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From Moneywise Moms
This is a great time of year to plan family travel. Are you thinking about spring break in April? Or planning further ahead for summer vacation?
Either way, planning a trip for the whole family can get expensive! These tips from mom bloggers can help save you a lot of money.
Read More: 5 Strategies to Save Money on Trips that Don't Require Cutting Corners
Larisha of We're Parents
“Always visit the chamber of commerce or the visitor's center in the area before buying tickets anywhere! Most will have discounts or coupons, some will even give you free tickets!”Kathy of Penney Lane
“Stay in places that offer free breakfast or have a kitchenette for making quick meals, and always bring your own snacks.”Clarissa of Passports and Parenting
“We travel off season (not during summer break or holidays) and we often take very early morning or late night flights which are often cheaper.”Jenny of Cook Eat Go
“Plan out your meals ahead of going! Being able to take stuff for breakfast or even easy lunches on the go is the perfect way to cut back on eatting out. If you can get a hotel with kitchen then take along Crock Pots or Instant Pots to be able to make easy food in the room!”Lynda of Mixed Blessings
“Try to stay at a hotel or resort that offers a free breakfast buffet. This will save you money in more ways than one. You and your family will get breakfast everyday, and won’t have to purchase it elsewhere. Each member of your family can also make yourself a “to-go” plate, which you can take back to your room, and eat later in the day for lunch or a snack!”Zippy of Champagne Living
“Look to the visitors bureau for specials, coupons & even hotel room auctions like this one run with the FL tourism department.”Carissa of All Day Mom
“Cut one non-essential, and funnel that money into a dedicated vacation fund for a year. Think big: 10% off an $800 grocery budget equals $960—enough money for a Disneyland vacation. Or think small: one less coffee run each week ($6) equals $312—the price of three Disneyland tickets. It all adds up to more fun with virtually no sacrifice.”Read More: 14 Ways to Spend Less on Food and Drink in Paris
Natalie of A Turtle's Life for Me
“Don't just look at the cost per night when making hotel reservations. Be sure to also factor in hotel amenities that might make it worth it to pay a little more per night. For example, a hotel might cost $20 more per night than a cheaper option, but if it offers a free hot breakfast then it could end up saving you $30+ per day. Many hotels also offer free (or discounted) tickets to local attractions, bike loans and other perks that could save you money over the course of your stay.”Jennifer of Jen Around the World
“When looking for the best possible price for airline flights, always make your dates flexible when searching. This way, you can see which days offer the best deals. Flying out on a Tuesday instead of a Thursday can save you around $100 per flight!”Nedra of Adventure Mom Blog
“Do your research before the trip. Look for ideas for free and low-cost things to do in the area from tourism websites and blogs. Try to avoid visiting during peak season and take advantage of deal sites like Groupon, Living Social, and City Pass for additional savings on attractions.”Gina of MoneywiseMoms
“Most hotel rooms are geared for 4 people, so if you have a larger family like I do, consider renting a home through VRBO, AirBnB or a local rental company. Not only will you have more space, you'll have multiple bathrooms and a kitchen, often for less per night than you'd pay in a traditional hotel.”Read More: Money Saving Tips as The Holiday Season Approaches
See more at Moneywise Moms