Travel Savings, Deals, and Discounts for Families Just in Time for Summer

The Rising Costs of Family Vacations

School breaks and summers during my childhood were thrilling. We engaged in enrichment programs, attended summer camps, and enjoyed day trips filled with adventure—museums, beaches, and family visits scattered throughout the season. Fast forward to today, and it’s a different story. The cost of family outings has skyrocketed, making that joyful sense of discovery feel increasingly out of reach.

With inflation impacting our daily lives, it’s becoming evident that vacation budgets are feeling the squeeze. Considerations such as destination, transportation, food, and entertainment can add up faster than you might think. In fact, the average cost of a vacation in the U.S. is over $1,900 per person, reaching nearly $8,000 for a family of four and around $12,000 for a group of six. Thankfully, there are ways to navigate this financial landscape without sacrificing the joy of creating lasting memories.

Plane, Train, and Transportation Savings

Traveling can quickly balloon in cost, especially when factoring in flights, trains, and car rentals. However, several deals can help you keep your transportation budget in check:

• Frontier Airlines offers a Kids Fly Free program on select domestic routes. If you’re a member of their Discount Den Club, your children aged 2-14 can fly without additional costs when traveling with an adult.

• Amtrak provides a scenic way to travel without the stress of traffic. They offer various discounts, including half-price fares for children ages 2-12 and free travel for infants. Plus, seniors, veterans, and students can also reap savings.

• Brightline, a Florida train service, features a family savings program similar to Amtrak’s. Children under 24 months travel free, and families of four or more can receive additional discounts.

• If you’re looking to save on local transport, consider Circuit, an app-based shuttle service available in various cities. Many rides are free, while others charge no more than $3 per person.

Museums, Aquariums, and Area Attractions

Exploring local attractions often constitutes a significant portion of your vacation expenses. However, you can find ways to enjoy entertainment affordably:

• Turn to Groupon for discount tickets on attractions. It’s a treasure trove for deals on everything from comedy shows to cooking classes.

• Look into City Passes available in major cities, which allow you to visit multiple attractions for a flat fee rather than paying individually for each stop.

• For nature lovers, the Every Kid Outdoors program offers free national park admission for fourth graders and their families, paving the way for memorable outdoor adventures.

• If you’re part of a credit union, inquire about discounted tickets for local museums and amusement parks. Membership programs from organizations like AARP or AAA can also yield valuable savings.

Sail into Savings

Cruises can offer an all-in-one travel experience that simplifies planning and can save you money on lodging, meals, and entertainment:

• Family-friendly cruise lines like Holland America Line currently have promotions offering up to 45% off cruises. Children 18 and under can sail free when booked with accompanying adults in the same stateroom on select routes.

• Norwegian, Star Clippers, and Royal Caribbean regularly roll out Kids Sail Free promotions for junior travelers under 12, making it attractive for family reunions and getaways.

Let’s Go International

If you’re considering international travel, all-inclusive resorts present a fantastic opportunity for families seeking hassle-free vacations:

• Club Med boasts locations worldwide where kids stay free or at a significantly discounted rate, depending on their age. This allows families to indulge in relaxation without the baggage of escalating costs.

All of these options create a tapestry of possibilities for families hoping to travel without breaking the bank. There are varied avenues to explore—whether it’s a local jaunt or a grand adventure. With some research, planning, and a pinch of creativity, you can craft a vacation filled with exploration, laughter, and cherished memories.