I’m always looking for ways to save money on travel. I learned a long time ago that truly wealthy people do just that. They travel well but are aware of discounts and rewards too. I love to travel, to see new things, to be in a different city, and to have someone else clean up our mess. With that in mind, I’ve become pretty good at finding ways to save money on travel to get my family of six (or just me…don’t judge) out of town.
7 Ways Families Can Save Money On Travel
1. Stay in a suite.
I know staying in a suite doesn’t sound like it would save you money, but it might do just that depending on where you’re staying. We like hotels which only offer suites. Instead of paying for two rooms for our family of six, we can all stay in one room. Often we give the kids the bedroom with two beds and my husband and I take the pull-out couch in the living room. Having a door between us and the kids just makes everyone happier. Ok…it makes me happier.
2. Pay attention to the extra costs.
From exorbitant resort fees to crazy parking surcharges, there are lots of added costs that can come with traveling, especially when staying at a hotel. Before you book any place, be sure to check the fine print. These extra costs can really add up.
3. Get a kitchen.
Food is something that can rack up your travel costs. One of the easiest ways to save money on travel is to make sure you don’t have to eat out every meal. A kitchen means you can cook a pizza, scramble some eggs, or heat up some nuggets. It also means you can keep soda or milk cold. And if the freezer can hold a pint of Talenti gelato….all the better. I like to use Instacart to have groceries delivered. It’s so convenient!
4. Stay close to attractions.
Staying close to where ever you plan to visit might not seem necessary but it might save you money as well as time. If you can walk, perhaps you can save money on parking fees. I have found when visiting places like Walt Disney World many hotels offer complimentary transportation. Take advantage of that!
5. Don’t be afraid of last minute travel.
Yes, sometimes you can get deals when you plan well in advance. However, there are tons of last-minute bargains big families can find too. Package deals from group-buying websites often offer huge discounts. I’ve found fantastic discounts on hotels by waiting until the day before a trip, or even the day of travel, to book. However, don’t try this during any high travel period, especially the holidays. Also, this is one of those “you get what you get and you don’t pitch a fit” tips.
6. Use the apps for that.
There are apps for everything, and so of course there are ones to help you save money on travel. One of my favorite travel apps is DOSH. You can earn cashback for the travel you were going to do anyway. In addition, they guarantee they will have the best price on that particular room. You can also earn cashback from DOSH at restaurants and attractions by paying with a credit card you’ve linked to your account. It is one of those set it and forget type programs that works well for me.
7. Find the free breakfast.
Breakfast is the most important meal of the day. It’s even more critical when you can get it for free! Get your day started right with hotels that offer a hot breakfast buffet included in the room price. Residence Inn hotels usually have a pretty substantial breakfast that can keep you going for the whole day. I also like Embassy Suites and Homewood Suites for very good (and complimentary) breakfasts. I usually snag a couple of pieces of fruit for later too.
These are great tips,especially the app….love it!