Family Holidays: 6 Ways to Keep the Vacay on Budget

Contributed by Canna Campbell, Consumer Finance Expert

We all know raising children is an expensive endeavour, and with cost-of-living pressures on the rise it’s no surprise that many families are going without holidays.

Sometimes a family road trip is all you need. Source: Shutterstock.

According to a recent NRMA Blue survey, almost half (48%) of Australian families say the cost-of-living has risen by more than 10 per cent in the last year. To put that into alarming perspective, that’s almost five times the current inflation rate.

The survey showed most Australians holiday as a family once a year, and for a quarter of rural and regional families, holidays come just every two years or less.

Here’s a few tips that could save you when booking a domestic family holiday. Besides, Australia is basically the dream destination for fun-filled, child-friendly holidays.

1. Research and plan – then research and plan again

Most of us have a rough idea of where we’d like to explore in a town or city, but there’s serious money to be saved by planning out exactly what you’ll be doing with your days, preventing additional expenses from creeping in. Booking attractions and even food stops means you’ll know exactly how much you’re up for and avoid expensive spur-of-the-moment pit-stops.

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2. Search for discounts

Often the best discounts can be uncovered by joining a credible member benefits program. Programs like NRMA Blue or Qantas Frequent Flyer give you access to holiday-related discounts on those big-ticket items that sometimes break the budget. Think accommodation, transport, attractions, movie tickets and even petrol. Searching around for discounts before you purchase can save you a lot as a family.

3. Book online in advance

Many hotels and attractions offer great discounts if you prepay tickets online. Some offer up to 30% off, so it pays to check online. Booking well in advance also means you’re more likely to be able to cancel or amend your reservation if your plans change.

4. Think free

They say the best things in life are free, so just because you’re on holidays doesn’t mean you have to pay through the nose for every child-friendly activity. Consider free attractions like the beach, local markets, museums and kids parks. Climbing trees, packing a bucket and spade or going for a swim at the beach can cost you nothing. You might just find these relaxed activities combined with a budget-friendly beach holiday destination are the ones most rewarding for the entire family.

5. Pack those snacks

Can you hear those rumbling tummies? Kids get hungry and thirsty at the most inconvenient times – waiting in line for the museum, at the beach, long car trips! And emergency food can get expensive, so it’s always best to be prepared. Carrying snacks not only means less ‘mum I’m hungry’ moments, it also avoids a quick dash to the kiosk for overpriced chips and soft drink. I always carry a water bottle for Rocco, a piece of fresh fruit and a yoghurt pouch to ensure I’m prepared!

6. Take a staycation

Taking a break with the family doesn’t necessarily mean that you have to go away. There is something really special about discovering things in your own town and simply slowing down. Support your local community by trying new restaurants or cafes, visiting the local library, free museums or checking out the local parks. Look for local things to do in an area near you by searching local guides.

About Canna Campbell