8 Tips on How to Travel with Kids on a Budget
Traveling with kids doesn’t have to drain your savings. With a bit of planning, flexibility, and creativity, you can enjoy amazing family adventures without breaking the bank.
Sounds Impossible right in this economy but theres always a way.
Whether you’re road-tripping, flying internationally, or exploring closer to home, these practical tips will help you save money while still creating unforgettable memories with your little ones.
1. Plan Ahead for the Best Deals
Booking in advance often means better prices on flights, accommodations, and activities. Now you used to get even cheaper flights if you waited last minute, though I don’t think this is as much as a thing now. We learnt the hard way waiting an extra month to book flights to Montenegro only to pay a third more on the flight fee’s.
However, there still are a few last-minute deals that you can get on if flexible but do this at your own risk to with the potential of paying more.
Money-Saving Tips:
✅ Use fare alert tools – Google Flights, Skyscanner, and Hopper can track price drops.
✅ Fly on off-peak days – Mid-week flights are often cheaper than weekend ones.
✅ Consider alternative airports – Flying into a nearby city and taking a train or bus can sometimes save hundreds.
2. Choose Budget-Friendly Destinations
Some destinations are naturally more affordable than others. Traveling to countries with a lower cost of living can stretch your budget further.
Plus these are also the countries usually worth cisiting more, like Central America, South America and South East Asia.
Best Budget-Friendly Family Destinations:
✅ Central America – Countries like Nicaragua, Guatemala, and Mexico offer beautiful landscapes, affordable stays, and kid-friendly activities.
✅ Southeast Asia – Thailand, Vietnam, and Cambodia are known for cheap food, budget accommodations, and welcoming locals.
✅ Eastern Europe – Avoid the high prices of Western Europe and explore places like Montenegro, Albania, or Poland instead.
✅ Staycations & Road Trips – Sometimes, the best adventures are closer to home!
3. Save Big on Accommodations
Hotels can be expensive, heck even Airbnb can be super expensive now with everyone jumping on raising the prices with demand especially for families, but there are plenty of ways to save.
Budget-Friendly Stays:
✅ Vacation Rentals – Airbnb & Vrbo often provide more space and kitchen access, saving on food costs. Plus Airbnb work cheaper if you. book longer, usually up to 50% off
✅ Family Hostels – Many hostels have private family rooms, making them an affordable option.
✅ House-Sitting or Home Swaps – Websites like TrustedHousesitters allow families to stay in homes for free in exchange for pet-sitting.
✅ Camping or Campervans – Nature-based travel is budget-friendly and fun for kids! Though lets be hnest prices of renting campervansare sometimes mroe expensive than hotels.
4. Cut Costs on Food & Dining
Eating out for every meal adds up quickly, especially with kids, plus kets be honest kids tend to waste food when out at restaurants. But there are plenty of ways to eat well on a budget.
The restaurant above was a local secret which was advised by a friendly local, we had loads of food and was suprised by how cheap it was compared to everywhere else we ate.
Food-Saving Tips:
✅ Book accommodations with kitchens – Even making breakfast & lunch at home can save a lot.
✅ Eat where the locals eat – Skip touristy restaurants and look for local street food or markets.
✅ Take advantage of free hotel breakfasts – Some hotels offer complimentary breakfast, reducing daily food costs.
✅ Pack snacks – Avoid impulse spending by bringing fruit, biscuits, or pre making food before you go out and also use refillable water bottles.
5. Find Free & Low-Cost Activities
You don’t have to spend a fortune to keep kids entertained, many destinations offer amazing free experiences.
If your kids are like mine, they’ll get amazed just exploring a new area, park, forest etc for hours.
Best Free (or Cheap) Activities for Families:
✅ Explore Nature – Beaches, lakes, hiking trails, wild swimming spots and national parks offer free fun.
✅ Free Museum Days – Many museums have free or discounted days each month.
✅ Self-Guided Walking Tours – Download free maps or apps to explore cities at your own pace.
✅ Playgrounds & Local Parks – Great places for kids to burn off energy and interact with local families.
✅ Public Events & Festivals – Check local calendars for free cultural events, concerts, or holiday celebrations.
6. Be Smart About Transportation
Getting around doesn’t have to cost a fortune, especially with some strategic planning.
Budget Transportation Tips:
✅ Use public transport – Buses, metros, and trams are usually much cheaper than taxis. If you use Taxi’s most recommend Airbnb for safety reasons.
✅ Walk as much as possible – Great for sightseeing and saving money…Oh and also fitness.
✅ Rent bikes or scooters – A fun and affordable way to explore cities with kids.
✅ Consider family rail passes – Many countries offer train discounts for families.
7. Pack Smart to Avoid Extra Costs
Forgetting essentials means spending extra money at your destination. A well-planned packing list prevents unnecessary purchases also somethings will be cheaper in the country you’re travelling too so also don’t overpack.
Money-Saving Packing Tips:
✅ Pack reusable items – Water bottles, utensils, and shopping bags help avoid extra expenses.
✅ Bring travel-size detergent – Washing clothes on the go means you can pack lighter and save on baggage fees.
✅ Travel with a medical kit – Basic first-aid supplies can prevent pricey pharmacy visits abroad.
8. Use Travel Rewards & Discounts
There are tons of ways to save money with travel perks, rewards, and discounts. Also use websites like Quidco where you can start getting money back on everyday purchases before you travel.
Easy Ways to Save More:
✅ Sign up for airline & hotel rewards programs – Earn free flights and stays over time.
✅ Check for family discounts – Some attractions offer reduced pricing for kids or families.
✅ Use city passes – Many cities offer discount passes for attractions and transport.
✅ Look for travel credit cards with perks – Some offer free checked bags, lounge access, or cashback on flights.
Final Thoughts
Traveling with kids on a budget is totally doable with the right strategies. By choosing affordable destinations, booking budget-friendly accommodations, eating smart, and taking advantage of free activities, you can create awesome and incredible family memories without overspending.
Where’s your next budget-friendly family adventure? Let me know in the comments!
