splash park to cool off.

4. The Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory

The kids will love the 68,000-pound, 120-foot-tall baseball bat in the Louisville Slugger Museum. Even if the entire family doesn’t love baseball, the guided tours are fun and informative. The gift shop features merchandise for baseball fans.

5. Cherokee Park

Cherokee Park in Louisville is perfect for nature lovers who enjoy outdoor activities like jogging, hiking, fishing, and biking. For the less adventurous, there’s a family-friendly 2.3-mile trail around the park. Sports lovers can enjoy basketball, frisbee, archery, and soccer. It’s the perfect place for a picnic, and your well-behaved dog is welcome, too.

6. Abraham Lincoln Birthplace National Historical Park

The Abraham Lincoln Birthplace National Historic Park has two farm sites in LaRue County, where Abraham Lincoln was born. Around the park are picnic areas and scenic hiking trails. The park rangers are helpful and knowledgeable to visitors wishing to learn more about the 16th President of the U.S.

7. Kentucky Horse Park

Kentucky is renowned for breeding and racing some of the best horses in the world. The Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the area. The area is steeped in equestrian history, and visitors can see the stunning thoroughbred horses in the fields and enjoy the themed barns. There are many horseback riding activities and shows, so the park is a must-visit if the kids adore horses.

8. Louisville Mega Cavern

For adventurous families, Louisville Mega Cavern offers a wide range of outdoor activities, such as zip lining underground (the only one in the world), an aerial ropes course, and a mega-tram tour. The former limestone mine is family-friendly, and although not the cheapest activity on the list, it’s one the family won’t forget.

9. Full Throttle Adrenaline Park

Full Throttle Adrenaline Park in Louisville is an action-packed venue for the family seeking adrenaline rushes. Start with a race around the tracks in go-karts that the park assures are twice as fast as a “normal” go-kart. Then, try some ax throwing or let loose in the rage room and blow off some steam (for those over 16 only). For the best experience, book an Adrenaline Pass, a two-hour experience at the park.

10. Newport Aquarium

Newport Aquarium has a wide variety of animals and experiences. Immerse yourself in sea life by walking through the exciting Coral Reef Tunnel. Visit rare baby Orinoco crocodiles and get close to starfish, crabs, penguins, and stingrays. If you’re feeling brave, walk across Shark Bridge. You can even touch the small sharks. Newport Aquarium is a wonderful day out for the family.

11. Kentucky Kingdom Theme and Water Park

The Kentucky Kingdom Theme and Water Park promises hours of family fun in this adventure-packed amusement park in Louisville. It is a two-in-one experience with an amusement park and a water park.

The Kentucky Kingdom has a world-class rollercoaster and dozens of kid-friendly, less scary rides, including a mini roller coaster. Hurricane Bay Water Park has over 70 family-friendly attractions, including pint-sized rides, sparkling wave pools, exciting water slides, and wave pools.

12. Cumberland Falls State Resort Park

Cumberland Falls State Resort near Corbin is a fantastic day out, or you can book one of the log cabins for a more extended stay. At night, check out the moonbow, a rainbow made from the moon’s light instead of the sun. The park offers 17 miles of hiking trails and water activities such as white-water rafting, swimming, canoeing, and fishing. For the horse lovers in the family, the park offers daily horseback trail rides.

13. Muhammad Ali Center

Also in Louisville, the Muhammad Ali Center is a museum celebrating the legendary boxer Muhammad Ali. It has five levels of galleries, exhibits, artifacts, and films presenting snapshots of Ali’s life.

14. The Valley View Ferry

The Valley View Ferry in Lexington dates back to 1780, almost 12 years before Kentucky became a state. The ferry is free to pedestrians and cars. Enjoy the leisurely journey across the water and the stunning views of the Kentucky River.

15. Daniel Boone National Forest

The Daniel Boone National Forest in Winchester is an enormous 2.1 million-acre forest. The park has over 1 million visitors yearly and is open to everyone who enjoys outdoor activities, such as camping, fishing, hiking, rock climbing, boating, hunting, and more.

The Daniel Boone Forest offers rugged terrain, including narrow ravines, steep forest slopes, and sandstone cliffs. For the less adventurous, there are plenty of family-friendly trails for younger children.

From Boom to Bust: 18 States on the Brink of Financial Ruin—What Went Wrong?

We’re embarking on a financial roller coaster ride through 18 states, and it isn’t the fun kind. We’re talking about states having to check under the mattress and behind the couch cushions for extra change. These states are trying to balance their budgets, but the numbers aren’t increasing. Why are they skimming through their wallets like they lost a 20-dollar bill? Let’s find out!

12 u.s. Landmarks That Deserve a Spot on Your Bucket List

America is so huge that there seem to be endless iconic monuments and exciting places to see. It’s hard to know what is going to be worth your while. After all, taking time off work, saving up for a trip, and taking time to plan is no easy feat. These are the best U.S. landmarks worth visiting, according to a recent poll by people who have visited them. What would you add to the list?

12 U.S. Landmarks That Deserve a Spot on Your Bucket List

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10 Interesting Facts About People Who Like to Be Alone

Most families with autistic children don't travel. Here's how this one did it.

• The travel industry is changing, as more autism-friendly travel options are being introduced.
• An overwhelming 97% of families with an autistic child said they are not satisfied with the current travel options for them.
• Research has found that travel can benefit the personal development of autistic people.

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Traveling as a family forges bonds and priceless memories. Stuart Spielman and his wife Mona, who have been traveling with their two sons since they were young children, can attest to that.

Most recently, the Washington, D.C.-based family went to New York City to celebrate the 30th birthday of their son Zak, who has autism. The family met up with their younger son, who lives in Brooklyn, and other family who live in the area.

“Travel means an opportunity to bring the family together. That’s what it meant in this instance, to bring everyone together and celebrate a milestone in my older son’s life,” Spielman, who is also the senior vice president of advocacy for  Autism Speaks , said. 

The Spielmans have traveled far and near, like Paris, Hawaii, and Chicago. “My mantra is that everyone has a place in the world. Zak should not have a constricting life, Zak should have a full life, like the one I enjoy,” Spielman said. 

Learn more: Best travel insurance

Zak was diagnosed with autism right before he turned 2, and at first, the family met challenges trying to ensure he was comfortable while traveling. He is nonspeaking, expressing his needs and emotions in other ways. “For us, it’s persisting and enjoying ourselves as a family,” Spielman said.

Many of the over 20 million families with a child on the spectrum can relate to the Spielmans. Eighty-seven percent of families with an autistic child report that they don’t take family vacations, according to a 2019 survey of 1,000 parents by the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards. 

What is an autism-friendly resort like? These Caribbean resorts make travel for families with autism easier

Like the Spielmans, these families want to travel and explore new places with their children – the travel industry just isn’t accommodating to them. An overwhelming 97% said they are not satisfied with the travel options for them. 

Thankfully, the industry is changing, as more autism-friendly travel options, such as autism-certified resorts and flight boarding demonstrations are being introduced. 

“Over the course of Zak’s 30 years, we are being met more often with smiles and encouragement rather than that impolite long stare,” Spielman said. 

Planning ahead

By now, the Spielmans have their travel planning down pat, although it took “trial and error” to get there. “We’ve had challenging trips and very easy trips,” Spielman said. Zak’s brother, mother and father know him well enough to know what he’s saying without speaking.

On their trips, the family “maintains the right pace” and stays “mindful of his physical comfort and his needs.” Typically, the family builds an agenda for their trip, adding breaks to the cafe car on their Amtrak ride and making sure there’s a casual restaurant that serves hot dogs and French fries, which are foods that Zak likes.

“We want to be mindful of what does a good vacation look like for Zak,” Spielman said. Like with any group travel, the family aims to meet the wants and needs of every member, but “it can be challenging in this case where Zak is nonverbal, but with 30 years of experience, we’ve got a little bit of insight.” 

The family prioritizes Zak’s favorite activities, like walking or looking at water fountains and avoids circumstances that would make Zak uncomfortable, like going to the opera.

A frequent trip the family makes isn’t even far from their backyard – to Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, and the canal town of Harper’s Ferry in West Virginia. Zak enjoys walking along the canal and enjoying the day. Starting with smaller trips can help families learn more about the autistic member’s sensory triggers and be less overwhelming than a completely new environment, like a bustling city or far-away island. 

The joys of travel are meant for everyone

Everyone can benefit from travel. Research has found that travel can benefit the personal development of autistic people by boosting their adaptability, building confidence (both with themselves and their parents), and helping them cope better with everyday stressors. The love and trust built through positive travel experiences are also meaningful. 

In some instances, traveling with Zak has created connections that span borders for the family. “We often have this, we go to a hotel and staff will come up and say, ‘My brother’s on the spectrum, and we have some activities if you’re interested,’ ” Spielman said.

When Zak and his brother were toddlers, the family visited the Vatican Museums in Rome and Zak was vocalizing and caught the attention of a security guard, Spielman said. Thinking Zak was in trouble or was about to get kicked out, Spielman said the guard actually told him, “My son is like yours.” 

“I think everyone benefits from being around Zak,” he said. 

One of Zak’s favorite things to do when traveling is go to the beach for the sensory experience. He enjoys walking in and out of the refreshing water and feeling the warmth of the sand and sun. 

“The joys of seeing someone you care about kicking sand on the beach, just being content being in a different place and being happy, it means something special. With Zak, he’s part of our family, sometimes it’s harder to travel, but it’s just so important,” Spielman said. 

Kathleen Wong is a travel reporter for USA TODAY based in Hawaii. You can reach her at [email protected] .

The Key Points at the top of this article were created with the assistance of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and reviewed by a journalist before publication. No other parts of the article were generated using AI. Learn more .

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The Best Times to Visit Greece for Good Weather, Fewer Crowds, and Affordable Prices

High, low, and shoulder seasons all have their advantages.

Alessandra Amodio

Greece has long beckoned travelers with its crystalline waters, rich historical sites, and delicious cuisine. One of the best times to visit is in late spring or early fall to avoid the summer crowds and soaring temperatures. Here's an overview of the main tourist seasons:

• High Season:  July to August
• Shoulder Seasons:  April to June and September to October
• Low Season:  November to March

There are advantages to visiting year-round. The peak summer months are best for a classic coastal vacation spent swimming in the sea and dining in outdoor tavernas, while the low season offers a glimpse of local life as well as more affordable rates. Winter is also the rainy season in Greece, but it can be a good time for a cultural getaway with fewer crowds at museums and archaeological sites.

Ready to plan your trip? These are the best times to visit Greece no matter your priorities.

Michela Buttignol/Travel+Leisure

Best Times to Visit Greece for Smaller Crowds

Unsurprisingly, the most popular time to visit Greece stretches from late spring to early fall, when the warm weather draws beach-goers and island-hoppers. According to CEIC data , fewer than one million people visit Greece each month between November and March, compared to more than six times that number in August. So if you're not planning to hit the beaches, you'll encounter far fewer crowds if you visit in winter.

While the weather is cooler from November to March (average temperatures hover between the mid-40s and the low 60s), it can be a pleasant time to explore ancient ruins such as those at Delphi and contemporary art galleries and museums in Athens . Note, however, that many tourist venues and hotels close for the winter, particularly in the Greek islands , and there's a higher chance of rain between November and March.

Best Times to Visit Greece for Good Weather

If you're after warm weather but want to avoid extreme heat, May and September are among the best months to go to Greece. The country is relatively large, so temperatures vary, but in May, the average temperature in Athens ranges from a high of 77 degrees Fahrenheit to a low of 59. Mountainous areas like Mount Olympus are typically cooler. In June, the average high warms up to the mid-80s — perfect for swimming in the sea.

Summer can be sweltering, with average highs in the 90s in Athens, though the Greek islands tend to be cooler, in the high 70s and 80s. By October, average highs dip into the 60s and low 70s. Yes, it's cool, but nowhere near cold enough to feel uninviting. Winter is the rainiest season in Greece.

Best Times to Visit Greece for Lower Prices

You're likely to save money on a trip to Greece if you travel during the winter low season. According to Skyscanner , the cheapest month to fly to Greece is November. You can typically find the best airfare by booking your flight within one to two months of your scheduled departure.

Hotels tend to be pricey during July and August, so avoid these peak months if you're looking for lower room rates. It's worth noting that prices increase slightly during Greek Orthodox Easter, which sometimes falls at the end of April. The end of December and the beginning of January see a similar spike.

Worst Times to Visit Greece

There's no bad time to visit Greece, but July and August can be uncomfortably hot and humid, especially in Athens. The capital city and Cycladic islands (including Mykonos and Santorini) are also at their most crowded and expensive during these months, so it's best to avoid midsummer if you're looking for more elbow room, lower prices, and a relaxed atmosphere.

Conversely, winter temperatures can dip as low as the 40s in Greece and it's also the wettest season. While the cool weather is fine for exploring historical sites, shops, and museums, it's too chilly to swim in the ocean, and some hotels and attractions in resort areas may close.

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