I've found that creativity goes a long way when planning for our family vacations. Being a group of six, we do not fit into the "family of four" packages that are predominant at popular tourist destinations. Organization and some advance planning, especially on the internet, will yield a larger payoff than perhaps "winging it" the entire time. Not that we don't allow for a lot of flexibility, because with four children ranging in age from 15 to 7 it can be hard to please them all. I've found the following list of things to do to be extremely helpful, and it saves a lot of money in the process.

SURF, SURF, SURF
As soon as we know a specific destination or even a general direction, based on how much money we know we can spend, I go online and order free travel guides from each state we will definitely or possibly visit. Just typing a state name and "tourism" in a search engine will get you what you need. If the site offers an online version, I take the time to peruse it while I wait for the real thing and scout out locations to take the family. Many attractions listed will have their own websites available, so I navigate there and find out admission prices and directions. I frequently print the maps and write the information on the same page so it's all together. I even find online coupons for some of our destinations. We are them armed with a whole slew of possibilities!

THE GREAT OUTDOORS
Of course, camping is not for everyone, but there are many places in this beautiful country we could not have seen without this option. It's rare to find us in a hotel anywhere because it costs at least half price to set up our own homestead for the night. Unless we're going to a far off place for an extended time, we do not make reservations and just have our travel guides help us find a campground en route. Gas prices are prohibiting us from traveling too far this year, but sometimes sacrifices have to be made while budgeting. Having a generous family member who will put you up for a few days is a huge help too.

ATTRACTIONS
This is where it gets sticky for many families. The kids want to go to the most expensive touristy spots, and leave us parents sweating the price tag. We now have to pay adult prices for five people, so instead of showing all the options we have (because they'll want to do it all), I give them a couple less costly choices. Since I already know what it will cost, there's no sticker shock. Many places we've been have a multitude

• 1
• 2
• next page >>

---

Add your voice

Know something about Family vacation on a budget?
We want to hear your view. Write now!