Make Memories On Any Budget
In today’s economy, it’s harder than ever to plan vacations and afford time with one another. But when you do get that week off, you may find your options quite limited. However, there are still plenty of fun and cost-effective things you can do with your kids, and most of them only cost a few hundred to a few thousand. Whether it’s exploring your own city or planning a manageable road trip, here are 20 ideas to stretch your budget.
1. Visiting a National Park
National parks are always a great idea when thinking about vacation destinations. They are beautiful, full of nature, educational, and you can do a great number of outdoor activities with your family. If you like camping, nature walks, fresh air, and barbeque, all at a budget-friendly price, national parks might be the best choice for you.
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2. Touring Your Own City
Lots of people are looking to do their vacation somewhere remote, exotic, new, far from home, but chances are, you have missed a lot that your local city has to offer. This is probably one of the most budget-friendly ideas out there, and most cities have so much to offer when it comes to having a good time. From museums, parks, restaurants, and supporting local businesses, this family trip is sure to cost less and make you fall in love with your city more.
3. Visit the Grand Canyon
The Grand Canyon is a breathtaking site and a very fun and family-friendly vacation idea. The nearby campgrounds and lodges are very affordable and definitely fall under $3,000 for the whole trip. If you are looking for a destination that provides you with lifelong memories, amazing views, or just a bucket-list adventure, this educational and iconic place is it.
4. See the Outer Banks
A coastal destination that is sure to fulfill your sunny beach needs, the Outer Banks is a budget-friendly family vacation destination. Sandy beaches, lighthouses, water activities, amazing food and drinks, this place has it all and will not make you pay a fortune for it. The rentals are very cozy and affordable, too.
5. Fishing Weekend
It might sound simple, but that’s not a bad thing by any means. A fishing weekend is a great and relaxing way to spend some quality family time and have a great time for a very affordable price. Being out in nature, catching a few fish, all while making some memories that will last a lifetime, sounds like a perfect and peaceful way to spend a family vacation.
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6. Visit Washington, D.C.
Washington, D.C., is packed with history, attractions, monuments, and so much more. Visiting the National Zoo is a great way to spend an afternoon and is sure to make you snap some photos with your family to capture the moment forever.
It is a great way for both kids and adults to learn and have fun, all while not costing too much money.
7. Airbnb in Mexico
Mexico has been a very popular vacation destination for American tourists, and with good reason, too. Destinations like Tulum, Puerto Vallarta, and Cancún are just some of the few gorgeous locations where your family can enjoy beautiful beaches and amazing food, all under $3,000. It’s also a great cultural experience and a chance to introduce your kids to new things.
8. Amusement Park
Amusement parks are a great vacation destination for kids and adults of all ages. You can stay under budget with just a bit of careful planning, but that does not mean you won’t have fun. Roller coasters, wacky food, high energy, and memory-making fun times are all but guaranteed without making you overspend.
9. Rent an RV
Renting an RV can be a great way of turning the journey into a part of the adventure. This opens so many opportunities and possibilities of stopping at various sights, sleeping comfortably without the expenses of a hotel, not being tied down to one location, and giving your family the best car karaoke sessions of their lives. This is a great way to manage expenses and still have a great and memorable time with your family.
10. Visit Mount Rushmore
Mount Rushmore is one of America’s most historic and iconic sites. There are a great number of activities your family can enjoy together, some of which include wildlife viewing, hiking, visiting nearby caves, and seeing the Native American heritage sites. It might seem like a place that is this historic and popular is expensive, but this inspiring and educational trip is relatively affordable when it comes to finding lodging and restaurants nearby, making it a great family vacation destination.
11. Camping on the Beach
Summertime means beach time, and what better way to spend some quality family time than beach camping? Many camps offer very affordable, family-friendly amenities that are sure to amplify your family’s amazing experience at the beach, such as fire pits and showers. Waking up next to the gorgeous ocean views and spending your day listening to nature sounds like a good deal.
12. Cabin in the Woods
Sometimes you want to escape and disconnect from daily life and the busy cities to build family bonds, which is why renting a cabin in the woods might be a great choice. Many cabins have great hiking trails nearby, with some of them even having lakes or hot tubs within their vicinity for those peaceful family moments. If you are looking to bond even further while saving more money, cook your own meals with your family.
13. Dude Ranches
Dude ranches are a unique mix of family fun and western adventure all packed into one. If you’re looking to sit around the campfire and enjoy breathtaking scenery and great food, do some horseback riding, or hike up a trail that is sure to make you appreciate nature more, this is a great vacation plan for your family. A great number of dude ranches offer package deals that cover a great number of things, which keeps your costs very predictable.
14. Off-Season Trip to Nicaragua
Choosing the off-season for a lot of trips is always a cheaper option, and Nicaragua is one of the best ones when it comes to many factors. Your family can explore volcanoes and colonial cities, have fun at the beaches, all without a huge crowd. Because the U.S. dollar is worth quite a bit here, you can experience a lot more for a lot less, making this trip cost-effective, as well as a great and memorable trip.
15. Waterpark Resorts
Waterparks are always extremely fun and exciting to visit, especially as a family. Many waterpark resorts offer all you need in a package deal, making you fit your whole trip and fulfill all your needs under $3,000. You can enjoy all the slides, pools, arcades, food, and in some cases, themed rooms, making for a summer vacation full of fun and excitement.
16. Scenic Drives & Motels
You can never go wrong with a classic American road trip with the family. This kind of vacation gives you flexibility and spontaneity, all while being affordable. You can choose to drive through some of the more scenic routes like the Blue Ridge Parkway or Route 66, which are sure to welcome you with natural beauty and exciting times, making the whole journey an adventure.
17. Historic New Orleans Getaway
New Orleans is the perfect blend of culture, food, music, and history, which is sure to make your family trip one you won’t soon forget. Museums are very low-cost, with some days having free admission as well, not to mention the delicious food you can find at every corner. Your family can enjoy watching street performers, historic neighborhoods, and steamboat rides, and have a unique vacation without costing too much.
18. Check Out Amish Country
If you are looking for a restful and educational vacation trip for a very inexpensive price, you might want to visit Amish Country. This offers a peaceful change of pace compared to our everyday way of life, allowing your family to enjoy horse-drawn carriage rides, rustic homemade food, and a very hands-on farm experience that is sure to teach your kids a simpler way of life. Lodging is very affordable, and many of the activities are either quite cheap or free.
19. Drive Around Santa Fe
Santa Fe is a very culturally rich destination. With the city’s blend of Spanish, Mexican, and Native American influence, the experience is a unique one and provides so many different options for any activity. If you want to expand the trip a bit more, a quick drive to Bandelier National Monument is sure to add to the adventure and enrich your vacation further.
20. A Weekend in Hollywood
Hollywood is a great destination for a family vacation filled with excitement around every corner. With attractions such as the Hollywood Walk of Fame, stunning beaches, studio tours, and the famous Hollywood sign, there won’t be a moment during your whole trip that you won’t like. With some smart planning, you can make this adventure-filled and exciting trip work with under $3,000 while still having a great time.
