The kids are out of school and the weather beckons you from your office and out into the sunshine. If you haven’t already solidified your plans for summer “vaca,” there is no better time than the present.
Many are looking to cut cost this season, and finding a family trip that will allow you to load up on fun without emptying your wallet can be difficult.
To assist you on your quest of organizing the perfect summer vacation we’ve assembled a list of cost-effective options that are sure to delight even your youngest critic.
What other ways can you think of to save money while on vacation?
Try not to eat out every night. Stay at a hotel with a kitchen that will allow you to prepare your own meals. Cooking together can be fun for the entire family; not to mention you just saved about $100 bucks…or more!
Drive. Airfare can be very expensive and by the time you factor in a round-trip ticket for each member of your household, you’ve spent a small fortune. Save money by driving. It’s an intimate experience that everyone can enjoy. Play car games, listen to music, or engage in my sister’s favorite past-time, sleep. Depending on the length of the trip and how much time you have, you can even make stops along the way at key locations.
Go camping!!! This is the perfect way to enjoy the great outdoors with the entire family. Head down to a campsite; pitch a tent, rent a cabin, or reserve a room at a lodge. Many campgrounds feature affordable prices and great amenities like hiking, swimming, fishing, arts and crafts, and other special activities for guests.
Explore a National Park; there are so many to choose from! In less than three hours you can leave Charlotte and venture to the Blue Ridge Parkway. Self-proclaimed to be “America’s favorite drive,” the Parkway offers gorgeous landscapes for picture-taking and enjoying wildlife.
Hit the Beach! Myrtle Beach, S.C. remains a staple in inexpensive travel on the east coast. This major family attraction, boasts numerous events, festivals, shops, and more. Like any trip make a budget before you leave that specifies exactly how much you are willing to spend while on vacation.
Plan a Stay-cation. Explore what’s awesome about Charlotte! Visit museums, local parks, Carowinds, Discovery Place, and more. Enjoy finding out with the whole family what makes the Queen City so special.
-Jennifer Hall, CBS Local
