by Taylor J. Kovar – CEO / Founder, Kovar Wealth Management
–Hey Taylor – I told my kiddo we’re gonna hit the road this summer, and now that it’s almost time to pack our bags, I’m kinda freaking out about the costs. Got any savvy tips for me on having a blast with my son without breaking the bank?
–Hey Jessica – Ah, the delights and dilemmas of summer family travel! I know all too well the swirl of excitement and concern around how to ensure it’s a memorable time without emptying your bank account. As a dad of kids that like to travel, I’m happy to share a few tips that I have found to be helpful.
First, remember that the joy and bonding that come from shared experiences is a significant investment in your child’s upbringing, so let’s strategize on how to make the most of your adventure.
One idea is to introduce the concept of a “travel budget” to your young explorer. While it might sound counterintuitive to provide your child with an allowance for the trip, it’s a brilliant way to impart financial responsibility. Suddenly, each souvenir mug or arcade trip becomes a calculated choice, helping keep those sneaky extras under control. Plus, it infuses a whole new level of enjoyment into the journey! A modest sum can feel like a treasure trove to a child, ensuring they have a whale of a time without blowing your budget.
Just because you’re on vacation doesn’t mean your regular, savvy habits should take a break too. While living out of suitcases and experiencing different locales, it’s easy to stray from our daily money-saving routines. The primary culprit? Eating out. To bypass this, if you’re driving, pack a cooler filled with delicious homemade goodies. If you’re lodging in a vacation rental, channel your inner chef and whip up your child’s favorite comfort meals. Your well-honed coupon-hunting skills? They’re equally useful on the road! Before you depart, visualize your usual frugal tactics as if you were a local in your destination, then make these your travel strategy.
This might be a tough sell, but avoiding the main tourist traps could save you a bundle. These spots are often pricey and packed. If you can coax your young one into exploring less-traveled roads, you’ll find savings and probably enjoy more quality time instead of wasting it in lines. However, if their heart is set on Disneyland, you might need to strategize differently (rewards points, vacation packages, off-peak pricing, etc.). If the objective is simply to soak in new experiences, consider those hidden gems that haven’t hit the tourist radar yet.
Remember, with a touch of creativity, you can morph an ordinary trip into an unforgettable escapade for your child. Seek out opportunities for savings and they will emerge. Happy travels, Jessica!
