By Chelsea P. Gladden
Have you heard the ‘ol adage if you bring the kids it’s not a vacation but a trip? Recently returned from Hawaii in my 8th month of pregnancy with two little ones four and under, I can validate that statement.
Don’t get me wrong; we had a blast and got some much needed quality family bonding in that I wouldn’t trade the world for, but with lots of diapers to be changed, baths to be given and chasing around in general, it was still a lot of work.
Nonetheless, while you can’t put a price on the memories I will treasure with my family forever, you can put a price on how much more traveling with children costs. Before embarking on your journey jubilee, consider the following.
If you’re flying, children over 2 require an airline seat. While this adds a serious chunk of change, also factor in that once you land, if you’re renting a car, you can no longer get away with the economy size with two or more children and will need to fork over the cash for the next size up. Even if you think you could squeeze two car seats in or have kids who are ready for seatbelts, you’ll still need room for luggage of a family of four or more.
Naturally, you’ll be spending more money on food than when it was just the two adults. Speaking of which, if you want any adult time, trusted babysitting services while traveling tend to cost more as well.
For some elbowroom, a bigger room might be needed and some hotels will charge a per person fee adding to that final check out bill.
However, to keep costs down, there are a few short cuts that can keep family vacationing from family bankruptcy.
Even with gas prices exceedingly high, it still could work out cheaper to pick a destination that you can drive to versus fly. If you keep it in the 100-mile range, you especially will avoid gas costs, car rental and room costs to break up your drive. Working your route to include a visit to family and friends will also cut back on hotel costs and can even score you a free sitter.
If flying is still in your cards, packing light can save you a bundle. To get a family of four packed into carry-ons, consider purchasing items such as extra diapers once you land. Bring some traveling detergent so you can wash clothes and get away with packing less. Doing so will help avoid airline charges for extra luggage and the need for a bigger rental car.
So don’t be deterred from family travel because it can be done cost effectively. Just remember: it’s a trip.
For more ways to be travel savvy The Street.com recommends booking a vacation home. Check it out: here.
Don’t be greedy with your travel savings tips. Share them on It’s Time to Budget and Financially Frugal Families.
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