FrugalMonkey Discount Travel News

Category: Traveling with Kids

  • 10 Tips for Traveling with Kids

    For many of us the arrival of children signals a change from luxury vacations to more modest trips. Perhaps the expansion of your own family is what brought you to the Frugal Monkey blog! We’ve already looked at ways to save money on family vacations, but conserving the bank balance isn’t the only thing we need to worry about. What about your sanity? Traveling with children can be challenging, but we’ve got plenty of tips for helping you survive, and even enjoy, your next frugal family vacation.

    Embrace the off season
    Your kids get a few months’ vacation over summer, so it makes sense to take advantage of that time off and see the world, right? Wrong. That’s the idea everyone else has. And that drives the price of airfares and accommodation sky high. If it’s at all possible, consider yanking your kids out of class and traveling during the school terms. You could save hundreds of dollars, which you can of course inject back into your vacation budget.

    Pack it right
    A family can quickly put together a load of luggage. But no one wants to be swamped with stuff, or pay hefty excess baggage charges. You can cut down your suitcases by choosing simple clothes that can be mixed and matched to create several outfits. Make sure you check your kids’ suitcases too; they’ll typically include far too many things they don’t need and forget other items that they do!

    Location, location, location
    Choosing the right place to stay can make or break your family vacation. Look for accommodation in safe areas that’s close to local attractions or at least public transport. Make sure it has all the beds you need to fit your family comfortably. A place with a pool or games room can keep your little ones entertained. Ask nicely and you might receive an upgrade to a larger room or a discount for staying multiple nights.

    Money matters
    Set a budget for each day of your travels and stick to it. If you want to splurge on a good restaurant meal, arrange to see a free museum or festival during the day. Being conscious of your finances is the best way to avoid a blowout.

    Vacation as a team
    You probably figured this out once your little bundles arrived, but life isn’t all about you anymore. You’ve got new little people to consider, and when it comes to vacations, their opinions matter. We’re not suggesting that you stick to a child’s schedule, but making time to see the attractions that pique their interests will ensure they stay happy. And as we all know, happy children make for a happy holiday.

    Stop and smell the roses
    When we’re footloose and fancy free we want to cram everything into our vacation that we possibly can. But traveling at a rapid pace is a recipe for a few cranky kids. Make sure you account for time spent napping, snacking, and using the restroom for the umpteenth time. Slow things down and you’ll all feel a lot less stressed.

    Remember those toilet breaks
    The age of your children will determine how relevant this point is to you. But if you’ve got young ones in tow, ensuring they have regular toilet breaks is crucial. Whenever you spot a handy toilet, make sure you ask if they need to go. Otherwise you can be sure they’ll feel urgent when a bathroom is nowhere in sight!

    Maintain your routines
    This one might seem like a pipedream, but it’s worth the effort. Read books or play board games before bed, and tuck them up with their favorite toy at the same time they’d sleep at home. This is the best way to avoid hyperactive, overtired terrors!

    Expect the unexpected
    This point might seem to contradict the last, but stay with us. You can insist on regular bedtimes and good meal habits, but there’s only so much you can control. Traveling isn’t always a walk in the park, and sometimes things will go wrong, particularly when you add the unpredictability of children to the mix. Keep a positive attitude and this will flow through to your children, making any challenges much easier to deal with.

    Happy girl at Hong Kong Disneyland
    Happy girl at Hong Kong Disneyland

    Hold on to the memories
    Family vacations are all too rare, so make sure you remember the ones you have. Take plenty of photos, and buy your kids cheap digital cameras so they can do the same. Purchase travel journals and encourage them to write stories and draw pictures about the time they’ve had. These all make wonderful keepsakes to look back on years later.

    Feel free to share this article using the social networking buttons below with a frugal family you know!

  • Tips for Staying Healthy While Traveling

    There’s nothing worse than getting sick while on vacation. Not only does it eat into your relaxation and discovery time, it can also be a drain on your budget. Depending on how severe your illness is, you could end up spending a large portion of your travel budget on medication and/or hospital fees.  Of course, there are much better ways to spend your hard earned cash while traveling! Here are some suggestions for staying healthy while traveling.

    Get immunized. It’s important to research the immunizations that are required for travel to your destination. If you are traveling with the whole family, it’s especially important to know if your kids’ vaccinations are up to date and if they may need additional ones. As is the case for most things these days, there’s an app for that. If you’re an iPad or iPhone user, Healix Travel Vaccinations allows you to check which vaccinations you need to travel to any country (the app also provides country-specific travel and safety tips). You should also check with your primary caregiver. He or she should have an up-to-date list of required immunizations on file.

    Know your health status. Planning a ‘round the world adventure? This would be a great time to schedule that basic health exam you’ve been putting off. Especially when traveling abroad or taking long trips, it’s important to know your health status inside and out. A general physical will help identify any health problems you may have and allow you to find a remedy before it gets any worse.

    Stock up on your meds. It’s never a good idea to assume that you’ll be able to find the medication you need while on vacation. Even over-the-counter meds have different chemical make-ups and dosage requirements in other countries. If you regularly take prescription or over-the-counter meds, plan to bring as much as you’ll need for the duration of your trip.

    Be aware of water quality and plan accordingly. In most parts of the U.S., we have the luxury of turning on the faucet in most places and drinking the water that comes out of it. This is not so in many other parts of the world. Research the water quality in the places you’ll be visiting. You may want to opt for bottled water or bring along iodine tablets for water purification.

    Do some yoga. You don’t have to be a hard-core yogi to benefit from a few yoga stretches here and there while traveling. Doing yoga before and after your flight can do wonders for overall health. For some ideas, check out: “Yoga Positions to Ease the Pain of Long Flights.”

    Practicing yoga while traveling is a great way to stay centered, fit and healthy.

    Eat well. It can be hard to maintain a balanced diet while on vacation, but it’s important to do so if you want to remain healthy for your entire trip. A few days of subsisting only on red wine and pastries takes its toll, after all.  Grab some fruit and whole-grain snacks to keep in your hotel room, and follow your mom’s advice and “eat your vegetables” and a healthy dose of protein at each meal.

    Stay hydrated. It’s easy to forget to drink enough water each day, especially if you’re on an intense travel schedule. However, it’s important to drink at least 8 large glasses of water a day (more if you’re physically active throughout the day). The dangers of dehydration can be as annoying as a slight headache or as sever as heart palpitations or fainting. Staying hydrated is one of the easiest ways to ensure your health (and happiness) while traveling.

    Get some exercise. Whether it’s taking a brisk walk around the city or going on a bike tour, it’s important to get regularly exercise each day (if possible). This will help to keep you healthy and keep your energy level up. Plus, being active outside is a great way to get to know your surroundings and discover new things while traveling.

  • See Historic Ships for Free at Australian National Maritime Museum

    Australia’s historic ships and naval heritage are celebrated at the Australian National Maritime Museum.

    The museum’s galleries feature important documents and other relics from Australia’s maritime history. You can explore these displays at your own pace or join a free guided tour. The interactive touch screens in the museum’s foyer give times and information about this service along with other museum events and activities.

    But for most visitors, the most exciting parts of the museum are outside its halls. Several ships are docked in the harbor just outside, including the navy destroyer HMAS Vampire, the 1847 tall ship James Craig, the Blackmores First Lady sailed around the world by Australian solo voyager Kay Cottee, and a replica of the Endeavour, the ship that Captain James Cook traveled to Australia in.

    All those boats and talk of history can be a bit dry for the kids, so if you’re taking the family visit on Sundays or during school holiday periods. Extra activities including craft projects, story time, and games should keep children aged between five and 12 entertained. These sessions do attract an extra fee of $7 though, so they can get pricey if you have a large brood.

    The Australian National Maritime Museum's replica of the Endeavour
    The Australian National Maritime Museum's replica of the Endeavour

    The Australian National Maritime Museum is conveniently located on the western side of the bubbling Darling Harbour precinct. This tourist hub is easily accessible by Sydney’s bus, light rail, and monorail networks.

    The Australian National Maritime Museum is one of Sydney’s free museums, although special exhibitions and activities may attract a small fee. It’s open every day except Christmas from 9:30 am in the morning. The museum closes at 5 pm, except in January when it closes at 6 pm.

    [Image Source: Andy Mitchell/Flickr]

  • Tips for Taking Road Trips Across the U.S.

    Road trips are a fun and economical way to discover the U.S. However, up until about 5 years ago, I’d always dismissed them in favor of cheaper travel in other countries.

    It wasn't until a French friend shared his dream of one day driving from New York to Los Angeles that I thought: “Hey, I want to do that, too!” I discovered that there are many things I don’t about the U.S. and many places I’d like to visit. So, now I set out on at least one road trip per year to learn more about the diverse country in which I live. What I’ve found during my multiple cross-country road trips is: (1) They are always more fun than I anticipated they’d be; (2) It’s easy to be frugal if you stick to a budget; (3) The trips rarely go as planned. Spring is almost here, so now is the time to start planning your late spring/summer adventures. Here are some tips for making the most out of your road trip:
    • Have a general idea of your itinerary before setting out on your journey. When planning your itinerary, be realistic in terms of time. If you only have 1 week of vacation time, perhaps you just want to explore a small part of the U.S. (after all, you have the rest of your life to make it to the other states!).
    • Always budget more time than you think you’ll need. When I go on a road trip, I typically alternate long driving days with sightseeing days. It’s important to remember that your driving days may take longer than you think due to unforeseen circumstances.
    • Take along a GPS or maps. It’s important to have access to maps for every region you’ll be traveling to. Even if you MapQuest it all before leaving, you may want to take a detour, etc. that will require knowledge of an alternate route. Stopping to ask for directions takes time, so it’s best to be self-sufficient in this regard.
    • Check the weather often while on the road. I once spent several days dodging tornados in the region where I was traveling. In order to stay safe, I checked the weather multiple times per day.
    • If possible, bring your own source of Internet access. Smart phones and tablets now make it easier than ever to stay connected without lugging around a computer. Having Internet access is important for checking weather, finding information about various locations (tourist information, lodging, etc.), and staying in touch with those back home.
    • Have a general plan for lodging. Camping is the most frugal option, but there are plenty of cheap motels throughout the U.S., too. I always try to spend at least one night with a friend while I’m on the road. Keep in mind that, due to unforeseen circumstances, your accommodation plans could change.
    • Set a trip budget. Before you leave, it’s important to have an idea of about how much you’ll be spending. AAA offers some good discounts, so if you are a member be sure to take advantage of them. If you don’t have a plan for roadside assistance, be sure to budget in an extra cushion for flat tires and whatnot. Save money on food by bringing a cooler and making sandwiches for lunch instead of shelling out for fast food.
    • Pack an emergency kit. Be on the safe side an pack an emergency kit with first aid supplies, blankets, extra water and dry food, a flashlight, etc. It’s best to be prepared because you never know what can happen on the road.
    • Traveling with kids? Stay flexible. If you’re going on a road trip with kids, there are a variety of things to consider. Remember that, depending on the ages and personalities of your kids, you may not be able to get quite as far as you had planned each day. The important thing is that everyone stays safe and happy - you want your kids to remember this as a good experience, right?
    • Enjoy the unexpected. One of the best things about road trips are the pleasant unexpected opportunities/events that arise. Relish in an impromptu hike, stop for a live rodeo you hadn’t planned on attending, enjoy a relaxing picnic with your travel partners. It’s all part of the experience.

  • How to Avoid Spending Money on Airline “Extras”

    If you’re a regular traveler, it will come as no shock whatsoever that what used come standard for the price of airfare (from in-flight meals to checked bags), is now considered “extra.”

    Even though paying $30 (or more) for a checked bag may not seem like a big deal when you’re just trying to get to your destination, these costs can add up over time (especially if you’re traveling with a family). Here are some tips for reducing your airline “extras” fees without sacrificing comfort and convenience. The “Great Luggage Debacle” To check or not to check? That is the question for many airline passengers these days.  If the airline assesses a fee for checked baggage, my general advice is don’t do it. However, there are some ways to get around this fee. Delta card holders receive one free checked bag for each person on the reservation. For example, last year my mother booked a flight for herself, my sister and me. Even though my sister and I were not Delta card members, we were allowed to check our bags for free as well. If you do decide to check a bag, make sure it is under the maximum weight limit (typically 44 pounds) so that you are not assessed extra fees. Of course, the easiest way to get around the luggage fees is to pack everything you need in a carry-on. You are allowed to bring both a carry-on and a personal item (purse, laptop, etc.) on most major carriers. The standard carry-on maximum size is 45", in the form of a 22" x 14" x 9" bag.  Some airlines allow up to as much as 55" (this is rare). For weight and size restrinctions, always check with your specific carrier before you begin packing. Afraid you can’t fit all you need in a carry-on? Follow these simple guidelines for packing light (and “security friendly”) and you’ll be good to go. 1.     Plan out what you will wear each day to avoid overpacking on clothes. Remember that you can rewear most things. Also, check to see if there will be laundry facilities where you are staying (this way, you can pack half as much and do laundry half-way through the trip). Be realistic about shoes. One comfy pair and one nice pair is typically all you’ll need. 2.     Make sure to put all liquid in 3 oz. (or less) containers. This will both allow you to get through security with no issues and will force you to pack lighter. 3.     Remember that sharp objects may cause problems when you go through security. Keep in mind that if you buy bulky souvenirs on your trip, it’s a good idea to have them shipped back home (which often ends up being cheaper and safer than bringing them to the airport). Bon Appétit! Let’s face it, airline food is not exactly synonymous with fine dining, so why are paying for food you won’t even enjoy that much? Instead for forking out your vacation money on in-flight meals, plan ahead. Most major airports have a variety of dining and food-to-go options. Either eat a good meal before you get on the plane, or grab a sandwich and beverage (after you go through security, of course) to enjoy mid-flight. And don’t forget about the snacks. Young travelers in particular stay happier with healthy snacks like dried fruit and trail mix to munch on during the flight. Follow these simple words of advice and you could end up saving hundreds of dollars by not purchasing airline "extras" throughout the 2011 traveling year.

  • Sleep for Cheap: The Key to Finding Inexpensive Lodging Options

    One of the major expenses while traveling is typically lodging. Even “reasonably” priced hotels can cost upwards of $200 per night. Luckily, finding inexpensive lodging is not as difficult as one might think – you just have to know where to look. Here are some suggestions to consider for your next trip.

    Housing Swap If you are traveling with your family or a group, a housing swap can be both economical and very convenient. The basic idea is that you trade houses with someone in another location. Typically, the involved parties draw up a contract that covers use of particular items (cars, appliances, etc.), cleaning fees and damage policies. As traveling families become more budget conscious, this option has become much more popular. There are several websites you can use to facilitate the swap. For starters, check out: http://www.homeexchange.com/ (specializes in international house swaps) http://www.homeforswap.com/ (specializes in both U.S. and international house swaps) http://www.digsville.com/ (has lots of great and affordable listings for U.S. and abroad) CouchSurfing [caption id="attachment_4802" align="alignright" width="300" caption="Laguna Beach Vacation Rental Condos"][/caption] The term was coined by the non-profit group by the same name that connects frugal travelers in over 230 countries. CouchSurfing (www.couchsurfing.org) members host one another (for free) in their homes. According to CouchSurfers I know, these stays provide the opportunity for rich cultural exchanges and they have made connections with individuals living all over the world (who have offered to put them up whenever they’d like).  Think if it kind of like a study abroad “homestay” for adults. Though most CouchSurfers are single people or couples, there are opportunities for families to CouchSurf together as well. Hostels During my backpacking through Europe years, I got to know the Euro hostel scene quite well. Hostels are typically very casual hotels where you can rent a bed in a shared room (some also offer private rooms) and use the shared shower and bathroom facilities. Hostel qualities range from hotel-like to downright shabby and prices can vary from the equivalent of $10USD per night to $80USD per night. Some offer a continental breakfast (included in the price). One of the fun things about staying in a hostel is the variety of people you’ll meet—they are inherently more social places than most hotels. There are many hostels that do not allow children, so make sure you check first if you are traveling with youngsters. Finding out about hostels is much more convenient now than it was when I was “hosteling it” ten years ago. There are a variety of websites that provide international hostel listings and ratings. Check these ones out to start with: http://www.hostels.com/ http://www.hostelworld.com/ http://www.hostelbookers.com/ Vacation Rentals Though typically more expensive than the options listed above, vacation rentals often offer more bang for the buck, especially if you’re traveling with a family or group. With the international real estate market on the fritz, more and more home and condo owners are renting out their properties to make ends meet. This typically translates to great properties for reasonable prices. If you’re traveling with a group of friends, consider renting a house and splitting the price. The savings you’ll see will be amazing. There are many sites online that will help you find a vacation rental in the area you’ll be traveling in a price range that that works into your travel budget. Start by visiting theses ones: http://www.vacationrentals.com/ http://www.homeaway.com/ http://www.vrbo.com/

  • Money-Saving Tips for Traveling with Kids

    Family vacations are fun, but they can also be quite expensive. Whether it’s a camping trip or a week-long Disney cruise, one thing is constant: you typically end up spending more than you expected. Here are some tips for making your family trip memorable without breaking the bank.

    • Develop a reasonable budget and stick to it. Reasonable is the word here. Developing your budget will take a bit of research to find out how much you can realistically survive on (and still have fun) while traveling with kids. For example, if you’re hoping to eat cheaply in Paris, research the median price for lunch in a casual restaurant (and don't forget about less expensive options like grabbing a baguette and cheese for lunch). This will give you a starting point for figuring out your daily food budget. If you’re going on an all-inclusive vacation (like a cruise), plan a budget for the things you can control (like souvenirs, extras, tours, etc.). Knowing how much these things will cost (or at least approximately) will ease your mind and help you plan better and stay within your budget. Depending on the ages of your children, you may want to include them in your budget planning as well. Web-savvy kids (there aren’t many who aren’t anymore) can help you by researching options for eating and things to do. This process can be very fun, and teaches your kids about the importance of budgeting and trip planning.
    • Be smart about purchasing souvenirs. Although it may be tempting to buy out the souvenir shop for your kids, resist. Help them cultivate the art of sophisticated and meaningful souvenirs early on. Photos, journals (even young kids can do this) and small cultural mementos will mean much more to them in the long run than expensive toys and souvenirs. You may want to set a souvenir budget for each child. This can make it easier to say the all important word “no.”
    • If possible, rent a place with a kitchen. Let’s face it, eating out can be expensive (and tiresome, especially if you’re traveling with picky eaters). Renting a place to stay with a kitchen gives you the option of cooking your own meals (and saving money). Get your kids in on the action. You can shop groceries together at the local market (this shopping experience can be new and exciting, especially if you go to an open-air market) and prepare food together. Even if your kids don’t usually cook at home, encourage them to do so during your trip. After all, trips are about experiencing new things.
    • Consider participating in a “home exchange.” Housing swaps (when you trade your house with someone who lives in another place) are a great way to save money on accommodations. It’s even better if the family you’re swapping with has kids around the same age as yours. Ask them for ideas for frugal kid-friendly activities nearby. In some programs, you can even swap cars. If your “swap partners” have a vehicle that accommodates your entire family, then you can avoid the costs of renting a large vehicle to haul everyone around in.
    • Choose your “experiences” wisely. Depending on your kids’ ages and energy levels, packing your days full with museum visits, tours and cultural performances might qualify as going overboard. While you may remember your afternoon at the Louvre as an enlightening cultural experience, your kids may not remember the experience quite as fondly. Remember that while the purpose of a vacation is to discover new things, it’s also to spend time together as a family. Having a picnic, hanging out by the pool, having an ice cream cone or simply taking a walk together are all inexpensive ways to spend quality time while on vacation.