5 Smart Tips for a Budget-Friendly Family Vacation with Crystal Paine

Apr 25, 2025

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Summer’s not that far off, and the kids are already thinking “vacation.” Will you be ready for it?

How can you make great family memories without breaking the budget? That’s always the challenge, but Crystal Paine joins us today with some great tips for a budget-friendly family vacation.

Crystal Paine is the founder of MoneySavingMom.com and the author of The Money Saving Mom's Budget: Slash Your Spending, Pay Down Your Debt, Streamline Your Life, and Save Thousands a Year.

How to Take a Great Family Vacation Without Breaking the Bank

Planning a family vacation is one of life’s great joys—and, if you’re not careful, one of its greatest budget busters. Here are some practical and encouraging tips on how to plan a memorable getaway without coming home to credit card regret.

1. Start with a Plan—and Start Early

Plan ahead. Start early to maximize your options. That includes scouting for affordable destinations—especially those a little off the beaten path—and using tools like Google Flights to find the best travel deals.

Google Flights lets you enter your preferred dates and search anywhere for the lowest fares. It’s a great way to discover places you might not have thought of but can afford. Also, set a clear trip budget early on and decide as a family what matters most. Maybe it’s staying near the beach, and you're willing to save by eating in.

2. Look for Free Activities

You’d be surprised how many free attractions are out there. Just type your destination and “free things to do” into a search engine. From parks and hiking trails to museums and community festivals, many cities offer hidden gems that cost nothing but create lasting memories.

3. Get the Whole Family Involved

Vacations are more meaningful when everyone has a say. Let your kids have a voice in the planning process. Even if they’re not picking the destination, they can help select activities. Better yet, give each family member a mini-budget to plan a portion of the trip.

This allows kids to learn about budgeting, decision-making, and the real cost of things, making the trip more personal and fun.

4. Be Strategic About Meals

Eating out can quickly blow your vacation budget. Instead, be intentional. That’s why it's recommended to stay at a hotel with a complimentary breakfast and bring snacks or simple meals from home.

Another good idea is to stop by a grocery store after you arrive. You can grab basics like peanut butter, bread, fruit, and chips. It’s way cheaper than dining out every meal.

Save the splurge for one nice dinner, and make it count—this way, you can enjoy a special moment without feeling guilty about the cost.

5. Set a Daily Spending Limit

One final way to stay on track financially is to set a daily limit for discretionary spending and make it a family challenge. How far can we stretch our budget today while still having fun?

This not only helps you stay on target, but it also models financial wisdom and creativity for your kids, transforming money management into a team effort.

Remember that the best vacation is the one you come home from without credit card debt. With some planning, creativity, and teamwork, your next family getaway can be affordable and unforgettable.

Want more money-saving tips from Crystal? Visit MoneySavingMom.com.

On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:

I just set up a new bank account, and they recommended using a debit card to pay bills. But I've always used my credit card and think it's more secure. What's your advice on using a debit versus a credit card for monthly bills?
I have a 401(k) and want to invest more deeply in stocks. I know the stock market is dropping, but I remember when it fell much more. I'm confident about our economy and in God. I'd like to invest about 30% in stocks, but I'm wondering if I'm getting in too soon, or should I wait for the market to go lower?
I have a question about annuities. We talked to someone about an annuity that's locked into some kind of care, like long-term care insurance. We're in our early 60s, and I'm wondering if it's too late and if this is a good idea.
I have a money market account into which my wife's paycheck goes, and we pay our mortgage. Is this a safe place for our emergency fund, or is there a better option?

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