Work hard, play harder! It’s time to vacation, but you shouldn’t have to compromise your finances to do so.
While 45% of people are willing to increase their travel budget to adjust for inflation, we still want to ensure we’re getting the most bang for our buck.
This article contains affiliate links. We earn from qualifying purchases.
If you’re looking to save money and trim costs off your travel tickets, you’ve come to the right place. From flights to events, there are numerous ways to save on ticket costs without compromising the fun. Let’s look at some of the best ways to save money on your next family trip.
1. Plan ahead
Preparing in advance, like buying tickets for flights and events well ahead of time, should be your first step to saving money. Airlines, theme parks, and venues typically offer discounted rates on early bookings. Be on the lookout for early-bird deals and take advantage of them when they pop-up.
When it comes to preplanning, always:
- Explore different price-tracking tools and apps.
- Turn on notification to be alerted of ticket price drops.
- Allow for flexibility of your bookings in case plans change.
- Navigate different platforms for the best rates.
Related: Learn How to Give Plane Tickets as a Gift
2. Be Flexible
The difference in travel costs from one day to the next can vary greatly, so having even a slight amount of flexibility can be a game-changer. Simply tweaking your departure or return dates by a day or two may unlock significant price reductions.
The travel industry is expected to support 105 million jobs globally by the end of 2023, so start planning! Always check for travel opportunities during off-peak seasons and mid-week airline departures to take advantage of those reduced rates. Make it a habit to experiment with different dates within your trip window to maximize savings.
3. Bundle Up
Vacation packages often offer exclusive deals that include tickets to various places at a discounted rate. Look for trip bundles that appeal to all different interests within your family. That way, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Multiple experiences bundled into one convenient package usually make for the greatest savings.
Speaking of savings, take advantage of a VPN deal to score a discount on a Virtual Private Network. When you utilize a VPN, you’re granted access to geo-restricted sites and can show you savings unavailable in your country.
4. Turn On Notifications & Alerts
Subscribe to email newsletters and sign up for alerts from airlines, travel agencies, and booking platforms. This way, you’ll be the first to know about exclusive deals and offers. Another benefit to keep your eyes peeled for is loyalty programs.
Certain loyalty programs offer tiered memberships, which unlock greater benefits at each level. Priority boarding, lounge access, and even complimentary upgrades are among the greatest rewards. Opt for credit cards that accumulate travel points and double down on the savings.
5. Dare to Reroute
While many people avoid detours, we recommend exploring them, especially when considering international travel.
More than half (55%) of American families consider taking an international vacation if the price is right. By exploring alternative airports and different routes to your destination, you might just luck out with lower fares.
When considering alternative options, look for:
- Airports within a reasonable distance from your destination might offer more competitive prices.
- Connecting flights or layovers may save you more cash than direct ones.
- Alternate routes, even if they include an extra stop, can significantly reduce the overall cost of airfare.
6. Utilize Discounts for Kids
While it may not always be displayed, many attractions and transport services offer discounts for children. Always ask if family packages or kids’ rates are offered when purchasing tickets. This is especially a must for larger families.
Some venues offer free entry or special deals for toddlers or infants under a specific age, so don’t hesitate to inquire about such. Even when age-specific deals aren’t listed, asking and confirming is best. Remember, we’re focused on maximizing savings for every family member. After all, that leaves more money available for souvenirs.
7. Follow, Like, & Subscribe
Social media is a beautiful place to uncover deals. Follow handles and subscribe to newsletters of airlines, travel agencies, and attractions you plan to visit. Oftentimes, they’ll release exclusive deals and flash sales to their followers and subscribers, so turn on those notifications.
Try participating in social media contests or engaging with these platforms when they seek audience involvement. You may get lucky and unlock additional discounts or special promotions. So log on, stay active, and scroll through your news feed for those special savings.
Pack Your Bags
There you have it! With proper planning, flexibility, and smart travel choices, you can slash the expenses and enjoy an unforgettable vacation. Keep the spending to a minimum and build memories to the max! Now pack your bags, explore, and relax. Bon Voyage!
FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA
- Facebook Page
- Family Adventures Facebook Group
- Easy Camp Cooking Facebook Group
Don’t forget to invite your friends to our Facebook groups! We would also love to see your vacation pictures!
Need Help Planning a Family Road Trip? Start with these family vacation planning resources:
- Travel Love Language – Help to Identify, Understand, & Plan Vacations
- How to Budget for a Cheap Road Trip in 11 Simple Steps
- 25 Healthy Road Trip Snacks to Fuel Your Next Adventure
- Essential Tips for an Enjoyable Cross-Country Road Trip with Your Family
- What You’ll Need for a Fun Family Road Trip + Weekend Packing List
- Road Trip Preparation – 12 Things To Do Before You Leave, So You Can Enjoy It
- Banish Boredom with 50 Fun Road Trip Games to Play in the Car
Leave a Reply