How to Save Money on a Family Summer Vacation

Tips to help cut costs on the next family trip

Spring means summer is right around the corner, and what does summer signal? Vacation. Now is the time to start thinking of not only where you’ll go for summer vacation, but how you’ll cover the costs. Here are some ways to make sure your summer trip is budget-friendly.

Start Saving Early

Before you start thinking of the vacation, you need to make sure you have room in your budget. Start saving as early as possible. Set auto deposits into a separate saving account if it helps. Make sure you’re saving in an account with a high-interest rate, like one at an online bank or a credit union.

Time It Right

Timing your summer vacation right can save you heaps of cash. If you’re flying, look for fares during off-times, like during the week, early in the morning, or late at night. The same goes for rental cars and hotels — booking from a Friday to a Wednesday, for example, will save you plenty.

Choose to Drive

Speaking of cars, driving to your summer vacation will almost always be cheaper than flying to the same spot. If your desired location is far away, you can split the trip up and visit free national parks on the way. For the trip itself, pack snacks from your home. Use a gas app like GasBuddy to save money at the pump.

Book in Advance

If you’re going to be visiting museums, amusement parks, and more, the earlier you book your ticket, the better. These places usually offer discounted prices when you book early and online.

Go Together

An easy way to save money on summer vacation is to go with another family or loved ones. You can split the costs on everything and get to spend time with each other.

Original article by Chris O'Shea and adapted in partnership with SavvyMoney.