With the price of basic necessities like food and gas skyrocketing out of control, many budget-conscious families are re-thinking their usual vacation plans. While keeping an eye on your expenses is an absolute must in times like these, there are some fantastic locally-based alternatives to going without a family vacation this year.
Rather than plan a family vacation that involves long distance travel, pricey lodgings and food, think about vacation alternatives close to your home instead. The whole point of a vacation is to enjoy some much-needed downtime in the company of your family. Who says a hefty price tag has to be involved?
Four frugal alternative vacations
1. Visit nearby state or national parks – We are lucky to have a large network of state and national parks across the country. In addition to beautiful surroundings, these parks are a great site for budget-friendly vacations. Your family can enjoy vacation time camping in the great outdoors for significantly much less than the cost of hotels and restaurants.
2. Fill vacation time with local day trips – Who said vacations had to involve nights away from home? Using available vacation time for local day trips is just as much fun at a fraction of the cost. Whether you're spending a relaxing day at the beach, visiting a local museum or cycling with your family on a nearby bike trail, day trips provide all the relaxation of a long distance vacation. To keep a lid on the amount of gas needed, consider taking public transportation or trains where available. Packing your own food and drinks and using your library’s free passes to local attractions also helps save money.
3. Visit family or friends – To save big on vacation accommodations, stay with relations or friends either to visit or as a home base for exploring their neck of the woods. In addition to having time to catch up, vacations spent with loved ones provide a much needed change of scenery with a budget-friendly price tag.
4. Take advantage of community events – Cities and small towns alike host a great selection of community-based events that offer family friendly fun at a budget friendly price. Check with your local Chamber of Commerce for a schedule of craft fairs, carnivals, family fun days held in your area. Don't forget to check out programming offered by your library too. Story times, puppet shows and organized trips to local historical sites are some of the frugal recreational fare available.
While we all need to economize to keep more of our hard-earned cash, there are ways to cut back on vacation expenses without cutting out your family's fun. Be creative in planning this year's family vacation, and take advantage of the many great alternatives available locally. Your family will still enjoy precious time together, and your savings account will enjoy the break.
- 5 votes 