Budget-Friendly Tips for Moms and Dads
Taking a family-friendly trip is a great way to bond and have a little fun while on break from work or school, but it can also be an expensive endeavor. Whether you decide to fly or drive, you’ll need to think about food, transportation costs, lodging, and paying for events and activities, plus any unforeseen issues. Planning ahead can save you a ton of money and can prevent stress so you can just focus on having a good time with your loved ones. Here are a few tips on how to prep for a budget-minded trip when you have young kids.
Safety First
Your first priority should be the safety and proper maintenance of your vehicle. Check your battery for corrosion and if you find any, disconnect the cables from the battery and clean them with a wire brush before reconnecting. Check all the belts and fluids like oil, power steering, and transmission. You’ll want to make sure your windshield wipers are optimal and replace them if necessary.
Properly inflated tires affect your fuel economy as well as road traction, and while you’re at it, check the wear by inserting a penny upside down in the tread. If you can see Abraham Lincoln’s head, it’s probably time to change that tire. If you notice your brakes feel a bit sluggish, you’ll want to have a qualified mechanic check to see if the drums and rotors need replacing. If you’re advised to purchase replacements, Ride Digest has a review to help you decide which ones will be best for your vehicle and budget.
Find the Right Gear
When taking a trip with the family, it’s essential to make sure you have the right luggage and travel gear. If you’re flying, keep your baggage in the same color to help you easily find your things. Additionally, bags with handles and wheels will allow you to maneuver through the airport smoothly. Keep your destination in mind when looking for luggage; for instance, if you’ll be camping, you might want to look for sturdy backpacks for each family member.
Find the Right Destination
Taking a vacation with the entire family can wind up being costly once you factor in food and lodging for the duration of the trip, but if you can find a destination that offers a kitchen in an affordable setting, you can save money while keeping everyone happy. Look for areas that offer tons of activities for your family to enjoy.
Plan for Stops
If you’re driving rather than flying, be prepared to make plenty of stops. Road trips with children can be stressful, but if you plan for several breaks, you can solve a few problems at once. Kids will love the opportunity to get out of the car and break up the monotony, everyone can take a restroom break, and you can let the little ones stretch their legs and get a snack. These are perfect ways to boost everyone’s mood; plus, you can throw in a few roadside attractions that the kids will love. Prepare for these ahead of time by looking up the best ones online, as this will also allow you to find coupons and deals so you can save a few bucks along the way.
Don’t Overpack
Believe it or not, packing for a trip with the family is an art form. Not only do you have to think about what everyone might need over those days, but you should also consider how you can refrain from overpacking, which can cause a few problems of its own. To start with, pack the essentials and bring along a roll of quarters and laundry soap so you can hit up a laundromat during the trip or, even better, find accommodations that include a washer and dryer. It will also help to pack a small bag for each person with overnight items if you’re going to be breaking up a long drive into two days; this way, you can easily grab those bags on the first night when you reach your destination rather than bringing in everyone’s luggage.
Taking a trip with young children doesn’t have to be stressful. By planning ahead as much as possible, you can ensure that everyone has a blast while making memories that will last a lifetime. What’s more, it doesn’t have to cost an arm and a leg if you know how to prepare.
