Summertime is just about here! With the cost of living being so high it may seem like a summer vacation or trip is out of the question. Don't count yourself out just yet! Since becoming a family of 6, I can truly understand the challenge of rising expenses! It has become harder for our family to find affordable ways to travel, as we need larger vehicles to fit us along with our luggage, larger hotel spaces, and more expensive restaurant tabs, just to name a few! I'm going to share how our family makes it work and some tips that may be helpful for your family too!
1. Keep your eye out for deals
Oftentimes, I'll find sales in the winter with extra savings for booking early. So scope out some of your travel spots earlier to see if there are any special sales/promotions. I have also found that if we travel before peak summer season begins or right before it ends, I can find better prices, while still being able to enjoy the same length of stay.
2. Take Shorter Trips
Some booking sites will show you the daily cost to stay at their location months in ahead. Scope out the less expensive travel days in advance, so you can find the ideal time or book a shorter trip and still enjoy some time away from home!
3. Prepare your own snacks/food
Some of my favorite memories of summer are when we drove down to South Carolina and got to stay in a condo for two loooong weeks! With budgeting and preparing some meals in as a family, we were able to double the length of our trip since we were able to cut the extra food costs! We bought snacks and drinks for the trip down, and went to the local grocery store once we got there. We made a quick breakfast in the condo and packed coolers with sandwiches for lunch. We'd save our dining out on some nights for dinner, and it was great, because those were the best meals to have out!
4. Take Day Trips
If all else fails and things are really tight this year, find places to take day trips! Check your local library for free/inexpensive passes to different museums, zoos, and other neat places. Some local branches even allow you to reserve your passes in advance! Taking a trip to the shore or theme park is doable too! Pack a cooler, head out early, and save big by not staying over night!
5. CertifiKID Deals
Be sure to take advantage of all Macaroni KID has to offer, including family-friendly deals offered through our partner site, CertifiKID. Think of it like Groupon, but family-specific deals! Some of the links below are affiliate links. There is no additional cost to you for purchasing, but a small percentage of sales.Here are some of the lastest trip-specific offerings in our area:
Macaroni KID Warminster-Willow Grove is supported by local businesses and its community. When you purchase through links in this article, your publisher may earn a commission.
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Adventure Aquarium (New Jersey)
Located on the Camden Waterfront continues to offer new opportunities for families to explore discover and play. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a returning guest you can count on new hands-on activities new animals and exhibits and new moments of magic.
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Dorney Park & Wildwater Kingdom (Pennsylvania)
With more than 60 rides, shows, attractions, an area made just for kids, and a waterpark, Dorney Park has amazing fun for everyone. Save up to 49%, including parking (a $30 value).
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Great Wolf Lodge (All locations)
Score 15% off of day-passes with Promo Code CERTKWP! Closest locations in PA, MD and VA.
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Jolly Roger Park (Maryland)
No vacation in Ocean City, MD is complete without a trip to Jolly Roger Park! So grab one of these awesome CertifiKID deals and round up the whole family for a FULL DAY of affordable family fun, including unlimited rides, waterpark, mini-golf, and go karts!
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Sesame Place (Pennsylvania)
With over 16 kid-friendly rides, 3 live Sesame Street shows and more, your entire family will be entertained all day long! Perfect for families with young children! Skip the long car ride, but keep the experience! You'll enjoy 60% savings off of the original ticket price from now through December 31, 2024.
