How To Keep The Cost Of Your Next Vacation Down

Have you ever noticed that your family vacations end up costing way more than you planned? It's an annoying feature of family vacations that can take away some of the magic, especially once you get home.

 

The truth, however, is that no matter where you want to go, there are ways to keep costs down. Keeping costs down allows you to travel for longer and it somehow makes the whole experience far more relaxing. Remember, keeping costs down doesn't mean you're going to have a bad time. In fact, it's precisely in those places where costs are lowest that you're likely to have the greatest experiences. So what can be done to stop the price of your next vacation skyrocketing out of control?

 
Travel In The Off-Season

 
If the school will allow it (which they probably won't) you can try to book a holiday in an off-peak time of year. Places in Northern Europe and Canada can be beautiful in the Fall, and by that time, the summer is long gone and prices have fallen.
Typically, you can expect to save around 30 percent on the price of lodging by travelling in early October rather than the middle of July.


Keep An Eye Out For Cheap Flights

Have more flexibility in when you travel can help to reduce the price of a family vacation. Last minute deals on flights can often be hundreds of dollars cheaper than booking well in advance and sticking to a regular timetable.

 
The price of flights also alters depending on the time in the week. Midweek flights tend to be a lot cheaper than flights at the weekend.

 
You could also consult with your family to find out whether they'd be willing to have stop-offs along the way. Indirect flights also tend to be cheaper than those that go direct.

 
Lodging
Let's say that you've got a trip planned to the American north-west for a spot of mountain biking at the world famous Whistler park. Hotel prices can be pretty steep, so you may want to stay away from these.

 
However, because of their lower price, whistler rentals are becoming more popular. You can rent out your own vacation home or condo and avoid all of the additional costs associated with a hotel.
Plus, having your own place means that you get to do pretty much what you want. You aren't tied to set mealtime, or set food that you can eat. And it's far more conducive to having a good time in the evening with all your friends and family if everyone can gather in a living room.

 
Vacation Somewhere Less Developed
Travelling around developed countries is expensive. All the prices are much higher because wages are higher. But in poorer countries that have low wages, prices are far lower. It means that as Westerners we get a few benefits.

 
For a start, the price of food is much lower. This means that eating out can cost as little as 50 cents a person. But it applies to anything that's made locally and not imported, like hotel fees.