How to have the perfect family holiday without breaking the bank

The annual family holiday can often be a headache in itself, especially when it comes to your finances with higher prices during peak seasons. However there are a few things you can do, such as looking into car hire comparison, which can really make the difference between a stress free holiday and one which breaks the bank. Here are my money-saving travel tips for the family break.

If you start planning your trip as soon as possible, it can make a huge difference than leaving things until the last minute. This concept becomes clearer with an example. Imagine you’re planning a trip to Broken Bow, a city in Oklahoma. By proactively booking your accommodation in advance from a Vacation home rental agency Broken Bow, OK, you can secure the most favorable deal at a budget-friendly price.

This is also the case with flights, as you’ll be able to book the most convenient flight for you at the cheapest rate. Leaving your flight booking until later can mean having to get the earliest or latest flight out to your chosen destination just to get a flight that meets your budget. And that’s not easy when travelling with kids.

The same goes for the activities you want to book your slot for. Whether you are interested in water rafting, bungee jumping, Kite surfing, or other guided tours and shows, securing your bookings in advance can offer several advantages. Most importantly, you’ll have a better chance of getting the time slots that align with your preferred schedule, which is especially crucial when you’re coordinating activities during a limited vacation period. You might also get hold of early bird discounts and other offers, potentially saving you a significant amount of money.

There are so many dedicated comparison sites dedicated to travel that you can use to find the best deal for flights, hotels, and car hire. It’s remarkable just how much money you can save booking a holiday this way and it definitely takes the stress out of booking your trip. Don’t forget to also use these sites to book the most competitive travel insurance for your family; an essential for any trip abroad.

Even after securing your trip arrangements, there are avenues to economize through careful holiday research. If you’re considering a car rental, pre-plan your routes to optimize fuel consumption and sidestep toll roads, which is an unwanted expenditure.

Regardless of your destination, there are invariably tourist-centric areas that tend to be bustling and pricey. Moreover, when embarking on a visit to a theme park, particularly a bustling one like Disneyland, dedicate time to researching the diverse Disney movies-inspired rides and other attractions.

That way, you could devise a well-structured plan in advance, translating into saved time and money. Opting for a fast pass might also prove beneficial, serving as a wise investment for long-term savings.

If you’ve planned lots of adventures for your trips, make sure you balance them out with a few days where you hardly need to spend any money at all. Head to the nearest beach for a spot of sunbathing, sandcastle building, swimming and rock-pooling or a forest or wood for a nature walk and a picnic. When researching the area before you travel, also look to see if there are any free activities available, especially through your hotel if you’re heading to a resort.

Before you travel, make sure you’ve packed some essentials for any journey to ensure everyone is kept happy. Snacks are always more expensive at the airport so pack some into your hand luggage, as well as stock up when you arrive at your destination. Also taking your own entertainment means you won’t have to stop off to buy more when you’re bored of hearing ‘Are we there yet?’ for the hundredth time that morning.

A budget-friendly staycation within the comfort of your own home can be a fantastic way to relax and unwind while keeping expenses in check. One delightful option is to embrace the spirit of adventure by setting up a backyard camping experience. Here’s how to make the most of it:

• Campsite Setup

  Begin by pitching a tent in your backyard. If you don’t have one, consider creating a cozy makeshift shelter using blankets and cushions, giving you the feeling of being outdoors while still having all the comforts of home nearby.

• Campfire Vibes

  If it’s safe, consider setting up a small campfire or fire pit for roasting marshmallows and telling stories, recreating that timeless camping tradition. Since Firewood Farm supplies kiln dried logs, you can source the supplies from them for your campfire.

• Outdoor Activities

  Plan games like frisbee, badminton, or even a scavenger hunt in your backyard to keep the day exciting and active.

• Nature-Inspired Meals

  Cook your meals on a portable grill or camping stove, focusing on campfire classics like hot dogs, foil packet meals, or canned beans.

• Digital Detox

  Make a conscious effort to disconnect from screens, including your phone, to truly immerse yourself in the outdoor experience.

• Campfire Stories

  Share stories or ghost tales around the campfire, adding to the authentic camping atmosphere.

• Outdoor Movie Night

  Set up a movie projector and screen in your backyard for an outdoor movie night under the stars, complete with blankets and popcorn.

• Music and Ambiance

  Create a playlist of nature sounds or campfire songs to enhance the ambiance throughout the day and night.

• Sleeping Under the Stars

  Spend the night in your tent, listening to the sounds of the night. It’s a wonderful way to bond with family or friends, create lasting memories, and enjoy the feeling of being close to nature.

  A backyard camping staycation offers not only a budget-friendly alternative but also an opportunity to recharge your mind and spirit, connect with loved ones, and rediscover the simple joys of outdoor living-all within the confines of your own home.

Natalie Likness‘ love of travel was introduced to her from an early age due to a trip abroad before she was even born! Having close family and making friends across the world, she has continued to travel ever since.