The Ultimate Family Vacation Planning Guide: Tips, Savings and Ideas

Don’t waste your money on a forgettable family vacation.

Family vacations are an opportunity to bond and create lasting memories. But without proper planning, your brood may be bored—or worse, you may only return home feeling more stressed.

Ensure your family has an amazing trip together with these family vacation planning tips.

Choose Your Destination Wisely

Arguably the most important part of any family vacation is the destination. Decide where you want to go for your exciting adventure together.

If you’re traveling with a big family or fussy little ones, a road trip can often be a more budget-friendly and stress-free option compared to flying. Get the most out of your drive by sightseeing along the way. Apps like Roadtrippers can show you a stop during your route that your children will love.

If your destination requires flying, compare flight prices using the most reliable airfare search sites. That way, you can get the best deals for your travels.

Consider Alternative Accommodations

When planning your family vacation, skip the traditional hotels, unless the pool or hotel breakfast is a must for your family. Otherwise, try alternative accommodations that give your family more space to relax after sightseeing.

Short-term vacation homes, holiday condos, and timeshares typically offer more bang for your buck, including more amenities and square footage. If you’re interested in joining the Disney Vacation Club, check out these listings for DVC resale to find the best prices. Just make sure that you steer clear of people who are into selling timeshare scam.

Keep the Plan Light and Flexible

You may have countless family holiday ideas. But narrow down your list to only the most essential activities. For example, if you’re visiting New York City, you may prioritize going to the Statue of Liberty. If you’re heading to Orlando, Disney World is likely on your list.

But aside from the essentials, embrace flexibility. Have backup ideas for if you have time, but be prepared for surprises, like if someone gets tired or you need to make an emergency stop for supplies.

Stick to Your Budget

Once you’re at your destination, your children may want to try and buy everything. And if you constantly give in, you may return home with no money to your name.

Create a family vacation budget to help you stay on track with your finances. Have an idea for what you’ll splurge on, as well as what should be skipped. Decide how you’ll spend (or save) on expenses such as:

• transportation
• accommodations
• food
• souvenirs
• entertainment
• toiletries
• destination-specific gear (such as bathing suits for the beach)
• trip insurance (check this comprehensive travel medical insurance guide from Cover Trip)
• unexpected medical or emergency expenses

Start Your Family Vacation Planning

If you’re ready for an exciting and memorable trip in December holidays, use these family vacation planning tips to help you stay organized and save money.

And remember, even with all the planning in the world, surprises and emergencies may come up during your trip. Expect the unexpected, and stay flexible during your vacation.

Find more inspiration for your family vacation in our other travel articles!

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