Family vacations can be a big drain to the finances if you’re not careful. But being frugal really pays off, as it means you can start saving up for your next vacation sooner!
1. Travel outside of peak season.
If you plan your vacation during a shoulder season—spring or fall—rather than the peak of summer, you’ll end up saving big. You’ll get better hotel rates, and honestly, you can have just as much fun, if not more! Think of it this way: Fewer crowds, less waiting in line, less traffic, and you don’t have to sweat it out in the steamy summer months!
2. Get social.
Many hotels (including this one!) offer great deals on social media sites, including sales that are exclusive to fans and followers. So be sure to follow your favorite hotels on Facebook, Twitter and wherever else they hang out. And be sure your Facebook settings actually allow you to see their posts, or you may miss out on limited-time-only deals.
And don’t forget social applications like FourSquare and Yelp—check-ins can often score you coupons.
3. Use the privileges you already have!
Are you a Costco member? Sam’s Club? AAA? Look for special deals in your area. For instance, the Costco in Myrtle Beach sells discounted tickets to many local area attractions. But before you buy, call ahead to make sure this is your best deal.
4. Get the kids in on the saving act.
Vacations are great times to help teach kids about the real cost of day-to-day life. Have the kids help create the budget, so they can see how much the vacation really adds up to. And ask them to help save money for expenses, either by helping with a family garage sale or by earning a vacation allowance through extra chores. They’ll understand more about spending money once they’ve earned it!
5. Get a room with a kitchen and save on restaurants.
A couple of meals out will definitely be on the agenda, but you can save big by packing sandwiches for the beach or having a spaghetti night in the room. Then you can go take a leisurely stroll on the boardwalk with a full stomach, and it’ll be easier to resist all the expensive goodies!
6. Save on trinkets by buying early.
Kids love souvenirs, but gift shops can really drain your vacation fund. So try this trick: Hit up a dollar store in your area for small activity books, craft kids, and fun tokens. Then let each child open up one each day. Maybe it’s a journal for writing down vacation memories or a fun new pair of sunglasses, the kids still get the fun of new things without having to drop big cash at expensive gift shops.
We hope these tips help you get the most out of your next vacation at North Beach Plantation!
Posted 7/13/13
