Is your budget feeling a little too flush? Time to gather the family and embark on an adventure, because nothing will deplete your funds faster than traveling with little ones! Here’s how to plunge into the depths of your wallet while creating unforgettable memories.
1. Choose Kid-Friendly Destinations
Opt for places teeming with activities tailored for children, such as amusement parks or water resorts. Keep in mind that these attractions come with a hefty price tag. Pro tip: Be upfront about your children’s ages—only the stingiest folks try to snag a discount for a child who recently turned three!
2. Check Food Policies
Before you go, confirm that these fun-filled venues don’t permit outside food or drinks. Extra credit if they search your bags for contraband. Aim to spend a few hours there so you can buy at least two meals and snacks for each family member—45 minutes should do the trick. And remember, stashing even a granola bar in your bag? That’s cheating, and your kids will take note!
3. Book a Beachfront Hotel
The convenience of being steps away from the beach is priceless, right? Well, it’s about to save you a whopping negative 20 minutes, as toddlers take their sweet time traversing even the shortest distances!
4. Consult with Your Partner on Packing
When your husband says you’re packing too much, nod along while you sneak in essentials he deems unnecessary. This guarantees a last-minute shopping spree at the hotel gift shop, where sunscreen and band-aids cost a premium. Bonus points for re-purchasing items you had at home from your last trip.
5. Visit Gift Shops
Make sure your kids spot the gift shop when they’re exhausted, hot, and hungry. At this point, your ability to resist their pleas plummets, giving you another opportunity to lighten your wallet.
6. Indulge in Kids’ Meals
Don’t let the fact that your kids collectively weigh less than 80 pounds dissuade you from ordering kids’ meals. Each meal will cost upwards of $8.99, and heaven forbid you take home leftovers—this is vacation, after all!
7. Hire a Vacation Babysitter
For this added luxury, you can hire someone who may not speak your language to watch your little one while you enjoy a night out. You’ll end up spending even more on dinner and drinks, all while trying not to stress over your baby’s well-being.
8. Consider Two Connecting Rooms
The idea of giving everyone space sounds great until the kids decide they won’t sleep in their own room. You’ll find yourselves crammed together, with suitcases abandoned in the other room.
9. Set Sail on a Family Cruise
Being trapped on a ship with your kids can be a recipe for chaos—and you’ll pay dearly for the experience. Just think of the therapy bills you might rack up afterward!
10. If You Still Have Funds Left
If, against all odds, you have some savings left, it’s time to step up your game. A visit to Disney is a perfect way to drain your account—after all, what’s a few thousand bucks for memories that will last a lifetime?
In conclusion, travel can indeed be a wallet-draining affair, especially when you have young children. However, these experiences often bring joy and cherished memories that make it all worthwhile. For more insights on navigating the world of parenting and home insemination, check out our related articles on our site.