Family holidays are amazing and a great time to relax and unwind with loved ones.
Yes, it can be rowdy, especially if there are kids to handle. Still, it is worthwhile to take this time away from the familiar and regular to the unfamiliar and exciting. However, family holiday trips can be expensive in more ways than one, and this can be a reason not to go on them. Thankfully, there are several ways to significantly lower the costs, including the choices for food, transportation and fun activities. Here are some tips to help you.
Plan Ahead to Maximise Savings
Planning is one of the core aspects of any endeavour, including going on holidays. In this situation, it’s important to plan ahead because you get the opportunity to view promotions and discounts before others. If you wait until the time is close to the vacation period, you might miss out on the chance to save money. Check for flights way ahead of the travel date because they are usually cheaper if you book in advance.
The same is true for hotels, train tickets and car rentals, depending on how you plan to move about. Many companies and services also offer discounts when you book for many people. If you are a large contingent, the prices drop, which will significantly affect the overall costs.
Travel by Rail
One of the easiest ways to save money is to travel by rail. Trains are easy to use, affordable and comfortable. This is a great way to get your family around during a holiday without renting a car or using cabs, which can drill holes in your pockets. If your vacation requires moving from one city to another, using this mode of transportation is very convenient. One way to stay ahead of the curve is to make your schedule flexible. It’s simple: the cost of train tickets is much cheaper during off-peak hours, just the same as flights and hotels.
So, staying flexible allows you to take advantage of the offers. This is when getting low-cost train tickets is easy since there is no rush. Explore the option of split ticketing to save even more. This allows you to break a long journey into smaller segments, cutting costs at the end of the day. An added advantage is that you get to see more during the short trips.
Eat Like a Local
Many travellers tend to spend a lot of money on food. While some may not mind the extra expense, those who are on a budget can cut costs on food by eating like the locals. Food is one of the most crucial aspects of a holiday and takes the most money. What to do? Research the local markets and hotspots where good food is available at much lower prices.
You may even find street food or food stalls that offer local delicacies in a way that top restaurants and bistros won’t. Don’t go for the popular spots alone; find those in hidden places and explore the cities you visit. It’s an opportunity to enjoy the sights and sounds while eating excellent meals at truly affordable prices.
Look for Free or Low-Cost Activities
Countries take advantage of tourist and holiday seasons to make a lot of money, and one of the ways they do this is through holiday activities. While there is nothing wrong with increasing revenue through tourism, visitors don’t have to break the bank to enjoy themselves. So, find free or budget-friendly museums, parks and outdoor recreational centres where the whole family can have a great time.
Go for walks to truly enjoy the new city. Take hikes if you are the outdoorsy type. Visit libraries and art exhibitions that won’t cost you money to enjoy. You will learn a lot about new cities and have a fantastic time without spending beyond your budget.
