Following the pandemic, travel demand is super high. But there are ways to get travel deals so you can create memories without draining your wallet. I am a single mum on one income, and the minute the borders opened, we were on the move again. Since then, we've been on two holidays, seven flights, and two short getaways. If you're a single mum planning a cheap family holiday without compromising on the fun, this guide is just for you.
In this blog post, I came up with ideas and practical tips to keep your holiday budget-friendly, fun for the kids, and stress-free. Let’s explore how to make every dollar count so you can enjoy a fantastic family trip without financial stress.
Top tips on booking a cheap family holiday
1. Set a realistic holiday budget
To kick off a budget-friendly holiday with your family, set a realistic budget. Decide how much you’re comfortable spending on accommodation, food, and travel. A clear holiday budget gives you a framework to keep costs in check, ensuring you can have a meaningful family bonding without worrying about finances. Also, take time to save for extra expenses such as souvenirs and pocket money. Doing so leads to a stress-free holiday where you’re able to relax, knowing you’re within your budget limits.
2. Book early for the best deals
Get dates that are at least 3 weekends away (or more!). Travel agents often recommend securing deals far in advance, especially during peak holiday seasons. By booking flights and accommodations early, you get access to great deals, avoiding unannounced price hikes. Not only is this one of our favourite travel budget tips, but it also gives us peace of mind knowing everything is locked in.
3. Consider a staycation or closer-to-home holiday destinations
Who says your family's travel location has to be far and wide? Sometimes, the best way to save is to explore destinations closer to home. Staycations or nearby spots can offer great holiday experiences without the hefty airfares or long travel times. Plus, sightseeing in the local area means you get a change of scenery without the stress and cost of big trips. You might be pleasantly surprised by the local attractions and family-friendly activities within Australia!
4. Look for family rooms and self-catering options
Self-catering accommodations can be a lifesaver for single mums travelling with kids. They help keep the holiday budget in check by reducing dining-out costs. Plus, everyone’s together, so it's easier to spend quality time. Airbnb is also a good idea, with options like a cabin often come with kitchen facilities, which can be a great way to save money.
You can also do a house swap. You stay in someone’s house, and they stay in yours. Not only does it save you money but you will have most of your home comforts at your fingertips when you arrive. My cousin has been house-swapping for years and can’t sing its praises enough. She says it is essential to use a well-known house swap website because they vet everyone, meaning the people who stay in your home will look after it. I believe she uses Aussie House Swap but there are other options available. Always compare and check reviews. There are many great benefits to house swapping, financials, and so much more.
5. Hunt for discounts and last-minute deals
Keep an eye on discount sites or enquire directly with the hotel for any last-minute offers. Holiday parks often have family packages, and some offer fantastic deals if you’re flexible with dates. Just be sure to check the cancellation policies for flexibility. With some research, you can find promos that benefit the family budget.
According to Skyscanner, here are the destinations with the biggest airfare price drop recently:
- Sarajevo, Bosnia
- Okinawa, Japan
- Tirana, Albania
- Sapporo, Japan
- Marrakech, Morocco
- Belgrade, Serbia
- Gothenburg, Sweden
- Prague, Czech Republic
- Halifax, Canada
- Jakarta, Indonesia
How to go on a family budget holiday (cont.)
6. Plan day trips and free activities to keep the kids busy
For a fun family holiday without a big price tag, mix in some free or low-cost activities. Think of day trips, picnics, exploring the great outdoors, or visiting a playground. National parks, beaches, or even a nearby holiday park with a jumping pillow or playground can be exciting for small children. By including activities that don’t cost an arm and a leg, you can keep the kids entertained while keeping costs down.
7. Consider renting in caravan parks for budget-friendly accommodations
Instead of making a hotel booking, caravan parks are a top pick for affordable family holidays. Many parks offer cabins, and some even have facilities like an outdoor movie theatre, bike tracks, or a flying fox, adding extra fun for kids. Caravan or camping sites are also usually cheaper than hotels, perfect for families looking for a comfortable but great value choice. Western Australia has some great parks with stunning natural landscapes, perfect for families wanting to explore.
8. Take advantage of package deals and shop around for airfares
One of the most effective tips for saving money when planning a family holiday is to take advantage of package deals. Some travel agencies offer deals that bundle flights and accommodations, which are often cheaper than purchasing everything separately. You can also try contacting hotels directly to compare prices. It doesn't hurt to be sure. And don’t forget to shop around, use comparison sites to find airlines with the best deals or consider flying mid-week when flights are usually cheaper. A great way to spend less on your family vacation is by being flexible with your travel dates.
Use a holiday deal site that is well-known and reputable because if something goes wrong with travel (and this happens A LOT post-COVID), they are your point of contact.
Avoid purchasing from little-known sites as they often have low reviews due to terrible customer service.
9. Get your family vacation off the beaten tracks
Local attractions, especially those off the beaten track, can add charm to a family holiday without the usual touristy costs. You can explore wildlife encounters, natural landscapes, or even local watersports. Many small destinations have unique spots that are either free or offer fantastic value, so you get memorable experiences without the heavy price tag. These lesser-known gems make for a unique holiday experience that the kids will remember.
10. Get affordable travel insurance
It can be tempting to skip travel insurance and the associated costs, but I beg you not to, especially if you are travelling overseas. The peace of mind it offers is worth every dollar, knowing you’re covered in case of unexpected events. From medical emergencies to lost luggage, insurance ensures a stress-free holiday. I trust Covermore for all of our trips. Their policies are excellent and have been reliable over the years.
Bonus pro tip #1: How to save for your holiday spending
It will also be smart to use a high-interest savings account to grow holiday funds. You can have money automatically transferred each week. It’s a simple way to grow your holiday fund without much effort. Whether you’re aiming for a beach holiday or a trip to a family-friendly destination, a small amount saved regularly can add up and help cover holiday spending.
Bonus pro tip #2: Check out the discount sites
Another way to bag an affordable family trip is to check out Scoopon. I’ve made some mammoth hotel savings, which reduced the overall price of our holiday. One year, when the budget was particularly tight, I was planning a drive/stay holiday to avoid flight costs, but I found such a good interstate accommodation deal on Scoopon that I was able to afford flights. This shows that hunting around can not only save you money but can change the course of your holiday and allow you to travel further and possibly for longer. Scoopon also has brilliant restaurant deals, so you can splash out without splashing out on some nice dinners while you’re away.
Related posts for a smoother vacation with your little ones:
Final words: A family holiday on a budget
Taking a family holiday doesn’t have to mean stretching the budget to breaking point. With my tips above, you can create memorable experiences together as a family without breaking the bank. Personally, I’ve found that car hires and house swaps are a lifesaver for quality time with my kids. We all get a change of scenery, and they get to let loose in nature without the constant “don’t touch that!” reminders! So go on traveller mum, grab those travel brochures, make a plan, and look forward to an unforgettable family holiday, all on a budget!
