Family road tripping on a budget - How to Save
As an avid family road tripper, I've spent my share of wasted money on things I thought would be worth it. Hotel reservations and other accommodations are just one piece of the budgeting puzzle. In order to plan an efficient and money-saving road trip, you usually have to fail several times before getting it just right, So, I've taking the headache out of it for you. Here are all the components I apply to my family road trips in order to stick to our budget.
Pack Smart
Packing efficiently is a skill that can significantly enhance your family road trip experience while keeping costs in check.
Clothing
Pack versatile clothing suitable for various weather conditions. Layers are the key to being prepared for unexpected temperature changes without overpacking.
Reusable containers
Opt for reusable items to minimize waste and expenses. Bring refillable water bottles, travel mugs, and eco-friendly food containers. Prepare a compact first aid kit that includes essentials. This can save you from unexpected expenses related to minor health issues.
Laundry
If your journey involves an extended stay, pack a small supply of laundry detergent and consider staying at accommodations with laundry facilities. Doing laundry during the trip allows you to pack fewer clothes, saving space and reducing the need for extra luggage. This was one of the biggest cost-saving and efficient things I did on my last long road trip with the family. I like the laundry detergent sheets because they're mess-free in the car and eco-friendly.
These packing strategies you not only streamline your travel experience but also save money by avoiding last-minute purchases and unnecessary expenses on the road. A well-packed vehicle contributes to a smoother and more enjoyable family road trip.
Plan Ahead for Budget-Friendly Accommodations
Start your cost-saving journey by planning your overnight stays efficiently. Whether this means the day of or well in advance, the timeline doesn't matter as much as how you search for accommodations. Look for deals and discounts that can significantly reduce your lodging expenses. Some of my cost-saving accommodation tools are listed below.
Hilton Honors - As a Hilton Honors member, you’ll receive exclusive perks when you stay at more than 6,700 hotels around the world. This is the main accommodation tool we used on our most recent cross-country road trip with our family.
Hipcamp - Hipcamp is a camping, lodging, and RV camping reservation platform. It's extremely budget-friendly and allows you to connect with nature and locals as the properties are locally owned by private land owners.
VRBO - Vrbo is the world’s leading marketplace for vacation rentals, with over 2 million paid listings of vacation rental homes in 190 countries.
Booking.com - Booking.com has more than 28 million reported accommodation listings, including over 6.6 million homes, apartments, and other unique places to stay.
Snack Wisely
Cut down on impulse purchases and pricey snacks by planning your on-the-road provisions. Pack a cooler with drinks and snacks to avoid unnecessary pit stop purchases at convenience stores. Not only will this save money, but it will also help your family maintain a healthier diet. Consider preparing a variety of snacks, such as fresh fruits, trail mix, and homemade sandwiches, before hitting the road. Smart snacking not only satisfies cravings but also contributes to your overall budget-conscious approach to the journey.
Maintenance Matters
Ensure your vehicle is road-trip ready by scheduling a thorough pre-trip maintenance check. This is a crucial step in both preventing unexpected breakdowns and optimizing fuel efficiency. This preventive measure can save you from costly repairs on the road. Regular maintenance not only ensures safety but also contributes to better fuel efficiency. A well-maintained vehicle will save you money in potential repairs and ensures a stress-free and enjoyable family road trip.
Fuel Efficiency is Key
Fuel costs can quickly add up during a road trip and gas prices can vary a ton, depending on where you are. To maximize fuel efficiency, maintain a steady speed, and use cruise control when possible. Plan your fuel stops strategically by choosing gas stations with competitive prices. Some of the best apps to can help you locate the best deals along your route are GasBuddy, Gas Guru, and even Waze.
Explore Free Attractions and Activities
Discovering the beauty of your route doesn't have to come with a hefty price tag. Research and plan stops at free attractions, local parks, and scenic viewpoints. Nature offers a plethora of budget-friendly activities for the family. Search for free events for kids at places like museums and outdoor parks. One of my favorite money-saving hack is the America the Beautiful Pass. If your family loves the outdoors like mine does, investing in a National Parks Pass that can get you into most of them is a way cheaper option than to pay per park. If your budget doesn't allow for that, there are free playgrounds and parks in just about every town and city. Making time for a park visit can, not only save you money, but will allow your family to stretch their legs and get out all that built up energy from sitting in the car for long periods.
Embrace the Thrift of Entertainment
Long hours on the road can test the patience of even the most enthusiastic travelers, especially when kids are involved. The key to a budget-friendly and enjoyable trip lies in embracing thrifty entertainment options that cater to all ages. Here are some creative and cost-effective ways to keep everyone entertained during your family road trip:
Audiobook Adventures
Audiobooks offer an immersive and entertaining experience for the entire family. Choose a captivating story that appeals to all age groups, creating a shared listening experience. Many streaming platforms and libraries offer audiobooks for free, making it an affordable alternative to purchasing multiple books.
Road Trip Games
Road trip games can turn mundane stretches of highway into laughter-filled adventures. Engage the family with classic games like "I Spy," the license plate game, or 20 Questions. These games not only entertain but also encourage interaction and bonding among family members.
Curate a Playlist
Create a road trip playlist featuring everyone's favorite tunes. The collaboration allows each family member to contribute to the soundtrack of the trip.
Podcast Variety
Podcasts cover an array of topics, ensuring there's something for everyone. Whether it's educational content, storytelling, or comedic discussions, podcasts provide an engaging and often free source of entertainment. Download episodes before the trip to avoid using data on the road.
Scenic Storytelling
Take advantage of the changing landscapes by engaging in scenic storytelling. Encourage family members to create imaginative stories inspired by the passing scenery. This stimulates creativity and makes the journey itself an integral part of the adventure.
Travel-friendly Board Games
Compact and travel-friendly board games are excellent companions for a family road trip. Consider games like travel-sized chess, card games, or magnetic board games that can be enjoyed during breaks or as a part of evening relaxation.
DIY Activity Kits
Prepare DIY activity kits for the kids, filled with coloring books, puzzles, and small toys. Dollar stores or discount retailers are great places to find affordable activity supplies. These kits can keep the kids entertained while provide a welcome break from electronic devices.
Learn as You Go
Turn the road trip into a learning opportunity by incorporating educational activities. Bring along travel guides, trivia books, or language learning materials. It will stimulate the mind and add an enriching layer to the journey.
Capture the Moments
Encourage family members to document the trip through photography or journaling. This enhances the overall experience and provides a free and lasting memento of the adventure.
Setting out on a long family road trip on a budget requires a combination of planning, resourcefulness, and a willingness to embrace the thrifty side of travel. By implementing these tips, you can ensure that your journey is not only cost-effective but also filled with joy, bonding, and unforgettable moments for the whole family. Safe travels!
