Going on a road trip is a fun and memorable way for families to spend quality time together. However, between fuel, food, and lodging, travel costs can add up quickly. With some planning and creativity, families can enjoy road trips without breaking the bank. Here are some budget-friendly games, tips and ideas to make family road trips affordable and fun.
In-Car Entertainment on the Cheap
If you’re caring for children in foster care, having activities and games ready to go in the car is key for occupying kids during long drives. Avoid letting them rely solely on personal devices by packing:
- Books, comics and magazines from home or the library
- Tablet loaded with movies and apps (bring headphones too)
- Colouring books and washable markers
- Mad Libs or other fill-in-the-blank games
- Licence plate bingo – make DIY boards with construction paper
- Storytelling games like “I’m going on a trip”
- Portable board games like Battleship or Magnetic Tic Tac Toe
The licence plate game and storytelling games cost nothing and keep kids engaged for hours. Take advantage of rest stops to play outdoor games like football.
Pack Snacks and Picnic Lunches
Rather than dining at restaurants for every meal, pack a cooler with sandwich supplies, fruits and veggies. Stop at a farmers market along your route to pick some fresh fruit. Make a stop at a park or service station with picnic tables to eat your homemade meal.
Bring along reusable utensils, plates and napkins to avoid creating a mess. Get the kids involved in meal prep – let them build their own sandwiches and snacks for the cooler. Making food together helps build excitement for the trip.
Lodging Savings Tips
Hotel costs often make up a big chunk of any road trip budget. Saving on lodging is key to keeping your family trip affordable. Here are some tips:
- Stick to budget-friendly hotel chains like Travelodge
- Use apps like hotels.com to find last-minute deals
- Look for hotels with free breakfast included
- Consider hostels or shared rentals through Airbnb
- Camp! Pitch a tent or park your camper at a campsite
- Stay with family or friends who live along your route
Avoid peak season prices by travelling in the spring or autumn when possible. Join hotel loyalty programs to earn points and take advantage of member-only deals.
Choose Free Attractions
Once you reach your destination, find free things to do like:
- Exploring a park
- Visiting museums with free admission days
- Checking out visitor centres and their walking tours
- Driving scenic routes
- Exploring local shops and architecture
Also, look for free festivals, concerts, and markets happening during your stay. Search “(city name) free events” online. Getting creative about activities will let your family have fun without derailing your budget.
Taking an affordable road trip is totally doable. With a bit of meal planning, budget accommodation options and zero-cost entertainment, families can hit the open road without breaking the bank! What tips do you have? The memories made together will be priceless.
