Cheap Vacation Ideas
by Ellie Kay
A family once told me about a vacation during which a skunk snuck into their beach house and saturated the entire family’s belongings with its memorable odor.
The phrase, “Our vacation stank!” suddenly took on new meaning.
There is another way vacations can stink—when expenses slowly decay your vacation budget until there’s nothing left but a pile of musty credit card receipts. Here are three tips for taking a summer holiday without breaking the bank.
Spilt Vacationing Costs with a Friend
If you have friends that you like a lot, take a two-for-one vacation and cut your bills in half. Web sites such as FindRental.com offer a variety of rental options. At AFVClub.com, military families can join the Air Force Vacation Clubs and score global rentals for only $250 per week. RVRental.com offers rentals across the country ranging from $117 to $385 per day.
Volunteer Your Way to a Cheaper Vacation
Foe example, the not-for-profit Wilderness Volunteers (WildernessVolunteers.org) offers people of any age a chance to maintain national parks, forests and wilderness areas across the United States. Everything from trail maintenance to re-vegetation projects are on the agenda. Participants provide their own camping gear and share campsite chores. Most Wilderness Volunteer trips last about a week and a little over $200.
Pinpoint Cheap Thrills
It can be difficult to cultivate romance moments with your spouse while on vacation with the kids. But “couple moments” can happen if you learn to seize the moment. Here are a few tips for connecting with your spouse without disconnecting from the family.
>> Sand, Surf, Snuggles
When playing in the waves, take time to snuggle your mate in the water.
>> Balcony for Two
Rent a room with a view. When the kids are asleep or watching a movie, have coffee on the veranda under the stars.
>> Flowers, Anyone?
Surprise your mate with a bouquet from a street vendor.
>> Table With a View
Check out the time of sunset at WeatherChannel.com. Schedule dinner at a local restaurant, asking for a table with a view.
>> Tactile Thrills
Meaningful touch can often get lost in the rapid pace of life. Grab your spouse’s hand and give him or her a kiss under the moonlight.
>> Backseat Drivers
Take advantage of the romantic element in family activities. Let your kids ride in the front of a carriage ride while the two of you cuddle in the back.
>> Time for Reflection
Schedule a “date” at the end of each day to share what you felt was your most romantic moment and why. You may be surprised at what you learn about your mate in the process!