Every summer, 43% of Americans don’t go on vacation, with the majority of them citing cost as the biggest hurdle. Since family vacations are a great opportunity to make memories and reconnect with loved ones, they provide a lot of value to our lives. If you’re struggling with everyday budgeting, you should consider ways to include affordable fun family vacations.
While it can seem like a hassle to get everyone’s bags packed and hit the road, the photographs and stories will last a lifetime. Even as your kids get older, they’ll be able to say “I went there once with my parents!” Whether it’s 5,000 miles away or 50, an adventure brings a family together.
If you’re struggling to come up with ideas for affordable fun family vacations, we’ve created a list of the top 5 you should consider.
1. Scottsdale, Arizona
This is a great one to take during spring break instead of during the heat of the summer. But during the hottest months, you’ll find that hotels are the cheapest.
If you and the kids like lounging around by the pool or want to check out the desert, Arizona is the place to go. If you’re an outdoorsy type, try Camelback Mountain. You could also take bikes through the Sonoran desert.
For a fun time, take a Jeep around and look for the most interesting cactuses you can find.
2. New York City
If you’ve never been, New York City is a trip that everyone should take once. Most New Yorkers are out of the city during August, meaning that’s when you’ll see the shortest lines and best hotel deals.
Budgeting families can take in a museum during their after-hours free evening tours. Times Square is pretty overwhelming but the kids might want to check out the Disney Store and take a stroll down Broadway. While it’s not as fun as taking Magic VIP Tours, it’s the next best thing for sure.
This is one of the 10 best places to travel, but with some pre-planning, you can make it one of the cheapest as well.
3. Montreal
Brush up on your French, refresh your passports, and take a trip over the border to Montreal. Their lovely outdoorsy culture makes the city a great place to walk around. You can take in all the sights of Saint Laurent Boulevard and people-watch all day or you can take a trip to one of the many nearby hiking trails.
4. Fiji
If you’ve been saving up for awhile or you have a small family, why not check out Fiji. It’s cheaper to go to than Hawaii and just as lovely.
The people of Fiji celebrate children and offer all kinds of free events and spaces open to kids. Check out Kula Eco Park if you’re looking for a day filled with exotic birds and reptiles.
5. New Zealand
For an adventurous and nature-loving family, New Zealand is a great place to adventure. Take a bungee jump or go whitewater rafting at the Shotover River Canyons. Between May and September, travel is the cheapest.
Affordable Fun Family Vacations Are Within Reach
Finding an affordable vacation takes a little bit of clever budgeting and some planning ahead, but what it can bring to your family is worth the time and effort. Watching your kids marvel at the sights and sounds of a city that’s new to you all makes the effort worthwhile.
If you’re looking for ways to save up for your trip, our list of the best cash card options to add to your savings.
