How to plan an inexpensive family vacation.

Asking the right questions, being well organized and using simple technology can make planning a family vacation on a budget simple. Package deals can be economical and used when in a pinch for time. However, in as little as an hour with internet access a budget vacation can be planned at minimal cost. Here are five steps that will ease the budget vacation planning blues.

First, calculate the price of gas for the road trip.
Use Google Maps to estimate travel miles. Simply divide the travel miles by the MPG rate, and then multiply that by the price of a gallon of gas. Pad that number by $50 for a safety cushion due to inflating gas prices.

Second, consider additional travel costs.
Packing a plastic container with snacks like crackers, chips, and tortillas (travels better than bread). Pack a cooler with water, juice, soda, milk, lunch meats, cheese, cut veggies, and fruit. These tips will eliminate family members running into the gas station to pick up snacks, which can be costly and unhealthy.

Third, lodging allotment.
Choosing a hotel wisely can eliminate many spiraling costs for families, for instance a hotel with a pool, game room, playground, hot-tub, mini golf course and big screen TV room will eliminate the family being bored and venturing out to look for something to do that may be costly. Not every hotel will have all of these accommodations so look for the one that fits the family best.

Fourth, factor realistic food costs.
Most families on a budget will choose a hotel that serves a continental breakfast. In addition, using the stocked cooler and plastic bin for lunch or dinner is much more economical than eating out. For eating out, buffets are a little more costly but they may accept coupons, give travel club discounts and you know that everyone will be filled up on something they like. Family restaurants often offer an online coupon that can be printed ahead of time.

Fifth, research ALL your stops online to find great deals, coupons, event, travel club and employee discounts, and more!
Using tech savvy resources such as Google Maps will not only give the miles you will travel but also local hotels that can be scouted online for accommodations and discount rates. Nearby restaurants that may offer online coupons and grocery stores needed to replenish the plastic bin and cooler can also be easily located. This resource will also help map out local hospitals and drugstores in the event a mishap occurs that the well stocked first aid kit can not handle.

Travel safe and inexpensively!

Learn more about this author, L.B. Shearer.
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